Many of you may have noticed there’s lots of discussion about timeless classic style on the blog. Entire blog posts are dedicated to timeless classics – timeless classic military coats or timeless classic riding boots. Then there are classic jackets, the little black dress, and an iconic white shirt. Typically, there’s a backstory on how certain clothing items turned into classics. I love to share those bits of history with you, like when and how the iconic, timeless classic pencil skirt came onto the fashion scene. Many of you enjoyed the blog post that discussed how easy it is for a classic style to become dated or stodgy. There are ways to prevent that from happening! Today, we’ll take a look at where to shop for classic style.
What is Classic Style?
Some of you may be scratching your head as to what classic style is all about? There are style quizzes on the web that can help identify your signature look. Ever since I was a teenager, I’ve preferred classic style above all other styles. There’s something steady and true about pieces that never go out of fashion: trench coats, pencil skirts, anything nautical. The classics are simple and well-designed. They can also be dressed up or down because they are forever stylish.
Classic style speaks to me, but it also keeps me on my toes. I’m always asking, “How does a cashmere crewneck sweater go best with a blazer?” or “How does a pencil skirt go with a faux leather moto jacket?” There’s nothing I love more than reinventing those classic pieces that are rooted in beauty and practicality. Remember, you’re in good company when it comes to timeless classic style. Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Lauren Bacall, Victoria Beckham, Amal Clooney, Princess Diana, and Kate Middleton are all examples of classic style in motion.
The Summary
Today, Beth shares where she shops for classic style
Look for shoppable collections and outfit inspiration
Classic Style for Fall
Where I Shop for Classic Style
Today, I want to talk about how and where to shop for classic style. Who are the designers or brands I’m fond of that offer those timeless classic pieces? In this post, I’ve rounded up a list of brands I gravitate toward. It’s not an exhaustive list but it’s representative of those brands I love and have shopped for years. Most fall into the mid-priced brand category. But I’ve never been afraid to shell out a few bucks for a well-made piece from a luxury designer.
Remember, classic style stands the test of time. Once you’re familiar with classic style and know what you love (read ten wardrobe essentials to get started), it’s easy to shop at Target or Kohl’s to fill in gaps in your wardrobe. There’s absolutely no price point that defines the classics. Whatever your budget there’s a classic clothing item created just for you.
Talbots: Since 1947, Talbots has been delivering timeless and timely fashion. Talbots has had my heart for many years, so you can imagine how happy I was to partner with Talbots as their Fall Classics guest editor, back in 2018.
Shop the Talbots Outfit
Wide Leg Denim | Denim Vest | Leopard Scarf | Quilted Faux Leather Jacket | Oxblood Slingbacks | Similar Handbag | Gold Hoop Earrings
Gap: Founded by the Fisher family in 1969, Gap went from selling Levi’s and LP records to private-label merchandise in 1974. There are several brands underneath the Gap Family: Gap, Old Navy, and my two favorites Banana Republic and Athleta.
Shop the Banana Republic Outfit
Demi Cotton-Silk Sweater | Crop Flare Everywhere Ponte Pant | Loraine Bit Loafer | Mini Shopper Tote
J.Crew: What started as a catalog company in 1983 has become one of the most iconic American retailers. This is one of the first stores I shop for blazers.
Shop the J.Crew Outfit
Striped Lady Sweater Jacket | Slim Perfect Fit Tee | Similar White Pants | Similar Flats | Similar Shoulder Bag
Vince: This is an upscale brand that draws from the natural beauty of its California home. I particularly love their blouses and sweaters. Vince has terrific sales.
Shop the Outfit
Vince Wool and Cashmere Sweater | Denim Trouser | Snake Print Clutch | Snake Print Mule Loafers
Boden: Founded in 1991 by Johnnie Boden. Boden initially launched eight menswear products and introduced womenswear in 1992. Their sweaters always catch my eye.
Fluffy Diagonal Stripe Sweater
Ann Taylor: AT always carries those ‘outfit basics’ every wardrobe needs.
Tory Burch: I love Tory’s take on sporty casual and can always count on this brand for timeless handbags.
Shop the Outfit
Striped Vest (limited sizes similar here) | Black Blazer | Ivory Pants | Similar Slingbacks |Similar Tory Burch Kira Quilted Bag
Shop More Tory Burch Bags
1.
Kira Diamond Quilt Top Handle Bag
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2.
Mini Eleanor Satchel
Shop Now3.
Small Lee Radziwill Double Bag
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4.
Ella Printed Tote Bag
Shop Now5.
Small Fleming Convertible Shoulder Bag
Shop Now
Theory: Clean, modern, and sophisticated, Theory has a nice compilation of best sellers.
Ralph Lauren: I could wear Ralph Lauren head-to-toe on any given day, I can always count on Ralph for classic outerwear.
Quince: A sustainable brand, Quince offers high-quality materials and craftsmanship for incredibly reasonable prices. I especially love their European linen and Mongolian cashmere.
Italian Wool Double-Breasted Coat
Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse
Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight-Leg Pants
Chanel: This luxury designer has delivered trends that turned into timeless classics since Coco was at the helm. Chance by Chanel is my go-to fragrance. I’m also a big fan of their lipsticks.
Burberry: This is one brand that has consistently delivered iconic elegance for decades whether it’s their trench or barn jacket.
St. John: if you want classic knitwear look no further.
LaFayette 148 New York: This is an American company based in NY. I love their take on the classics with clean lines and natural fabrics.
Everlane: This is a brand with a fabulous online presence and two brick-and-mortar stores on either coast. There are quite a few key pieces I like from this brand. But their cashmere and loafers are top-notch.
- Waffle Crewneck Sweater
- The Mid-Way Skirt
- The Mac Coat
- Bordeaux Suede Day Glove Flat
- The Penny Loafer
- The Studio Bag
- Utility Straight Leg Pant
- Rib Knit Cap Sleeve Midi Dress
J. McLaughlin: J.McLaughlin is known for “…effortless and enduring styles with a modern twist.” This brand has not let me down with reliable sizing and quality craftsmanship. I particularly love their pants and sweaters.
Shop the J.McLaughlin Outfit
Carter Pants | Jamey Sweater | Similar White Puffer | White Kitten Heel Bootie | Alternative Top Handle Bag
In Case You Missed It
This morning, Kelly shared how she’s wearing red and leopard print this fall. Click the title or image below to read the article.
Falling for Red and Leopard Print
About The Author
Another great post, Beth! I’m definitely bookmarking to help me when I need to shop for certain classic items. Thank you ~
Great post. Shopping my closet for similars and only filling in a piece or two. Even classics seem to come and go so fast. Just uncomfortable with the factories where workers, mostly female, and even some children, turn out the inexpensive fast fashion we’ve become addicted to. Dupes are no much better. A change of buttons here, a shortened pant there. A change of collar , waistband or sleeve and I have something up to date from something old. A good seamstress makes a great partner. Tucking a few things into my under bed storage for a year or two is paying off.