Fashion and trends change every season. Following the ideas of the biggest brands presented during exclusive fashion weeks in New York or Paris is mainly the task of industry specialists and it-girls. In recent years, there has been an increase in interest in fashion for ” investment clothes ” as an alternative to fast fashion. This trend seems to be redefining the approach to clothing shopping, emphasizing exclusivity, quality, durability and versatility. Interestingly, it has also made its way from businesswomen’s closets to the catwalks.
History and Origin of the Trend: Investment Clothing
And here the question arises, can something that is contrary to trends still be called that? In the last two decades, “fast fashion” has dominated, characterized by a short product life cycle and changing styles. Many clothes available on the market were of at least average quality. Even those from luxury, well-known brands. Women, especially those running their own business, active managers in large companies, need clothes of excellent quality, always looking good.
As a result of a natural need, the phenomenon of “investment clothes” has emerged. Emphasis on long-term value and durability.
Definition of investment clothing
“Investment clothes” are sophisticated and timeless pieces that are meant to last more than a few seasons. They are characterized by high quality of workmanship and materials, and their value does not decrease with the passage of time. They have a lot in common with the idea of capsule fashion, but they are not the same. Capsule fashion focuses on the compatibility of sets, investment clothes on exclusivityquality and timeless value. It grows over time.
The phenomenon in the light of the analysis of fashion trends
Analysts from the Trendalytics platform have noticed that the spring-summer collections of famous fashion houses for 2024 focus on products universal and durable. These types of clothes, called “investment,” are designed for long-term use and do not lose their value.
This clearly indicates that the phenomenon is universal. The need for universal, durable, exclusive clothes has also reached designers. Which can be seen on the catwalks. This year, the presence of “investment clothes” was strongly marked, for example, on Copenhagen Fashion Week. This is equally visible in the latest look-books of brands known for their exclusivity, such as Kiton, Simkhai or Seafarer.
Characteristic features of investment clothing
The discussed trend in fashion in recent years is characterized by several determinants. These features mean that jackets, trousers, or skirts do not lose their value over the years. They can be used for many years in various combinations, they are timeless and perfectly made. The basic set of features of investment clothing can be listed:
- Durability and strength of materials
- Versatility of styles
- Comfort and simplicity of styles
- Timeless design
- High quality workmanship
- Constant value over time
The practice of purchasing “investment clothing”
In practice, “investment clothes” are often not cheap, but their price reflects high quality and durability. The value of some exclusive clothes can increase over time, making them a form of investment. Clothing in this trend is appearing more and more often at fashion shows.
They gain, in addition to excellent quality, materials, also exclusive labels. The price of investment clothes increases, but they also do not lose value.
The role of “investment clothes” in the era of inflation
In the age of inflation, conscious and responsible shopping is becoming increasingly important. Investing in durable clothes that will stand the test of time can be beneficial from an economic point of view. It saves time because you don’t have to search for new clothes every season. You can also point to saving money in the long run. Once you have a wardrobe, it will work for many years.
The “investment clothing” trend is a response to market demand for high quality and durability in fashion. It opposes the culture of consumerism, promoting a conscious and responsible approach to clothing purchases. The value of these clothes not only does not decrease, but can even increase over time, making them not only a wardrobe element, but also a form of investment.