Things I Bought 10 Years Ago and Still Love

Looking through my archives of posts past and present, there’s no shortage of embarrassing pairings (too many shorts over tights…), but I was pleasantly surprised to find that a few items I bought over 10 years ago are still within my reach. for now!

It got me thinking about the longest lasting parts types. Those who can stand up to changing trends and personal tastes. After reviewing my closet, I wanted to share a few examples of pieces that I still have access to ten years later, and the elements I was looking for while shopping for timeless pieces!

1. “Investment” Apron

A few of my early blog posts were actually on Burberry coats and Chanel bags, and that’s a bit unusual considering I’m a recent college grad working at an average entry level. While most of my clothing purchases are probably under $30, I’ve budgeted and spent carefully on a few select timeless, high-quality pieces that cheer me up every time I reach for them.

I also paid for necessary modifications such as sleeve shortening because there is no point in spending money on something that doesn’t fit me well. The coat was my thing – living in New England, you spend 1/3 of the year in outerwear, and it’s the first and lastest piece you see on someone when you’re out!

Now all my extravagance has not stood the test of time and evolving tastes. There are two colors and a plaid, pieces that were fun at the time but are no longer available. My black and camel color still feels as classic as it did 10 years ago, so I have a hard time deviating from neutrals!

what would i buy now: My choice these days for an investment quality coat mackage coat (like the nori style!) Nice quality and a pretty slim cut for much less than Burberry! Petite ladies may just need to shorten their sleeves.

Wisely, I would go a little below knee length (like mine Ted Baker jacketit’s out there in terms of all-time favorite coats) is not above the knee and has not been modified for a very comfortable fit on the body and waist. My tailor always said, “This is not a dress, it’s a coat!” he would say. When I was in my early 20s and wanted a super snug-fitting coat… and now I finally got it!

2. Tailor-made Blazer

Another example of how timeless and durable pieces don’t necessarily have to be expensive. H&M has some really great jackets for the price, and I’ve owned almost all the jackets I’ve bought from there over the years!

With blazers (and any jacket or outerwear), I recommend finding a good shoulder and torso fit and then spending the money on sewing the sleeves if needed. Sometimes I spend more money on sleeve replacements than the product itself, but it’s worth it because it makes such a difference.

I also wanted to share a quick tip on how to protect my white clothes. AI will clean it as soon as I see any possible stains or sweat marks on high friction spots such as collar, underarms or arm cuffs. laundry stain stick and warm water has worked well for my white jackets and buttons so far!

What would I do differently: I will say most of my blazers from 10 years ago were more fit and shorter and these days I like a little bit longer, boyfriend style or casual cuts. But when I’m wearing an outfit where I need a shorter layer to draw the eyes up, my old trusty H&M blazers still look great!

3. Feminine but Not Extravagant Blouse

In fact, there are a surprising number of blouses that joined my wardrobe almost a decade ago. Looking at goalkeepers compared to what I’ve gotten rid of over the years, here’s what’s still around:

• Easy care fabric. It is not expensive (ie real silk) but rather easy to clean. Ann Taylor and LOFT blouses made of machine-washable synthetic materials came to the fore in this category!
• Good cover. My drapey blouses have proven more timeless over crisper cotton shirts or tops with a certain cut. For example, over time my relationship with button-down shirts has evolved from a “Customized / Tight” fit when I first started working, to a slightly looser “Classic” fit, or even “casual” cuts. By the way, my standard cut and well-draped blouses still look proud on me like they did years and 2 kids ago.
• An interesting detail that is not overdone.whether it’s a collar, textural or sleeve detail, unique color or fine pattern or print. However, it’s not a feature prominent enough to be trendy or dated a few years from now. For example, this blouse below, I loved and still love the nude pink color and tie neck detail!

What would I do differently: This is another piece I modified to be pretty slim fit. But thankfully I left the seam allowance in so I could remove it back for a more relaxed look. I always recommend having your tailor leave a reasonable seam allowance in case your body or taste changes!

4. Neutral Ditch

Trenches were one of my style obsessions in the early days of blogging and continue to be an essential wardrobe for me for years and then my life changes! London has a very chic and polished side about a good trench and can help pull together even the most basic of everyday outfits.

My first trench purchases were above-the-knee, tailored and fitted in a Burberry style, before evolving into more draped, flowy fabric midi trenches in recent years, and now larger sized ones are catching my eye. While I now prefer flowy and longer lengths, I will say that almost all of the options in my trench collection are pieces that I still have access to and don’t look too old-fashioned!

What would I do differently: One of my biggest styling regrets is shortening this visor from the original below knee height. I used to think having a skirt above my knees was the most flattering, but since then I’ve discovered how long midi lengths can go and how it can make them feel more stylish in a variety of age groups.

What is an item you owned 10 years ago and still love now?