Do you remember your first designer piece? I still have mine.

When I was in my teens, my mother gifted me a Fendi bag—the first designer piece I ever owned, and it’s still with me today! However, this cherished item doesn’t just sit on a memory shelf in my wardrobe; I use it quite frequently. As advocates of the #buylessbuybetter philosophy, we at Notorious believe that shopping consciously is key to cultivating a personal style. It’s about considering the quality of your pieces, selecting colours you love, and thoughtfully integrating new purchases with what you already own. This approach isn’t just savvy—it’s the foundation of true style.

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Why a designer piece?

Luxury fashion brands are celebrated for their iconic designs, exceptional quality, and meticulous craftsmanship—traits that often become synonymous with the brands themselves. Consequently, a designer piece can effortlessly elevate an outfit to the next level. More importantly, the superior design and craftsmanship ensure these items endure in your wardrobe for many years. Here, we see the sustainable and financial merits of the luxury industry. I own luxury pieces purchased over 20 years ago and have inherited others which have been in my family for 80 years.

However, in real life, our wardrobes typically blend high and low pieces. Who can resist a €15 Uniqlo t-shirt? To balance the ensemble, simply add a designer bag, belt, or pair of shoes. This mix not only showcases versatility but also demonstrates a savvy approach to fashion that marries everyday affordability with luxury investment.

What to consider when buying your first designer piece

• Don’t buy something just because it’s trendy. That will pass quickly, and you will regret it. Go for something you really like and in your favourite colour. Opt for a classic design, ideally with a significant heritage story. A prime example is the Gucci Jackie 1961 bag, named in tribute to American First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis. It’s an everlasting piece where the iconic double G pattern lends a vintage flair. The Miu Miu matelassé leather bag stands as another timeless classic, notable for being the first of its kind by the Italian brand to feature this leather treatment. And believe me, yellow will always be a stunning choice—not only beige carries the mantle of timelessness or classic elegance. Lastly, the Loewe brand creates bags that have become historic, such as the Flamenco model from the 70s, which continues to endure stylishly.

• Your first designer piece should be something like a handbag, a shoe or an accessory because these are pieces with a longer life than a piece of clothing. And an item like this always elevates a more basic outfit. I used to have a collection of Christian Lacroix brooches, which unfortunately were stolen, but that’s another story. Brooches, belts and bracelets add a chicness to any look.

• When you get a taste for things that last in your wardrobe rather than what’s in fashion, consider buying a luxury pair of shoes. You’ve likely heard the saying that shoes can make or break an outfit, and it’s absolutely true. Your outfits from street fashion will appear much more expensive and chic when paired with one of the carefully selected shoes we’ve chosen for you.

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