Granted, the phrase “timeless trends” might initially seem paradoxical, but what I’m advocating is that embracing classic style doesn’t preclude staying current with fashion’s ever-shifting landscape. Indeed, the trend cycle rotates continuously, introducing fresh elements into my aesthetic radar each season. With 15 years of fashion industry experience, I’ve learned not to revamp my entire style based on fleeting trends. Instead, my shopping endeavors often revolve around enhancing and refining the core pieces in my wardrobe—those that make me feel confident and are versatile enough for real-life scenarios.
Denim, for instance, is a prime example. Wide-leg jeans, often labeled as trendy, are actually a perennial staple, fitting neatly into the realm of “eternal fashion trends.” I’ve come to realize that this silhouette is my personal fashion nirvana. I favor a fit that mimics trousers, with a length that grazes the floor when paired with flats. Even within this preference, there’s ample scope for experimentation with washes and intricate details that exude a sense of novelty, and this principle extends to other timeless fashion essentials that anchor my closet. Below, I’ve curated five such classic cornerstones that I consistently seek out, along with their modern iterations to shop this season.
Timeless, On-Trend Denim
Now, delving deeper into my current denim obsession, let’s focus on the intricate details that captivate me. The Stella McCartney corduroy jeans have stolen my heart. The fabric’s fall-appropriate texture adds a delightful twist, while the blue-on-blue color scheme ensures they retain a classic jean aesthetic without overdoing it. Additionally, cream denim has piqued my interest for autumn—traditionally seen as a summer staple, it miraculously revitalizes cozy winter ensembles. The versatility of these pieces underscores my commitment to timeless fashion with a modern twist.
STELLA MCCARTNEY
Denim & Corduroy Wide Leg Pants
$1090
MANGO
Devin Wideleg Jeans With Frayed Hem
$100
ASOS CURVE
Easy Straight Leg Jeans in Light Blue
$38
AGOLDE
Dame High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
$260
TOTEME
Pleated High-Rise Wide-Leg Organic Jeans
$380
GOOD AMERICAN
Good ’90s Carpenter Jeans
$169
Timeless, On-Trend Handbags
On one hand, simple black shoulder bags with minimal branding are peak anti-trend. They’re absolutely timeless, making them perfect investment pieces, yet they’ve definitely been on an upswing in terms of popularity this year. I love my under-the-radar Celine Croque bag (it’s currently sold out in black—sorry!) for being extremely low-key and as slim as I can get without sacrificing any of the things I realistically need to have with me. I’m into styles that fit my phone without doing any gymnastics along with lip balm, sunglasses, and a small cardholder if I’m going somewhere where I need a physical card to pay. (KazuNori, I’m looking at you.)
MADEWELL
The Sculptural-Buckle Shoulder Bag
$118
KHAITE
Lina Medium Suede Shoulder Bag
$1320
REFORMATION
Medium Rosetta Shoulder Bag
$398
ZARA
Flap Shoulder Bag
$40
FREJA
Caroline Bag Black
$258
LONGCHAMP
Roseau Essential Half Moon Hobo Bag
$420
Timeless, On-Trend Sandals
They may be a key footwear trend this summer, but flip-flops are timeless as far most of the southern hemisphere is concerned. As a New Zealander who used to live in Australia, I’ve been on the flip-flop train my entire life, so a warm welcome to all that are new here! I have two pairs of high-rotation brown flip-flops—Havaianas for everyday jaunts and a square-toe Toteme pair for when I’m feeling a little fancier. They’re a perfect way to overlap trends, such as jelly footwear like those from Ancient Greek Sandals and The Row and those enduring pops of red that just keep on feeling relevant.
MANGO
Leather Sandals With Adornment
$100
TOTEME
Flat Croc-Effect Leather Flip Flops
$480
HAVAIANAS
Slim Square Flip Flop
$25
TKEES
The Boyfriend Flip Flop
$70
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Saionara Jelly
$185
A.EMERY
Morgan Suede Flip Flops
$180