It seems many people are looking to update their wardrobes with higher-end pieces from brands that are not fast-fashion nor that next level up (J.Crew, Anthro, Madewell etc). These are not the super high luxury Prada/Loewe/Guccis of the world, but brands whose pieces cost roughly in the $500ish range that are really well made, won’t go out of style, and will last a long, long time. These are for when you want to look and feel great in a wonderful piece of well-made clothing that will last for seasons to come.
Here are our recs of brands to explore, with recommended items for each. And if you’re not currently in the market for these items, bookmark this blog to return to for when you are as it’s a good list, if we do say so ourselves! We’ll be following up with similar lists for shoes and accessory brands.
Chic, well made classic items with a modern twist/silhouette. Everything Me + Em does is so wonderful and the classic items can be worn for years to come. Be sure to check out their beautiful dresses for daytime and evening and everything in between. In addition to having wonderful ‘special’ pieces, they also have a great ‘essentials edit’ section of timeless pieces for every day. Their elevated basics, like this black ‘travel tailoring swing top ,which also comes in an amazing and versatile dress option, are just so good. And that red dress (also comes in black with tan stitching)…! Jo recently bought two cashmere sweaters – one of which is a cashmere hoodie with concealed buttons up the front and a drawstring hem so you can choose between a relaxed fit or a drawn-in slimmer fit.
The Veronica Beard ‘woman’ is modern, casual, tailored sophistication. Their uber-popular Miller Dicky Jacket (you can swap out different dicky inserts to completely change your look) is a timeless staple in many stylish women’s wardrobes, as is their Iconic Scuba Dickey Jacket. VB also makes beautiful pants, (like these), great denim, dresses (her Haydon Poplin Shirtdress is super versatile) and SO much more.
Nili Lotan has minimalist, sophisticated, chic clothing that is beautifully made. Whether you are looking for ‘that next level better’ pair of jeans (her Celia is super popular as are her Shon pant), a great blouse, a special coat (her trench is fabulous) or a even a beautiful belt, you’ll have trouble picking just one thing here. You won’t find bright colors or prints, but if you’re after beautifully made solid color pieces that will last for seasons to come, this is your place.
We were first introduced to this brand by a friend who wore the most casually chic dress to one of her 60th birthday destination events – it packed wonderfully and looked amazing. Brochu Walker pieces have effortless elegance with a relaxed vibe for those who are looking for refined, minimalist fashion. From casual to more formal occasions pieces they have terrific options for travel and dresses. Their Havana dress ($348) comes in 22 colors and is a great option for a super versatile dress (and the Havana mini, $298, comes in 12 colors), and their Kate shirt, $228, is a terrific basic as well for home or travel.
This Italian brand (started by JJ Martin, an American) is for the woman who wants color and happiness (as well as quality) in her clothing! No solids or dark colors here…and the prints are done in a way that women over 50 can wear them and not look too young… just stylish. Joanne swears by their dresses – you can throw one on and know you’ll look fabulous. You’ll stand out…in a good way. After wearing a couple of their dresses over the 4th of July a friend said ”Joanne, my daughter refers to you as the woman with the fabulous dresses!”. We recently visited their flagship store in Milan – what a treat.
Known for its minimalist, effortless style that embodies California cool, Jenni Kayne’s clothing has clean lines, neutral tones and high quality materials. It focuses on timeless pieces that can be worn season after season.
Key items include their classic Cashmere Fisherman Sweater ($395) which is their best-selling, never-want-to-take-it-off, wear-everywhere sweater. It is lightweight and so soft to the touch, and you might need one in every color. It is a classic fisherman crewneck sweater with a textured knit and boxy silhouette. Their Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan ($475), another JK best-seller, is a slouchy oversized cardigan ideal for layering that is lightweight, super-soft, and has faux-horn buttons.
Some of Ulla Johnson’s best-selling pieces reflect the brand’s signature bohemian and feminine aesthetic, combining craftsmanship with a contemporary edge. Have a look at her beautiful dresses and blouses, as well as:
- Annabeth Dress – Retailing for approximately $750, this dress is a classic example of Ulla Johnson’s attention to detail, featuring intricate designs and high-quality materials.
- The Willow Wide Leg Jean – These jeans, available for $490, are a part of the brand’s foray into denim, combining style with comfort.
Based on ‘the universal appeal of the stripe’, La Ligne, founded by former Vogue editors and a Rag & Bone exec, exudes casual cool comfort. The brand started with their now famous Marina striped sweater ($250, comes in 14 color combos) and has grown to have so many beautiful knitwear items for everyday upscale comfort. This red Naomi dress ($395, also comes in black) is timeless and beautiful (the hidden front zipper can be worn up or down for different looks), and their newly launched denim line is also terrific (with a distinctive back leather patch on the waistband which those ‘in the know’ will know).
The Weekend by Max Mara customer is a woman who enjoys high quality elegance, comfort and practicality, enjoys travel and likes her clothing stylish and very well made. She doesn’t need to shout..as her clothes speak for themself. Their coats are to die for, as are their jackets …and well everything they do is just subtle elegance and quality.
Known for its minimalist, sophisticated, timeless designs and worn very well by many FabListers! Specifically, their cashmere sweaters, silk blouses, and tailored trousers such as:
- Funnel Neck Cashmere Sweater: Soft cashmere but structured enough to form a funnel neck with dropped shoulders and wide ribbed bands. $425.
- Silk Blouse: This slim navy blouse was a FabList top seller during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale! $325.
- Trousers: These high-waisted pants with a wide-leg silhouette are a perfect wardrobe staple. $395.
Diane Von Furstenburg is still known for inventing her famous wrap dress, which remains a timeless, classic piece with a universally flattering fit. The brand is known for beautiful items which really flatter the female figure, such as:
- Ibiza Stripe: An eye-catching mix of prints brightens a desk-to-dinner midi dress designed with a wrap-front bodice.$398.
- Dai Mixed Dot Maxi Dress: A dot-dappled dress features billowed sleeves and a charming keyhole accenting the neck. $578.