With 2023 now in full swing and spring finally on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to start planning your wardrobe for the new season ahead. But while it can be tempting to go straight ahead and splash out on every new and passing trend, the key to nailing elegance and style in your 30s is about embracing classic shapes and investing in luxury pieces that are designed to stand the test of time.
Whatever the season happens to be, there are certain garments and accessories that will never fall out of favour, and that together will help you to create a simple yet versatile capsule wardrobe filled with high-quality designer items you can enjoy for years to come.
Shopping in your 30s is all about quality over quantity – but where exactly do you start? These are the five items to splurge on now and will have you thanking yourself for years to come.
A mini handbag
Huge handbags have finally had their day as we finally come to accept the fact that the bigger they are, the more we end up carrying – which, whilst handy in some ways, can mean you end up with regular shoulder and neck-ache due to the sheer weight of it. 2023 is all about the mini handbag, which makes just enough of a statement on its own as well as complementing any outfit without taking over the show. And, it’s the perfect excuse to travel light – phone, keys and money are the only essentials you need.
A little bag in black from the likes of Lancel (lancel.com/en-gb/collections/mini-bag) or nude is the obvious choice, but a bold block colour can be a great way to add a pop of brightness to an otherwise understated look.
A little black dress
Every woman should have an LBD in her wardrobe and this is even more the case in your 30s. Oozing effortless style and sophistication, an understated monochrome outfit never fails to impress – and with a variety of different lengths and styles to choose from, there’s something to suit all tastes and body shapes.
Black is an endlessly flattering choice and a dress that fits perfectly will make you feel like a million dollars. Choose a midi-length shift for optimal day-to-night versatility, or an off-the-shoulder Bardot style for enviable evening glamour.
A high-end watch
A luxury watch is an item that every woman should have in her repertoire, and has the power to instantly elevate any look to sophisticated new heights.
A well-chosen timepiece commands respect, and jewel-encrusted varieties can inject some additional glamour to your outfit with effortless ease – no need to go overboard on earrings, necklaces and bracelets as one statement piece will do all the talking for you. Not only that, but you’ll always be punctual when wearing it, which will make life feel smoother and less stressful as an added bonus, too.
A pair of nude heels
Whilst it’s true that every woman should have a pair of black killer heels in her shoe-drobe, a pair of nude stilettos are even more versatile. You can wear them with absolutely everything and they’re guaranteed not to clash – not to mention their flattering leg-lengthening qualities, which are enhanced further the higher the heel you choose.
The ultimate choice? A pair of classic Louboutins, of course. That signature red sole is instantly recognisable and will communicate straight away that you mean business, as well as that you’re a woman who knows how to do timeless fashion, and do it well.
If you struggle to keep them on all night, then pack a pair of flat ballet pumps in your bag to change into later on – but remember that a pair that fits well shouldn’t cause you any pain, so getting your feet measured before you buy is key.
A pair of diamond earrings
It’s often said that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and if you’ve ever owned one then you’ll know this to be true. Few things are as elegant or effortlessly glamorous as a piece of diamond jewellery, but keeping it simple is the key to avoiding overkill and nailing understated sophistication.
A pair of simple diamond studs is the way to go, and if nobody is queuing up to buy them for you then who cares? Any woman in her 30s should be able to spoil herself guilt free, so go ahead and treat yourself to the goods. For ultimate timeless style points, wear them with your LBD, nude heels, mini handbag and luxury watch – it’s the perfect outfit, guaranteed.
