We’ve all heard it, read it and perhaps even said it ourselves: “One should only invest in classic designer pieces”. But what does this mean?

Designer classics are considered - on the luxury end that is - as high-priced and due to generally straightforward and sleek design somewhat timeless pieces. We’re talking luxe cashmere sweaters and coats and of course delicate leather shoes and bags. Hermès bags such as the Birkin, Kelly or Constance immediately come to mind and of course the Chanel 2.55 Flap.

If you’re in love with the design or primarily looking to buy designer fashion as a form of investment, definitely look this way. In terms of holding value nothing beats Hermès. Approximately fifteen years ago one could simply enter a Hermès store and find several Birkins freely to choose and buy from. Nowadays prices continue to rise, production is limited and waiting list orders take years and almost never get you the bag you actually picked out. Yet there is a huge demand for the bags and even pre-loved ones sell for much more than retail price. Numerically speaking, in 2001 a basic Birkin cost approximately € 4000, today it’s almost € 7000. On a percentage basis similar price increases can be seen with the 2.55 Flap.

To be quite honest I don’t care too much for buying what is considered a classic but much rather go for what I personally like, be it classic or not. The truth is you have to feel comfortable in your clothes so your sense of style is what’s most important when buying anything really.

When spending money in the luxury sector I don’t want to compromise. Why buy something that I perhaps don’t fully agree with just because it will be considered fashionable for the next 30 years or perhaps hike in price? I love my 2.55 Flap, it’s such an elegant bag and it looks good no matter what. However, so does the Chanel backpack to me. Perhaps it will be considered a whim and quickly go out of fashion. But I will wear it anyways because it complements my wardrobe and style. Sure, my style might change over the years but from an investment point of view consider this: distinctive statement pieces become valuable vintage items.

Most important to me however is the emotional satisfaction of fashion. In the end I want to immerse myself in it.