There is a gray zone between replacing your cheap clothing every few months and eating noodles for a week because of your new handbag purchase. Aside from buying a specific piece because you really love how it looks, the quality of that garment should ultimately be the deciding factor.

Think about it, what will be cheaper: Buying a $20 jacket every year because it keeps wearing out, or investing in one good $500 jacket that will last forever? Good quality clothing not only lasts longer, but it is also more comfortable, versatile and stylish.

This is where we can see the importance of investing in your clothing. However, with clothes, you don’t always get what you pay for. In the case of fast fashion, the statement holds true. Pay a low price and you’ll get low quality. With designer brands, some pieces are a worthwhile investment that will hold their value, if not increase in value over time.

But there are also more than enough pieces around that simply cost what they do because of the label. So how does one discern the difference? Let’s take a look at the best investment pieces to add to your wardrobe this year to help you up to your style game and ultimately save money in the long run.

Leather Jackets

The beauty of leather pieces is that they last forever and will develop their own unique character over time, rather known as patina. Another advantage is that throughout its history as a clothing material, leather has never gone out of fashion and probably never will.

Some luxury brands are well known for their leather goods, such as Hermes. Other brands are known for their excellent designs and attention to detail, such as Saint Laurent. Keep in mind that most leather pieces are often discounted after winter as demand drops, so this would be a good time to pick up that jacket.

Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses can transform even the simplest outfit into a chic look. There’s a huge difference between cheap and good quality sunglasses. For one, quality lenses offer UV protection and have anti-glare properties, as well as being less prone to scratches. Their stainless steel or titanium frames also make them less likely to break.

If you’re looking in the long term, a black or dark brown pair will be your best bet as they match with just about any kind of outfit. As for brands, Prada and Givenchy are some of the best in the business for designer sunglasses. Thick frames are also easier to style, so keep that in mind.

Scarves

Most fashion enthusiasts will tell you that a scarf is probably the best winter/fall accessory to invest in. They’re effortless, versatile and eye-catching in addition to protecting your neck on chilly days. Depending on the fabric used, some scarves also make for great accessories in the warmer seasons.

Silk and cashmere are the best materials for a scarf. Not only do they last longer, but the soft, supple feeling they provide is unlike any other piece of clothing or accessory. Burberry scarves are a great option, as well as Acne – their cashmere is the best in the business. Hermes scarves are also great as they often increase in value over time.

Sneakers

Just like the leather jacket, sneakers never have and never will go out of style. No other piece of footwear can compare in terms of comfort and versatility. That said, cheap sneakers are definitely a no-go. Materials such as canvas will wear out, tear and lose their color over time, leaving you with no option but to pick up a new pair.

Leather sneakers are probably your best bet for the long term. If you like to keep your kicks clean, then a material such as neoprene is a good option as you can simply machine-wash them in a pillowcase to get rid of any dirt or marks. Sneaker trends come and go, but some silhouettes are timeless.

Balenciaga is well known for their classic low-top leather kicks in addition to their more daring silhouettes – you just need to know where to find them. SSENSE offers a great range of Balenciaga sneakers in addition to a plethora of other brands at excellent prices. Their shopping experience is top-notch, with everything you’d expect from a high-end online retailer.

Stilettos

While sneakers are most definitely one of the most versatile types of footwear, stilettos are your best bet for classier occasions. A quality pair of red, black or brown stilettos will work with just about anything, and they will last a lifetime if taken care of. Consider brands such as Valentino, Christian Louboutin and Pigalle for top quality heels.

Investing in quality clothing will give you something to hold close to your heart and make good memories with. It also helps you maintain your own sense of style through the years, eliminating those random times when you decide to change things up and regret it later.