Class-ic act: Designs that will spare you from becoming a fashion tragedy

In every fashion season’s collection, there are always some timeless pieces that exude eternal appeal. Photo: Instagram/Khoon Hooi

Admit it. Some of us have been there. In trying to elevate our style game every fashion season, we attempt to be a trendsetting sensation, succumbing to fashion’s mesmerising spell, and on a whim, grabbing what every stylista seeks.

With the passing months, feelings of regret creep in, discovering that we’re actually a fashion failure, fixated with fleeting fads that aren’t flattering.

For a cool and classic combo, match a biker jacket with a handkerchief hem skirt. Photo: Stella McCartney

The horror of being a style slave!

Fret not, for even within the ever-shifting tide of new trends proposed by every designer each season, there exist classic designs that will spare you from becoming a fashion tragedy.

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Paul Smith’s Autumn/Winter 2023 feature a range of classic pieces combined with contemporary looks such as a white pants paired with a black shirt and topped off with a blouson jacket and enhanced with a floral print scarf.

The former three are timeless pieces while the latter is an accessory that reflects the season’s print from the designer known for his print mastery.

We especially love the chequered blouson jacket, a versatile number that can be worn for casual or semi-casual occasions. It gives a comfy and stylish option if you’re looking for a relaxed and easy-to-wear outer layer.

Among the cutting-edge designs at Miu Miu, like oversized blazers, dresses with 3D floral applique, and sheer skirts, there’s one look that steals the spotlight – a chic grey cardigan set worn with black pants.

While a grey cardi set is often associated with librarians and secretaries, conveying a style that’s smart and simple, Miu Miu’s touch of subtle structure infuses it with just the right mix of fashion-forward appeal and enduring classic charm.

Arguably, the most classic and must-have item from Stella McCartney’s Autumn 2023 ready-to-wear range is the black biker jacket.

Iconic and gender-neutral, the biker jacket adds instant attitude to any outfit and can be dressed up or down.

McCartney’s biker jacket is paired with a handkerchief hem skirt in an evergreen black shade.

The subtly structured cardi set showcases the right mix of fashion-forward appeal and classic charm. Photo: Miu Miu

This particular handkerchief hem skirt can also be considered classic since it does not have any print, which is more reflective of specific trends.

Embodying the epitome of elegance, Valentino’s haute couture masterpiece for Autumn/Winter 2023 is a sleeveless black dress designed with a high neckline.

Its simplicity belies its spellbinding beauty, exuding understated grace and glamour, making it a treasured thread to any wardrobe – for those can indulge in couture’s sublime splendour, of course.

On the local front, Khoon Hooi’s maxi shirtdress stands as a perennial classic.

Part of his The Cotton Story collection, the ageless wardrobe staple features a flared skirt with a lovely surprise – a button tab and cuff which, when flipped, expose a pop of orange that matches well with the overall fuchsia attire.

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Don’t miss the iconic trench coat from Burberry’s Winter 2023 line. The British brand is known for using top-notch fabrics for its trench coats such as cotton gabardine, which is durable.

What’s more, a well-maintained Burberry trench coat often holds its value, providing a favourable return on your investment if you decide to part with it in the future.

To put it simply, embracing classic fashion pieces not only grants you timeless style but could also prove to be a savvy and beneficial investment.