Style Staples You Should Never Buy New
In this modern era of digital-savvy consumers, consignment shopping is no longer viewed as a feared foe, but a forum in which both tastemakers and the budget-wary can shop in harmony. Those who follow the trends can turn over their closet from season-to-season, year-to-year, and those looking for wardrobe staples can find great deals on wares from iconic brands. "When it comes to updating and modernizing a man's wardrobe, you can't go wrong with these seasonless pieces," says Mayola Martinez, men's category director at The Real Real. Here are the investment items you can find for a discount that will stand the test of time, and still deliver a solid return when you want to change up your look.
The Navy Suit The go-to office staple can be found for an incredible value online, and be worn almost anywhere, dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Pair it with jeans and sneakers for a relaxed look. "Dior Homme makes one of the best cut suit options to keep your look relevant and on-trend," Martinez adds.
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The Soft Briefcase This modern take on the briefcase will mature through the seasons and only get better with age. "A Bottega Veneta briefcase, while having a classic shape, features pebbled leather that will patina well and gives it that edge men crave," Martinez says.
The Backpack With their ascending popularity — designers like Tom Ford have recently added the bag to their lineups — backpacks are one of the fastest selling, highest sought-after items because of their versatility and multi-functionality, taking you from weekday to weekend with ease.
The Brogue Boot Brogue boots wear well over time are the perfect mix of rugged and classic with an added edge. Plus, they look great with jeans and a button-down as they do with a tailored suit. "Don't be afraid to shop off-season," Martinez notes. "Buy sweaters and boots in summer."
The Cashmere Sweater There's a reason you're still grabbing your father's favorite cable knit every winter. Anything made of cashmere, or of natural fibers, will hold its long-term value and command a higher resale. "Brunello Cucinelli uses some of the finest cashmere out there that definitely won't disappoint in the long run," Martinez says.
The Suede Jacket A suede bomber in a light color is an easy way to brighten up fall's darker palettes, and can also transition nicely into next spring. Even a bit worn in, quality suede rarely wears out.
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Selvedge DenimDark denim is a key staple year round, and can be mixed nicely into workwear for a polished edge throughout the week. Denim will be part of a man's wardrobe for generations to come, but it's fun to add or subtract trendy takes on the fabric via consignment shopping.
WatchesThe vintage watch market is ripe for consignment, but solid, everyday watches are available at a fraction of the price you'd pay for better-known options. "Despite its toughness, the Sea Dweller Deep Sea has all the refinements and complexity of any other Rolex," says Michael Groffenberger, senior director of fine jewelry and watches at the site. It's designed to handle anything you or nature may throw at it, including the pressure from two miles of water.
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