The way we shop is changing. We’re now paying more attention to where we spend our hard-earned money and what we buy, especially with the economy in its current state. Bottom line: It needs to provide a return on investment. This return could be financial through the potential of resale; it could be emotional, regarding the joy it brings you. In terms of style, it could prove its longevity by staying relevant season after season. And depending on what you want to spend, this could range from a Rolex to a classic shift dress.

To deduce the smartest purchases of the moment, who better to tap than experts from two major resale companies? Sophie Hersan, fashion director and co-founder of

Vestiaire Collective

, and Noelle Sciacca, The

RealReal

’s women’s editorial lead, are a wealth of knowledge, as they have watched both the fashion and resale industry over an extended period of time and know firsthand what has stayed desirable.

Apart from providing the knowledge of which items have the highest resale value, they recognize the fickle nature of trends and the importance of investing in your own pieces—taking care of them to eliminate wear. And while, yes, the major designers à la Gucci, Hermès, etc., always perform well, more accessible labels like Ganni and Paris Texas are becoming a force to be reckoned with, as well.

Photo: Courtesy of The RealReal

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Financially, which items hold the highest resale value?

SH:

“Iconic styles from classic luxury brands have historically always retained their value and in some instances can also increase in value over time. For example, a Hermès Kelly, Birkin, or Constance, and a Louis Vuitton Keepall are a reliable investment. More recently, we’ve seen ‘new luxury’—brands like Gucci, Balenciaga, Prada, Dior and Off-White—holding their resale value, as they’ve become so trendy. Limited-edition pieces are also something to consider. Rarity drives up the price. A one-of-a-kind color or special collection increases the demand and holds interest over time as a collector’s item. A couple of recent examples would be the Louis Vuitton x Murakami collection or the unique Dior Saddle designs released over the past few years.”

NS:

“Fine jewelry, watches, and handbags are always smart investments, since they hold strong resale value or even appreciate in value over time. For handbags, brands you can’t go wrong with are Hermès, CHANEL, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. For jewelry and watches, Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and Rolex are all at the top.”

Which items typically have a slower turnover rate?

SH:

“Out-of-season or out-of-trend items tend to sell more slowly. Though, on many occasions, certain pieces come back in style, so it’s good to hold on to items that might not be valuable right now. Most importantly, take good care of your pieces so they don’t lose their value. Always invest in their care—don’t over-wash your clothes, have them repaired by a tailor, and take your leather goods to a professional who can easily make them like new again.”

*As a public company, The RealReal cannot comment on their turnover rate.

Photo: Courtesy of The RealReal

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Photo: Courtesy of The RealReal

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