With all of this year's Carolyn Bessette Kennedy talk and her signature Selima Optique sunglasses everywhere, I've been thinking about forever pieces that never really go out of style. It made me wonder, if you could only have one item per category in your closet, what would you choose?
My mind immediately goes to Jane Birkin and her Birkin—the pieces we reach for again and again that become part of our personal style. Other items that come to mind are Manolo Blahnik's Callamu 50 Mules (or alternatives like Stuart Weitzman's Minimalist Slide 50 Sandal and Aeyde's Black Vero Sandals), Ferragamo pumps, the Cartier Tank Louis Watch, and classic Prada and Chanel bags. I also think of brands like The Row, Khaite, Toteme, Rue Sophie, and St. Agni.
I asked our editors to share what they consider truly timeless. Judith Jones and Anna LaPlaca both mentioned Ray-Ban's Wayfarer styles, which continue to stand the test of time. Below, see all the accessories they swear by.
"I seem to collect a lot of sunglasses, but I always come back to my Ray-Ban Mega Wayfarers. They're classic, versatile, and chic and look good with every outfit."
"I wear ballet flats year-round here in L.A., and it doesn't get more timeless and comfortable than Margaux's Demi Flats. They're the kind of flats you'll reach for on repeat."
"An elegant and classic black belt that always pulls my look together instantly."
"Strathberry bags have all the hallmarks of quadruple-digit designer versions—impeccable craftsmanship, high-quality leather—without the excessive markup. They're handcrafted in Spain and are super timeless. This one's my everyday bag for running errands, shopping, brunching, etc."
"I'm not very adventurous when it comes to sunglasses. I don't really test-drive all the funky colors and shapes on the market. These Calvin Klein ones are simple and chic—right up my alley."
"You'll never be able to pry my On shoes off my feet. They're incredibly comfortable and classic. If you want to go the anti-trend route, wear white."
"The first thing that comes to mind when I think of timeless shoes is penny loafers. The second thing to come to mind is the G.H.Bass Whitney Weejuns. They're exactly what I look for in a pair of loafers: simple and polished."
"I've seen these Khaite x Oliver Peoples sunglasses on a lot of people over the past few years, and they look amazing on everyone. I have a small face and struggle to find cat-eye sunglasses that don't overwhelm it, but these are the perfect size. They look cool and stylish but not in a trendy way."
"I'm so enamored with The Row's 90's Bag that I own it in three colors. It's just the perfect little bag for every occasion—day and night. It's so simple and low-key that I don't think it'll ever be considered dated, and that's a hallmark of The Row bags overall."
"There's something about classic Wayfarers that looks good on everyone who puts them on, and I can't believe I waited as long as I did to purchase a pair. All other sunglasses need not apply."
"I own upward of 15 belts, but this is still the one I reach for the most. It makes every outfit 50% more put-together."
"I've been in love with the Loro Piana Rebecca Flats for years, and to me, they're the ultimate investment shoes. Sure, they're technically flats but are elegant enough to rival my heels."
"I've been on a shopping hiatus for six months, but these are the next purchase I plan to make. I know I'd wear them every day, even to dress up a white tee."
"My dream investment ballet flats—I feel like it doesn't get any more timeless than these."
"The Ferragamo Vara Soft Pumps are so chic and classic."
"A black Prada bag, like this spazzolato-leather bag or a Saffiano leather option, is forever."
"The Prada Passage bag, I think, is a worthy candidate for a modern accessory that feels timeless."
"If I won the lottery, I'd keep it a secret, but there would be signs."
"I wear glasses and need a new style. Consider these at the top of my wish list."
"Speaking of CBK, take a look at these frames."
Shop More Timeless Accessories
If you're looking for an investment buy…
These iconic Celine sunglasses.
I have to include these loafers from The Row.
Hermès bags feel like the blueprint for timeless accessories.
Perfect Chanel sunglasses.
Chanel bags never go out of style.
An alternative to Manolo Blahnik's Callamu 50 Mules.
As seen on Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's.
This '90s-inspired bag.
Shoes from the beloved French brand Carel.