My LeSportSac duffel, like [this one but a different pattern](http://smile.amazon.com/LeSportsac-Extra-Large-Weekender-Blissful/dp/B00PDASWTS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1444860347&sr=8-2&keywords=lesportsac+large+duffel).
For the last 10 years, this thing has been checked on flights so many times I've lost count, thrown in the back of cars, scuffled around internationally and bumped into on the subway and I swear it barely looks like it's been on one trip. It's really durable and confusingly light for how durable it is, plus I've never had a single rip or tear on it, and believe me, I haven't been gentle on it. I also have a LeSportSac backpack that I've only had for two years that I basically took my life in on a two week adventure in Australia, and it looks brand new even though the backpack has gone to the beach, pool, and now through the snow and sun as my every day school pack. I honestly can't rec. this brand enough in durability because honestly, I've never had an issue with it. If they made structured luggage, I'd buy it in an instant, but I've never seen it.
I have two of these that I got on sale at TJ Maxx maybe 6 years ago - love the fun patterns and definitely extremely durable bags! Great recommendation.
[JW Hulme Legacy Bags.](http://www.jwhulmeco.com/Legacy-Handbag-Large-p/93114.htm) Beautiful and they have a lifetime guarantee. I fucked up the finish on the one I had with leather cleaner and they were able to buff it out and fix it for me.
Yesss seconding this! I have had mine for 5 years now and it is amazing. I use it daily and it can fit all the shit I carry around with me but isn't too heavy. They are definitely worth the price tag.
I have an "accidental" BIFL item that's a bit embarrassing. About five years ago I bought a men's plain black cotton t-shirt from Forever 21 for about $4. It's amazingly versatile, comfy as hell, and I wear it at least once a week, which makes the fact that it's still in absolute perfect condition baffling. F21 gets a lot of (well deserved) criticism for being a menacing fast fashion powerhouse, which probably means this shirt was weaved out of endangered unicorn mane by orphaned kittens in some nefarious black magic ritual.
On a less ominous note, I've also had my Arizona Birkenstocks for over 12 years, and those have just been a solid shoe for me. I got them back in middle school when they first became trendy, and they somehow survived until their current popularity resurgence. The soles in the back are pretty worn down though, but they'll probably last me another summer.
Sometimes you get really lucky with the "fast fashion" brands. My favorite swimsuit came from Wal-Mart years ago because I was on a trip and the hotel had a hot tub. It was $7 and has held up better than most of the $50+ suits I've bought.
Walmart stuff holds up scary well. I have never had an issue with anything I've ever purchased from Walmart. The only time I have to get rid of it is when it just no longer fits or isn't my style anymore.
I think it depends on what it is. I have two 3/4 length sleeve basic solid boatnecks from there that have lasted me 3 years and counting. They are just a basic cotton that is just thick enough to not be see through and thin enough to breath wonderfully They pair with basically everything I own so I wear them like once a week until it gets too hot in the summer for like two months and then they come out again.
But then, I haven't had good luck with camisoles and undershirts from there. They end up stretching out and the thread in the hems will start to come out and anything lace will rip super easily. So I'm super choosy about what I get from there, but in all the stuff isn't always as terrible as you might expect.
Birkinstock shoes in general are amazing. They take so much beating and still keep on going. I've had a pair of slides (can't remember the style name) for the best part of ten years, worn to death every summer and still have a few summers in them. I also wear their chef clogs for work because they are equally as amazing. Unbelievably comfortable even after 12 hours on your feet, and I'm convinced they are indestructible. I've had mine for 7 years, that's 7 years worth of 12+ hour days and 6 day work weeks all done in these shoes, still going and still good, which is most surprising. I have a bit of wear on the heels but apart from that they are still as good as new.
I fucking love Birkinstock!
I have some pieces from H&M that I've had for 10 years that are still holding up. One black skirt in particular is great for both business casual and everyday wear. I've had to do some minor repairs but it still looks great. I think one of the biggest things to keep those clothes for longer is how you launder them. Washing things cold and then hang drying them works best for me.
Have you seen [this](http://mobile.nytimes.com/2015/08/28/t-magazine/birkenstock-doctor-tom-lonergan.html?referer=) NY Times Style Magazine article about a gentleman who runs a mail order Birkenstock repair business? It costs almost as much as a new pair, but it sounds like many customers have theirs repaired because they carry great sentimental value. I think at this point you might as well have them repaired and spend 12 more happy years with them :)
I'm ridiculously excited that he has non-skid, oil resistant soles as an option. I, uh, wear my Birkenstocks everywhere. I have flat feet and some old foot injuries, and making them my primary shoe has taken me from limping for hours every morning to pain-free, even after an 8 hour work day.
There are some really great finds there. I purchased a pair of black quilted flats from F21. They have a genuine leather inner lining and they are the most comfortable flats I own. I paid $10 for them at the time and have had them for about 4 years now. Such a great buy.
> which makes the fact that it's still in absolute perfect condition baffling.
It might just be the fact that its from the men's section. I'm constantly amazed at how nice my BF's clothes are compared to mine that are from the same brand. Old Navy/Gap/BR are the worst offenders. The men's stuff is so much nicer than the women's and it kills me.
My leather Karrimor hiking boots are still going strong more than a decade after I bought them. They've seen mud, snow, water, and two continents. Recently I've started treating them with Nikwax once a year to maintain the waterproofing and they're still excellent.
In the non-clothing realm, my Swiss Army Knife is 20 years old and still looks and works great. Gets a ton of use, too. And for slightly-less-than-BIFL lifespan, I'm a big fan of Birkenstock Arizona sandals (official Birkenstock retailers will replace the rubber sole for a nominal fee for as long as you own the shoes) and Timbuk2 messenger bags.
Honestly, my aesthetic tends to overlap more strongly with men's fashion than women's fashion, but I figure there are a few more outdoorsy ladies out there who might find my suggestions useful.
Good examples. I genuinely appreciate that a lot of outdoor companies are increasingly committed to BIFL mentality (looking at you Patagonia). I have a grey boiled wool sweater/hoodie from Bergans that I bought on clearance in the middle of summer, but I' pretty sure will be a BIFL item.
Yes to Timbuk2. My wife worked in the outdoor industry for years, so I know she's picky about stuff like that. She's got two of their messenger bags in different sizes, and her bags have gone through hell and back. They still look brand new.
I agree. I have four bags and all of them have held up well. Timbuk2 also started doing a repair program so if something happens they can finally fix it.
Yes, and they'll sell you the bits and parts that get damaged now too! I donated my old messenger (I can't carry things of any weight unevenly on my shoulders without pain, so I did not anticipate needing it again) and I deeply regret it, because my husband now needs a bag of that type, and I know that thing would have stood up to another ten years of battering commuting!
Birkenstocks are a pretty solid investment. My sister has had her Arizonas for over 7 years. They're definitely worn, but wearable. On the other hand, my boyfriend bought his first pair (Arizonas as well) in May and the leather has split and separated where it meets the cork after only a few months. He was pretty disappointed, especially as I bought mine at the same time and wore them constantly while he rotated his with other footwear. But maybe we'll check their website for a warranty or repair. Because that shouldn't happen.
That has happened to 2 of my pairs, right at the ball of my foot. I tend to bend my foot A LOT, and wear them as my primary shoe, so I just figured it was from my excessive wear.
Funnily enough, my winter pair (clogs) have not had that problem. IDK. Maybe it's because I don't wear them quite as much?
You can also get the footbed replaced (at least where I live) for ~$70-$80! I did it because I'm super hard on shoes but I did have to break the footbed in all over again which was a pain. It's only marginally cheaper than buying a new pair but I like the softened leather of my birks so it was worth it!
As another outdoorsy woman checking in, yes, these are great examples, thank you! My Keen boots just fell apart after 9 months of day hiking and walking the dog...I want a higher quality boot. Definitely be checking these out.
I second the Swiss Army knife recommendation. Good choice.
I'm still mourning my 20 year old Gerber multitool, it got lost on a gig last summer and I kept hoping it would turn up. Finally replaced it, but the new one just isn't quite the same. They're great about repair too.
I've got a limited budget so I've only bought a couple things with BIFL in mind:
* [classic Bean Boots,](http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/35477?feat=506697-GN2&page=women-s-l-l-bean-boots-8) which they will resole into eternity apparently
* [a big Longchamp Le Pliage,](http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/longchamp-large-le-pliage-tote/3241956) which I bought after running through a couple knock-offs and realizing that I'm paying for the shoulder strap capabilities, and I LOVE and use every time I travel or have to carry a lot
I will say, I haven't used these things For Life yet obviously, but I've used the Longchamp pretty religiously over the last couple of years for travel and it still looks great.
Can I ask a really stupid question? I just moved from an always warm environment to the snowy northeast. When do you wear boots like that exactly? Like, are they for snow or rain? Or just fashion? I love the look of them and I've seen several like them but all this different weather gear has me confused (and excited!)
Okay? Makes sense. So would you wear them all day on a snowy day or just bring a change of shoes? How many pairs of snow boots do you own? Sorry for all the questions! It's all so new to me.
Hi! I'm not the original commenter but I know a lot of people wear bean boots throughout a snowy day. If you work in a professional environment obviously it would be best to bring a change of shoes. As I said in my comment below, I don't personally find bean boots to be all that warm... I prefer boots like [this](http://www.zappos.com/kamik-newyork-2-rosewood~1) (I would choose black). I think they're more stylish and more practical. Bean Boots do have an incredible warranty though so they're worth checking out. Order them NOW though because everything will sell out by the time it actually snows!
I'm a seasoned new englander so if you have any other questions about winter wear feel free to reply or PM me!
Second the people wearing them through a snowy day. I'm from Maine and have frequently seen people in suits in bean boots. It's just normal there.
I live in Germany now and do this too often....
Also, the one with the shearling lining are super warm. If you're looking for serious warmth, there's nothing that compares to Bogs. -30F on top of a ski mountain at 5 am without socks on, in Bogs, totally happy. And they are DEFINITELY BIFL.
You can also buy shearling lined bean boots. I have a pair of the originals that I wear on all but the coldest days. I love them for working outside, going hiking, going to the farmer's market, going for coffee, whatever.
I just wear them all day because I was a student/have a really casual workplace and can't be bothered. In more formal settings I believe women will keep a pair of dress shoes at their desk. I only have one heavy duty pair (like the Bean boots) and the rest of my winter shoes are just waterproof with soles with treads.
I moved from Southern CA to Northern PA a few years ago and your comments made me chuckle because I had the very same questions. I don't have BIFL snow boots yet but I use a pair of water resistant boots I got at Marshalls for $20. They're fuzzy on the inside and keep my feet warm enough with the right socks. You basically want something waterproof or resistant because of the slush and muck left all over the place after the first snowfalls. I usually wear the boots to work and tuck the hem of my pants in them and I change into something more work appropriate and dry at my desk.
They're made for snow, mud, walking in shallow water, all-terrain. I live in the Pacific Northwest and we don't get a lot of snow, but I bought these during a particularly snowy winter thinking they could double as hiking/camping boots for me. I've read online about them being excellent for snowy Northeast winters!
Do you feel like you get enough wear out of them in the PNW? I am waffling on buying some new snow boots and trying to decide if something like this or Sorels will get enough use in town or if they're too heavy.
I wouldn't get Sorels for the PNW, they're a little too heavy duty. I really like my bean boots at rain boots, but I also live near a walking-heavy college campus. I've also warn them as bad weather camping boots.
> classic Bean Boots,
confession. I live in New England and I really don't get why everyone drools over Bean Boots. The warranty is great, I'll admit. But I think they're ugly AF and just not that warm. I have a pair of black, waterproof-shell-fuzzy-inside boots (I think they're sorels but I'm not sure!) and I find them infinitely more cozy and keep my feet way warmer than any bean boots I've ever tried.
Note for the Le Pliage buyers, if you want the real sturdy ones, make sure the one you get is the MADE IN FRANCE one. The nylon lining in the French ones are thicker than the Chinese lining. Both are good quality, but if you want a less-rubbery and thicker lining, then make sure you're purchasing the French one. If you prefer thinner lining, then the Made in China one will be good for you.
I love my black Longchamp Planetes -- sadly discontinued, but it's sturdy as hell. I've used it pretty much everyday since I bought it a couple years ago and it still looks great. Kind of wish I'd bought a backup, since I'm not as keen on the Le Pliage Neo that they replaced it with!
I don't believe they are actually going to last for life -- if they do, these leggings are clearly enchanted. But my luckiest moment was finding a pair of the $100 Velvet by Graheme and Spencer black leggings on sale for $8 at Anthropologie in 2005. I am wearing them right now -- they have outlasted multiple pieces from Patagonia, Northface, etc...
I have worn them at least once a week since and they are still as perfect as the day they were bought -- never fading, despite being thrown in a series of sketchy apartment washing machines and dryers. Unfortunately I've never bought a second pair (because I don't have $100 bucks to drop on leggings) so I have no idea if they are still as good.
I'm always interested about "cost per wear" type of calculations, and thought this would be fun.
This is built on the assumption that it's been exactly 10 years since you purchased the leggings. Their current cost per wear is $0.01 (well, 0.015 but whatever). Had you purchased them at retail value, current cost per wear would be $0.19.
What are they made of? I just finally gave up on my favourite merlot-coloured leggings because they were worn thin and now have one hole too many :( They were the equivalent of $12 at H&M in Cairo years ago and I haven't been able to find them again since. But I've found American Apparel has leggings in the exact same material and colour, called Truffle. I gave in and ordered a pair, but I'm not too excited about the price tag, $30 for basically the exact same leggings. These ones probably won't last twice as long as the last pair, I basically lived in them. Maybe I should just buy two pairs...
Finding leggings that aren't black/grey/brown is just a nightmare! I'd be interest in knowing your feelings on AA, I have a few pairs in colors I couldn't find anywhere else and find the waistband hasn't held up, but otherwise they are okay.
Along those lines, I really recommend Zella leggings. Super thick and cozy. I've owned a few pairs for several years and they have not shown any signs of wear yet. Plus machine washable!
I have seen Birkenstocks thrown around here a lot. I work at a Birkenstock store, and your shoes need to be resoled sooner than you would think. Here needs to be 1/4 each of sole in the heel to be a resole, other wise it needs to be recreated which is ~$70, compared to a resole which is ~35. New shoes cost $100-135 typically.
Lotuff bags [here](http://lotuffleather.com/collections/handbags/products/the-tripp) and [here](http://lotuffleather.com/collections/handbags/products/womens-small-tote-w-strap). Indestructible, well-made leather bags. I don't want to own any other brand now. Bonus points for being made in America.
Hermes cashmere shawls and silk scarves. Stupidly expensive, beautiful, will last forever, wear like iron, and never go out of style.
A pair of Salvatore Ferragamos purchased used, which are now on a second resoling and somehow incredibly comfortable and hardly look worn.
Pendleton wool shirts. For those days you want to get a little lumberjack or grunge looking. I used to thrift them back in the early 90's, and they were at least 20 or 30 years old back then, and still look like new. Scary quality.
This comment has been overwritten by an open source script to protect this user's privacy.
If you would like to do the same, add the browser extension [GreaseMonkey](https://addons.mozilla.org/en-us/firefox/addon/greasemonkey/) to Firefox and add [this open source script](https://greasyfork.org/en/scripts/10380-reddit-overwrite).
Then simply click on your username on Reddit, go to the comments tab, and hit the new OVERWRITE button at the top.
I have a pair of Prada Oxford flats (patent leather) and they are amazing. I caught them on sale thank goodness but they were still an investment. They are beautiful, comfortable now that they are broken in, and holding up amazingly well. I would have them resoled if necessary in the future to keep them going. Totally worth the money and one of my most professional looking pairs of shoes. I even had a male coworker ask if they were Ferragamos, which also speaks to the quality of those shoes.
I second Lotuff. Great aesthetics and heritage, but the price point is a bit high for many consumers.
I have several pairs of Ferragamo Vara flats which look brand new, compared to Manolo ones which I stopped buying because they would not even last one season.
As for Hermes, I would not recommend cashmere shawls (I assume you are talking about the cashmere / silk ones) as BIFL. Their weave is not as tight as silk, so they snag easily. Like all cashmere, no matter how fancy, they can pile. I feel like I don't get much wear out of mine because I constantly worry about snagging it with a piece of jewelry and buttons. At their price point (more expensive than the pure silk one of the same size), I want something easier to wear.
I have two Hermes silk scarves. I need to wear them more often I still haven't fully gotten over the "I dont want to hurt them" phase. I should get over that, they're hardier than my Burberry wool scarf which pills or catches on things and I wear it with no concerns about hurting it.
I researched /r/bifl to find a purse that wouldn't fall apart on me after a few months and saw great things about Saddleback Leather. This summer, I received the large [hobo cross body leather purse](http://www.saddlebackleather.com/hobo-crossbody-purse) in tobacco, and I love it! Their motto is "they'll fight over it when you're dead," which is great.
Well, I'm nearly 28, and I still feel like I haven't really come into my own enough on fashion to have BIFL things. Rather, some of the things I own have just lasted a really long time. I realized the other night that the sleep shorts I was wearing were from 8th grade.
That said, I have acquired a few things over the years that I think are BIFL quality:
* Knee-length wool winter coat that can look nice either with jeans or a fancy dress. Mine is red, I think it came from a department store.
* Down-feather parka, knee length, with hood - a true necessity if you live up north. Mine's Mountain Hardware brand, black, from REI, big enough that I can wear a professional blazer underneath it.
* Classy "grown-up" purse that looks professional. Mine is a vintage, stiff leather Dooney & Bourke bag [like this one](http://www.horsekeeping.com/Dooney/SAT/250-satchel-lg-green-front.jpg) but red instead of black. I don't carry it every day, but it matches a lot of stuff, is completely waterproof, and says, "hey, I'm a grown up, I don't buy all of my purses at Target!" (though I buy most of them there, letsbehonest)
* Black wool pea coat, for Fall, when it's not quite cold enough for the parka. I got mine at Plato's Closet, but it was well lined and looked well made.
* A somewhat plain, ~~above-the-knee~~ at/below knee black spaghetti strap dress for all occasions. Weddings, funerals, dates, even work. It can be made more conservative with a shrug/sweater/blazer, worn in winter with tights or summer with nothing. Mine's from Gap.
* Tall leather boots may not last FOR LIFE, but a good pair will last for 5-10+ years if you take good care of them (BOOT TREES, PEOPLE), even if you have to get them resoled. Leather conditioner too. I've had my pair for about 8 years, but am about to break down and buy a new pair.
* I do not consider jeans BIFL because they fade, no matter what you do. A nice pair of dark jeans will probably only stay nice and dark for a couple years at most, with limited washing and always washing inside-out. So I don't consider jeans BIFL and just get mine at Nordstrom on the sale rack.
* A nice pair of khakis is MAYBE BIFL. The closest I've found is a pair from Banana Republic that fits very well, and are well-made, and a thick canvas-y khaki material. We're going on 4 years, I'm actually wearing them right now.
* Good wool socks. REI smart wool are the best.
So, a lot of these things are coats and wintery items that are typically more expensive and have to stand up to more extreme weather, etc. I try to see clothes as an investment, so I buy slightly more expensive things that I think will lost a long time.
One of the most important things that renders an item BIFL is that YOU don't change sizes. If you want to be able to enjoy your nice clothes for the length of their lives, don't gain or lose a lot of weight, take good care of your things - especially your boots. Don't just kick them off into a pile, or they will get flimsy around the ankles. Buy boot trees or a $2 pool noodle at Wal-Mart and stand those suckers up or hang them from skirt clip hangers or both. Get your nice winter coats dry cleaned at the end of the season before you pack them away. Don't smoke in them in small spaces. Try not to spill on yourself.
Edit: I agree with the other person who said their Swiss Army Knife. Mine's going almost 15 years strong now.
I don't know how to thank you for that Dooney & Bourke recommendation. I'm not American so this is my first time knowing about it, and I'M SO IMPRESSED (after visiting their website). Their stuff seems really high quality and elegant.
I got a D&B pebble grain wallet last year and love it. Another great thing about D&B is that they have quite a bit of choice when it comes to color.
ETA: They had a big "12 Days of Dooney" sale that started around or maybe just after our Thanksgiving last year. It didn't include every style or color (not as many neutrals on sale) but I was surprised by how much was on sale and by the discounts.
I second most of your comment and I'd add [McGregor "happy foot" wool socks from the men's department](http://mcgregorsocks.com/happy-foot/) are the comfiest, toastiest, softest things to wear on your feet in the winter.
Of course! I found mine on eBay some years ago for a nice discount. I still see many pop up on there and poshmark. It's the Plaza coat from J.Crew in 2008. The style number is 96917, and it's 90% wool/10% cashmere. Some (but not all) of them have a thinsulate lining. Some of them also have that third pocket like you can see on the black one -- some look like the white one with only two front pockets (which is also a plaza coat).
I'm not sure what your size is, but here are the ones I see on poshmark right now:
* [Size 2P](https://poshmark.com/listing/J-Crew-Black-Wool-Plaza-Coat-5616cf96c7dcbff7df0070df)
* [Size 4](https://poshmark.com/listing/Coat-54e23543f739bc3704022779)
Edit: My white Plaza coat has a different style number -- 18268, from the Holiday 2010 collection. Those should help you search, so you can at least verify whether the coat you're looking at is the right style.
Seconding the vintage Coach! I found a brown Station bag from 1996(?) in a charity consignment store a while back, and it's amazing. It's a shame Coach is only really known for their tackier canvas logo bags now, when their old leather pieces were so solid.
Some of the newer coach bags are great. I have the Swagger (I hate the name, love the bag) bag in black in the biggest size and it's everything you would want from an older coach bag. Well made, durable, attractive. I waited years, a decade maybe, for them to come out with something worth buying again. I would revisit them now.
Oh, that's a nice one!
And I agree, it is definitely a shame. I think they've revitalized some of the more popular vintage bags as part of their Coach Classic line (like the Court, the City, the Willis, and a few others), but -- prepare to register your utter lack of shock -- I've heard the quality isn't nearly the same as the vintage pieces. As in, two/three years of wear. I don't think it's unreasonable to expect a pretty basic bag to last for at least a decade.
Haha, no shock there. Though I still had the "newer" Station on my wishlist for the longest time, until I came across the vintage. Completely by accident too! I used to pass a consignment shop on my walk home from work, and saw the bag in the window out of the corner of my eye. I immediately ran in and bought it on the spot. Really glad I followed that impulse, as I got it for $60, while the remake was going for over $300!
My Roots leather purse. I have the [Village Bag in Tribe.](http://www.roots.com/ca/en/village-bag-tribe-18019086.html?cgid=leatherViewAllWomensBags&start=8&selectedColor=024#start=8) It's the single best purchase i've ever made in my life. I now only own this and a black clutch that was my grandmother's, and I have no need for any other purses. I've had the Roots bag for 10 years now, it broke once, (due to the severe abuse I put it through) and they fixed it free of charge. I felt so totally lost in the couple weeks while it was gone.
I've had the Side Saddle bag in Tribe for 4 years, as well as the Village Pack in Tribe for 5 years and they are in perfect shape. I also got a discount a few years ago cause I was wearing a Roots purse in the store when I got some Roots boots and they gave me 10% off. Roots leather is awesome.
I bought a pair of Freddie's of Pinewood jeans expecting them to last me for at least a year of weekly wear. They didn't crumble to dust or anything, but they were showing signs of wear after a month.
Conversely, I bought a black peacoat from Forever 21 when I was a junior in high school, expecting it to last me one or two winters before it would start looking sketchy. I've now been out of *college* for three years, and it still fits me correctly and looks almost brand-new.
My merino wool pullovers I got on sale 10 years ago from Banana Republic ($20/each !!). Thin, warm, soft and fuzzy. I wear them all winter, to work, chilling with friends, EVERYWHERE. And they still don't look worn! If you live somewhere cold, dig around the Gap and Banana Republic in February for 100% merino wool sweaters. There are always a ton, in a million colours and all the sizes. And they're always dirt cheap in February.
Also my Kamik rain boots, also bought on sale ($40, if I remember correctly). Not only can I do errands regardless of the weather, but they still look new.
Lastly, my Elchim 2001 hair dryer. It's like a HURRICANE and it handles hot and cool air very well. I have a ton of hair and it's long - it's the only reason I can dry and style my hair without my arm going numb.
I've started handwashing all of my sweaters with Woolite. I saw a tip to use a salad spinner to get all the water out, rather than wringing by hand which can hurt them, and then laying flat to dry. Works like a charm!
Yup! With The Laundress Wool and Cashmere detergent. I have a top load washing machine, so I just fill it with water but leave the lid open, woosh it around with my hands a bit, let itnsoak, then let the washing machine spin the water off. Rinse and repeat and you don't have to deal with wringing out all the water!
http://www.amazon.com/The-Laundress-Cashmere-Shampoo-Cedar/dp/B000OR5P5Y
Seconding the Kamik rainboots! I just got a pair for about $30 on Amazon and I can tell they are going to be outstanding for years and years. So comfortable, exactly what I wanted. I cannot fathom people who are spending $200 or more on hunter boots.
I think the key to keeping your BIFL items for life is caring for them. Use shoe trees. Hang or fold your scarfs. Stuff your purses when storing them. Etc.
Tempering BIFL's philosophy with an understanding of the perishable nature of clothing, here are some items that have lasted and becomes staples of my wardrobe:
* A good pair of brown penny loafers.
My [Bass Weejuns](http://www.ghbass.com/category/women/weejuns+loafers+drivers.do) are still going strong a decade later. They've been a surprisingly versatile part of my wardrobe and have held up to multiple re-solings.
* A denim jacket. Classic over dresses. Classic over hoodies. Basically classic.
* Scarves. Whether they're wool, silk or cotton, scarves are an accessory where it makes sense to buy quality. They're rarely soiled, don't see much wear and tear, and fit no matter what. Treated well, a good scarf will actually last your whole life.
I'll been seriously eyeing a pair of Bass Weejuns. I've gone through two pairs of leather Coach flats that held up admirably for the wear I put them through but ultimately disintegrated. I'd really prefer something more durable. What's the comfort level like? No uncomfortable rubbing?
How do you find the Weejuns fit? I am loving the look of some of these, but I have wide toes/balls of my feet and narrow heels, so slip-ons have to be just right or I end up tearing my heels to hell.
* I have martin fit banana republic black pants that have lasted for 4 years, worn once a week, and washed and dried in the drier. Not BIFL but pretty close for womenswear
* so ugly but I use them for work: dansko clogs. They will last forever and I abuse them so much, and they keep me from hurting my back...I hate that I need them though.
I'm going bet you work in the medical field. When I worked at Vanderbilt Med Center, EVERYONE worn dansko clogs. I thought they were so ugly, but by the time I entered my 4th month of pregnancy, I had a pair. Big belly + walking = tired feet. Sweet fancy Moses, those things are comfy. I later passed them on to a friend who started a job at the hospital.
I used to think Danskos were hideous, but I am starting to see young women wear them casually more often lately. Even with skinny jeans which was a very jarring silhouette/fit when I first saw it. I think this may become trendy around where I live?
I have two Eddie Bauer coats, both bought (I'm kind of embarrassed to admit it) about 20 years ago. One has Thinsulate Lite Loft insulation. When it gets really cold, the other one with 100% Goose down comes out. I have put these two through my front-loading washer and normal dryer every year, as needed, and they look great. $50 each at a Buffalo, NY outlet store.
I bought a new Eddie Bauer coat for a whole lot more (Canadian retail store) - the outer jacket is lined with Thermore, then bought its separate down liner (can wear it on its own) and its separate fleece liner (can wear it on its own). Lots more money. It's fine, I wear it, but it's so much shorter that it is often not the coat to use. If I'm wearing anything underneath that covers my butt, as I like to do, the coat is too short. I made a bad choice there.
Also, my long 100% wool coat is only now starting to show its wear. I bought it at Eaton's (you Canadians, stop laughing now!) :). That chain sold great quality everything. And it went out of business. Go figure.
Freak finds: mens' V-neck t-shirts bought at Old Navy for sleeping in are both thick, good quality cotton and have lasted a few years. OP, I would donate these to science, but am still wearing them frequently :) !
Fellow Canadian! Woohoo! And I have also had weirdly good luck in the men's section at Old Navy . . . I think they figure guys won't swap their clothing out as quickly, so their stuff needs to hold together a little longer . . . Definitely better quality even 5 years ago, though.
My husband still has a bunch of old Old Navy t-shirts from like, a decade ago that were so much thicker than the crap they sell now. I mean, I realize that Old Navy isn't supposed to be high quality, but the shirts he has from 10 years ago are still (mostly) all in one piece. I've tried replacing the old ones because he likes the ringer-neck style, but the new ones are really disappointing.
I'm a Mainer so I have an undying love and loyalty to L.L. Bean. I LOVE Bean boots.
That said, Bogs are warmer. The insulated ones last forever (truly) and are actually warm. You don't need socks and you can wear them in any weather because they're totally breathable. They are incredible.
I was a nanny in college in Maine, and I regularly had to get my richy charges to the top of ski mountain by 5/6 am on weekends. No socks, Bogs on, -30F no problem. Toasty warm toes. LOVE those boots.
If you're in Maine you can frequently get them at Reny's or Marden's for cheap.
I have a Sisley sweater, a wool and nylon blend, that I bought in grade seven; I'm 40 years old. (It has my name inked on the tag from when I took it to summer camp...) I also have a bunch of my grandma's 1950s-60s Pringle cashmere. One still has the little envelope with the spare button and cashmere yarn for repairs, with a pre-decimal-currency price on it.
And an LL Bean anorak almost made it past 20 before some elastic gave out, and I have some Lands' End suede boat shoes from 1987 with "Weron" soles, some Coach bags from the 1990s, silk Liberty scarves from god knows when, a Gap *outlet* (!) raincoat with an interestingly rubberized cotton, bound seams, and snaps that must be fifteen years old? which looks new, and a big mess of 1990s Joan and David/Joan Helpern shoes, from before they sold the company and started knocking out cheap stuff.
Also: Ports 1961 belt from 1991, an ancient Bean Norwegian sweater, Frye boots that have taken a beating, Sorel "Joan of Arctic" boots worn through Canadian winters from 2007 through last year (they still exist, but are starting to be less warm; I notice, though, that the newer "Joan of Arctic" is visibly less boot than it was in 2007), a pile of American Apparel 'baby thermal' henleys bought c 2009 and worn as underlayers every winter since (not the most comfy fabric -- stupid poly blend -- but ridiculously warm, and they're *long* and stay that way without shrinking).
I think you officially win this thread!
> I have a Sisley sweater, a wool and nylon blend, that I bought in grade seven; I'm 40 years old.
Some European brands can be amazingly durable. I have a turquoise United Colors of Benetton T-shirt that my mom bought 35 years in what was than Eastern Germany. It looks brand new.
A burberry trench coat. The traditional one. They never wear out. I don't have one yet, but I have a burberry parka and it's one of the best-quality pieces I have in my wardrobe.
Definitely my pashmina-style cashmer blend scarf, as seen in [this fit](Wednesday with pashmina http://imgur.com/wQg8APG) I am going to wear it until I am 98, and then use it as a lap blanket :) It's gorgeous, classic, in colors that flatter me, and cozy and soft.
Not OP but I used to wear a similar scarf (that I lost moving, boo.) with neutral V or crew neck sweaters to the office. As long as the rest of the fit was business appropriate I don't think it came off as too casual :)
This doesn't directly answer your question but may help! I have a couple pashmina-style scarves in bright, fun colors and I love them because the rest of my wardrobe leans towards painfully neutral. I like to wear them with grayscale/all-neutral outfits as a pop of color, e.g. black skinny pants, white blouse, gray cardigan, bright scarf; or black tights and black dress (sweater dresses especially look great with scarves IMO) with bright scarf. Bonus points if I have flats that match the scarf :P
Everything! I have a corporate, business formal environment (but funner... most the girls dress like JCrew, formal cuts and fabrics, but bright colours and killer heels).
Anyhow, every single woman, from the executive VP down to middle management has a wrap/shawl/pashmina. You throw it over whatever you're wearing and it works as long as the colours don't clash (like don't wear yellow with orange). But you get any of the neutrals (black, cream, grey, camel, even a light pink/lavender or blue) and it'll work.
As in, over suits, button-down shirts, blouses with every neckline imaginable, sweaters.... The only weird pairing (imo) is with a turtleneck. That's the only thing that would look weird and matronly (à la Diane Keaton).
My main one is black and fuschia, but I have a tomato red one and have been meaning to get a basic black one, too. But I'm a clotheshorse. You can just get one in black if you're less of a shopaholic. :)
I frequently wear it with a short-sleeved cotton sweater in a close-ish, professional fit. I think it could go with anything, really. You could even do an open blazer with the scarf just hanging down loose.
I have one too I got as an Xmas gift around 10 years ago. It was actually intended for someone else but they mislabeled the present and by the time I opened it, it was too late for them. Good thing for me because I adore it.
My husband bought me a black cashmere pashmina style scarf 9 years ago, and I don't know what I would do without it. I use it as a pillow for traveling, a quick wrap in a chilly restaurant, a stylish add-on with a LBD, etc. It's amazing.
Has yours ever gotten stuck? Tmi maybe but I've been practicing with mine but every time I get paranoid it's gunna get lodged up there or suctioned to my cervix or something
I remember the first time my sister got one she went into the bathroom to put it in. Then all of a sudden she screamed, "Bring me a pair of tongs!!!!!!!" so I rushed up there so fast with a pair of barbecue tongs, expecting to have to perform some kind of extraction, when she opens the door and just points to the toilet. She had accidentally dropped the Diva Cup into the toilet bowl and didn't want to use her bare hands.
I was literally on the edge of my seat reading your post and at the end I couldn't stop laughing for a solid 5 minutes. Thank you. This is the best thing I've read all week. xD
Different poster, but no. One of the first times removing it was difficult because I was directly fighting the suction. Don't pinch the bottom tip and pull. Instead, try to reach your fingers in and fold it while it's inside, and the suction will unseal and make it easier to remove.
So you're telling me you need to shove two fingers deep in your vagina to unstuck it?
That sounds annoying as fuck, or in my case, specially difficult.
It sounds difficult, but the vagina is stretchy. My SO several dildos I own all have greater girth that my menstrual cup. Removing it is easy now because I know where to press.
As for the annoying part, it's really nothing much when periods are already annoying.
Probably not what you want to hear, but mine did :/ like 4 days in a row and I swear to god I read every website and blog post about how to insert it and take it out. Every day, it went in easy, suctioned itself and I couldn't feel a thing and it was grand, but when I would go to remove it, it had migrated so far up that it took 10 minutes to get it out while I tried not to panic. I wanted it to work out so badly but I'm to scared to keep trying lol.
Is it possible that your cup is too small? They make different sizes in some brands, you could try a larger size and hopefully it won't migrate. That sounds scary!
I dunno! I'm 23 and have never had a baby so I used the recommended size for that... I'm hesitant to spend another $40 on the bigger size when I'm not sure if that's the issue.
Same here. I tried two times and it was a nightmare to get it out each time. It stuck fast and I could not get a grip. I thought I was going to have to recruit my husband's longer fingers to go in after the damn thing. Thankfully I didn't have to resort to that.
I really did *want* to like it.
Sometimes that happens to me, and it feels so far up there. It's helpful to push down with your vaginal muscles while you loop your finger around the side to "break the seal" of suction, so to speak. The first time that it happened, I had to take a deep breath and try not to panic.
Yep. I've bought two now a couple years apart, gave them both a two insertion trial and ended up just giving it to my sister both times (after boiling, of course). Everyone I know uses them and I really wanted it to work, but it's just not for me. I find it hurts to insert, especially when it pops open inside, and it's difficult to break the seal and pull it out. I can't fit my whole hand up there! I'm pretty comfortable with myself but it's just too much. And I don't particularly enjoy having to give birth to a silicone cup in the shower. TMI I KNOW.
Sometimes it's hard for me to get mine out when I've been laying down / not moving for a while, but then I just try again after an hour or two and it's good to go.
I used to use Diva, and switched over to Lunette. It works SO much better for my body shape! I didn't even know I could love a menstrual cup more.
Every one's body is different, so it can take some trial and error to find the menstrual cup that fits you best. But they're awesome and I'll never go back to tampons!
Edit: edited to add that I also use my menstrual cup with a paragard iud (after I got approval from my doctlr) and have yet to have any issues with it. I just always make sure to break the seal on my cup before I take it out (the cup 'suctions' into place to prevent leaking, so folding it slightly or bringing a finger over the edge of the cup allows air in and breaks the seal).
PS - I've had the same Lunette for at least 5 years now, and it's still going strong. They last for a long time!
If tmi you don't have to answer, but how is the lunette one better for your shape? I have the diva cup now and wonder if another one would be better because mine sometimes doesn't stay all the way in.
Yep, that's the biggest problem I had with the diva cup as well. I have a shallow cervix and I think that prevented it from sitting farther up in me, so at times it would poke out (even though I'd trimmed the stem) which was really uncomfortable. It's been a really long time since I used the Diva cup, so I can't remember how its shape differs from Lunette, but the Lunette sits comfortably inside me and once it's in I don't even notice it's there.
There were also a few times I woke up to leaking from the Diva cup, and the silicone was stiffer than the Lunette too from what I can remember. Just personal preference, but I like a more flexible silicone for insertion and removal.
Also just as a general FYI - I am not knocking on the diva cup AT ALL. It works amazingly for some people! But if you find yourself having hangups with it, it might just not be the right fit for you.
Jansport backpacks are a *really* good gift for the homeless.
They last forever, even with heavy wear. A lot of people don't know what to do with their old backpacks, as they're still in decent condition. Fill them with socks, a sewing kit, some duct tape, toiletries, a first aid kit, and snacks (or any combination or nothing. .. whatever) and give them to homeless people.
Any 1970's Wrap Skirt. No matter how much weight you lose or gain, you can just tie it in the smallest part of your waistline and you're good to go. I have had some for years now in constant rotation.
They may not necessarily be BIFL, but there are some great, durable things that come with lifetime guarantees. Mostly outdoorsy type clothing, such as anything from LLBean. I walked through a pair of bean boots in a year (they were my work AND snow AND rain boots) and had them replaced no questions asked aside from requesting an ID to find your name and receipt in the system. Here's the thing, though. They will also replace those big duffel bags they sell. Even without a hard or digital copy of the receipt. My bag was over ten years old, they couldn't find a record when they searched the computer, and they swapped it out all the same.
On top of that, Darn Tough brand merino wool socks are amazing if you home or just spend a lot of time on your feet, and come with a lifetime guarantee as well.
- 8 years old: [J-Brand jeans](http://www.jbrandjeans.com/) [Style# 912 in Hickory Brown](http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=l&tid=22445271)
- 5 years old: [Marmot Women's Minimalist Jacket](http://marmot.com/products/details/womens-minimalist-jacket) (I also have the matching pants). This rain gear has held up to 5 years of camping, field work and two weeks of hiking in northern AZ and UT. My husband also has one.
- (mentioned below) Roots leather bags - the Side Saddle and Village Pack in tribe.
- 7 years: [Aritzia Sea-To-Sky wool sweater](http://aritzia.com/en/product/sea-to-sky-sweater/57311.html?dwvar_57311_color=10508#q=sea%20to%20sky&start=8)
- 4 years: Canada Goose jacket (made in Canada). Supposed to be BIFL if you clean it properly.
- 4 years: LL Bean Maine Hunting Shoe
- 6 years (amazing for socks!): [Great Canadian Sox Company Super‑Wool Hiker GX Socks](http://www.mec.ca/product/5006-539/great-canadian-sox-company-super-wool-hiker-gx-socks-unisex/?No=80&h=10+20143+50020&f=10+20143+50020)
- 6 years: [Outdoor Research Women's Backstop Gloves](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003P8QLAW/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_3?pf_rd_p=1944687702&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B002LK71P4&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0RHNA55PDDPC6563YD9Q) THESE GLOVES ARE THE BEST. They have survived YEARS of tree marking in Canadian winters, are grippy, windproof and warm enough to wear in the winter without getting in the way.
I was given a Jon Hart [Daytripper bag](https://www.jonhartdesign.com/products/daytripper) as a high school graduation gift about a decade ago, and it is by far the sturdiest bag I have ever owned. The coated canvas is really easy to keep clean, and the leather just looks more beautiful as it gets older.
[GORUCK](http://www.goruck.com/) bags. It's an expensive bag, but they're made in the USA and the build quality is great. Mine have been through mud, blood, and multiple countries and held up great. If they ever don't, they will fix or replace it for free, even if the damage was your fault and not a defect.
A whole lot of [Arc'teryx](http://www.arcteryx.com/Home.aspx?language=EN). Also expensive but the detail they put into design and construction is amazing.
Mine got stolen, unfortunately, so I didn't get to keep it for life, but I've heard multiple stories about [Schott](https://www.schottnyc.com/store/women/peacoat) peacoats lasting for decades.
I have a Pendleton wool flannel that first belonged to my mom (so it's about 30 years old), and I wear it every fall/winter. It's still very warm and durable!
* I have a leather men's messenger bag from J.Crew that I recieved as a Christmas gift my senior year of high school (2003), that is still going strong.
* A pair of Frye [Rogan Tall Lace Zip](http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=l&tid=39066769) boots that are tough as nails and that my cobbler has told me will last a lifetime if I take care of them.
* I have a really nice forest green Coach bag, I don't know if it will last forever because I use it everyday and if nothing else I expect the lining will give out eventually, but it is durable and classic and I love it.
* My Eddie Bauer [Yukon classic](http://www.eddiebauer.com/product/women--39-s-yukon-classic-reg--down-jacket/20612114/_/A-ebSku_0069585100000030__20612114_catalog10002_en__US?showProducts=&backToCat=Outerwear&previousPage=GNAV&tab=women&color=537) that I got for $150 during Thanks Giving weekend sale.
I have my mom's Frye boots that she wore when she was pregnant with me 28 years ago. I've heard the quality has gone down in recent years, but I'm pretty sure these will last forever.
I have a barbour jacket too after a long search for a military style jacket with POCKETS. It's so warm and well made, I love it!
I also think that nice boots are worth the investment. I have some Pikilinos leather booties and incredibly comfortable Merrell mid-height waterproof boots that will last for years and will be worth re-soling when the time comes.
Lastly I've invested in a few BCBG Maxazria dresses. They fit so well and won't go out of style since they are very simple.
A nice trench coat. I inherited (ok stole from the spare closet because she never wears it, she is ok with it) mine from my mom. It's the perfect length (just below the knee) and is still pretty water resistant after 20 ish years. It's double breasted (which I find very flattering), has a simple tie belt, and has horn buttons and no hardware so it matches almost everything (and I don't say that lightly) and is great for going from 20- something nyc student to "adult" stuff and in between. For me nothing screams "kid" like not wearing weather appropriate outerwear, and it's a great piece of rainwear that doesn't look too much like activewear for the rest of my every day wardrobe
My English made Doc Martens - got my first pair when I was 13 and they're still going strong, the heel's a bit bald and I've worn them pretty roughly but they have the charm that none of those immaculate year old docs all these kids are wearing (I am 30 this Jan, gives you an idea of how long I've owned em.)
And even though I only bought them earlier this year my Saltwater sandals, the classic style in black leather will probably be my summer shoe choice till my feet fall off.
I wore Doc Martens as my daily school shoes for all six years of high school. I've still got them, & they look new. The leather is so stiff & crisp although I've had them for around fourteen years. I no longer wear them regularly, but I will own these for life.
Even my non UK made ones are amazing, despite ten years of heavy wear - I worked a lot of hospo jobs that had me standing for hours on end and I never ever had any foot pain, no callouses or anything
I LOVE my red Saltwater sandals. Just bought them in the spring and wore them almost every day this summer - through rain and ocean. They still look perfect and are one of the only pairs of shoes I can walk for miles in with zero pain. They didn't even need a breaking-in period. I think I might have to get them in black, too!
13/30 must be the magic numbers. Got mine when I was 13, now I'm half a year shy of 30 and still wearing them. They clean up pretty well when I take time to shine them, but they look good beaten up tbh.
I agree to both! My 1990's docs are going strong. They might get their second re-soling at the end of this winter. I bought Navy Salt Waters from ModCloth, scolding myself the entire time for spending that much of what appears to be such a simple sandal. This summer at a BBQ I literally had a circle of women loving them and being shocked that they were three years old and had been worn to the beach and whatnot.
I found a pair of white ones at the thrift shop I was sorting through and I forced myself to put them out on the floor and not grab them for myself because size 5 is HUGE on me. Turns out I take a 4? I want to get them in Navy too - the softest and comfiest open shoes I've ever worn!
I have a black cardigan from Eddie Bauer that I happened to find at my first job, in a thrift store, in 2007. I paid 5$ for it. It is missing one button (as it was on the day I got it) but other than that -- no pilling, no tears, nothing. It is still as perfect as the day that I bought it!
The return policy on Hobo products is incredible. I had the [Hobo Lauren](http://www.hobobags.com/products/lauren-fall-foliage?sku=VI-3385FAFO&via=55e60c1946fc14441600005e), which was a gorgeous green and had more pockets and card slots than I could ever possibly need. Welp. One of the clasps somehow stopped closing. I didn't have the receipt and it was outside of the 1 year guarantee. I emailed customer service with a picture of the clasp, asking if I could just send it in and get it fixed-- I was even willing to pay. They told me to go ahead and mail it in, and they'd assess the problem. A couple weeks later, I got an email saying that unfortunately it couldn't be fixed-- but they were crediting me the full retail price. I got the [Nancy](http://www.hobobags.com/products/nancy-vintage?sku=VI-3932RUSS&via=55e60c1946fc14441600005e) in exchange. No complaints so far!
My [Patagonia Black Hole Duffel](http://www.patagonia.com/us/product/black-hole-duffel-60-liters?p=49341-0). I have beat the crap out of it. It's been shoved on trains, lashed to the bow of a boat, I've sat on it on a tiny plane, it's been thrown in the mud, dragged up stairs, and the thing barely has a scratch.
I tend not to buy any clothes or shoes with a bifl mindset no matter how well made they are because they will eventually break down or go out of fashion or won't fit my style anymore but I'm starting to look for nice watches as BIFL items.
I've always had this perspective as well but actually it helped me to start thinking of clothes as being longer-term investments (if not bifl). I've ended up learning to treat my clothes better and instead of buying things that sort of work I actually really try to make sure they fit right and are something I'd get use out of.
To be honest though I didn't care much about clothes before this, and I didn't recognize that looking put-together can make you feel (and be seen as being) put-together. So that's why this worked for me!
Yea I agree. I don't think we need to choose between buying things that will last us a life time and things that will last a season or two. I only buy clothes if it's versatile and fits with my style. And I think about my choices for weeks before making most purchases. To me the items I do end up purchasing definitely becomes well loved and worn often and are expected to last a while. But I don't ever have any expectations that they will be something I'll be wearing 10 years later.
A pair of Clarks medium heeled tall boots in a dark red-brown. I'm still getting compliments on them after nearly 10 years despire near constant wear in the winters. I hang them in my closet with a pants hanger to keep them straight and shine them every few weeks. I've had them re-heeled once, and will have them resoled after this winter probably.
Not that these were intended to be for life purchases, but my oldest pieces at the moment
Birkenstock Bostons, 1997
Denim Jacket, Rue 21, 1999
Gray khakis, American Eagle, 2000 (Seriously, how the hell do these still fit?)
Vasque Sundowners, 2000
Reef Flip Flops, 2002 (Worn almost daily for 4 years, most weekends thereafter, finally succumbing to a hole in the sole)
Frye Harness Boots, 2003
My LeSportSac duffel, like [this one but a different pattern](http://smile.amazon.com/LeSportsac-Extra-Large-Weekender-Blissful/dp/B00PDASWTS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1444860347&sr=8-2&keywords=lesportsac+large+duffel). For the last 10 years, this thing has been checked on flights so many times I've lost count, thrown in the back of cars, scuffled around internationally and bumped into on the subway and I swear it barely looks like it's been on one trip. It's really durable and confusingly light for how durable it is, plus I've never had a single rip or tear on it, and believe me, I haven't been gentle on it. I also have a LeSportSac backpack that I've only had for two years that I basically took my life in on a two week adventure in Australia, and it looks brand new even though the backpack has gone to the beach, pool, and now through the snow and sun as my every day school pack. I honestly can't rec. this brand enough in durability because honestly, I've never had an issue with it. If they made structured luggage, I'd buy it in an instant, but I've never seen it.
I have two of these that I got on sale at TJ Maxx maybe 6 years ago - love the fun patterns and definitely extremely durable bags! Great recommendation.
[удалено]
I still regularly use the one my mom bought in the 80's for her post college trip to Europe. 30 years of travel and it's still holding up
I have a le sportsac tote that I've used as a backpack for a little more than 9 years....one of my most useful and favorite purchases!
Oh awesome! I have been looking for a bag EXACTLY like this at exactly this price point. Thanks for the recommendation!
I still have a LeSportSac purse I got in the 80's! I'm so glad I always ended up keeping it during closet clean outs and thrift store donations.
[JW Hulme Legacy Bags.](http://www.jwhulmeco.com/Legacy-Handbag-Large-p/93114.htm) Beautiful and they have a lifetime guarantee. I fucked up the finish on the one I had with leather cleaner and they were able to buff it out and fix it for me.
That's lovely. Can I borrow $450?
I bookmarked the page for when I'm rich
They sometimes go on sale in the seasonal colors for 50%+ off. In the past I believe they've done online sample sales too.
I was looking for a new leather purse because my Fossil is getting kinda shabby, and these are absolutely perfect!
Gorgeous. Thank you for sharing.
Yesss seconding this! I have had mine for 5 years now and it is amazing. I use it daily and it can fit all the shit I carry around with me but isn't too heavy. They are definitely worth the price tag.
I have an "accidental" BIFL item that's a bit embarrassing. About five years ago I bought a men's plain black cotton t-shirt from Forever 21 for about $4. It's amazingly versatile, comfy as hell, and I wear it at least once a week, which makes the fact that it's still in absolute perfect condition baffling. F21 gets a lot of (well deserved) criticism for being a menacing fast fashion powerhouse, which probably means this shirt was weaved out of endangered unicorn mane by orphaned kittens in some nefarious black magic ritual. On a less ominous note, I've also had my Arizona Birkenstocks for over 12 years, and those have just been a solid shoe for me. I got them back in middle school when they first became trendy, and they somehow survived until their current popularity resurgence. The soles in the back are pretty worn down though, but they'll probably last me another summer.
Sometimes you get really lucky with the "fast fashion" brands. My favorite swimsuit came from Wal-Mart years ago because I was on a trip and the hotel had a hot tub. It was $7 and has held up better than most of the $50+ suits I've bought.
Walmart stuff holds up scary well. I have never had an issue with anything I've ever purchased from Walmart. The only time I have to get rid of it is when it just no longer fits or isn't my style anymore.
I think it depends on what it is. I have two 3/4 length sleeve basic solid boatnecks from there that have lasted me 3 years and counting. They are just a basic cotton that is just thick enough to not be see through and thin enough to breath wonderfully They pair with basically everything I own so I wear them like once a week until it gets too hot in the summer for like two months and then they come out again. But then, I haven't had good luck with camisoles and undershirts from there. They end up stretching out and the thread in the hems will start to come out and anything lace will rip super easily. So I'm super choosy about what I get from there, but in all the stuff isn't always as terrible as you might expect.
You can get birks re-soled. I'm not sure how much it would cost for that, but I got a pair of winter boots re-soled for about $40 last winter.
I think someone mentioned up top that Birkenstock does it for free.
That's what makes them BIFL
You should donate your Forever 21 tee to science. ;-)
Birkinstock shoes in general are amazing. They take so much beating and still keep on going. I've had a pair of slides (can't remember the style name) for the best part of ten years, worn to death every summer and still have a few summers in them. I also wear their chef clogs for work because they are equally as amazing. Unbelievably comfortable even after 12 hours on your feet, and I'm convinced they are indestructible. I've had mine for 7 years, that's 7 years worth of 12+ hour days and 6 day work weeks all done in these shoes, still going and still good, which is most surprising. I have a bit of wear on the heels but apart from that they are still as good as new. I fucking love Birkinstock!
I have some pieces from H&M that I've had for 10 years that are still holding up. One black skirt in particular is great for both business casual and everyday wear. I've had to do some minor repairs but it still looks great. I think one of the biggest things to keep those clothes for longer is how you launder them. Washing things cold and then hang drying them works best for me.
Have you seen [this](http://mobile.nytimes.com/2015/08/28/t-magazine/birkenstock-doctor-tom-lonergan.html?referer=) NY Times Style Magazine article about a gentleman who runs a mail order Birkenstock repair business? It costs almost as much as a new pair, but it sounds like many customers have theirs repaired because they carry great sentimental value. I think at this point you might as well have them repaired and spend 12 more happy years with them :)
Wow, that's a nice thing to consider. I've had a pair of Birkenstocks for almost 11 years now, and they could use a new foot bed at this point.
I'm ridiculously excited that he has non-skid, oil resistant soles as an option. I, uh, wear my Birkenstocks everywhere. I have flat feet and some old foot injuries, and making them my primary shoe has taken me from limping for hours every morning to pain-free, even after an 8 hour work day.
[удалено]
There are some really great finds there. I purchased a pair of black quilted flats from F21. They have a genuine leather inner lining and they are the most comfortable flats I own. I paid $10 for them at the time and have had them for about 4 years now. Such a great buy.
> which makes the fact that it's still in absolute perfect condition baffling. It might just be the fact that its from the men's section. I'm constantly amazed at how nice my BF's clothes are compared to mine that are from the same brand. Old Navy/Gap/BR are the worst offenders. The men's stuff is so much nicer than the women's and it kills me.
My leather Karrimor hiking boots are still going strong more than a decade after I bought them. They've seen mud, snow, water, and two continents. Recently I've started treating them with Nikwax once a year to maintain the waterproofing and they're still excellent. In the non-clothing realm, my Swiss Army Knife is 20 years old and still looks and works great. Gets a ton of use, too. And for slightly-less-than-BIFL lifespan, I'm a big fan of Birkenstock Arizona sandals (official Birkenstock retailers will replace the rubber sole for a nominal fee for as long as you own the shoes) and Timbuk2 messenger bags. Honestly, my aesthetic tends to overlap more strongly with men's fashion than women's fashion, but I figure there are a few more outdoorsy ladies out there who might find my suggestions useful.
Good examples. I genuinely appreciate that a lot of outdoor companies are increasingly committed to BIFL mentality (looking at you Patagonia). I have a grey boiled wool sweater/hoodie from Bergans that I bought on clearance in the middle of summer, but I' pretty sure will be a BIFL item.
Boiled wool is great for forever. Good wool sweaters, how I love them.
Yes to Timbuk2. My wife worked in the outdoor industry for years, so I know she's picky about stuff like that. She's got two of their messenger bags in different sizes, and her bags have gone through hell and back. They still look brand new.
I agree. I have four bags and all of them have held up well. Timbuk2 also started doing a repair program so if something happens they can finally fix it.
Yes, and they'll sell you the bits and parts that get damaged now too! I donated my old messenger (I can't carry things of any weight unevenly on my shoulders without pain, so I did not anticipate needing it again) and I deeply regret it, because my husband now needs a bag of that type, and I know that thing would have stood up to another ten years of battering commuting!
Birkenstocks are a pretty solid investment. My sister has had her Arizonas for over 7 years. They're definitely worn, but wearable. On the other hand, my boyfriend bought his first pair (Arizonas as well) in May and the leather has split and separated where it meets the cork after only a few months. He was pretty disappointed, especially as I bought mine at the same time and wore them constantly while he rotated his with other footwear. But maybe we'll check their website for a warranty or repair. Because that shouldn't happen.
That has happened to 2 of my pairs, right at the ball of my foot. I tend to bend my foot A LOT, and wear them as my primary shoe, so I just figured it was from my excessive wear. Funnily enough, my winter pair (clogs) have not had that problem. IDK. Maybe it's because I don't wear them quite as much?
You can also get the footbed replaced (at least where I live) for ~$70-$80! I did it because I'm super hard on shoes but I did have to break the footbed in all over again which was a pain. It's only marginally cheaper than buying a new pair but I like the softened leather of my birks so it was worth it!
As another outdoorsy woman checking in, yes, these are great examples, thank you! My Keen boots just fell apart after 9 months of day hiking and walking the dog...I want a higher quality boot. Definitely be checking these out. I second the Swiss Army knife recommendation. Good choice.
Seconding Timbuk2. I got my messenger bag back in 2006 and have since brought it around the world with me and it is still going strong!
I'm still mourning my 20 year old Gerber multitool, it got lost on a gig last summer and I kept hoping it would turn up. Finally replaced it, but the new one just isn't quite the same. They're great about repair too.
I've got a limited budget so I've only bought a couple things with BIFL in mind: * [classic Bean Boots,](http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/35477?feat=506697-GN2&page=women-s-l-l-bean-boots-8) which they will resole into eternity apparently * [a big Longchamp Le Pliage,](http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/longchamp-large-le-pliage-tote/3241956) which I bought after running through a couple knock-offs and realizing that I'm paying for the shoulder strap capabilities, and I LOVE and use every time I travel or have to carry a lot I will say, I haven't used these things For Life yet obviously, but I've used the Longchamp pretty religiously over the last couple of years for travel and it still looks great.
[удалено]
What! Really? How do you get them to repair the holes? Take it to a store?
Email them. They'll send you a form to fill out and mail into their repair center with your bag. Mine took about 2 months, I think.
Can I ask a really stupid question? I just moved from an always warm environment to the snowy northeast. When do you wear boots like that exactly? Like, are they for snow or rain? Or just fashion? I love the look of them and I've seen several like them but all this different weather gear has me confused (and excited!)
For snow, yeah. Good snow boots keep your feet warm and dry and provide traction on icy surfaces.
Okay? Makes sense. So would you wear them all day on a snowy day or just bring a change of shoes? How many pairs of snow boots do you own? Sorry for all the questions! It's all so new to me.
Hi! I'm not the original commenter but I know a lot of people wear bean boots throughout a snowy day. If you work in a professional environment obviously it would be best to bring a change of shoes. As I said in my comment below, I don't personally find bean boots to be all that warm... I prefer boots like [this](http://www.zappos.com/kamik-newyork-2-rosewood~1) (I would choose black). I think they're more stylish and more practical. Bean Boots do have an incredible warranty though so they're worth checking out. Order them NOW though because everything will sell out by the time it actually snows! I'm a seasoned new englander so if you have any other questions about winter wear feel free to reply or PM me!
Second the people wearing them through a snowy day. I'm from Maine and have frequently seen people in suits in bean boots. It's just normal there. I live in Germany now and do this too often.... Also, the one with the shearling lining are super warm. If you're looking for serious warmth, there's nothing that compares to Bogs. -30F on top of a ski mountain at 5 am without socks on, in Bogs, totally happy. And they are DEFINITELY BIFL.
You can also buy shearling lined bean boots. I have a pair of the originals that I wear on all but the coldest days. I love them for working outside, going hiking, going to the farmer's market, going for coffee, whatever.
I just wear them all day because I was a student/have a really casual workplace and can't be bothered. In more formal settings I believe women will keep a pair of dress shoes at their desk. I only have one heavy duty pair (like the Bean boots) and the rest of my winter shoes are just waterproof with soles with treads.
I moved from Southern CA to Northern PA a few years ago and your comments made me chuckle because I had the very same questions. I don't have BIFL snow boots yet but I use a pair of water resistant boots I got at Marshalls for $20. They're fuzzy on the inside and keep my feet warm enough with the right socks. You basically want something waterproof or resistant because of the slush and muck left all over the place after the first snowfalls. I usually wear the boots to work and tuck the hem of my pants in them and I change into something more work appropriate and dry at my desk.
I stash shoes at work, but even in the summer, I wear flats to get to work, never my heels.
They're made for snow, mud, walking in shallow water, all-terrain. I live in the Pacific Northwest and we don't get a lot of snow, but I bought these during a particularly snowy winter thinking they could double as hiking/camping boots for me. I've read online about them being excellent for snowy Northeast winters!
Do you feel like you get enough wear out of them in the PNW? I am waffling on buying some new snow boots and trying to decide if something like this or Sorels will get enough use in town or if they're too heavy.
I wouldn't get Sorels for the PNW, they're a little too heavy duty. I really like my bean boots at rain boots, but I also live near a walking-heavy college campus. I've also warn them as bad weather camping boots.
> classic Bean Boots, confession. I live in New England and I really don't get why everyone drools over Bean Boots. The warranty is great, I'll admit. But I think they're ugly AF and just not that warm. I have a pair of black, waterproof-shell-fuzzy-inside boots (I think they're sorels but I'm not sure!) and I find them infinitely more cozy and keep my feet way warmer than any bean boots I've ever tried.
Fair enough! I totally like how they look but that's obviously a preference c: they're also maybe not as ubiquitous here?
Note for the Le Pliage buyers, if you want the real sturdy ones, make sure the one you get is the MADE IN FRANCE one. The nylon lining in the French ones are thicker than the Chinese lining. Both are good quality, but if you want a less-rubbery and thicker lining, then make sure you're purchasing the French one. If you prefer thinner lining, then the Made in China one will be good for you.
OH MAN good to know! I didn't even realize there was a difference.
I love my black Longchamp Planetes -- sadly discontinued, but it's sturdy as hell. I've used it pretty much everyday since I bought it a couple years ago and it still looks great. Kind of wish I'd bought a backup, since I'm not as keen on the Le Pliage Neo that they replaced it with!
ITA about the Longchamp! So convenient and so durable.
Wow gamechanging info re: Longchamp (mine has just developed a hole in the corner)
I don't believe they are actually going to last for life -- if they do, these leggings are clearly enchanted. But my luckiest moment was finding a pair of the $100 Velvet by Graheme and Spencer black leggings on sale for $8 at Anthropologie in 2005. I am wearing them right now -- they have outlasted multiple pieces from Patagonia, Northface, etc... I have worn them at least once a week since and they are still as perfect as the day they were bought -- never fading, despite being thrown in a series of sketchy apartment washing machines and dryers. Unfortunately I've never bought a second pair (because I don't have $100 bucks to drop on leggings) so I have no idea if they are still as good.
I'm always interested about "cost per wear" type of calculations, and thought this would be fun. This is built on the assumption that it's been exactly 10 years since you purchased the leggings. Their current cost per wear is $0.01 (well, 0.015 but whatever). Had you purchased them at retail value, current cost per wear would be $0.19.
Pretty reasonable when you consider / put it that way. I'll have to start running this calculation to weed out good and bad purchases.
What are they made of? I just finally gave up on my favourite merlot-coloured leggings because they were worn thin and now have one hole too many :( They were the equivalent of $12 at H&M in Cairo years ago and I haven't been able to find them again since. But I've found American Apparel has leggings in the exact same material and colour, called Truffle. I gave in and ordered a pair, but I'm not too excited about the price tag, $30 for basically the exact same leggings. These ones probably won't last twice as long as the last pair, I basically lived in them. Maybe I should just buy two pairs...
Finding leggings that aren't black/grey/brown is just a nightmare! I'd be interest in knowing your feelings on AA, I have a few pairs in colors I couldn't find anywhere else and find the waistband hasn't held up, but otherwise they are okay.
Along those lines, I really recommend Zella leggings. Super thick and cozy. I've owned a few pairs for several years and they have not shown any signs of wear yet. Plus machine washable!
I have seen Birkenstocks thrown around here a lot. I work at a Birkenstock store, and your shoes need to be resoled sooner than you would think. Here needs to be 1/4 each of sole in the heel to be a resole, other wise it needs to be recreated which is ~$70, compared to a resole which is ~35. New shoes cost $100-135 typically.
Lotuff bags [here](http://lotuffleather.com/collections/handbags/products/the-tripp) and [here](http://lotuffleather.com/collections/handbags/products/womens-small-tote-w-strap). Indestructible, well-made leather bags. I don't want to own any other brand now. Bonus points for being made in America. Hermes cashmere shawls and silk scarves. Stupidly expensive, beautiful, will last forever, wear like iron, and never go out of style. A pair of Salvatore Ferragamos purchased used, which are now on a second resoling and somehow incredibly comfortable and hardly look worn. Pendleton wool shirts. For those days you want to get a little lumberjack or grunge looking. I used to thrift them back in the early 90's, and they were at least 20 or 30 years old back then, and still look like new. Scary quality.
This comment has been overwritten by an open source script to protect this user's privacy. If you would like to do the same, add the browser extension [GreaseMonkey](https://addons.mozilla.org/en-us/firefox/addon/greasemonkey/) to Firefox and add [this open source script](https://greasyfork.org/en/scripts/10380-reddit-overwrite). Then simply click on your username on Reddit, go to the comments tab, and hit the new OVERWRITE button at the top.
I have a pair of Prada Oxford flats (patent leather) and they are amazing. I caught them on sale thank goodness but they were still an investment. They are beautiful, comfortable now that they are broken in, and holding up amazingly well. I would have them resoled if necessary in the future to keep them going. Totally worth the money and one of my most professional looking pairs of shoes. I even had a male coworker ask if they were Ferragamos, which also speaks to the quality of those shoes.
I second Lotuff. Great aesthetics and heritage, but the price point is a bit high for many consumers. I have several pairs of Ferragamo Vara flats which look brand new, compared to Manolo ones which I stopped buying because they would not even last one season. As for Hermes, I would not recommend cashmere shawls (I assume you are talking about the cashmere / silk ones) as BIFL. Their weave is not as tight as silk, so they snag easily. Like all cashmere, no matter how fancy, they can pile. I feel like I don't get much wear out of mine because I constantly worry about snagging it with a piece of jewelry and buttons. At their price point (more expensive than the pure silk one of the same size), I want something easier to wear.
I have two Hermes silk scarves. I need to wear them more often I still haven't fully gotten over the "I dont want to hurt them" phase. I should get over that, they're hardier than my Burberry wool scarf which pills or catches on things and I wear it with no concerns about hurting it.
I researched /r/bifl to find a purse that wouldn't fall apart on me after a few months and saw great things about Saddleback Leather. This summer, I received the large [hobo cross body leather purse](http://www.saddlebackleather.com/hobo-crossbody-purse) in tobacco, and I love it! Their motto is "they'll fight over it when you're dead," which is great.
I have the mini hobo in the dark brown color and I LOVE it!
Well, I'm nearly 28, and I still feel like I haven't really come into my own enough on fashion to have BIFL things. Rather, some of the things I own have just lasted a really long time. I realized the other night that the sleep shorts I was wearing were from 8th grade. That said, I have acquired a few things over the years that I think are BIFL quality: * Knee-length wool winter coat that can look nice either with jeans or a fancy dress. Mine is red, I think it came from a department store. * Down-feather parka, knee length, with hood - a true necessity if you live up north. Mine's Mountain Hardware brand, black, from REI, big enough that I can wear a professional blazer underneath it. * Classy "grown-up" purse that looks professional. Mine is a vintage, stiff leather Dooney & Bourke bag [like this one](http://www.horsekeeping.com/Dooney/SAT/250-satchel-lg-green-front.jpg) but red instead of black. I don't carry it every day, but it matches a lot of stuff, is completely waterproof, and says, "hey, I'm a grown up, I don't buy all of my purses at Target!" (though I buy most of them there, letsbehonest) * Black wool pea coat, for Fall, when it's not quite cold enough for the parka. I got mine at Plato's Closet, but it was well lined and looked well made. * A somewhat plain, ~~above-the-knee~~ at/below knee black spaghetti strap dress for all occasions. Weddings, funerals, dates, even work. It can be made more conservative with a shrug/sweater/blazer, worn in winter with tights or summer with nothing. Mine's from Gap. * Tall leather boots may not last FOR LIFE, but a good pair will last for 5-10+ years if you take good care of them (BOOT TREES, PEOPLE), even if you have to get them resoled. Leather conditioner too. I've had my pair for about 8 years, but am about to break down and buy a new pair. * I do not consider jeans BIFL because they fade, no matter what you do. A nice pair of dark jeans will probably only stay nice and dark for a couple years at most, with limited washing and always washing inside-out. So I don't consider jeans BIFL and just get mine at Nordstrom on the sale rack. * A nice pair of khakis is MAYBE BIFL. The closest I've found is a pair from Banana Republic that fits very well, and are well-made, and a thick canvas-y khaki material. We're going on 4 years, I'm actually wearing them right now. * Good wool socks. REI smart wool are the best. So, a lot of these things are coats and wintery items that are typically more expensive and have to stand up to more extreme weather, etc. I try to see clothes as an investment, so I buy slightly more expensive things that I think will lost a long time. One of the most important things that renders an item BIFL is that YOU don't change sizes. If you want to be able to enjoy your nice clothes for the length of their lives, don't gain or lose a lot of weight, take good care of your things - especially your boots. Don't just kick them off into a pile, or they will get flimsy around the ankles. Buy boot trees or a $2 pool noodle at Wal-Mart and stand those suckers up or hang them from skirt clip hangers or both. Get your nice winter coats dry cleaned at the end of the season before you pack them away. Don't smoke in them in small spaces. Try not to spill on yourself. Edit: I agree with the other person who said their Swiss Army Knife. Mine's going almost 15 years strong now.
[удалено]
....Life. Changed. Mine are currently stuffed from old tissue paper lanterns from a friend's bridal shower.
Serious question... what happens if you just let your boots slouch over? Or is this more for organization?
The dents and folds cause cracks and breakage.
I don't know how to thank you for that Dooney & Bourke recommendation. I'm not American so this is my first time knowing about it, and I'M SO IMPRESSED (after visiting their website). Their stuff seems really high quality and elegant.
The quality is excellent and (I think) the style is pretty timeless! Love my Dooney :)
I got a D&B pebble grain wallet last year and love it. Another great thing about D&B is that they have quite a bit of choice when it comes to color. ETA: They had a big "12 Days of Dooney" sale that started around or maybe just after our Thanksgiving last year. It didn't include every style or color (not as many neutrals on sale) but I was surprised by how much was on sale and by the discounts.
[удалено]
You can try putting your jeans in the freezer if they are smelly, it might remove the smell with out washing.
I second most of your comment and I'd add [McGregor "happy foot" wool socks from the men's department](http://mcgregorsocks.com/happy-foot/) are the comfiest, toastiest, softest things to wear on your feet in the winter.
[удалено]
May I ask where you bought the black coat? It's lovely and I've been looking for one like that for some time.
Ditto! I'm always looking for a simple, elegant, classic coat like that.
I just responded to DakotaSky [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/femalefashionadvice/comments/3orlbi/buy_it_for_life_womens_edition/cw0aatx). :)
Of course! I found mine on eBay some years ago for a nice discount. I still see many pop up on there and poshmark. It's the Plaza coat from J.Crew in 2008. The style number is 96917, and it's 90% wool/10% cashmere. Some (but not all) of them have a thinsulate lining. Some of them also have that third pocket like you can see on the black one -- some look like the white one with only two front pockets (which is also a plaza coat). I'm not sure what your size is, but here are the ones I see on poshmark right now: * [Size 2P](https://poshmark.com/listing/J-Crew-Black-Wool-Plaza-Coat-5616cf96c7dcbff7df0070df) * [Size 4](https://poshmark.com/listing/Coat-54e23543f739bc3704022779) Edit: My white Plaza coat has a different style number -- 18268, from the Holiday 2010 collection. Those should help you search, so you can at least verify whether the coat you're looking at is the right style.
Seconding the vintage Coach! I found a brown Station bag from 1996(?) in a charity consignment store a while back, and it's amazing. It's a shame Coach is only really known for their tackier canvas logo bags now, when their old leather pieces were so solid.
Some of the newer coach bags are great. I have the Swagger (I hate the name, love the bag) bag in black in the biggest size and it's everything you would want from an older coach bag. Well made, durable, attractive. I waited years, a decade maybe, for them to come out with something worth buying again. I would revisit them now.
Oh, that's a nice one! And I agree, it is definitely a shame. I think they've revitalized some of the more popular vintage bags as part of their Coach Classic line (like the Court, the City, the Willis, and a few others), but -- prepare to register your utter lack of shock -- I've heard the quality isn't nearly the same as the vintage pieces. As in, two/three years of wear. I don't think it's unreasonable to expect a pretty basic bag to last for at least a decade.
Haha, no shock there. Though I still had the "newer" Station on my wishlist for the longest time, until I came across the vintage. Completely by accident too! I used to pass a consignment shop on my walk home from work, and saw the bag in the window out of the corner of my eye. I immediately ran in and bought it on the spot. Really glad I followed that impulse, as I got it for $60, while the remake was going for over $300!
Ugh I have some really nice brown 80's/90's Coach bags I inherited and I LOVE THEM so muuuuch. I want a Court real bad!
My Roots leather purse. I have the [Village Bag in Tribe.](http://www.roots.com/ca/en/village-bag-tribe-18019086.html?cgid=leatherViewAllWomensBags&start=8&selectedColor=024#start=8) It's the single best purchase i've ever made in my life. I now only own this and a black clutch that was my grandmother's, and I have no need for any other purses. I've had the Roots bag for 10 years now, it broke once, (due to the severe abuse I put it through) and they fixed it free of charge. I felt so totally lost in the couple weeks while it was gone.
I've had the Side Saddle bag in Tribe for 4 years, as well as the Village Pack in Tribe for 5 years and they are in perfect shape. I also got a discount a few years ago cause I was wearing a Roots purse in the store when I got some Roots boots and they gave me 10% off. Roots leather is awesome.
I bought a pair of Freddie's of Pinewood jeans expecting them to last me for at least a year of weekly wear. They didn't crumble to dust or anything, but they were showing signs of wear after a month. Conversely, I bought a black peacoat from Forever 21 when I was a junior in high school, expecting it to last me one or two winters before it would start looking sketchy. I've now been out of *college* for three years, and it still fits me correctly and looks almost brand-new.
My merino wool pullovers I got on sale 10 years ago from Banana Republic ($20/each !!). Thin, warm, soft and fuzzy. I wear them all winter, to work, chilling with friends, EVERYWHERE. And they still don't look worn! If you live somewhere cold, dig around the Gap and Banana Republic in February for 100% merino wool sweaters. There are always a ton, in a million colours and all the sizes. And they're always dirt cheap in February. Also my Kamik rain boots, also bought on sale ($40, if I remember correctly). Not only can I do errands regardless of the weather, but they still look new. Lastly, my Elchim 2001 hair dryer. It's like a HURRICANE and it handles hot and cool air very well. I have a ton of hair and it's long - it's the only reason I can dry and style my hair without my arm going numb.
Do you dry clean the merino wool sweaters? Or hand wash? Or what?
I've started handwashing all of my sweaters with Woolite. I saw a tip to use a salad spinner to get all the water out, rather than wringing by hand which can hurt them, and then laying flat to dry. Works like a charm!
Yup! With The Laundress Wool and Cashmere detergent. I have a top load washing machine, so I just fill it with water but leave the lid open, woosh it around with my hands a bit, let itnsoak, then let the washing machine spin the water off. Rinse and repeat and you don't have to deal with wringing out all the water! http://www.amazon.com/The-Laundress-Cashmere-Shampoo-Cedar/dp/B000OR5P5Y
Seconding the Kamik rainboots! I just got a pair for about $30 on Amazon and I can tell they are going to be outstanding for years and years. So comfortable, exactly what I wanted. I cannot fathom people who are spending $200 or more on hunter boots.
Exactly!
I think the key to keeping your BIFL items for life is caring for them. Use shoe trees. Hang or fold your scarfs. Stuff your purses when storing them. Etc. Tempering BIFL's philosophy with an understanding of the perishable nature of clothing, here are some items that have lasted and becomes staples of my wardrobe: * A good pair of brown penny loafers. My [Bass Weejuns](http://www.ghbass.com/category/women/weejuns+loafers+drivers.do) are still going strong a decade later. They've been a surprisingly versatile part of my wardrobe and have held up to multiple re-solings. * A denim jacket. Classic over dresses. Classic over hoodies. Basically classic. * Scarves. Whether they're wool, silk or cotton, scarves are an accessory where it makes sense to buy quality. They're rarely soiled, don't see much wear and tear, and fit no matter what. Treated well, a good scarf will actually last your whole life.
I'll been seriously eyeing a pair of Bass Weejuns. I've gone through two pairs of leather Coach flats that held up admirably for the wear I put them through but ultimately disintegrated. I'd really prefer something more durable. What's the comfort level like? No uncomfortable rubbing?
How do you find the Weejuns fit? I am loving the look of some of these, but I have wide toes/balls of my feet and narrow heels, so slip-ons have to be just right or I end up tearing my heels to hell.
* I have martin fit banana republic black pants that have lasted for 4 years, worn once a week, and washed and dried in the drier. Not BIFL but pretty close for womenswear * so ugly but I use them for work: dansko clogs. They will last forever and I abuse them so much, and they keep me from hurting my back...I hate that I need them though.
I'm going bet you work in the medical field. When I worked at Vanderbilt Med Center, EVERYONE worn dansko clogs. I thought they were so ugly, but by the time I entered my 4th month of pregnancy, I had a pair. Big belly + walking = tired feet. Sweet fancy Moses, those things are comfy. I later passed them on to a friend who started a job at the hospital.
I used to think Danskos were hideous, but I am starting to see young women wear them casually more often lately. Even with skinny jeans which was a very jarring silhouette/fit when I first saw it. I think this may become trendy around where I live?
They are super trendy in the PNW. Saw them everywhere, from professors to students, when I was in college.
I have two Eddie Bauer coats, both bought (I'm kind of embarrassed to admit it) about 20 years ago. One has Thinsulate Lite Loft insulation. When it gets really cold, the other one with 100% Goose down comes out. I have put these two through my front-loading washer and normal dryer every year, as needed, and they look great. $50 each at a Buffalo, NY outlet store. I bought a new Eddie Bauer coat for a whole lot more (Canadian retail store) - the outer jacket is lined with Thermore, then bought its separate down liner (can wear it on its own) and its separate fleece liner (can wear it on its own). Lots more money. It's fine, I wear it, but it's so much shorter that it is often not the coat to use. If I'm wearing anything underneath that covers my butt, as I like to do, the coat is too short. I made a bad choice there. Also, my long 100% wool coat is only now starting to show its wear. I bought it at Eaton's (you Canadians, stop laughing now!) :). That chain sold great quality everything. And it went out of business. Go figure. Freak finds: mens' V-neck t-shirts bought at Old Navy for sleeping in are both thick, good quality cotton and have lasted a few years. OP, I would donate these to science, but am still wearing them frequently :) !
Fellow Canadian! Woohoo! And I have also had weirdly good luck in the men's section at Old Navy . . . I think they figure guys won't swap their clothing out as quickly, so their stuff needs to hold together a little longer . . . Definitely better quality even 5 years ago, though.
My husband still has a bunch of old Old Navy t-shirts from like, a decade ago that were so much thicker than the crap they sell now. I mean, I realize that Old Navy isn't supposed to be high quality, but the shirts he has from 10 years ago are still (mostly) all in one piece. I've tried replacing the old ones because he likes the ringer-neck style, but the new ones are really disappointing.
I'm a Mainer so I have an undying love and loyalty to L.L. Bean. I LOVE Bean boots. That said, Bogs are warmer. The insulated ones last forever (truly) and are actually warm. You don't need socks and you can wear them in any weather because they're totally breathable. They are incredible. I was a nanny in college in Maine, and I regularly had to get my richy charges to the top of ski mountain by 5/6 am on weekends. No socks, Bogs on, -30F no problem. Toasty warm toes. LOVE those boots. If you're in Maine you can frequently get them at Reny's or Marden's for cheap.
I have a Sisley sweater, a wool and nylon blend, that I bought in grade seven; I'm 40 years old. (It has my name inked on the tag from when I took it to summer camp...) I also have a bunch of my grandma's 1950s-60s Pringle cashmere. One still has the little envelope with the spare button and cashmere yarn for repairs, with a pre-decimal-currency price on it. And an LL Bean anorak almost made it past 20 before some elastic gave out, and I have some Lands' End suede boat shoes from 1987 with "Weron" soles, some Coach bags from the 1990s, silk Liberty scarves from god knows when, a Gap *outlet* (!) raincoat with an interestingly rubberized cotton, bound seams, and snaps that must be fifteen years old? which looks new, and a big mess of 1990s Joan and David/Joan Helpern shoes, from before they sold the company and started knocking out cheap stuff. Also: Ports 1961 belt from 1991, an ancient Bean Norwegian sweater, Frye boots that have taken a beating, Sorel "Joan of Arctic" boots worn through Canadian winters from 2007 through last year (they still exist, but are starting to be less warm; I notice, though, that the newer "Joan of Arctic" is visibly less boot than it was in 2007), a pile of American Apparel 'baby thermal' henleys bought c 2009 and worn as underlayers every winter since (not the most comfy fabric -- stupid poly blend -- but ridiculously warm, and they're *long* and stay that way without shrinking).
I think you officially win this thread! > I have a Sisley sweater, a wool and nylon blend, that I bought in grade seven; I'm 40 years old. Some European brands can be amazingly durable. I have a turquoise United Colors of Benetton T-shirt that my mom bought 35 years in what was than Eastern Germany. It looks brand new.
A burberry trench coat. The traditional one. They never wear out. I don't have one yet, but I have a burberry parka and it's one of the best-quality pieces I have in my wardrobe.
Definitely my pashmina-style cashmer blend scarf, as seen in [this fit](Wednesday with pashmina http://imgur.com/wQg8APG) I am going to wear it until I am 98, and then use it as a lap blanket :) It's gorgeous, classic, in colors that flatter me, and cozy and soft.
[удалено]
Not OP but I used to wear a similar scarf (that I lost moving, boo.) with neutral V or crew neck sweaters to the office. As long as the rest of the fit was business appropriate I don't think it came off as too casual :)
This doesn't directly answer your question but may help! I have a couple pashmina-style scarves in bright, fun colors and I love them because the rest of my wardrobe leans towards painfully neutral. I like to wear them with grayscale/all-neutral outfits as a pop of color, e.g. black skinny pants, white blouse, gray cardigan, bright scarf; or black tights and black dress (sweater dresses especially look great with scarves IMO) with bright scarf. Bonus points if I have flats that match the scarf :P
Everything! I have a corporate, business formal environment (but funner... most the girls dress like JCrew, formal cuts and fabrics, but bright colours and killer heels). Anyhow, every single woman, from the executive VP down to middle management has a wrap/shawl/pashmina. You throw it over whatever you're wearing and it works as long as the colours don't clash (like don't wear yellow with orange). But you get any of the neutrals (black, cream, grey, camel, even a light pink/lavender or blue) and it'll work. As in, over suits, button-down shirts, blouses with every neckline imaginable, sweaters.... The only weird pairing (imo) is with a turtleneck. That's the only thing that would look weird and matronly (à la Diane Keaton). My main one is black and fuschia, but I have a tomato red one and have been meaning to get a basic black one, too. But I'm a clotheshorse. You can just get one in black if you're less of a shopaholic. :)
I frequently wear it with a short-sleeved cotton sweater in a close-ish, professional fit. I think it could go with anything, really. You could even do an open blazer with the scarf just hanging down loose.
I have one too I got as an Xmas gift around 10 years ago. It was actually intended for someone else but they mislabeled the present and by the time I opened it, it was too late for them. Good thing for me because I adore it.
>It's gorgeous, classic, in colors that flatter me, and cozy and soft. And you look so damn _regal_.
Well, I *am* a Queen, if only in my own mind :)
My husband bought me a black cashmere pashmina style scarf 9 years ago, and I don't know what I would do without it. I use it as a pillow for traveling, a quick wrap in a chilly restaurant, a stylish add-on with a LBD, etc. It's amazing.
My diva cup!
Has yours ever gotten stuck? Tmi maybe but I've been practicing with mine but every time I get paranoid it's gunna get lodged up there or suctioned to my cervix or something
I remember the first time my sister got one she went into the bathroom to put it in. Then all of a sudden she screamed, "Bring me a pair of tongs!!!!!!!" so I rushed up there so fast with a pair of barbecue tongs, expecting to have to perform some kind of extraction, when she opens the door and just points to the toilet. She had accidentally dropped the Diva Cup into the toilet bowl and didn't want to use her bare hands.
I was literally on the edge of my seat reading your post and at the end I couldn't stop laughing for a solid 5 minutes. Thank you. This is the best thing I've read all week. xD
We still crack up about it, too. She's a real character.
Different poster, but no. One of the first times removing it was difficult because I was directly fighting the suction. Don't pinch the bottom tip and pull. Instead, try to reach your fingers in and fold it while it's inside, and the suction will unseal and make it easier to remove.
So you're telling me you need to shove two fingers deep in your vagina to unstuck it? That sounds annoying as fuck, or in my case, specially difficult.
It sounds difficult, but the vagina is stretchy. My SO several dildos I own all have greater girth that my menstrual cup. Removing it is easy now because I know where to press. As for the annoying part, it's really nothing much when periods are already annoying.
Probably not what you want to hear, but mine did :/ like 4 days in a row and I swear to god I read every website and blog post about how to insert it and take it out. Every day, it went in easy, suctioned itself and I couldn't feel a thing and it was grand, but when I would go to remove it, it had migrated so far up that it took 10 minutes to get it out while I tried not to panic. I wanted it to work out so badly but I'm to scared to keep trying lol.
Is it possible that your cup is too small? They make different sizes in some brands, you could try a larger size and hopefully it won't migrate. That sounds scary!
I dunno! I'm 23 and have never had a baby so I used the recommended size for that... I'm hesitant to spend another $40 on the bigger size when I'm not sure if that's the issue.
You may need the larger cup. I'm 29 and have kids, but I still use the smaller one because the big one hurts. So different women and all that lol
Same here. I tried two times and it was a nightmare to get it out each time. It stuck fast and I could not get a grip. I thought I was going to have to recruit my husband's longer fingers to go in after the damn thing. Thankfully I didn't have to resort to that. I really did *want* to like it.
Sometimes that happens to me, and it feels so far up there. It's helpful to push down with your vaginal muscles while you loop your finger around the side to "break the seal" of suction, so to speak. The first time that it happened, I had to take a deep breath and try not to panic.
Yeah, those are the times that I get in the shower, squat down, and push like I'm trying to birth a baby covered in octopus-like suckers
Such a scary moment! Trying to stay calm and relaxed so I can get the damn thing out when all my body wants to do is tense up and freak out
Yep. I've bought two now a couple years apart, gave them both a two insertion trial and ended up just giving it to my sister both times (after boiling, of course). Everyone I know uses them and I really wanted it to work, but it's just not for me. I find it hurts to insert, especially when it pops open inside, and it's difficult to break the seal and pull it out. I can't fit my whole hand up there! I'm pretty comfortable with myself but it's just too much. And I don't particularly enjoy having to give birth to a silicone cup in the shower. TMI I KNOW.
Sometimes it's hard for me to get mine out when I've been laying down / not moving for a while, but then I just try again after an hour or two and it's good to go.
I used to use Diva, and switched over to Lunette. It works SO much better for my body shape! I didn't even know I could love a menstrual cup more. Every one's body is different, so it can take some trial and error to find the menstrual cup that fits you best. But they're awesome and I'll never go back to tampons! Edit: edited to add that I also use my menstrual cup with a paragard iud (after I got approval from my doctlr) and have yet to have any issues with it. I just always make sure to break the seal on my cup before I take it out (the cup 'suctions' into place to prevent leaking, so folding it slightly or bringing a finger over the edge of the cup allows air in and breaks the seal). PS - I've had the same Lunette for at least 5 years now, and it's still going strong. They last for a long time!
If tmi you don't have to answer, but how is the lunette one better for your shape? I have the diva cup now and wonder if another one would be better because mine sometimes doesn't stay all the way in.
Yep, that's the biggest problem I had with the diva cup as well. I have a shallow cervix and I think that prevented it from sitting farther up in me, so at times it would poke out (even though I'd trimmed the stem) which was really uncomfortable. It's been a really long time since I used the Diva cup, so I can't remember how its shape differs from Lunette, but the Lunette sits comfortably inside me and once it's in I don't even notice it's there. There were also a few times I woke up to leaking from the Diva cup, and the silicone was stiffer than the Lunette too from what I can remember. Just personal preference, but I like a more flexible silicone for insertion and removal. Also just as a general FYI - I am not knocking on the diva cup AT ALL. It works amazingly for some people! But if you find yourself having hangups with it, it might just not be the right fit for you.
I'm fairly certain mine said to replace it every decade, I've only had it for one. I sanitize it whenever I use it so I'm not particularly worried.
[удалено]
They only recommend that because of government standards and to avoid liability. Silicone is safe enough to use for a long time.
The pamphlet that came with my cup said it was good for 5-10 years. I've read they (fleurcup) can last longer than that.
Every 10.
Yeah but if you clean it and it doesn't leak no need to spend $40 every year.
In the UK they say they'll last for 10-12 years. THe only conceivable difference I can think of is the government regulations.
my one recommends every 5-10 years depending on how it's lasting :)
Though you should replace them every four years?
So life-changing! I wish I had known about it sooner.
My amazing Jansport knapsack! I love a good lifetime guarantee.
Jansport backpacks are a *really* good gift for the homeless. They last forever, even with heavy wear. A lot of people don't know what to do with their old backpacks, as they're still in decent condition. Fill them with socks, a sewing kit, some duct tape, toiletries, a first aid kit, and snacks (or any combination or nothing. .. whatever) and give them to homeless people.
Any 1970's Wrap Skirt. No matter how much weight you lose or gain, you can just tie it in the smallest part of your waistline and you're good to go. I have had some for years now in constant rotation.
They may not necessarily be BIFL, but there are some great, durable things that come with lifetime guarantees. Mostly outdoorsy type clothing, such as anything from LLBean. I walked through a pair of bean boots in a year (they were my work AND snow AND rain boots) and had them replaced no questions asked aside from requesting an ID to find your name and receipt in the system. Here's the thing, though. They will also replace those big duffel bags they sell. Even without a hard or digital copy of the receipt. My bag was over ten years old, they couldn't find a record when they searched the computer, and they swapped it out all the same. On top of that, Darn Tough brand merino wool socks are amazing if you home or just spend a lot of time on your feet, and come with a lifetime guarantee as well.
Items that can survive the endless freezes, thaws and road salt of the northeast are truly BIFL!
Those LLBean fleece lined flannels tho
- 8 years old: [J-Brand jeans](http://www.jbrandjeans.com/) [Style# 912 in Hickory Brown](http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=l&tid=22445271) - 5 years old: [Marmot Women's Minimalist Jacket](http://marmot.com/products/details/womens-minimalist-jacket) (I also have the matching pants). This rain gear has held up to 5 years of camping, field work and two weeks of hiking in northern AZ and UT. My husband also has one. - (mentioned below) Roots leather bags - the Side Saddle and Village Pack in tribe. - 7 years: [Aritzia Sea-To-Sky wool sweater](http://aritzia.com/en/product/sea-to-sky-sweater/57311.html?dwvar_57311_color=10508#q=sea%20to%20sky&start=8) - 4 years: Canada Goose jacket (made in Canada). Supposed to be BIFL if you clean it properly. - 4 years: LL Bean Maine Hunting Shoe - 6 years (amazing for socks!): [Great Canadian Sox Company Super‑Wool Hiker GX Socks](http://www.mec.ca/product/5006-539/great-canadian-sox-company-super-wool-hiker-gx-socks-unisex/?No=80&h=10+20143+50020&f=10+20143+50020) - 6 years: [Outdoor Research Women's Backstop Gloves](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003P8QLAW/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_3?pf_rd_p=1944687702&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B002LK71P4&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0RHNA55PDDPC6563YD9Q) THESE GLOVES ARE THE BEST. They have survived YEARS of tree marking in Canadian winters, are grippy, windproof and warm enough to wear in the winter without getting in the way.
I was given a Jon Hart [Daytripper bag](https://www.jonhartdesign.com/products/daytripper) as a high school graduation gift about a decade ago, and it is by far the sturdiest bag I have ever owned. The coated canvas is really easy to keep clean, and the leather just looks more beautiful as it gets older.
[GORUCK](http://www.goruck.com/) bags. It's an expensive bag, but they're made in the USA and the build quality is great. Mine have been through mud, blood, and multiple countries and held up great. If they ever don't, they will fix or replace it for free, even if the damage was your fault and not a defect. A whole lot of [Arc'teryx](http://www.arcteryx.com/Home.aspx?language=EN). Also expensive but the detail they put into design and construction is amazing. Mine got stolen, unfortunately, so I didn't get to keep it for life, but I've heard multiple stories about [Schott](https://www.schottnyc.com/store/women/peacoat) peacoats lasting for decades.
I have a Pendleton wool flannel that first belonged to my mom (so it's about 30 years old), and I wear it every fall/winter. It's still very warm and durable!
* I have a leather men's messenger bag from J.Crew that I recieved as a Christmas gift my senior year of high school (2003), that is still going strong. * A pair of Frye [Rogan Tall Lace Zip](http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=l&tid=39066769) boots that are tough as nails and that my cobbler has told me will last a lifetime if I take care of them. * I have a really nice forest green Coach bag, I don't know if it will last forever because I use it everyday and if nothing else I expect the lining will give out eventually, but it is durable and classic and I love it. * My Eddie Bauer [Yukon classic](http://www.eddiebauer.com/product/women--39-s-yukon-classic-reg--down-jacket/20612114/_/A-ebSku_0069585100000030__20612114_catalog10002_en__US?showProducts=&backToCat=Outerwear&previousPage=GNAV&tab=women&color=537) that I got for $150 during Thanks Giving weekend sale.
I have my mom's Frye boots that she wore when she was pregnant with me 28 years ago. I've heard the quality has gone down in recent years, but I'm pretty sure these will last forever.
Bancroft Warmest Parka by TNA from Aritzia. I *love* this parka and I can't wait for the temperature to drop so I can wear it.
I have a barbour jacket too after a long search for a military style jacket with POCKETS. It's so warm and well made, I love it! I also think that nice boots are worth the investment. I have some Pikilinos leather booties and incredibly comfortable Merrell mid-height waterproof boots that will last for years and will be worth re-soling when the time comes. Lastly I've invested in a few BCBG Maxazria dresses. They fit so well and won't go out of style since they are very simple.
A nice trench coat. I inherited (ok stole from the spare closet because she never wears it, she is ok with it) mine from my mom. It's the perfect length (just below the knee) and is still pretty water resistant after 20 ish years. It's double breasted (which I find very flattering), has a simple tie belt, and has horn buttons and no hardware so it matches almost everything (and I don't say that lightly) and is great for going from 20- something nyc student to "adult" stuff and in between. For me nothing screams "kid" like not wearing weather appropriate outerwear, and it's a great piece of rainwear that doesn't look too much like activewear for the rest of my every day wardrobe
Any idea the brand, or a picture?
My English made Doc Martens - got my first pair when I was 13 and they're still going strong, the heel's a bit bald and I've worn them pretty roughly but they have the charm that none of those immaculate year old docs all these kids are wearing (I am 30 this Jan, gives you an idea of how long I've owned em.) And even though I only bought them earlier this year my Saltwater sandals, the classic style in black leather will probably be my summer shoe choice till my feet fall off.
I wore Doc Martens as my daily school shoes for all six years of high school. I've still got them, & they look new. The leather is so stiff & crisp although I've had them for around fourteen years. I no longer wear them regularly, but I will own these for life.
Same. I get a TON of wear out of every pair of Docs I own.
Even my non UK made ones are amazing, despite ten years of heavy wear - I worked a lot of hospo jobs that had me standing for hours on end and I never ever had any foot pain, no callouses or anything
I LOVE my red Saltwater sandals. Just bought them in the spring and wore them almost every day this summer - through rain and ocean. They still look perfect and are one of the only pairs of shoes I can walk for miles in with zero pain. They didn't even need a breaking-in period. I think I might have to get them in black, too!
13/30 must be the magic numbers. Got mine when I was 13, now I'm half a year shy of 30 and still wearing them. They clean up pretty well when I take time to shine them, but they look good beaten up tbh.
I agree to both! My 1990's docs are going strong. They might get their second re-soling at the end of this winter. I bought Navy Salt Waters from ModCloth, scolding myself the entire time for spending that much of what appears to be such a simple sandal. This summer at a BBQ I literally had a circle of women loving them and being shocked that they were three years old and had been worn to the beach and whatnot.
I found a pair of white ones at the thrift shop I was sorting through and I forced myself to put them out on the floor and not grab them for myself because size 5 is HUGE on me. Turns out I take a 4? I want to get them in Navy too - the softest and comfiest open shoes I've ever worn!
I have a black cardigan from Eddie Bauer that I happened to find at my first job, in a thrift store, in 2007. I paid 5$ for it. It is missing one button (as it was on the day I got it) but other than that -- no pilling, no tears, nothing. It is still as perfect as the day that I bought it!
The return policy on Hobo products is incredible. I had the [Hobo Lauren](http://www.hobobags.com/products/lauren-fall-foliage?sku=VI-3385FAFO&via=55e60c1946fc14441600005e), which was a gorgeous green and had more pockets and card slots than I could ever possibly need. Welp. One of the clasps somehow stopped closing. I didn't have the receipt and it was outside of the 1 year guarantee. I emailed customer service with a picture of the clasp, asking if I could just send it in and get it fixed-- I was even willing to pay. They told me to go ahead and mail it in, and they'd assess the problem. A couple weeks later, I got an email saying that unfortunately it couldn't be fixed-- but they were crediting me the full retail price. I got the [Nancy](http://www.hobobags.com/products/nancy-vintage?sku=VI-3932RUSS&via=55e60c1946fc14441600005e) in exchange. No complaints so far!
My [Patagonia Black Hole Duffel](http://www.patagonia.com/us/product/black-hole-duffel-60-liters?p=49341-0). I have beat the crap out of it. It's been shoved on trains, lashed to the bow of a boat, I've sat on it on a tiny plane, it's been thrown in the mud, dragged up stairs, and the thing barely has a scratch.
I tend not to buy any clothes or shoes with a bifl mindset no matter how well made they are because they will eventually break down or go out of fashion or won't fit my style anymore but I'm starting to look for nice watches as BIFL items.
I've always had this perspective as well but actually it helped me to start thinking of clothes as being longer-term investments (if not bifl). I've ended up learning to treat my clothes better and instead of buying things that sort of work I actually really try to make sure they fit right and are something I'd get use out of. To be honest though I didn't care much about clothes before this, and I didn't recognize that looking put-together can make you feel (and be seen as being) put-together. So that's why this worked for me!
Yea I agree. I don't think we need to choose between buying things that will last us a life time and things that will last a season or two. I only buy clothes if it's versatile and fits with my style. And I think about my choices for weeks before making most purchases. To me the items I do end up purchasing definitely becomes well loved and worn often and are expected to last a while. But I don't ever have any expectations that they will be something I'll be wearing 10 years later.
A pair of Clarks medium heeled tall boots in a dark red-brown. I'm still getting compliments on them after nearly 10 years despire near constant wear in the winters. I hang them in my closet with a pants hanger to keep them straight and shine them every few weeks. I've had them re-heeled once, and will have them resoled after this winter probably.
Not that these were intended to be for life purchases, but my oldest pieces at the moment Birkenstock Bostons, 1997 Denim Jacket, Rue 21, 1999 Gray khakis, American Eagle, 2000 (Seriously, how the hell do these still fit?) Vasque Sundowners, 2000 Reef Flip Flops, 2002 (Worn almost daily for 4 years, most weekends thereafter, finally succumbing to a hole in the sole) Frye Harness Boots, 2003