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Do you still have some Christmas cash or gift cards to use up? Are you looking for tried-and-true products that’ll upgrade your space or wardrobe for the new year? Same for us! Listen, we undoubtedly love a good deal over here and and love regularly sharing our favorite under-$100 products with you. But there are pricier, splurge-worthy products that we also consider “good deals” and think are worth sharing. They may mean spending a bit more money, but there’s peace of mind in knowing we’ll have these high-quality investment pieces for a long time.
From quiet luxury accessories to elevated homeware items, we’ve been obsessing over our newly acquired investment pieces, most of which come in over $100. Several of us have found new knee-high boots to rock or go-to winter coats to bundle up in. So if you’re interested in finding out which products we genuinely think are worth splurging on and that we fully back in our everyday lives, read on for our top editors’ picks and honest reviews.
Everlane The ReNew Quilted Mid-Length Liner, $168
“All the girlies are wearing quilted jackets, and if you’re interested in hopping on the trend, Everlane’s ReNew version is as practical, packable, and flattering as they come. You will barely feel the weight of the recycled polyester jacket, but it makes for an excellent layering piece to add more warmth. I love wearing this as a top coat when I already have on a jacket or blazer that is not quite enough to keep me toasty, but I also don’t want to wear a big puffer jacket and mess up my ‘fit. The sleeves and body are roomy enough for even my bulkiest sweaters and fleeces to fit inside, and the shell material stands up very strongly against strong winds and rain. No biggie when you get drenched in bad weather, you can just toss it in the washing machine. The two sets of pockets — there are a pair of exposed pockets and concealed side pockets underneath — mean that you have room for all your phone, keys, and wallet, but still can keep your hands warm in a separate spot. At $168, it is a no-brainer investment for sure.”—Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Le Creuset 4 1/2 Quart Round Dutch Oven, $390
“My family gifted me a Dutch oven for Christmas because I’ve been cooking up so many stews, soups, and warm-season dishes. At first, I thought my studio kitchen couldn’t handle a hefty piece of cookware like this, but soon realized after three years in this apartment it was time to invest in my cookware and…myself. I’ve used it so much since receiving it, I regret putting it away in the cabinet everytime, and just keep it on my stove. It’s a pretty ‘meringue’ color too, so it goes well with my off-white cabinetry and white stove. It’s such a kind gift, and one of those pieces I know I’ll use from house to house forever.”—Clare Palo, Senior Strategist, Audience Development
HOBO Joni Suede Shoulder Bag, $268 $214
“I was gifted this bag, and it’s my new fashion obsession. I’m known for owning one-too-many mini bags, and not particularly for having useful medium-sized bags. But this stunning (and ultra-soft!) suede shoulder bag is my new go-to. Sure, it’s not the most practical for bringing to the supermarket or when it’s raining, but it’s pretty darn perfect for everything else. The cognac orange mimics a chic, versatile brown in my opinion (plus, it compliments my hair color, so I love it even more).”—Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Assouline Aspen Style Book, $105
“Yes, I know I have a problem. But I can’t help it; Assouline’s City books make for one the best gifts, IMO — including from yourself, to yourself. While I’ve been lucky to receive a few editions as gifts from people who clearly know me very well, I occasionally splurge on one for myself when the feeling strikes. After lusting after the Aspen Style title (it’s my dream vacation, as a snow- and ski-loving girlie), I caved and ordered it as a Christmas present. I’m already loving it and cannot wait to find the perfect spot in my apartment to display the chic tome.”—Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
Buck Mason Italian Virgin Wool Topcoat, $598
“I’ve been looking for the perfect black winter coat ever since I moved to New York seven years go — I’ve literally just lived through the miserable winters with just one (very old) Uniqlo puffer jacket to my name. I made it my mission this year to finally find a black wool coat that was high-quality, and fit just oversized enough withough looking like it’s swallowing me whole. This coat from Buck Mason is beautiful quality and perfectly menswear inspired without feeling too severe for my taste. I took a size larger than my normal size to add a tiny bit of extra length and a more roomy feel. It’s perfect to throw over any outfit, and I even find myself wearing it over workout clothes and sweats for a coffee run or a walk to the gym.”—Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Partnership Manager
Everlane The Knee-High Banana Heel Boot, $350
“I didn’t know the power that a knee-high leather boot could give someone until I was wearing a pair on my own two feet. While I’ve owned cowboy boots for forever, this is my first pair of trendy boots, and I’m never going back. The boots are also surprisingly comfortable; I wore them dancing all night at clubs and my feet were only sore for the fact that I was standing on them for many hours. While they are on the pricier side, these are an investment that will last me a lifetime with the proper care of the leather.”—Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream, $100
“I’ll be honest with you: even though Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream is a certified cult favorite in the beauty world, I personally haven’t been a fan. The texture has always felt a bit off on my skin — it’s very rich and leaves me feeling sticky. The brand’s recent release, The Magic Water Cream, is a totally different story. I tried a sample at the airport and was immediately hooked. It’s more like a watery gel-cream and packs so much moisture, without weighing down my skin at all. I invested in a full-size jar and have been turning to it on dry winter days. It has a gold star from me as an excellent winter moisturizer. My skin feels like it’s just chugged down eight glasses of water (but with zero oiliness), and my makeup stays on much better.”—Venus Wong
LAKE Pajamas Jane Cotton Sweater, $160
“I’ve been a big fan of LAKE’s luxurious PJs and nightdresses for a while now — the vibrant piping and playful scalloped designs are definitely stylish enough to wear outside of bedtime — so when I got the news that the brand is branching out to knitwear, I was ready to shop. The lineup of sweaters did not disappoint: I went with the off-white Jane sweater, since I really dug the rolled down neckline and faux-horn buttons along the shoulder. It literally looks cute with everything and gives Jane Birkin vibes when paired with blue jeans or a pleated mini skirt. The cotton yarn material is so sumptuous to the touch and has plenty of give without stretching out in the wash. In fact, it has only gotten softer after going through multiple washes. A cozy sweater that can be machine-laundered is always going to be an instant hit with me.”—Venus Wong
Twilla King Adjustable Pillow, $109
“I am an awful sleeper and think my pillows are definitely a culprit in the matter. That’s why I was so intrigued to try this adjustable pillow—and let me just say, it’s like sleeping on a cloud. Twilla’s adjustable pillow unzips to reveal it’s filled with pillow pod inserts (aka mini clouds). These little satchels can be moved around for the perfect pillow shape for your favorite sleep positions. Plus, the pillow comes with extra pods to make it as full and fluffy as you’d like. I’ve been stuffing mine to the max and have definitely been sleeping more comfortably, so I 100% think it’s worth the investment.”—Victoria Montalti
Polène Mini Cyme Bag, $460
“Polène is truly the epitome of quiet luxury with its chic silhouettes in timeless colors. If you have yet to invest in one of its handbags, it’s time you did. The brand’s bags hold their value and are perfect if you’re beginning to curate your designer collection. I was recently gifted the Mini Cyme Bag, and I’ve been over the moon. The elegant style is unlike other boxy totes and carries all my daily belongings (cardholder, makeup pouch, hand cream, hand sanitizer) and more in a quaint flower-like sculpted shape. Unlike the original Cyme, which is suitable for work and can carry a 13-inch laptop, the compact basket-style mini version is perfect for everyday use. Unfortunately, my camel color is out of stock, but you can still preorder some Cyme styles and colors. Popular Polène handbags like the Mini Cyme have a growing waitlist, so you won’t want to dawdle if you’re interested. As the saying goes, ‘All good things come to those who wait.’”—Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer
Sharland England Hadley Tray, $285 $256.50
” I fell in love with this tray during one of my periodic scrolls through The Six Bell’s website, then found myself shocked at its price tag. My sister’s advice was (correctly) that there have to be other rattan trays for much less… but the more I hunted, the more I found none of them lived up to this one from Sharland England. After seeing its price dip ever so slightly for Boxing Day, I took the plunge. My long-term goal for it is to create a perfectly stylized coffee table tableau, complete with candles and art books, but for now, I’m using it to stash my latest winter hibernation craft: A starter needlepoint project. It’s everything my cottagecore dreams are made of.”—Marshall Bright, Affiliate Editor
Miista Hedy Stretch Leather Knee High Boots, $615
“These boots are sublime and worth every penny. I treated myself to them as a little holiday gift because I’m trying to slowly (and I mean slowly because it’s often not cheap) diverge from fast fashion — instead, I’m investing in high-quality, long-lasting, and versatile wardrobe staples like these knee highs. I’ve only had them for about a month, but I flaunt them with short dresses, sport them under loose pants, and simply revel in their luxe, comfortable attributes. I got them on sale at Ssense and there are only a few sizes left, but the moral of the story is that Miista makes a mean pair of boots. I highly recommend the brand and can confirm that it lives up to the hype.”—Alexandra Polk, Affiliate Lifestyle Writer
Cuup Recycled Satin Pajama Set, $178
“I’ve always associated Cuup with bras and swimwear, but it recently expanded into sleepwear, and it’s just as high quality. I’ve been getting more into matching pajama sets (and particularly satin sets for their cooling benefits), and this new Cuup set just made it into my collection. The 100% recycled satin fabric is incredibly buttery soft and lightweight, the contrasting piping is super luxe, and I just love how it all swishes around when I walk. I wore this pajama set on Christmas morning but am looking forward to wearing these pearl-colored pieces throughout the year. But if you’re looking for a richer color, consider the black or burgundy sets, also available in sizes XS through XXL!”—Victoria Montalti
WTHN Acupressure Mat Set, $78
“If you too have tried acupuncture and gave up on the alternative-medicine practice because the needles freaked you out… same. I briefly did acupuncture for my debilitating migraines, but seeing the needles all over my body made me more tense and stressed than relaxed and relieved of pain. So I was intrigued by WTHN’s acupressure mat. There’s several body parts to target and ways to use this mat and pillow set, which is covered in spiky stimulators. So far, I’ve only used it while laying down on my back with the pillow under my neck to help ease the tension in my head, neck, and shoulders, but I’m eager to try it on other spots like my quads and feet after tough workouts. I definitely needed to get used to the dull-ish spikes on my skin, but they’re much much more bearable than needles for me, and it feels like a deep massage when I roll my neck on the pillow.”—Victoria Montalti
Madhappy Cozy Puffer Jacket, $295
“I never knew the power of a puffer on an outfit until now. The right puffer can bring your look from a 0 to 100 real fast, especially one as stylish as this espresso Madhappy one. I am an all-black outfit loyalist most of the time, but I wanted to mix things up. Now I wear this rich coffee-colored baby everywhere. I love the pocket sizes and the little inside zipper and how warm it keeps me despite the windy New York winter. I feel so luxe and warm — I love it.”—Becca Sax
Fall 2023 Investment Pieces We Splurged On:
Wolf Gourmet Countertop Oven Elite, $749.95 $549.95
“Sure, my house already has an oven, but investing in this countertop model was certainly a less-splurgy splurge than, say, remodeling my kitchen to resemble Ina Garten’s. I use this bad boy to toast, bake, reheat, and keep foods warm, and it’s definitely a game-changer for the holidays. I no longer have to choose between serving cold stuffing and undercooked pie.”—Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director
Jenni Kayne Shearling-Lined Farmhouse Jacket, $445
“As soon as a chill breeze hits the air, I’m running straight to my wardrobe for my cozy jackets — shearling, sherpa, wool, etc. My latest is Jenni Kayne‘s Shearling-Lined Farmhouse Jacket. The outerwear has all my favorite qualities: a plaid print, shearling, and oversized pockets with buttons. It’s lightweight to layer with other sweaters and is truly a transitional staple. If you’re searching for a timeless jacket, you’ll return to every season, this is it.”—Vivien Lee
Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil, $40
“I have this theory that a bold, matte lipstick looks great when you want to pull off a ‘fit, but glosses and lip oils are what actually gets people to notice how nice your lips are. I finally got my hands on the mega-popular Dior Lip Glow Oil, a treatment that subtly enhances your lip color and adds a subtle shimmery coat, and I’m in love. The formula is not sticky at all and doesn’t dry my lips out, and my lips look so good in selfies. I recommend the warm Rosewood shade if you want a bit more pigment to come through.”—Venus Wong
Sarah O. Diamond Initial Necklace, $395
“I love wearing layered gold necklaces, but I don’t want to look like an extra on The Sopranos when I do, which means I’m always on the hunt for super-delicate pieces. This Diamond Initial Necklace from Sarah O is dainty, beautiful, sparkly, and pairs super well with other pieces. It’s also surprisingly sturdy (a necessity for any piece I own, thanks to my decidedly not-dainty lifestyle): I’ve definitely given it an accidental tug or two without any ill effect.” —Sarah Crow
Madewell The Petite Curvy Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jean, $138
“My biggest dilemma when denim shopping is finding a pair that fits my smaller waist and wider hips while also complementing my shorter height. Up until recently, I’ve limited my options, especially because of cost. But after taking a chance on a pair of petite curvy (!!!) jeans from Madewell in a price range much higher than I’m used to, my eyes opened. I was so excited when I stepped into these jeans, specifically made for my body shape (hourglass) and petite height (under 5’3″). The high-rise waistband cinches my waist without any gapping in the back and the slightly stretchy fabric comfortably glides over my hips to a flattering wide-leg cut that ends around my ankle. It’s truly the perfect fit for me, and I’ve been keeping an eye out for new cuts and washes to buy up even more petite curvy styles.” —Victoria Montalti
Shark Detect Pro Cordless Vacuum With Multi-Surface Brushroll, $379.99
“When my beloved Dyson met its maker after 10+ years of dutiful service (RIP, gone but never forgotten), I opted for a slightly less-expensive replacement from Shark, and goddamn. Not only does this thing give enough suction to create a moderate-sized black hole, it self-empties when you return it to its charging dock. And while it hasn’t made vacuuming the best part of my day, it has noticeably improved one of my more banal daily tasks.” —Sarah Crow
Coach Tabby Shoulder Bag 20, $395
“If you were on the fence about trying the metallic trend, take my advice and go for a handbag rather than diving into the unknown territories of a head-to-toe metallic look. The silver Coach Tabby Bag is a surprisingly delicate statement piece. It’s versatile, fun, and easy to style, as you can fashion it into a crossbody, top handle, or sling bag.” —Vivien Lee
DuoBoots Haltham Leather Petite Knee High Boots, $295
“As a short girlie with more muscular calves, finding the right pair of basic knee-high boots has been a challenge. Certain styles are impossible for me to squeeze into, so I try to stay away from boots that don’t have proper zip closures or lack a generous calf width. I was so excited when I discovered DuoBoots, a brand that offers a variety of leather boots with a wide range of shaft heights and calf sizes. I went with the Petite Haltham Boots, which sat just below my knees at 36cm and came in a supple Portuguese leather and buttery-soft nylon lining. I walked around all day without any discomfort or blisters, and received multiple compliments on them within 15 minutes of walking out the door. After trying on two sizes, I would recommend sizing up to make sure you have enough room in the toe box (especially if you have wider feet), and go two sizes up for your calf width selection, so there’s enough circumference for your legs to move around comfortably, and tuck skinny jeans or leggings into your boots.” —Venus Wong
Ettitude Queen Bamboo Signature Sateen Fitted Sheet, $109
“If there’s one thing I’m a total snob about, it’s sheets. While you can get really good ones for an affordable price, there are some bed sheets that are simply worth the higher price tag. Ettitude’s Bamboo Signature Sateen sheets are more than worth it. You can feel the quality — it’s the softest bed sheet I own, and I own quite a few in varying prices. These are, by far, the best sheets I own. I recommend them to everyone who’s in the market for bed sheets, and they’ve aways joined me in my Ettitude obsession.” —Mercedes Viera, Former Associate Deals Writer
Merrell Bristol Chelsea Boots, $180
“Do I typically dress like an ‘80s London club kid? No. Do I wish I did? Absolutely. That’s why I’m so obsessed with these Merrell boots, which feel sturdy enough to hike in but have the much-cooler-than-I-actually-am retro style I like to project into the world.”—Sarah Crow
Vivienne Westwood One Row Pearl Drop Choker, $360
“I’ve dreamt of owning a piece of Vivienne Westwood jewelry for years: The brand’s iconic orb pearl necklace was worn by the main characters in Nana, an uber-stylish Japanese comic that was my entire personality when I was a teenager. The brand is having somewhat of a resurgence in recent years on TikTok, and I finally pulled the plug on this gorgeous teardrop pearl pendant necklace. All of Vivienne Westwood’s jewelry is costume, so the pearls were artificial, but it looks so expensive and instantly makes an outfit look way more elegant and intriguing. I wore this necklace with a square neck top on my 30th birthday and even wore this with my off-shoulder satin wedding dress. I felt like a million bucks on both occasions, and most importantly, it made my inner child so happy.”—Venus Wong
MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote Bag, $295
“Sure, this MZ Wallace bag is marketed as a large tote, but I’ve been using this style as my weekender duffle bag for a bit and even as my carry-on for a two-week international vacation. It’s so incredibly roomy, so incredibly durable, and so incredibly chic. Beyond the soft quilted fabric, I also love the smaller (but splurge-worthy) details like leather trims, protective feet, wide zippered top, luggage sleeve opening, and detachable pouches. This has become my go-to travel bag, and I see myself using it for much longer.” —Victoria Montalti
Vince Camuto Selpisa Wide-Calf Boot, $198 $178.99
“I just got these Vince Camuto boots, and I’m already obsessed. My shoe style is quite vast, so while I wouldn’t say I’m into Western clothing, I am very into these Western-style knee-high boots. I’ve recently found that I need wide-calf boots, so I was so excited about these and how well they fit (not quite wide enough for me to fit pants underneath, but wide enough for tights and socks.) However, the brand does also offer an extra-wide option, which I tried and liked, but was a bit baggier than the look I was going for. Overall, I’m super-excited to wear these leather-suede boots all fall and winter long.” —Victoria Montalti
Burberry Small Check Zip Cosmetic Pouch Bag, $410
“Since I reached my mid-twenties, I’ve started investing in pieces I can pass down to future generations. My grandmother has a similar vintage kind from Burberry that she gifted my mother when she was in her twenties, and I’m following in their footsteps with one of my own. My cosmetic pouch might be titled “small.” Still, it holds so many items, including various lip glosses, balms, hand lotions, two concealers, a compact cushion, powder and cream blushes, pencil and liquid eyeliner, an eyelash curler, and more. I firmly believe that if you use something daily or reach for it numerous times, then it’s worth investing in a higher quality.” —Vivien Lee
Khaite Marfa Leather Ankle Boots, $1,250
“Hear me out, I know these are wildly expensive, but there are a few reasons why these boots are personally worth the investment. First, I am a baggy jean and trouser girl, and these immediately elevate any casual look. Second, a black ankle boot is guaranteed to never go out of style. And finally, there’s some sort of magic worked into the silhouette of this shoe because they’re flat boots (perfect for an NYC dweller), but because of the elongated and slightly squared pointed toe. If you pair them with the right pant, they make you look like you’re wearing a heel! Magic, I tell you.”—Kate Spencer
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