When considering wardrobe investments, few things compare to the value of a high-quality designer handbag.

Every shade has almost unlimited nuances and the same happens with fashion. When it is time to express your style, let these luxury womenswear brands speak of your true self.

Enduring brands that have withstood fleeting trends and loved from era to era don't come without their price tag, but is this why they are so expensive?

Ph. Melanie Pongratz (Unsplash)

We explore five of the most famous luxurious brands out there and how well they measure up on style, cost and quality over time. Curious? We cover Gucci, Hermes, Chanel, Burberry and Rolex.

Designer brands are costly, but are any of them really worth the hefty price tag? In some cases, we think that they are.

 
Designer items are an extra reach, a piece of the dream and if we’re honest, we’ve all paged through a glossy magazine and coveted the latest Jeffery Campbell boots; they’re gorgeous. The Chanel Milk Carton bag was calling your name or you found yourself staring at the iconic silk scarf worn by a supermodel on a Gucci campaign and wanted a piece of the silk pie.

Some luxury brands offer a casual class like women’s Timberland boots compared to the iconic fancy of a Cartier bracelet. Either way at some point in our lives we’ve deliberated over a designer piece.

Can a case be made for these items actually being worth the hefty price tag? In some instances, we think that it can. Let’s take a look at five designer brands worth the money and the item we think will give you the most value for money.

Image by Mike Cabugao via Pexels

Gucci

Ph. James Ree (Unsplash)

The House of Gucci was infamous long before the movie starring Lady Gaga and Adam Driver came out. Every designer in the world knows the story of Patrizia Reggiani and Mauricio Gucci; the whirlwind romance, the souring of the relationship, the eventual murder for hire. Despite this drama, Gucci has been one of the foremost luxury brands in the world almost since it was founded in 1921. Before all the drama that occurred in the film and after it, quality was and will always be Gucci’s primary concern. There is no doubt that their garments, especially the leather wares, are made to stand the test of time. Our particular favourite is the classic black and gold Gucci emblem belt. The simplicity of this item is one of the reasons it's worth the price tag; it's incredibly versatile and will go with most things in your wardrobe. The quality is the second reason; this belt will be an heirloom piece if you look after the leather.

Hermes

Ph. Tamara Bellis (Unsplash)

Hermes is most well known and loved for its leatherware and iconic scarves. The company began in 1837 as a harness and bridle workshop for horses of rich and fabulous Parisian, and Hermes would go on to make saddles and even catered to the Tsar of Russia for a time. In 1918, when they produced their first leather golfing jacket, their journey into fashion began. Hermes only adorned the bodies of the most fashionable people in Paris until 1924, when they first established a presence outside of France. The label is most famous for its exquisite silk scarves and leatherwork, particularly the Birkin Bag. The Birkin came to be in quite an unusual fashion; on a flight from Paris to London, Jane Birkin was seated next to the executive chairman of Hermes, Jean-Louis Duman. She bemoaned the lack of bags well suited to young mothers, and Dumas sketched the Birkin up on the spot. The quality of the stitching and materials means that this bag is definitely worth the price tag.

Chanel

Ph. Laura Chouette (unsplash)

Coco Chanel is undoubtedly one of the best-known women in fashion. It is her most iconic garment that we say is the one most worth its price tag; the Chanel Tweed Jacket. There have been more productions and iterations of this jacked than almost any in the world of designer brands. Some are cut to work as a suit and some are cut more along the lines of a modern, boxy blazer. Though there are a lot of color options, our personal favourite is the black tweed, as it is the most wearable. This jacket has been with us since the end of the Second World War; Chanel came up with it as a response to the return of corsetry. The shape was inspired by the jackets that Chanel would borrow from her aristocratic boyfriend.

Image by Jean Pierre via Pexels

Burberry

Ph. Pete Pedroza (Unsplash)

The epitome of smart, practical, and chic design lies in the Burberry trench. The style has been imitated year after year but never truly duplicated. The crux of the coat’s worth lies in the lightweight gabardine fabric, which Burberry founder Thomas Burberry invented in 1879. This trench has an illustrious history. It was worn by officers in the First World War when the epaulets were used to display rank, and the D rings held equipment. Aspects of this functionality are still reflected in the Heritage Trench. Burberry offers reproofing and repair services, which make their trench a very sustainable choice.

Image by Antony Trivet via Pexels

Rolex

Ph. Antony Trivet (Unsplash)

The longevity of a Rolex timepiece is what makes it worth your while, no doubt about it. A watch from Rolex isn't just a beautiful accessory but can actually be an investment if you look after it well and have it serviced when necessary. Because a lot of the brand’s appeal lies in its exclusivity, watch costs continue to rise. When you consider how many generations can own and wear one Rolex, the cost per wear goes down radically, and the price tag suddenly starts to make a lot more sense. The use of incredibly durable materials such as crystal and Oyster steel means that you have to to seriously mistreat a Rolex for it to become unusable. Since all Rolex timepieces are made with the same philosophy in mind and using the highest quality materials, any of them would be a good choice.

Final Word

If you select a piece from any of these five brands and you look after it well, you’ll have chosen a product that can last your lifetime and the lifetimes of your children and grandchildren. Doesn’t that sound like value for money?

A parade of awe-inspiring beauties adorned with elegance and grace. Ziad Nakad has recently showcased his next Spring/Summer couture collection at the Haute Couture Paris Fashion Week.

Eclectic and theatrical London-based interior design studio Jimmie Martin is sure to grab your attention with its mannequin lamp collection.

Those long months spent indoors with our tech gadgets as our companion and sole escape from reality shaped trends and our vision of fashion and goods. HONOR asked WGSN to investigate further.

Before the shopping frenzy invades your thoughts on the run-up to Christmas Eve, we have a gift for you. Find the joy of giving with our sustainable Christmas gift ideas guide 2021 edition. For you, to make your life easier, and for the people who matter in your life.

Ph. cottonbro, Pexels

Fashions Finest team has been busy browsing the net for unmissable independent and sustainable Christmas gift ideas. Piled up under our virtual Christmas tree, you will find presents for your family, including kids, your loved ones and your cosy home.

From stocking fillers to gifts of love - or why not, self-love - have a look at our Christmas gift ideas until your lightbulb lits up!

Stocking Fillers Galore!

Society Socks

It is not a joke: why not fill a stocking with more socks?
Socks are probably the least given item yet they are everyday essentials. Society Socks was founded based on this simple fact and to provide socks to people in need. Every time you give a colourful pair of socks you are also making a gift for someone you do not know but needs warmth and love. Society Socks has fun socks for both men and women, bundles for men, customised socks and subscription boxes.

Discover Society Socks selection online.

PROCOAL

These egg-shaped solid soaps and exfoliators are the next big thing in town. Pop a soap or an exfoliating bar in your friends' stockings. With their unisex formula, PROCOAL Cleansing Eggs will be a fun discovery. They are also cruelty-free, natural-based, 100% vegan and eco-friendly, so they will be very much appreciated by the eco-warrior on your Christmas list.

Find them online at procoal.co.uk. Price ranges from £8.99 to £9.99.

In just three steps, PROCOAL Get The Glow Collection gift set promises glowing skin under the Christmas tree. This skincare set contains three full-size products (70ml x3) to introduce you or a lucky one to a cruelty-free and gentle routine with a resurfacing Glycolic Face Wash, a double-action Exfoliating Face Scrub, and a brightening Pink Clay Mask.

Find it online at procoal.co.uk at the retail price of £24.99.

teapigs

These days, the air is filled up with many festive fragrances: sweet, spicy, happy. Being a very cold time of the year, nothing beats a cosy evening under the blankets with a warm drink and a Christmas film. Make sure to add some teapigs seasonal teas and winter warmers to your Christmas gift list. A sip of glühwein tea creates the right atmosphere.

Find more online at teapigs.co.uk  with gift ideas starting from £1.75.

Hairslydz

Hairslydz Luxurious Soft Luxe by London hairstylist Andy Smith is an elegant kit that you would likely keep for yourself. We cannot blame you! Created by a hairdresser for his clients, this set consists of 7 hair accessories comprising scrunchies and a headband in pure black silk with a gift box.

Find this set online at £49.95 for a limited time only.

Farm Girl

In her grandpa's apple farm in Essex, Sarah Jane - an aesthetician passionate about facials and massages - set up her 'beauty farm'. Farm Girl Retinol + Niacinamide Serum (£48) is a treatment with two of the most looked for ingredients in skincare. Rejuvenating, perfecting and strengthening, this serum can be your BFF's best friend. Do not forget, its formula is cruelty-free and vegan, and it has an adorable packaging.

Visit Farm Girl online.

No Secrets

What is the secret to 'me time'? No Secrets!
The 'Mini Home Spa' is the perfect gift for those who really need to unplug. The kit, a portable spa, contains two of the brands' award-winning bath jellies, a hand butter and a soy wax votive candle. All the products are suitable for vegans and naturally based. No Secrets Mini Home Spa comes in a delicate gift box and it is available in two scents: ‘One’, fresh & uplifting, and ‘Four’, sensual & calming.

Find it online at NoSecretsBeauty priced £23.

Polaar

Save on wrapping with this adorable Polaar cracker. It is all done for you! Polaar Lapland Cracker is a ready-to-give and ready to crack open stocking filler with three hydrating products from the Nordic brand. Keep someone special's hand, face and lips protected from the chill with the anti-oxidant power of three Arctic berries found in The Genuine Lapland Cream (20ml), The Genuine Lapland Lip Balm (10ml) and The Genuine Lapland Hand Cream (25ml). Polaar is vegan and cruelty-free.

Available from Look Fantastic, All Beauty, Bath & Unwind and selected Fenwick store at £16.

Gifts For Him And Unisex

Shakeup Cosmetics

'Let's face it', men pay attention to their skin and not just to be picture-ready. To brighten your special one's face, Shakeup Cosmetics proposes it Let's Face It travellers set with three products from the brand's hybrid cosmetic range. You can build this kit yourself with any shade of Let’s Face It BB Tinted Moisturiser and of Eye Eye Captain Under Eye Concealer. Add the Lip Life To The Full volumising Lip Gel; receive the faux leather Toiletry Bag for free, and leave your gift under the Christmas tree.

Build your kit online at ShakeupCosmetics for only £57.

IKON

Iconic perfumes are a Christmas classic and they surely make a great impression. Why not try an alternative to high-end scents this year? IKON is the sustainable scented gift made socially and environmentally friendly. IKON EDP's natural elegance is in its minimal package topped with Manchurian ash wood caps and its gender-neutral blends of notes. Find a signature scent among the 6 Eau de parfum forming this exclusive vegan collection.

Sold exclusively at TheFragranceShop at £60 each.

Gifts For The Little Ones

KIDLY

It could be the first Christmas of your son, daughter, niece or nephew: make it special! Kids' clothing is a must and also a very welcome gift for the parents. Fashions Finest's next destination for all things kids is KIDLY, a store for those aged 0 to 5. KIDLY is a platform where you can find several brands and KIDLY's own label. The shop has been created by a fashion insider dad, James Hart, to provide parents with an effortless shopping experience. James and the KIDLY team listen to parents for precious feedback so you know you can trust your eyes. These three functional and stylish picks from the KIDLY label are made with organic cotton and a comfortable loose fit will be surely worn and loved to bits.

Find the whole KIDLY collection online  (Click here for the bandana, the organic easy sweatshirt, and the organic easy joggers)

A Special Sign Of Love

AURUM

Jewellery is another Christmas cult classic. You can fill it up with a special meaning, tell a story and say how much you love someone with a piece of jewellery. This time our eyes are all for AURUM by Guðbjörg. For her 34th collection, Basalt, the Icelandic jewellery designer has been inspired by the 'landscape of explosive energy' of her home country. Designed and produced in Reykjavik, AURUM uses only recycled gold and silver and ethically sourced gems. BASALT keeps with it the strength and drama of Icelandic nature where basalt pillar stones are thought to be trolls and moonstones are believed to help communicate with the spirits. Go for AURUM by Guðbjörg for ethical jewellery that speaks of faraway places and magical stories.

Discover AURUM online. 

Gifts For Her: Beauty

If you are wishing for a beautifully radiant Christmas, here is a selection of skincare, makeup and well-being sets that just need to be wrapped.

Environ

Environ suggests its curated festive collections to pamper the skin and listen to its needs. We recommend these three kits for the body and face. Shall we start with Environ Body Essential Set, a luxurious selection that features the new Body EssentiA Tri-Complex Contouring Cream, bestselling Vitamin A, C and E Body Oil and an Alpha Hydroxy Derma-Lac Lotion.

The Healthy Skin Set delivers a complete skincare routine of powerhouse formulations with essential vitamins and antioxidants. In this kit you will find Skin EssentiA® Mild Cleansing Lotion or Low Foam Cleansing Gel, Botanical Infused Moisturising Toner, Vita-Antioxidant AVST Moisturiser and Youth EssentiA® Vita-Peptide Eye Gel, a complimentary Focus Care Youth+ Tri Biobotanical Revival Masque, and complimentary discovery sizes of Even More Sun Care+ RAD Shield Mineral Sunscreen and Focus Care Youth+ Tri-Peptide Complex Avance DFP312 Moisturiser.

The Skin Luxury Set is the right one to discover ENVIRON quality or to travel with your favourite treatments. The limited-edition travel bag includes full-sized Youth EssentiA Vita-Peptide Eye Gel, the bestseller, and Focus Care Radiance+ Intense C-Boost Mela-Even Cream, plus deluxe-sized Focus Care Youth+ Tri-Peptide Complex Avance DFP312 Moisturiser, Focus Care Youth+ Tri Biobotanical Revival Masque and Body EssentiA Vitamin A, C and E Body Oil.

Shop these sets exclusively at Harvey Nichols, priced respectively £82, £181, and £120

Advanced Nutrition Programme

Many times we hear that 'beauty starts from within'. This is so true that Advanced Nutrition Programme says ‘Your Future Skin Starts From Within™’ thanks to its science jam-packed supplements. For Christmas 2021, the brand has launched two festive skin duos featuring a new multivitamin called Skin Vitality, which delivers 28 smart nutrients in a one-a-day capsule for skin, hair, nail and body. We recommend Luminous Future Skin (£50) for skin that needs oomph and extra glow and Healthy Future Skin (£80) for very dry skin, particularly during this cold season.

Find more about Advance Nutrition Programme online.

PROJECT LIP

Hung the mistletoe and get ready for kiss-giving with PROJECT LIP. This beauty brand from Manchester is an expert in lip plumping products that do work. Give yourself or your best friend a PROJECT LIP plumping lip colour, gloss or three-step kit for lips that will never fear the cold, the wind or an unexpected kiss.

Find PROJECT LIP products sold in kit or separately from £3.95 to £24.95 online.

Soinvogue

Handy tools never go out of fashion. Soinvogue just put on its virtual shelves new gift sets and eco-friendly beauty tools from brands we trust like So Eco and BrushWorks.

Browse and shop your favourite at Soinvogue.

jane iredale

Bring back the glitz and glam with jane iredale Festive season 2021 Dazzle and Shine Collection. The skincare makeup brand launched its new vegan and cruelty-free sets for a glowy holiday look you can customise day to night. Do not miss the limited-edition and super versatile Dazzle and Shine Eye Shadow Kit, the Line & Define Brow Kits to complete the look and the Holiday Dazzle & Shine Mini Lip Trio. The latest is an exclusive preview of the next year's launch, the HydroPure Hyaluronic Acid Lip Glosses!

Available online priced respectively £45, £47, and £25.

Dr Jackson's

Award-winning Dr Jackson's, nominated 'Eco Brand Of The Year', is a science-led skincare and tea brand that cares about the environment down to every ingredient. With one of Dr Jackson's kit, you are not only making a healthy and sustainable choice but also supporting the farmers' communities in Zimbabwe where the key ingredients, baobab and kigelia fruit, are harvested. The Day to Evening kit follow your skin 24 hours to protect and replenish it with the best Africa's nature offers us: kigelia, baobab, marula and shea butter to name a few.

Find the set online at Dr Jackson's Skincare, now at £60.

Dermatology M

Where Chinese medicine meets skincare, there stands Dermatology M. The world leader in traditional Chinese medicine skin treatments awaits with its Christmas 2021 kits. The Illuminating Icons Set features two bestsellers from its range that fit nicely in anyone's winter skincare regime: the Rose Otto Rejuvenating Cream and the Zi Cao Run Chun Gao lip balm. You cannot go wrong with Dermatology M; its formulas are suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive and upset.

Find Dermatology M festive kits online. The Illuminating Icons Set is now at £70.

thebeautyworX

If you are looking for effective yet affordable skin solutions, then thebeautyworX is here to help. The brand raises the flag of 'Clean Beauty', so you can be sure your skincare gift is high-performing, gentle and natural-based. You can choose among the Essential Face Serum Collection, the 3 Step Skin Solution, and the Day And Night Duo. Every product has 90 to 95% of natural and ethically-sourced ingredients, mostly vegan. You can cut the price but never on quality!

Find the collections online with prices from £12.99 to £17.99.

ALTERNA

Caviar is a very expensive festive delicacy you would instantly associate with grand balls and endless tables laden with exquisite taste. Caviar haircare is real and a true luxury. ALTERNA goes beyond ordinary haircare and celebrates the holiday season with exclusive gifts of self-care. The Caviar Anti-Aging Replenishing Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner comes in a ready-to-give box and is for every hair type. The duo will protect colour and give new vitality, strength and hydration to dull, dry hair.

Find the full catalogue and official retailers online.

Indie.

You already told all your friends how you successfully switched to an eco-conscious life, now they can do that too! Indie., the beauty start-up, has a brilliant idea for Christmas, an introduction to sustainable living. The Starter Duo has everything one needs to get started and save with bottles for life, shampoo and conditioner of your choice. Once your friend runs out, he/she can buy a new Refill and keep the green ball rolling.

Buy online with prices from £15 to £25.

Gifts For Her: Fashion

Picture Organic Clothing

Back in 2008, a group of three French friends joined forces and creativity for the environment. Knowing that the textile industry is responsible for around 8% of carbon emissions, they built a sustainable label using organic cotton, linen, recycled textiles and bio-polyester made from... cane sugar! More than half of its outwear is made with this natural sweetness. To stay warm and stylish, we found out that the MURAX JKT is a very flattering jacket to give this Christmas. Plus, it can be worn alone or under another coat for extra protection.

Find more eco-friendly outwear and sportswear online.

Asquith

Active and loungewear make great gifts for your BFF. Look for Asquith, the ethical fashion brand based in London which uses 100% of upcycled material. We have created a comfortable outfit with the Be Calm Sweatshirt (now £42) and the complimentary joggers as a reminder to stay focused, relaxed and happy. Comfort and quality are not optional! These two pieces are made with organic cotton and elastane.

Browse Asquith catalogue online.

We like presents with meaning and real purpose, with quality that lasts longer than the festive season. If you are like us, your lightbulb is now fully switched and you are for gift-giving and shopping. Get ready with pens, cards, ribbons and wraps to spread joy and your love this year again.

Christmas is only around the corner, and you might be one of those people who is stuck with what to buy. Luckily, one of the best items to buy when it comes to Christmas is jewellery. Now do not assume that it is going to be too easy either.

Ph. Kyle Cut Media, Unsplash

You can buy both expensive jewellery and cheap jewellery, depending on how much you want to spend. Here is a quick guide on the jewellery gifts that you can buy this year.

Stocking Fillers

As soon as you suggest jewellery as a potential gift, people assume that jewellery is some of the most expensive. There are many high street stores out there that sell cheap jewellery sets: for example, you can get a pack of three rings from an H&M store. With this present, you can give the option of wearing one ring or layer them up. Layering has been a popular 2021 jewellery trend that can be worn in different colours and styles.

Chic Jewellery

Ph. Camilla Carvalho, Unsplash

Chic jewellery can either be expensive or on the cheaper side; it can either be a big or a small present. Everything comes down to the price you are looking to spend.

There are hundreds of chic jewellery brands that you can choose from, so you will not be stuck when it comes to purchasing Christmas presents. Some of the brands that sell great jewellery are Tada & Toy, Astrid & Miyu, Daisy London, Edge of Ember and Monica Vinader. There is plenty of iconic chic jewellery that every woman should own for their day-to-day jewellery!

Colourful Jewellery

Ph. Artem Beliaikin, Unsplash

It is a jewellery trend that likes to come and go. However, styles do change each time they make a return. Colourful jewellery can also hold a cultural meaning, as well as ranging from simple colourful beads to beautifully vintage emerald rings. Yes, gemstones are a little more on the expensive side; however, they make a great gift for someone that you love.

Furthermore, you can buy a gemstone that has a connection with the person. For example, if they are born in January, then buy them a garnet necklace or ring. This is because garnets are the birthstone for that month. You can also link the gem to their favourite colour. Many gemstones come in a range of different shades and the specific colour can change the price of the jewel, so you should consider this note.

Premium Jewellery

Ph. Cornelia Ng, Unsplash

Again, this is more expensive but it can be a tear-jerker. If you are willing to go big for your loved one, there are some great brands to choose from. Dior and Channel are just two brands that you might have already heard, just make sure you have done enough saving up for this present. If you like to spend big from time to time at Christmas, there are many premium jewellery brands to pick on top of the two we have just mentioned.

Another premium style that you could consider as a gift is pearl jewellery: another popular autumn jewellery trend that is going strong.

Jewellery To Last A Lifetime

If you are going to spend a lot of money on a present, you need to make sure that it is going to last a lifetime. Having the potential to be passed down through generations is important for jewels, similar to how Kate Middleton was given the ring of Princess Diana. High-quality gemstones and metals will be a gift that everybody will appreciate.

High-quality gemstones and metals will be a gift that everybody will appreciate. Luxury jewellery is for those who have been with their partner for a long time and see them being with them until their dying days. Brands such as Harry Winston, Cartier, Buccellati or Van Cleef & Arpels are some of the most luxurious brands on the market. Choosing any of these will last for generations ahead!

Vintage Jewellery

Ph. Alex Chambers, Unsplash

Vintage jewellery is another option that many people have got on board with for numerous reasons. For starters, vintage jewellery has been around for years and many people might have worn the same piece. Not to mention the gemstones that a vintage jewel comes with. If you are planning on proposing on Christmas day, then consider a vintage engagement ring.

As you may already know, the world is facing some issues regarding global warming. There are many ways to do your bit in saving the planet, and buying vintage jewellery is one of them. The reason for this is that you are not supporting major brands that are continuously mining for raw materials contributing to CO2 emissions. There are many great ways to source vintage jewellery but remember to double-check it.

To Conclude

There are many gifts that you can buy a loved one around Christmas time with perfumes being an easy go-to present. If you want to spend a little extra, jewellery is the one this year. If you ever are struggling to get your loved ones a Christmas gift, find out what they need. However, if you are going to buy them jewellery, make sure you do your research first. Find out what their favourite material is, what type of earrings they prefer, whether or not the gemstones are real with a certificate.

With holiday seasons not far away and the dream of a white Christmas in the air, looking for skiing destinations and new gear is on the to-do list of many of us. High-quality ski wear is notoriously expensive but Blanqo aims to make them much affordable this year.

Tom Van Der Borght's SS22 collection presented at the festival of Hyères,