The season-less staples from homegrown labels that will stay in your closet forever

20 AUGUST 2020 What will your shopping carts look like now? It’s safe to say that pieces with longevity are often characterised by their utility and transitional quality. The past few months have convinced us to invest in items one can wear not only repeatedly within the same season, but more importantly, for years to come. “I think it is relevant to shop for shapes that constitute a classic look. I believe that season-driven fashion will significantly reduce in the years to come” Rina Singh tells us. The designer has just launched her brand’s diffusion line, Ekà Core, which is also “an extension of my personal wardrobe that is not bound by demographics and can be altered and worn as needed”. Taking the fundamentals of Ekà as a starting point and using upcycled textiles from the studio, the collection of elevated basics was made for the new-age ethical shopper. The accessible-priced range includes non-conforming dresses, lightweight trench coats, trousers, shirts and tunics in a neutral colour palette of ivory, charcoal, indigo and black.

In the spirit of welcoming timeless wardrobe staples, we’ve rounded up minimal styles that will feel fresh even a few years down the line. Coming together for a capsule collection, contemporary labels Smoke Wear and Lovebirds offer a range of upcycled, naturally-dyed denim separates, oversized shirts, accessories and more. The monochrome palette, chessboard patchwork and stitch line detailing stand out, while the anti-fit approach exudes minimal modernism. For those with an inclination for layering, look for the relaxed-fit denim shirt dress at 11.11 / eleven eleven or Bhaane’s powder blue midi. Let the crisp tunics and wrap tops from Anomaly and The Summer House replace your fitted blouses, and allow wispy dresses from Kanelle to breathe fresh air into your wardrobe. Keep scrolling for our edit of pieces that make a case for fashion that lasts.