About 5-7 years ago, I was fully immersed in the world of fast fashion, with go-to brands like Zara and H&M leading the charge. Back then, owning pieces from these big names felt pretty satisfying - they carried a sense of prestige, especially compared to unbranded, questionable-quality items. But over time, I started to see the cracks in that approach (literally and figuratively 😅).
Here’s the catch with fast fashion: while the prices might seem like a steal, what’s left after a few washes? Fabric stretches, collars lose their shape, and before long, you’re left with a garment that’s better suited for sleeping in. With such frequent product drops (Zara reportedly launched new collections every two weeks at one point - imagine what it’s like now), quality inevitably takes a back seat. Buying cheap clothes that only last a handful of wears isn’t exactly a bargain after all.
I eventually realized I needed items built to last - pieces that could stand the test of time and align with a more sustainable mindset. Since 2015, I’ve been on a journey exploring brands that prioritize durability over disposability. After plenty of trial and error 🤣, I’ve put together a list of five standout names known for crafting garments that stick around for years. Let’s dive in!
Asket
This Swedish brand has been a game-changer for me. I first came across Asket in 2016 when they only offered two items: t-shirts and Oxford shirts. Fast forward, and they’ve expanded to include sweaters, chinos, denim, and more.
Their t-shirts are still going strong in my wardrobe after four summers of wear. My black one has faded slightly at the collar, but there’s no stretching, fraying, or loss of shape - something I can’t say for most fast-fashion alternatives.
Asket also goes above and beyond by transparently sharing the origins of every component, from fabrics to buttons and tags.
Handvaerk
Handvaerk is the epitome of luxury basics. Their tagline, “luxury essentials,” isn’t just for show - they craft small-batch items using the finest Pima cotton sourced from Peru.
Their offerings stick to classic styles like t-shirts, henleys, sweatshirts, and bomber jackets in a neutral color palette. The difference lies in the fabric: incredibly soft, durable, and undeniably premium.
I’ve owned their polos, t-shirts, and henleys for four years now, and they still look brand new 😳. If durability had a gold standard, Handvaerk would be it.
NN07
Scandinavian minimalism is always a win, and NN07 (short for “No Nationality”) lives up to the hype. Their goal is to create simple, versatile clothing that transcends borders and trends.
I’m especially impressed by their Pima cotton t-shirts, cozy sweaters, and chinos. Their pants, in particular, are a standout - crafted with stretch-blend fabrics that balance comfort and style effortlessly. I own five pairs of NN07 chinos, and they’ve all held up beautifully over time.
A.P.C.
If you’re into raw denim, A.P.C. needs no introduction. This French brand is a master of selvedge jeans, offering timeless cuts and premium 100% cotton denim in rich indigo hues.
My journey with A.P.C. began five years ago when I picked up a pair of Petit New Standard jeans. They lasted four solid years before they started to tear - a natural part of the raw denim aging process that creates a unique, personalized patina. Earlier this year, I invested in a New Cure fit to start fresh, and I’m just as hooked 😜.
Five years of hard wear on the A.P.C. Petit New Standard.
I’m so obsessed that earlier this year, I picked up a brand-new pair, but in the New Cure fit - starting fresh with A.P.C. 😜
Enkelhet
This small Polish brand was a hidden gem in my wardrobe. I own two Enkelhet shirts, both characterized by their minimalist designs and durable fabrics.
It wasn’t until later that I noticed a production date on one of the tags - November 2015 😂. That shirt still looks as good as new, with zero signs of fraying. It’s proof that slow fashion beats fast fashion in the longevity department.
Unfortunately, Enkelhet seems to have shut down, as their website and social channels have disappeared. It’s a real loss for fans of thoughtful, high-quality clothing.
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While it’s not a niche brand, Uniqlo remains one of the best industrial-scale options for quality basics at reasonable prices. Their t-shirts, chinos, cashmere sweaters, and blazers offer excellent value and durability. My wardrobe often features Uniqlo staples, paired effortlessly with other pieces.
Uniqlo from head to toe, except for the pocket square and the shoes. 😜
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