Many designer items can be identified within seconds thanks to OTT logos and flashy prints, but there are certain luxury pieces that require a trained eye in order to spot them among the crowds. Unlike a Gucci belt or a Fendi printed scarf, these "stealthy" pieces are treasured for their modesty and simplicity. Simply put: If you know, you know.
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have mastered this stealth approach to luxury fashion with their label The Row, which creates quiet pieces in the highest-quality fabrics. There are a number of other designers who shy away from loud branding and focus on the quality and long shelf life of their designs. If you buy a Blazé Milano double-breasted blazer or a Valextra Iside bag, you are making a purchase for life. Many of the if-you-know-you-know items on our list are the same season after season, and years later remain as popular as ever.
Keep scrolling to see—and shop—our edit of the best minimal designer buys.
1. Acne Musubi Bag
Acne is arguably the leading designer brand for minimal pieces, and the Musubi bag is simple but will never be boring.
2. Blazé Milano Blazer
When it comes to tailoring, Italian brand Blazé Milano has mastered the perfect blazer. You will never need to buy another blazer again.
3. The Row Lady Diana Shoes
The Row's take on a ballet pump—and it's named after Princess Diana.
4. Valextra Iside Bag
Valextra was founded in Milan in 1937 and has become one of the ultimate stealth wealth labels.The signature Iside bag has no obvious branding and an unusual, but not attention-seeking, silhouette.
5. Acne Studios Scarf
An Acne Studios scarf is one of our ultimate timeless buys.
6. Laura Lombardi Hoops
Brooklyn-based jewelry designer Laura Lombardi always creates the perfect hoop earrings that are simple yet distinctive.
7. ATP Atelier Sandals
These leather slides have become a Scandinavian classic and have a truly original silhouette.
8. Comme des Garçons Play
This red heart is one logo that minimalists approve of.
9. Max Mara Coat
A Max Mara belted coat is arguably one of the ultimate classic designer buys.
10. Prada Platforms
Sienna Miller often wears Prada suede and velvet platforms.
11. Tiffany T Bangle
Tiffany & Co. also does rings and necklaces in this elegant T shape.
12. Roger Vivier Pumps
The Très Vivier are a Roger Vivier signature loved by Blair Waldorf — and us.
13. Celine Sunglasses
Whatever the season, whoever the creative director, Old Celine or New Celine, the sunglasses will always be one of the most coveted designer fashion items.
14. Common Projects Achilles Trainers
These all-white trainers with a small gold serial number across the ankle have long been a favorite for those averse to flashy trainer trends.
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.
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