Buy Things That Get Better With Age

I recently watched a series about Tokyo’s bootmaking industry, renowned for producing some of the best boots in the world. What stood out to me was how some of the stores not only showcase new boots but also display worn-in pairs to highlight how beautifully the boots age over time.

Before I got into fashion, I didn’t realize there were clothes and accessories that improve with wear. I always assumed most things just degrade until they’re tossed out. Then I discovered selvedge denim, which breaks in and fades uniquely based on your lifestyle—the more you wear it, the better it looks. The same principle applies to high-quality leather footwear and naturally dyed indigo garments. I’m drawn to these pieces because they tell a story and improve with time.

Many high-quality items share this trait: they age gracefully. That’s my goal for my wardrobe—to fill it with pieces that only get better as the years go by.