Don’t you love the word “need”? So much more morally attractive than “want” and yet, at the same time, more emotional and passionate than dull old “require”. “Need” is the one word that can take the guilt out of shopping at a time of year when those dreary old bills from that little splurge in December insist on still rolling in. What a pity, then, that there is absolutely no genuine reason to go out and buy anything because 1) the weather is much the same as it has been for the past three months and 2) there isn’t a single party or anything else remotely exciting on the horizon for the next 50 years. Even if you’ve been nominated for a Bafta or Oscar, you’ll receive what you need gratis.
Then again, perhaps we should redefine need. Far be it from this column to extol the virtues of so-called Must Have items (more of which another time, but really I do think it’s time we progressed beyond wanting exactly the same £795 bag as everyone else), but there are certain Waiting List pieces (WLP) that will (or let’s be honest here, all purchases have built-in risk, that’s part of the kick) genuinely enhance one’s existence. If you’re in the market for some high-expenditure necessities, a brief run-through of items worth buying now (with a mind to wearing them several weeks or even months down the line) includes one of Prada’s beautiful palest pink shirt-dresses (a classic in the making), Miu Miu’s rhinestone-studded ballet pumps (much classier than they sound, and perfect to wear with all those dressed-down Capri pants and broderie-anglaise skirts and sundresses), Roger Vivier’s Belle de Nuit high-heeled buckled shoes (the perfect bourgeois antidote to your skinny jeans and Bermudas this spring); one of Chloé’s lace blouses (bound to be an investment now that Phoebe Philo’s leaving – and think how it will instantly plug you into that ultra-feminine, polished vibe that’s sweeping through fashion) or Lanvin’s crushed crimson evening trench (another classic that can double as a dress, which is quite handy when you’re trying to justify the outlay, and is even available in much more practical black).
If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a more accessible list of needs, how about stocking up on transitional pieces (those that slot into your wardrobe during the bleary days between definite seasons, which in the UK number about 250)? Good transitional pieces fulfil three functions: they’re immediately wearable, add colour and are appropriate to the climate. Trench coats fit the bill perfectly; this year’s model is white, which is more flattering on most of us than greige and has the requisite sharp Mod look when teamed with black or navy (Joseph has a perfect one, narrow over the shoulders, flared below the waist, in a robust, slightly crumpled but chic gabardine twill). Colourful cashmere is another excellent transitional piece – look for brighter, lighter colours than you’ve been wearing all winter, with interesting details such as pompom ties or tassels. Shirts – white, stripy or otherwise patterned – will be another staple. Layer them under V-neck jumpers now. As things warm up, you can wear them with sleeveless tanks and eventually on their own, knowing that you’re right on the money this summer. Now tell me that isn’t a basic human need.