I Recently Tested Several Designer Cult Purchases—Here’s What’s Truly Worth the Investment.

      Welcome to The Great Try-On. With spring officially upon us, we took the chance to try on some of the latest arrivals from our favorite brands, documenting the journey. We believe the best way to shop online is to see items in real life first and read honest reviews about fit, style, and quality, so we hope our try-ons help you achieve your best purchases this year.

      The first hint of sunshine on my skin makes me consider what I'll wear once the heavy jackets, gloves, and hats are no longer needed. Does my handbag collection require an update? Is there a new jacket style that will truly enhance my capsule wardrobe? What outfits will I choose for work once the cashmere turtlenecks are finally off?

      For me, spring is one of the most enjoyable shopping seasons, and it feels like an ideal time to make a few key investments. The remnants of the winter sales have been cleared, and stores are newly stocked with fresh designer collections that showcase high-fashion's vision for our wardrobe in the coming months. Spring and autumn truly shine as fashion's favorite seasons for a reason: they allow us to showcase our style by layering lightweight jackets, delicate knits, and trendy trousers, without needing to focus on the warmth and comfort required in colder weather. It's all about lighter fabrics, exposed ankles, and fresh new looks.

      While I enjoy the return of more playful styles, whenever I'm eyeing higher-priced items, durability is a top priority. Will I cherish this piece for years, or even decades, to come? Can I envision repairing it and passing it on to a family member once it’s well-loved? Does the design possess a timeless quality I won’t grow tired of? So, I visited luxury stores on Sloane Street and Bond Street in London to try on pieces from the spring collections that I felt matched the criteria: high-quality items with thoughtful designs that feel contemporary without being overly trendy. If I were about to make some significant investments—and these pieces certainly come with price tags that warrant careful consideration—here's what I would choose.

      **See My Favourite Pieces From My Luxury Spring 2025 Try-On**

      1. **Saint Laurent Tailoring**

       **My Review:** Suits and ties have been trending for several seasons, but it was the remarkable spring/summer 2025 collection from Saint Laurent, displayed by Anthony Vaccarello last September, that truly highlighted "boyish" tailoring. The image of Bella Hadid strutting the runway in a black, double-breasted wool suit, white shirt, black wide tie, and tinted sunglasses became one of the season’s most iconic moments, pushing Saint Laurent suiting to the top of my wishlist.

       Just as Bottega Veneta is celebrated for its leather and Chanel for its bouclé, Saint Laurent—the brand that pioneered tuxedos for women with Yves Saint Laurent’s Le Smoking—is renowned for its tailoring. The suits available this spring at Saint Laurent are some of the best we've seen in years. The Bordeaux double-breasted wool suit I tried was look 19 from the S/S 25 runway, and the moment I donned it, I understood the hype surrounding Saint Laurent suiting.

       The jacket has structured shoulders but features a subtle waist cinch for a softer, more feminine silhouette. I felt instantly empowered and polished without being overwhelmed by fabric. The jacket’s length allows it to be worn over a black minidress for a chic date-night ensemble, ensuring great cost-per-wear.

       The trousers are my favorite aspect of the outfit. They’re exceptionally wide yet expertly tailored for a flattering fit; the double-pleat front gathers at the waist, making them versatile enough to pair separately with a bodysuit and heels for a dinner look. I am 5’9”, and they were slightly long for me even with 11cm heels, so most would likely need a tailor to shorten them—a service offered in-store by Saint Laurent, but more affordably done elsewhere. The same suit is also available in grey, taupe, and black, although the store I visited had only one sample since the pieces have just launched.

       The accompanying shirt is lovely and soft but likely not worth its £860 price tag. A little online searching would yield something equally effective for far less. The tie matches beautifully with the burgundy hue and is made from exquisite silk. While you could easily style the suit with a tie from a charity shop, if you prefer a cohesive look, then the tie’s price seems reasonable given its quality.

       **Shop the Look:**

       - Saint Laurent Jacket in Bordeaux Wool Canvas

       The tailoring is truly outstanding.

       - Saint Laurent Cassandre Shirt in Craie Et Noir Striped Cotton

       Pairs well with many different outfits.

       - Saint Laurent Wide-Leg Pants in Bordeaux Wool Chiné

       These are long, so prepare for potential tailoring costs.

       - Saint Laurent Wide Tie in