With such long and winding histories strung together by a revolving door of creative directors, it’s little wonder the course of a luxury brand rarely runs smooth. Fashion’s heavyweights rise and fall only to rise again as the trend barometer dictates.

Not so erratic, however, are the signature pieces these labels produce; designs that become synonymous with a single name over years of constant improvement, design tweaks and fresh marketing efforts.

Credit cards at the ready, here’s a primer on the iconic designer goods you should know, and perhaps one day add to your wardrobe.

Gucci Loafers

Gucci has undergone a renaissance recently. But as the brand moved from Tom Ford’s sleek sexiness to Alessandro Michele’s seventies-inflected romance, the loafer – the Italian label’s most iconic shoe – has remained the same.

Like so many luxury brands, Gucci began life in the leather goods trade. Inspired by the link between equestrian sports and the international jet set, Mr Guccio Gucci placed a horsebit on the elite’s favoured shoe. And from there, the style became the footwear of choice for politicians, businessmen and celebrities worldwide – a success the label continues to enjoy, no matter its creative director (or whether it’s black G-strings or floral blousons it’s pushing).

Acne Studios Jeans

At a little over 20 years old, Acne Studios is still a toddler in luxury terms. But youth isn’t necessarily a disadvantage; the brand regularly turns over in excess of $200 million annually.

Fittingly, it was raw denim jeans – the fashion industry’s universal symbol for youth and rebellion – that put the Swedish brand on the map. In 1997, co-founder Jonny Johansson made 100 pairs for friends and family. The simple double-stitched design of these jeans positioned them at the midpoint between luxury and Scandinavian minimalism, and they proved such a hit that the denim line grew into a wider collection of apparel. Then came two shows a year in Paris. Then came the renown. Not bad for something that started as a family freebie.