My first port-of-call when I’m blanking on outfit ideas? Instagram, of course. The sheer volume of fashion-savvy users regularly posting their #OOTDs means I’m guaranteed a wave of inspiration with one quick scroll. Minimum effort, maximum reward.
But I don’t just use social media to find looks to recreate. It’s also a handy resource when I need guidance on what’s worth buying. Especially because, at this point, there are certain influencers I follow whose taste is top-notch every time, and I know I can trust their judgement. When I’m in a shopping rut but struggling with some serious gaps in my wardrobe, all I need to do is consult their feeds and suddenly my wish list has reached unruly lengths.
The first month of the year is prime time to arm yourself with fresh pieces you can wear for the next 12 months and beyond. So, I’ve taken it one step further and asked a handful of influencer which items they’ll be adding to their rotation—before they’ve actually done so. It’s always fun being ahead of the game. Take a look at hero buys these style insiders are lusting after now, and hear how they’ll be incorporating them into their wardrobes for the season ahead.
London-based influencer Lizzy is known and loved for her fuss-free approach to fashion, blending androgynous silhouettes with a classic colour palette. Even when she adopts a trend, she does so in a way that feels totally true to her personal style. Unsurprisingly, her 2023 picks didn’t disappoint.
“The ultimate investment coat. In the winter when our outfits basically become our coats, it’s important to have one that feels like a treat to wear everyday.”
“An update on a classic white shirt. I love the femininity of the collar, and it would be great to layer underneath knitwear, too.”
“Speaking of knits… I don’t think you can ever have enough navy knitwear, and a cable knit is a great way to add texture into the darker colour palettes of my winter outfits.”
“I recently bought my first pair of Tabi boots and it’s become what can only be described as a mild obsession. These ballet flats are next on my list.”
“My tendencies to outfit repeat become even more frequent in the winter, so I am trying to add new pieces like these trousers instead of my usual jeans to keep things feeling fresh.”
Danielle’s style strikes the perfect balance between timeless and unexpected. You’ll spot her taking familiar pieces and wearing them in a way that feels new and exciting. I can’t wait to see how she rocks the items on her wish list.
“Right now, I am unhealthily obsessed with leather bomber jackets. This is the best combination of trendy but timeless, and the colour is on-point for this season but also happens to be one of my favourites.”
“I’ll be honest; I think about these shoes everyday. The design is so unique and I adore the colour of the leather lizard print. Ayede shoes are also just remarkable quality.”
“This piece is so versatile and easy to dress up and down for basically every occasion. I know it’s an item that I will run to on those days when I’m just not sure of what to wear.”
“Ejing Zhang is a smaller upcoming brand that deserves to be known and adored by the masses. The team makes the most artistic beautiful pieces of jewellery, you will be unsure as to whether to wear it or hang it up in the living room!”
“A girl can dream, and I’ve been dreaming of this bag. The ombré effect is so unlike any bag I have seen—when I saw it in the AW22 show it had my heart instantaneously!”
Visit Zeena’s page for a healthy dose of primary colours, cheerful prints and all-round positive vibes. For 2023, she’ll be keeping up the mood-boosting styling, while adding some neutral pieces into the mix.
“The perfect cosy but chic dress for the months ahead. This versatile piece it would look gorgeous layered, too.”
“I am absolutely obsessed with this patchwork vest. It offers the perfect pop of colour, while keeping it chic with a black base.”
“I can’t get enough of green and love these tapered jeans. They’re perfect for dressing up or down with a knit or silk top.”
“I invested in a khaki pair of these cult boots and they are 100% worth the hype. The cream is next on my hit list. I love a winter white for a little freshness amidst the grey.”
“I’m a big fan of Sezane’s knitwear; it’s such beautiful quality and really timeless. This is another green I’ll be dreaming of.”
Aïda’s outfits radiate everything we love about Parisian style: effortlessness, elegance and an undeniably cool edge. Her new year wish list consists of practical pieces that can be easily styled into classic everyday looks.
“A warm puffer coat is a must-have during the winter season and Arket makes the best ones. I’ve been eyeing this design as short puffer coats look classier to me, and I love the drawstring effect on the waist.”
“I already own two Acne scarves and I wear them every season, so I’m looking for another neutral color to add to my collection. It might be expensive for a scarf, but I think it’s worth it for the quality and longevity.”
“I will never own enough belted coats, and I don’t have this colour yet. I like the big collar and the long hemline. Perfect to wear with boots.”
“I’ve been obsessed with Zara’s skorts lately. I style them with opaque tights, knee-high boots and a long coat for a preppy winter look.”
“A quality belt can be a great investment. This one is chic and discreet; you can wear it over a coat, a blazer or with your shorts and trousers. It will elevate an outfit instantly.”
Every outfit Renia puts together looks like it’s been snapped during Fashion Week. The style expert has such an eye for unique pieces that make a statement without feeling OTT. See for yourself…
“In SS23, cobalt blue will be the centre of attention. This stunning suit is currently high on my wish list.”
“Whether you wear it with a T-shirt and heels or with a white button-up, it’s perfect for any occasion. And this colour looks good on everyone.”
“More is more, especially when it comes to bags! In 2023, I’m planning to wear sequin bags with casual outfits on a daily basis, not just with evening looks. Why limit ourselves?”
“Wearing head-to-toe black is in fashion, thanks to the Wednesday series on Netflix. I’m planning to invest in a black maxi dress, like this Rick Owens one. It’s perfectly dramatic.”
“A good pair of jeans and unique heels is my favourite go-to combo. These Miu Miu stilettos are perfect to wear with simple denim to add a bit of oomph.”
“Every season I look for fun and one-of-a-kind jeans. I’m planning to buy these Bottega Veneta pair as the turned-up hem is back in fashion. Style them with T-shirt and an oversized blazer or cardigan.”
As an author and the founder of wellness community thy.self, Chloé is a busy woman—but she doesn’t cut corners when it comes to her style. Shop her eye-catching picks if your wardrobe is in need of some pizazz.
“I know better than to see a H&M Studio drop and not snap things up ASAP. This shirt and the matching trousers are haunting me.”
“I’m in a new era of my life and I just want to wear everyday glam and feel good! If you’ve heard me talk about loungewear (a lot) on Who What Wear, pretend you didn’t. This is exactly the kind of dress is what I want now.”
“I like to look luxurious without in-your-face labels—not for everyone to read where my outfit is from just by looking at me. This will be my new transitional piece as I gear up for one of the busiest years of my life.”
“Finding luxurious, timeless and inclusive swimwear is very much a rarity. I discovered Goldesse Swim and they have me in a chokehold with their designs.”
Daria is certainly not afraid to express herself through her clothing, which is always really refreshing. When she’s not donning all-over sequins (her wish list speaks for itself), you’ll find her in sleek monochrome looks and vinyl co-ords. Yes, really.
“Just look at this top. Don’t tell me you’re not imagining yourself wearing it to a fancy event. We love a bit of drama!”
“A total ‘yes’ from me. A flattering shape, a beautiful purple shade and the sparkle of sequins… What else do you need for the perfect party outfit? You can easily control the boldness of it by adding a monochrome top.”
“Somehow Burberry check always reminds me of my childhood countryside house with a fireplace and rugs of similar patterns. Wearing Burberry head-to-toe gives me a ‘home away from home’ feeling.”
“It’s just super cute and preppy as well.”
“You might be surprised to see another sparkling item on this list, but this bag is a real masterpiece. I will definitely keep my browser page open on this one.”
