I know what you’re thinking: a fashion editor who doesn’t shop? Isn’t that counterintuitive? I liken it to my friend who’s a baker and doesn’t eat much cake. It’s not that you don’t enjoy it—the opposite, in fact. The difference is that you don’t indulge in it for the sake of it.
For the last 10 years or so, fashion has been my livelihood and my greatest passion. I preview collections before they’re released, analyse the runways to pick out the need-to-know trends and scour new-in sections daily, all to bring you the very best that fashion has to offer. As a result, I’ve become very particular when shopping for myself. For one thing, I have to be in the right mood to shop. Shopping is a big part of my job, which can make doing it on my own time a chore. I also have to be willing to part with some cash. (I was raised to be very money-conscious.) Plus, my increased exposure to fashion means my taste has become all the more specific—something has to really impress me before I’m willing to invest in it. I’m picky, and I don’t care who knows it!
That’s not to say that everything I buy is an investment—at least, not in terms of cost. I love the high street, and in Britain, we have access to some of the best affordable brands in the world. Although I shop from it, I do so mindfully. And I apply that same mentality to any high-end purchases I’m considering. In the past, I’ve been swayed into purchasing on name alone, but in my tenure at Who What Wear, I’ve developed a thicker skin for designer pieces, which allows me to look past the gilded embossing and instead see the piece for what it is and determine whether it’s actually worth it.
As you can see, I’m very particular about the clothes I wear, the story they tell, and the impact they have on my life. So why not share my shopping picks with you? These are pieces even a perfectionist can’t find fault with. I hope you find something you like and can see yourself wearing for a long time.
Nope, I’m not over waistcoats and I hope you aren’t either. I plan on wearing this style (with the matching trousers) to the office Christmas party. Just as well I’m not a red wine drinker.
Slip skirts are the item I throw on when I can’t decide what to wear but I know I want to look polished. I have a handful of satin iterations but there’s definitely a gap in my collection for this velvet style.
Benedetta Bruzziches was one of the buzziest bag brands of the year, and I know the appeal of its glittering shoulder bags will last well beyond the festive period.
M&S is my go-to for elevated-looking outwear and this camel coat is case in point. The classic colourway and sleek belted waist make it a timeless addition to any coat collection, while the handy hood and shorter length set it apart from others on the market.
I have a serious soft spot for Reformation dresses and, my, isn’t this one a beauty! It comes in a handful of colours, but this wine hue is hard to beat in the luxury stakes. The ribbon tie straps are a gorgeous touch, too.
My wardrobe is full of Zara blazers, but this shade of khaki is notably missing. Between the boxy fit and minimal aesthetic, I can already think of so many pieces I already own that I’d wear it with. Sold.
I’m something of a magpie, which is absolutely the reason a piece of jewellery always makes it into my weekly edit. Part of stylist Kate Young’s capsule with Monica Vinader, this cocktail ring is made from natural black onyx and will add personality to any outfit.
Cable knit cardigans are one of the most comforting things you can wear (at least, that’s what I think). i love this style from independent brand Tach Clothing. Handmade in Uruguay, the attention to detail is stunning; you had me at the words “scallop contrast stitch”.
Staud is known for creating incredible handbags but I think its dresses are just as good. Asymmetric sleeves are a huge trend on the 2023 runway, plus I enjoy the front split for showing off a pair of statement boots underneath.
I have a thing for sparkly knitwear, and this tie-front cardigan feels very special indeed. Try wearing it on its own with jeans and heels for evenings, or style overtop a black roll-neck jumper for a cosy spin.
I own plenty of high heels, but I don’t know if I’d call any of them “fancy”. With velvet bows and glittering finish, this pair is ideal for every soirée, from big festive night outs to low-key drinks with friends.
I’m all about shearling and teddy textures this season, specifically in jacket form. Unlike Mango’s iteration, which features a shirt pile, I love the texture of this coat from COS.
One of two excellent party dresses to make my edit this week, not only is this colour incredible, but the cut-out details, puff sleeves, pleated skirt, and skinny belt make this dress stand out from the dress.
I feel like I’m forever on the hunt for the perfect pair of jeans. And you know what? I think I’ve just found them. The could-be-vintage wash and raw hems make them look as if they’re thrifted, but the cut and high waistline give them that elevated finish that we’ve come to expect from brands like Boden.
Strathberrry bags are beloved by Catherine, Princess of Wales, editors, and influencers alike. Me, I’ve always loved the brand’s darker hues, such as navy and, as seen here, bottle green—they really make the gold hardware pop, don’t you think?
They might be trending this season but I’ve always been drawn to pleated mini skirts. Style them with knee-high boots and an oversize knit for sleek appeal.
This quilted coat was a bestseller last year, so I’m happy to report that it’s back for 2022, and in this beautiful dark tan hue. I’m picturing it with cream trousers and a matching knit.
Knitted dresses are one of my favourite things to wear, so you can imagine my delight when I saw that Kitri has created the ultimate option for the festive period. The ribbed knitted fabrication contours the body, while details such as the crystal halter neckline give it a high-end feel.
This week, I’m drawn to one of two things: Cosy staples I know I’ll wear throughout the winter months, and also partywear. Honestly, I think this gorgeous knit could fall into either category. It first launched in a black and white colourway, but I think I might love this beige iteration more.
I’ll admit that I’m quite careless with my handbags, placing them on the floor without much thought. As such, I want my bags to have that high-end appeal without the price tag to match. This Mango number? It more than fits the bill.
Net-a-Porter has just released a fresh new dusting of Dôen dresses, all of which can be dressed up or down with the simple switch of a shoe. This midi, with volumised sleeves, a gathered waistline, and a cute, tie-up collar is my favourite.
‘Tis the season of wearing jeans and a nice top on repeat, and this satin number needs to be a part of my rotation. I’m between sizes and I’m thinking of opting for the larger for a relaxed fit. Just add leather trousers.
Jigsaw has partnered with the tastemakers at Collagerie to create an edit of elevated winter wares. This duffle coat, complete with faux shearling trim and toggle buttons, has been on my mind ever since I laid eyes on it at the start of the week.
I don’t wear a lot of sparkle, but one way I intend on channeling this season’s love of rhinestones is by way of a pair of statement earrings: Orelia’s oversized bow earrings to be precise. These showstoppers come in a variety of colours, but I’ll be sticking with clear crystals for maximum wearability.
Two things that are very hard to find on the high-street are expensive looking-skirts and chic shades of green. This, in turn, makes this Zara midi all the more impressive.
It’s been an age since I invested in some heels and with party season on the horizon, I’ve been considering treating myself to a new set. With a chunky, angled heel, square toe and ankle strap for added dancing support, this COS pair might just be The One.
I saw influencer Sarah Tankel Ellis wearing this dress on Instagram and I immediately dropped her a DM to find out where it was from. Expecting her to say a luxury brand, I raised an eyebrow when she revealed its origin: pretty and affordable label, Vita Grace. Full disclosure, I’m only sharing this with you now that my order is safely secured, as I’m certain it’s going sell out.
Zara’s famous for its tweed and bouclé jackets and blazers, which makes it all the more surprising that I’m yet to invest in one. This style immediately caught my attention when I was browsing the site. From the sharp shoulders and double-breasted front to the gold buttons, it looks so much more expensive than it is.
I already own an Oroton bag and can attest to its quality. Knowing this, I’m tempted to invest in another timeless style for the season ahead; this tan shoulder bag with gold metal hardware is calling me.
At the risk of sounding like a broken, I already own Ghost’s Palm dress in black, and it’s easily one of my favourites. I’d been wanting a slip dress for the longest time, but I didn’t want to forgo wearing a bra in the process. This dress allows me to wear even my comfiest bra without it rising over the neckline or arm holes. With a brand-new slew of autumnal colours to choose from, I keep coming back to this rich burgundy hue.
I know so many people who own these boots are get so much wear out of them, and I know I would, too. The square toes and kitten heels make them feel very current, but rest assured they’re not tethered to 2022. This is a boot style you’ll love to wear for years to come.
M&S is fast becoming my go-to for sleek denim, and this fresh wide-leg pair from the brand’s elevated Autograph collection is next on my wish list.
I don’t need a new coat, but having tried on this style as part of our Great Try-On series, I think it’s one of the best camel coats—strike that, one of the best coats, in general—I’ve ever worn. Not only is the silhouette as strong as any I’ve seen (I’m a sucker for a robe style), but it’s made from a durable 100% wool fabrication, which, shockingly, you mightn’t get for the same price elsewhere.
I don’t wear a lot of colour, but there’s something about this block-stripe knit that is too fun to resist. I know it’ll make my jeans-and-boots outfits way more interesting, too.
Corduroy is making a huge comeback this season, and I plan on wearing it in dress form. Specifically, Aspiga’s Victoria dress. I wore the navy iteration for a shoot back in March and was impressed by the fit. It’s now available in lots of colours and even a sequin finish. My favourite remains classic ecru.
I can’t tell you how long I’ve wanted to treat myself to an ACNE Studios scarf. However, by the time I get around to doing so, my preferred style—the grey—is always sold out. Now, however, it’s back for another winter season, and I’m not about to let it pass me by.
I’ve own my faux leather trench coat for years and get so much wear out of it every single season. This style from Warehouse is a great option—details like the shoulder buttons and oversized lapels ensure it looks elevated. The fabric itself isn’t too shiny either, which is often the case with faux leather.
This dress style—an A-line mini with a faux blouse underneath—is a best-seller at & Other Stories, with last year’s black velvet iteration being worn by the stylish likes of Laura Jackson. This year, the brand is brought it back in on-trend, chocolate-coloured corduroy.
If you browse my previous edits below, it would appear I have a thing for cream handbags. But who can blame me when they look as chic as this fresh-in style from COS?
Frankie Shop’s Bea trousers are a firm fashion favourite. And now, they come in a cool camel pinstripe colourway.
I keep gravitating towards sage tones this season, but that doesn’t mean the colour won’t stand the test of time; this belted khaki coat will never date.
Heart jewellery is emerging as one of the most-noteworthy accessory trends of autumn/winter 2022. Perfect timing, then, for Mejuri to launch its new enamel heart collection.
Tove dresses always make me go weak at the knees, but this new Julianne style might just be the brand’s best yet. That neckline, those pleats—turns out, heaven is a midi dress.
I’ve been admiring Christopher Esber’s knitted creations from afar for a while, resisting the temptation to splurge on a set, telling myself the next colourway or silhouette would be The One. Could this be it?
You know what? I think it could be. The blue/black tones loan themselves perfectly to styling with heavier autumnal separates, which as leather jackets and knee boots. Then, come next summer, I’m envisioning wearing it with white strappy sandals and a basket bag. Dreamy.
As you can see from my edit, I have a thing for satin pieces. Between the colour, the length and the bra-friendly straps, this Reformation slip dress is up there with the best I’ve seen.
I’ve been thinking about this designer-worthy handbag ever since I saw it in Arket’s new-in section. The big question is, do I do for the cream or the black?
My name is Maxine and I’m a cardigan-addict. This striped option will become the cornerstone of all of my favourite autumn outfits. I can’t wait to style it with a collared shirt, leather mini skirt and chunky loafers.
Years ago I had a pair of ASOS toe-cap courts that I wore to death, so you can imagine my delight when I saw this silver-toed iteration during my latest Mango browse. Needless to say they went straight into my basket.
I’ve been thinking about investing in this jacket for well over a year—the only thing I’m having trouble with is deciding whether to opt for the beige or slate hue.
Reformation’s best-selling Mason trousers have just been reissued in a slew of autumnal shades. My favourite? This olive pinstripe pair, which will look sleek styled with everything from camisoles to oversize cotton shirts.
My favourite (and most complimented) handbag now comes in this delicious creamy colourway—a welcome change from the black arm-candy I usually carry.
This social media-famous dress is finally back in stock; I’ve already snapped it up for my Fashion Week wardrobe.
I already own a great beige trench coat, but sage green? This is new. From the gathered cuffs to the ruffled lapels, this is Rejina Pyo design at its finest.
On the subject of skirts, I find satin slip styles to be one of the most versatile out there. How stunning is this hammered bronze option.
Stripes are always a sage style investment, and I just know I’ll love wearing this Arket sweater for years to come. The wide Rugby-style stripes add a preppy feel to the classic Breton—I can see myself wearing it with my pleated miniskirt.
For the longest time, I didn’t wear trousers as I was insecure about how they looked on my petite, hourglass frame. Through hard work, I’ve overcome that insecurity, and I’m so glad I have as I can now embrace the wide-leg trouser look with confidence. I think this pair makes for a wise investment.
Recently, I realised I had absolutely zero bracelets in my jewellery collection, so I rectified the situation with this Ottoman Hands chain-link bracelet. As a person who usually appreciates symmetry, I’m surprised by how much I love the organic shapes here.
I get so much wear out of the cardigans I already own to the point where a couple are starting to look a little worse for wear. While I de-bobble them, I’m dreaming about this collared, textured cardigan, which I envisage wearing with leather miniskirts and jeans.
After getting a tax rebate this summer, I decided to use my savings to treat myself. I bought my first Loewe bag—the Cubi—which now has me hooked on the brand. Next on my wish list is the Luna.
This beautiful necklace keeps selling out, and it’s little wonder why. Now, it’s back in stock, and I’m scared of missing out again—perhaps for good.
