I've Tried Out Hundreds of Fashion Items This Year—These 21 Were Clear Winners
You've probably already overanalyzed your Spotify Wrapped by now (yes, you really did play that Taylor Swift song that many times), but let me present you another idea: a yearly summary of your closet. I wish my closet had its own algorithm to do it for me, but every year I like to take a look back at the most-worn pieces in my closet, as it helps me dictate exactly which purchases ended up being worth it and how to be a better shopper in the next year. Since I already am constantly sharing my shopping finds, I thought it would make the most sense to share the best items I've worn this year. I promise it's not as repetitive as the music choices of your friend group.
From my favorite J.Crew cashmere sweater to my now well-loved Staud bags, I've really put the items below to the true wear test. They've come along with me to simple office days and trips across Europe, and I'll be taking them all with me into the New Year. Keep scrolling to shop my recommendations, and don't forget to put together your own end-of-the-year closet favorites.
Twenty twenty-two was the year of edgy fashion, as pop-punk and goth aesthetics made a resurgence. If you're looking to add a moody touch to your look without spending a ton of money, this Mango bag is ideal. It's lightweight and fits comfortably on your shoulder, and people almost never believe me when I tell them where it's from.
I always thought I wasn't layering enough, but it turns out I just never had the right coat. Aritzia's Slouch Coat has become my saving grace for the harsh winter days we've been having. Not to mention it's chic in design, so no matter what I'm wearing, it always looks good on top. It's a win-win situation.
It seems like these ballet flats are almost always on sale, and more people need to take advantage of that. They're comfortable, look expensive, and come in both classic black and a delicious red that I both own. With the ballet look trending, there are tons of options on the market, but this one is a top contender.
I understand this set is pricey, but it truly is one of the most comfortable sets I've tried—and I've tried a lot. I wore it to Thanksgiving and was happily able to relax thanks to its stretchy and comforting waist. The pieces are versatile so you can mix and match with no problem.
While some people can push past the pain in heels, I absolutely cannot. So after trying many stiletto heels boots and wincing in pain, I was extremely happy to find this pair from Vagabond. Block heels can look a tad clunky, so I like how this one is slightly thinner and slanted, making for a unique look. I've worn this to trek all around NYC and always come home pain-free.
Next, 10 Winter Outfit Ideas That Are Easy, Cozy, and On-Trend
After interning at Who What Wear in 2019, Yusra Siddiqui found her way to the team after graduating with a fashion media degree. She's also spent time writing and working for publications such as Fashionista, Coveteur, Nylon, and Allure. When she's on the job, she's perusing runway shows, analyzing the latest social media trends, and diving deep into all things Gen Z-related.
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