I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—These Are the 8 Key Items to Buy in 2024

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

While I'm predominantly living in layers and heavy coats throughout February, there's no question I'm looking forward to the year ahead and getting excited about the fresh wave of fashion delights that I'll be bestowing on my wardrobe.

There are plenty of new trends and fresh staples to get jazzed up about in 2024. In fact, this past month, I've been doing what I do best and studying all the coolest looks from the spring/summer 2024 runways and pre-fall lookbooks. I've plucked out the key items that are worth buying this year that look chic, feel fresh, and will make you look altogether on-trend in 2024.

If you're willing to look past your thermals right now and are eager to update your wardrobe with some cool, new pieces, then keep scrolling below for the eight chicest items you'll want to consider for a very 2024 wardrobe.

Something Burgundy

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(Image credit: Gucci/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Call it merlot, black cherry, oxblood, or burgundy—rich dark red appeared on practically every spring runway from designers such as Hermès, Gucci, and Tom Ford to name but a few. Whether you style it head-to-toe or add it to your ensemble via a chic accessory, the sumptuous color is one we're unquestionably excited about sporting now and into spring, then back into fall!

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Nineties Basics

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(Image credit: Proenza Schouler/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

If you love minimal '90s style, then 2024 is your year. Brands are focusing on wardrobe staples featuring clean lines with modern touches that are easy to wear and perennially chic—from pencil skirts, straight-leg jeans, and white shirts to square necklines, gray tailoring, and coordinated suiting.

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Preppy Athletic Pieces

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(Image credit: Miu Miu/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

This year is giving major country club vibes, as evidenced by the myriad of preppy athletic looks on the runways—most prominently at Miu Miu. Time to stock up on polo shirts, academic blazers, striped button-downs, and rugby shirts that lean into the relaxed, moneyed aesthetic.

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Sheer Touches

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(Image credit: Altuzarra/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

The transparent trend has been around for the past few seasons, but for spring 2024, delicate, sheer fabrics are taking center stage in everyday wear. This year, we're seeing sheer pieces styled in more approachable ways. Try a sheer skirt with a soft crew-neck sweater and pointed-toe shoes or an organza blouse with structured tailored trousers for looks that feel trend-forward yet wearable.

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Low Heels

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(Image credit: Prada/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Are you walking comfortably? You will be in 2024. A whole host of designers showcased super-low heels on the runways in a variety of styles, from saturated satin mules at Prada to caged pointed-toe slingbacks at Valentino. Comfortable, cool, and classy—we're in.

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Extra-Large Leather Bags

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(Image credit: Victoria Beckham/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

Yes, 2024's trendiest bags are a world away from the mini purses of seasons past. An extra-large leather bag will be your accessory of choice this year, providing plenty of space to carry your laptop, lipsticks, and entire life. Whether you carry one under your arm or over your shoulder, you'll look trend-forward without even trying.

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White Dresses

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(Image credit: Stella Mccartney/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

White dresses are set to dominate this spring/summer, and there are plenty of styles for every taste. From sheer fabrics to intricate lacework, expect to see white frocks dominate your feed once the temps start to rise.

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Belts

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(Image credit: Prada/Launchmetrics Spotlight)

From the thin and sleek belts at Bevza to the low-slung, large leather belts at Miu Miu, the versatile accessory is making a major statement this season and is unquestionably one of the best investments you'll make this year.

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This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.