It's 2026—10 Things to Buy in January to Ensure You Look Chic All Year
Shop the essentials that'll lead to better outfits.
Welcome to 10 Things to Buy, a monthly shopping list that helps you shop smarter by focusing on the 10 key items to add to your cart that month if your wardrobe is in need of a boost. As a Who What Wear editor for the past 11 years, I've spent many hours advising people on what to shop for during any given season, so you're in good hands. Whether you're shopping for cold weather, warm weather, a vacation, or a wedding, I'm here to offer up the most seasonally appropriate suggestions. Be sure to return at the start of each month for more.
For many, January is the optimal time for a reset—in more ways than one. I tend to use it as an opportunity to take stock of my existing wardrobe, review the upcoming trends, and start shopping for trips I have on the horizon. For this month's edition of 10 Things to Buy, I'm focusing on the top items that'll improve my wardrobe both this January—the wintriest of months—and beyond. These chic basics and trends were chosen for their repeat-wearability potential, and now that the holiday season dust has officially begun to settle, it's time to embrace shopping for you again. Keep scrolling to get started, with the top 10 things to buy this January.
Trendless Jeans
If you're sick of hearing about denim trends, I can't blame you. Might I suggest sticking to trendless styles in 2026? Bring on the nondescript ankle-length straight legs!
Half-Zip Pullover
If you happened to see the looks from Chanel's recent Métiers d’Art 2026 Collection, which took place in NYC last month, you may have noticed that one of the standout pieces was the somewhat utilitarian half-zip pullover. I predict it'll be the new preppy It item in 2026.
Simple Drop Earrings
When it comes to jewelry, there's nothing chicer and more elegant than a pair of simple drop earrings—the longer the better.
Boxy Tee
Fitted tees are great, but it's boxy tees that get my vote. Opt for a slightly cropped style, which complements pants, skirts, and shorts of every type.
Mini Shift Dress
It's time to kind of, sort of start thinking about spring, and the dress style I find myself investing in year after year is the mini shift dress. And if you have any warm-weather trips on the horizon, that's even more reason to shop for one now.
Minimalist Ballet Flats
All the It girls are trading ballerinas with bows for minimalist ballet flats. It's a timeless, elegant style that I think everyone should have in their flat-shoe collection.
Faux-Fur Accessories
This winter, we've seen the wildly popular faux-fur coat trend evolve into the accessories realm. Faux-fur scarves and hats are guaranteed to make any winter outfit they're part of significantly chicer.
'90s Handbag
One thing about fashion in 2026 I know to be true is that '90s-inspired bag trends aren't going anywhere. For more shopping inspiration, look to current styles from The Row, Khaite, and Prada.
On-Sale Cashmere
You won't find much on-sale cashmere prior to January, so take advantage of this rare occurrence and stock up on classic cashmere sweaters you'll wear for years—at a discount.
Cool Comfy Pants
We all have a comfy-pants collection, but personally speaking, I wouldn't wear most of them outside. So this month, I'm focusing on street-worthy comfy pants that do double duty.
