With summer fast approaching and temperatures finally rising here in the UK, I've started to think about finding those easy yet elegant pieces I can add to my summer capsule wardrobe. More specifically, I'm interested in throw-on dresses that make choosing a polished outfit easy, whether I'm going to the office or out for dinner with friends. After hours of scrolling through my favourite retailers, I think I've found the perfect midi dress from Free People to wear from now into early autumn.

Free People's Free-Est Pepita Midi (£88) is designed with a slim, torso-skimming bodice and a slightly dropped A-line skirt to create a flattering silhouette you can easily take from day to night. The high neckline and slightly dropped armholes add a modern touch, but the midi length and pleated skirt keep it classic enough to last in your wardrobe for many years to come. I'd style it with suede sandals and a lightweight cardigan in the day, and kitten heels and a boxy blazer for evenings out. And with five colours to choose from, there's something to suit every taste.

The dress's bodice is made from 94% cotton and 6% spandex for extra stretch, whilst the skirt is composed of 100% cotton, so it's lightweight, breathable and ideal for the warm weather we'll (hopefully) continue to experience until autumn. Plus, the natural fibres make for a more durable item that will have a much longer lifespan than synthetic materials. At £88, it's not the cheapest dress on the market, but I think its timeless appeal and almost 100%-cotton composition make it well worth the price.

Scroll to shop Free People's Pepita Midi, and then browse some other easy, throw-on dresses I have my eye on for summer.

Shop Free People's Pepita Midi Dress:

Shop More Throw-On Midi Dresses I Love:

Spring is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about how we're dressing up for the season. As a plus-size fashion editor, I’m always on the lookout for size-inclusive pieces that I can see myself wearing over and over again. With that in mind, I took to the online retail world and dug through various offerings. I landed on a handful of gems that I've curated for you from across the internet. I simply can't get these styles out of my mind, so I thought I'd share the love with you. 

Ahead, shop elevated basic styles, cool pieces, and so much more. Are you in need of fun pops of color? Do you need flowy button-downs? Some of my finds include plus-size-friendly basics, staples, and statement picks from top retailers like Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, H&M, and more. I even threw in a few accessories I love. Keep scrolling to score some gorgeous pieces catered to your spring dressing needs.

People love to talk about how much they love summer. And listen, I get it—the weather allows for pool days, beach vacations, and wearing dresses sans outerwear. But if I'm being honest, winter fashion is much more exciting to me. I love the challenge of styling outerwear, and to be frank, it's just easier to look polished when there are more layers involved.

While the first day of winter is not technically for a couple of weeks (mark your calendars for December 21, friends), I'm already getting my outfits in order with a little help from one of my go-to retailers, Moda Operandi. The site carries all of the best brands, from contemporary favorites like Proenza Schouler and Wardrobe NYC to luxury designers like Prada and Bottega Veneta. The best part about Moda Operandi is that it's partnered with Affirm,* so I have the option to buy my winter looks now and pay for them over time. I currently have these five chic outfits in my shopping cart, each of which I'll be relying on for upcoming occasions both big and small.

The Day-to-Night Outfit

I can always count on a look that involves denim, loafers, and a blazer to take me from day to night. Whether I'm going straight to dinner after holiday shopping or to drinks with co-workers after a long workday, this combo never fails me. For a festive holiday spin, I'm choosing a blazer in a fun hue and layering it over a feather-sleeve Sleeper top. (FYI, the top is technically part of a pajama set.) And since embellished handbags are having a moment right now, it feels right to wear this blue crystal option for both a daytime and evening look.

The New Year's Eve Outfit

This year, I'm all about holiday party outfits that really bring the sparkle. This Ciao Lucia silver metallic dress immediately caught my eye because it's the perfect style for NYE, a holiday party, or even a winter wedding. Personally, I'd wear it to all three because I'm not afraid of repeating outfits. For New Year's, I'm accessorizing with extra sparkles by way of crystal-embellished earrings, heels, and a handbag. The more shimmer and shine the better, right? I tend to err on the practical side with coats, especially when I'll take mine off upon entering an event, so this ultra-fuzzy teddy style is completing my look.

The Date-Night Outfit

I like to wear a slip dress for a date night all year round, opting for a maxi version in a seasonal hue during the winter. If I lived somewhere really cold, I might choose a faux-fur coat, but in Los Angeles, this blazer will keep me feeling plenty warm (and looking plenty cool). I like the way these Khaite lace-up boots and this shoulder bag—which, by the way, I've been eyeing for months—add a slightly more casual vibe to the look than, say, pumps and a clutch would. As far as jewelry goes, I love anything that's gold and chunky, making this two-piece set a no-brainer.

The At-Home Lounge Outfit

Let's be real: We all spend a lot more time at home during the winter. I could easily stay indoors all day long watching holiday movies or reading a book by the fire and be very content. A matching cashmere set like this one from Lisa Yang is perfect for staying cozy while still looking put together. An oversize sweatshirt and Uggs are necessary for maximum comfort, and little, gold hoop earrings are necessary simply because I'd feel naked without any jewelry.

The Ski-Trip Outfit

I may be a novice skier, but hey, I'm trying! I have a couple of trips to mountain towns coming up, where I plan to practice my skills in style—starting with this chic black and white jumpsuit from Cordova. If it's extra cold, I'll layer a bright turtleneck underneath and add this belted puffer on top. And since après-ski activities are most definitely my thing, I'll be packing some on-trend accessories to wear after hitting the slopes. These chic shearling boots and this chain-link Bottega bag are top contenders.

*Rates from 0-30% APR. For example, an $800 purchase could be split into 12 monthly payments of $73 at 15% APR or 4 interest-free payments of $200 every two weeks. Payment options through Affirm are subject to an eligibility check, may not be available in all states, and are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.

I've admittedly become a bit of a snob when it comes to jewellery. After years of wearing statement gemstone necklaces which didn't last long before the "jewels" began to fall out and cocktail rings which, yes, enviably made my skin green, I swore off cheap jewellery and instead began saving up for higher-quality pieces. I don't have a flush budget by any means, but for every 10 bits of affordable jewellery I passed on, I was able to put whatever I saved towards something, at the very least, gold-plated. High-street jewellery, however, has come a long way since then, and I'm incredibly impressed at what I've seen on offer this season.

Although I'm sure it's unintentional, the high street appears as if it has made a collective effort to refine its jewellery offering. Everywhere I turn, from Arket and Marks and Spencer to Zara and Jigsaw, jewellery keeps catching my eye. Indeed, there are statement pieces for which the high street is known and there's absolutely a place for in every jewellery collection, but there are more delicate options, too, should you prefer the fine, layered look.

Discovering the high street's beautiful bounty of affordable jewellery comes at the perfect time as we curate our party outfits and finish off (or, in some cases, start) our Christmas shopping. I know time is precious right now, so I've rounded up the best affordable jewellery from the high street for you. Scroll on to see it, categorised by store. Something tells me you'll be just as impressed by these finds as I was.

1. MARKS AND SPENCER

2. ZARA

3. & OTHER STORIES

4. JIGSAW

5. COS

6. THOMAS SABO

7. WHISTLES

Not to brag, but I'm really good at gift-giving. Here's my secret: Whenever someone mentions a new brand they love or something specific they've been on the hunt for like a coffee-table book, a red lipstick, or an everyday handbag, I make a mental note of it (or sometimes a physical one in my phone). Then, when it's time to start shopping for gifts, I already have plenty of ideas I know that person will be excited about. Genius, right?

This year, I'm going into the holiday season super prepared. From the luxurious face serum that will end my mom's search to the printed throw that will look perfect in my best friend's new apartment, my gift ideas are seriously good. Plus, I can get everything at Neiman Marcus, which makes my shopping experience even easier. The retailer carries so many of my favorite fashion, beauty, and home-décor brands. And I'm not going to lie: I discovered quite a few new brands while I was scouring the site. I'm not one to keep a secret, so I'm sharing my 30 favorite items below. PS You can buy these luxe gifts now and pay over time thanks to the option to pay with Affirm* at checkout.

Accessories—like jewelry, a leather wallet, or sunglasses—always make great gifts because you don't have to worry about sizing. However, if you do have that info on hand, then a cozy sweater or some form of loungewear makes a perfect gift this time of year.

When it comes to holiday gifts, you can't go wrong with a luxurious beauty item like a fancy perfume or a festive eye-shadow palette. Here are 10 of my favorites this year.

Home décor is my top choice when I'm buying gifts for hosts. (I know I can't be the only one who already has a calendar full of holiday festivities.) I found some pretty chic items, from a beautiful coffee-table book to cocktail glasses fit for the Queen herself.

*Rates from 0-30% APR. For example, a $800 purchase could be split into 12 monthly payments of $73 at 15% APR, or 4 interest-free payments of $200 every 2 weeks. Payment options through Affirm are subject to an eligibility check, may not be available in all states, and are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders.Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.

Shop With WWW is back with 48 hours of exclusive deals from our favorite fashion and beauty brands thanks to our buy now, pay over time friends at Affirm. Set your alarms for 12:01 a.m. PT on August 26, and in the meantime, make like our editors and prepare your wishlists. Here's a taste of what we'll be shopping during the event.

For the past year, I've kept my heels stowed away in my closet (except for the few times I decided to get dressed up and drink wine on my couch). Now that I'm (safely) out and about again, you'd think I'd be inclined to take my pumps, stilettos, and kitten heels for a spin, but that's not the case. There's a time and a place for sky-high shoes (a friend's OTT birthday dinner, for example), but on a day-to-day basis, I'm still extremely content wearing any of my go-to sneakers.

As I start to look for new pairs to wear with my fall outfits, I have no choice but to see which styles Lauren Eggertsen, Who What Wear's editorial director, is eyeing for the season. Eggertsen owns more sneakers than anyone I know and even dedicates an entire section of her closet to them. (She's supremely organized.) Currently, she's wearing a pair of cult-favorite Nike Air Jordans from sneaker resale site GOAT on repeat. And guess what: You can snap up this pair and more for 25% off during our Shop With WWW event. For now, see how Eggertsen is styling her new go-to sneakers.

THE SNEAKERS

THE LOOKS

As someone who's seen Eggertsen's sneaker collection many times (I go shopping in her closet regularly, but that's another story), I'm not surprised she chose this pair. "I'm currently loving platform and sportier sneakers because both add that trendy element to any outfit without much effort," she says. "I'm definitely more of a high-top gal, but I don't discriminate."

While she's already brainstorming a million outfits to wear with these Air Jordans, her first look is centered around something we'll all soon be wearing on repeat: denim. According to Eggertsen, "Sneakers look so good when paired with baggier jeans. Normally, I would say this is a daytime-only outfit, but lately my love of sneakers knows no bounds. Thanks to this sheer zebra top, I would definitely wear this look to a low-key dinner with friends in L.A." I just hope she won't be surprised if I show up in a matching outfit.

Something else that stands out on this particular pair? That rich suede fabric. So luxe!

For a more casual vibe, Eggertsen is opting for an athleisure-inspired look. "Now that I'm back in L.A., my style is definitely a bit more casual. In New York, there was always something glamorous to dress up for, but people don't dress up as much here," she explains.

These sneakers lean a bit sporty, so they feel right at home with biker shorts and a matching sports bra. "I wanted to shake things up by adding a more polished blazer on top," Eggertsen says. "Oh, and don't forget the pearls!"

Eggertsen's not the only one who's obsessed with these sneakers. I've spotted so many other people wearing them on Instagram, and I can see why. They're the perfect combination of sporty and trend-forward. And even more importantly, they're insanely comfortable. It doesn't look like I'll be breaking out those heels anytime soon.

SHOP MORE SPORTY SNEAKERS WE LOVE

*Your rate will be 0% APR or 10% to 30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25 per month over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lender license.

Shop With WWW is back with 48 hours of exclusive deals from our favorite fashion and beauty brands thanks to our buy now, pay over time friends at Affirm. Set your alarms for 12:01 a.m. PT on August 26, and in the meantime, make like our editors and prepare your wish lists. Here's a taste of what we'll be shopping during the event.

You know that time of year when it's technically no longer summer, but it doesn't quite feel like fall? I've noticed that the NYC crowd has absolutely mastered dressing for this in-between season unlike anyone else. (In L.A., we just wear the same denim-tee-and-sneakers look and go about our business.)

Since the season in question is fast approaching, I'm looking to our New York–based team to lead the way. Apparently, editor Jasmine Fox-Suliaman has already found the solution for all of our transitional-dressing problems: a midi skirt and turtleneck. "It's truly the perfect transitional outfit for the season," she says. This particular outfit is from Verishop, an editor favorite that stocks endless amazing brands, which we often discover through the Verishop app's livestream shopping segments. Good news: Verishop will be offering 25% off a curated collection during our upcoming Shop With WWW event in partnership with Affirm (valid from 12:01 a.m. PST on August 26 to 11:59 p.m. PST on August 27). Just use the code ASAP25 to get the deal. Below, see what Jasmine is buying from Verishop in the meantime.

Fox-Suliaman and I agree that fall weather can't come soon enough. "The best thing about fall, other than no longer having to deal with New York City's unbearable heat, is the mental reset the season offers," Fox-Suliaman says. "Fall is when I can flex my styling muscles and get funky with fashion, which is why I'm obsessed with this outfit."

The color palette of this look instantly caught my attention. It effortlessly mixes neutrals and pops of color without feeling forced. The different shapes, from the geometric skirt pattern to the turtleneck cutouts also add a unique touch. Fox-Suliaman's favorite part? "This look really can be worn anywhere," she says. "It's conservative enough to wear to the office but also fashion-forward enough for after-hours drinks."

The lightweight fabric of a midi skirt truly makes it a year-round staple. When the temperature does eventually drop, Fox-Suliaman says she'll swap out those heels for boots and add a leather coat. It's really as easy as that.

It's also important to note that each of these pieces is a standout on its own and can be styled with many other fall essentials. The turtleneck with wide-leg pants and sneakers? Off-duty chic. The midi skirt with chunky boots and a thick sweater to match? Absolutely iconic. You get the gist.

STALK OUR VERISHOP PICKS FROM SHOP WITH WWW

*Your rate will be 0% APR or 10% to 30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25 per month over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lender license.

Shop With WWW is back with 48 hours of exclusive deals from our favorite fashion and beauty brands thanks to our buy now, pay over time friends at Affirm. Set your alarms for 12:01 a.m. PT on August 26, and in the meantime, make like our editors and prepare your wish lists. Here's a taste of what we'll be shopping during the event.

At Who What Wear, we pride ourselves on predicting trends early so that our audience (hey, that's you!) is as prepared and educated as possible when making fashion purchases. Naturally, after nearly 10 years at the company, our editor in chief, Kat Collings, is an absolute wiz at both spotting trends and, of course, wearing them. 

One of Collings's big bets for fall? The carryall tote bag. She just invested in a very chic one from Bottega Veneta, which she discovered on luxury resale site The RealReal. There are so many great designer finds on this site, and we're about to sweeten the deal by offering 20% off during our Shop With WWW event in partnership with Affirm (valid from 12:01 a.m. PST on August 26 to 11:59 p.m. PST on August 27). For now, see how Collings is styling fall's It bag.

Behold the beautiful Bottega Veneta bag, featuring the brand's iconic quilted fabric. "I can't think of a single brand that's bigger than Bottega Veneta right now, and it's my job to track these things! The house's accessories are such standouts," Collings says. But why this particular bag, you might ask? In Collings's words, "She's a very chic lady." That she is.

At first glance, you may not notice that the tote is made of durable canvas material. "To be honest, I don't think I could possibly envision a more elevated canvas bag," Collings says. "I love the contrast of the luxe leather handles with the more daytime-friendly, low-key canvas. There's also a handy detachable pocket inside to keep your keys and wallet together." My ears immediately perk up at her mention of the pocket because I've never not lost a lip balm or concealer that I aimlessly tossed in a tote bag.

Collings's style is very elevated, so I'm not surprised she's chosen a polished tonal suit (another big fall trend!) to pair with her new child—I mean handbag. "This purse is all grown up, so I picked an outfit to match," she says. "I love tailored pieces, so a suit is an easy choice. A few pops of color in the form of a lavender plissé turtleneck and some mustard strappy heels add dimension to the neutral look."

Collings notes that she'll also style this bag with a pair of cream-colored denim pants and a matching oversize sweater. "Extra points for clogs," she adds. I'm personally envisioning myself wearing this tote with a simple long-sleeve, knit dress; high socks; and chunky boots, but I really don't think it's possible to go wrong.

*Your rate will be 0% APR or 10% to 30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25 per month over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lender license.

Shop With WWW is back with 48 hours of exclusive deals from our favorite fashion and beauty brands thanks to our buy now, pay over time friends at Affirm. Set your alarms for 12:01 a.m. PT on August 26, and in the meantime, make like our editors and prepare your wish lists. Here's a taste of what we'll be shopping during the event.

Ready or not, fall is almost here, which means it's time to level up my layering game. Ideally, I'll find one go-to outerwear piece that I can constantly reach for, knowing it will be the perfect addition to just about any outfit. Who What Wear market editor Indya Brown has already found her trusty topper for the season, and I'm quickly being convinced to follow her lead. The style she's betting big on is a cropped jacket, and she's getting ahead of the game by serving up A+ looks in this dreamy leather option from Theory. Oh, and I should probably mention that during our Shop With WWW event beginning August 26, you'll get $100 off for every $500 you spend at Theory ((valid from 12:01 a.m. PST on August 26 to 11:59 p.m. PST on August 27). Amazing, right?

As someone who lived in NYC for years, Brown knows a thing or two about dressing for colder weather. "I don’t like to immediately jump to heavy coats and jackets. We have all winter for that!" she says. "Instead, I gravitate toward pieces that aren’t bulky or too thick, like this cropped jacket. The cropped silhouette allows for so many outfit combos, so you really can’t go wrong with it."

SHOP THE JACKET

This lightweight leather style is the perfect transitional piece to wear with current warm-weather favorites (like a knit dress à la Brown), but it can also be layered under a heavier coat in the winter. "I love the cut and shade of dark brown," she tells me. "I think this would also look amazing with high-waisted flare pants and a tube top, or a classic turtleneck and pencil skirt come fall."

SHOP MORE FALL JACKET STYLES WE LOVE

*Your rate will be 0% APR or 10% to 30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25 per month over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lender license.

Shop With WWW is back with 48 hours of exclusive deals from our favorite fashion and beauty brands thanks to our buy now, pay over time friends at Affirm. Set your alarms for 12:01 a.m. PT on August 26, and in the meantime, make like our editors and prepare your wishlists. Here's a taste of what we'll be shopping during the event. 

I've always admired my co-worker and fellow editor Kristen Nichols's style. It leans timeless and classic or, as she describes it, "a bit polished with a mix of sharp tailoring, sculptural silhouettes, and reimagined basics." When I'm looking to refresh my wardrobe with truly chic everyday staples, I know I can always rely on Kristen's product recommendations. A quick peek at her Instagram page usually does the trick too.

With fall in the not too distant future (September 22, where you at?), I'm eager to know what seasonal pieces she's eyeing. Luckily, she's eager to share. First and foremost, her go-to outfit at the moment is from Luisa Via Roma, which houses a range of contemporary and luxury brands. Get excited because the retailer will be offering 20% off during our Shop With WWW event. Plus, you can use Affirm to buy now and pay over time with no hidden fees. But for now, back to Kristen.

Behold the outfit in question: a pair of black denim pants with a so-subtle-you-might-miss-it kick flare from Khaite and a classic sweater with a twist (please peep both the extra-wide collar and that built-in second knit layer) from Jacquemus. This is an outfit Kristen could realistically wear every single day, weather permitting. "The simplicity and luxe ease of this look won me over and spoke to my minimalist approach to fashion," she says.

So why these two pieces, in particular? Starting with the sweater, Kristen says it's all about adapting the ski-inspired trend seen all over the fall 2021 runways and making it wearable for her classic style. "Après-ski knits are a huge trend this fall—whether or not you make it to the slopes. I'm already imagining styling this Jacquemus sweater with a pair of relaxed, wide-cut trousers and sleek boots for a more tailored look too," she adds.

As for the jeans, Kristen explains why this pair is an obvious choice for her fall wardrobe. "Fit is everything when it comes to denim. More than anything, I know the designers that work for me, and I love Khaite's vintage-inspired pairs that are carefully tested for the perfect fit," she says. As for how she'll style them all season long? "Shoes are the key piece to think about when dressing jeans up. A pair of simple flats always reads as more casual, but the moment you add a pair of heels, the look feels more dressed up. And who isn't ready for a great pair of revenge heels?" I couldn't agree more with Kristen's approach, and I plan to re-create this look—with plenty of takes on accessorizing—the very second the temp drops below 60°. 

Shop More Classic Fall Pieces

*Your rate will be 0% APR or 10% to 30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25 per month over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lender license.

Post-pandemic dressing has been a hot topic among my fellow Who What Wear editors this past month. We're all tackling our OOTDs a bit differently. While some of us are ready to wear bubblegum-pink heels to the grocery store, others are figuring out how much loungewear is socially acceptable to wear in public. To each their own.

So far, three specific shopping habits are trending among the team: elevated sportswear for maximum comfort, investment accessories that make a serious statement, and chic staples in neutral hues that can be worn with literally everything. What to shop and how to dress may still be up for debate, but using Affirm to buy now and pay for summer pieces over time (with no hidden fees, might I add) is not. With Affirm, I'll never pay more than I agree to upfront and it's super easy to use: All I do is select Affirm as my payment option at checkout, apply, and I see exactly what I owe upfront. Below, three editors make a case for their summer shopping and styling strategies.

"My approach to fashion right now is all about bringing elevation to comfort. You absolutely can dress up an off-the-shoulder top with a pantsuit or a pair of sneakers with a maxi dress. Exploring the line between comfort and fashion is really what I'm hoping to do as I begin to reemerge into the world. I never identified as a sporty person, but I love how both runway shows and women around the world have styled workout staples in interesting and elevated ways this season. I love the idea of shorts suits for the summer paired with sportswear pieces. It just adds a bit of polish to the look—not to mention, it's trend-forward. As I begin to leave my apartment more, I need a pair of shoes that can be dressed up or down, depending upon the occasion. I've always loved Adidas sneakers for that reason. You can wear them with a suit, a dress, or your workout clothes, and they always look good without fail."

SHOP ELEVATED SPORTSWEAR

"I love a funky 'fit, but I'm trying to give myself some ease going back to my normal style routine. To do this, I'm investing in special accessories, like a statement bag or a fun shoe. I tend to gravitate toward ones that have a unique color or print because that provides an easy way to make any outfit more fashionable. While this bag features a trending checker print, I can wear it with a variety of looks, making it a worthy purchase. Plus, a lot of my special bags are sourced from resale sites, like this one, which is from TheRealReal."

SHOP INVESTMENT ACCESSORIES

"While I'm continuing to incorporate casual pieces into my wardrobe (such as sweatshorts, ribbed tanks, and flats), I'm mixing them with more polished pieces as we ease back into going back out in the world. For example, if I'm wearing sweatshorts, I'll add a button-down or a cool jacket and chic, simple sandals. These modern, sleek TKEES slides go with every summer outfit, from a swimsuit and cutoff shorts to an LBD. Plus, the bands are more interesting than just one wide strip of leather."

SHOP POLISHED STAPLES

See more of the fashionable retailers that offer Affirm's savvy pay-over-time services at checkout.

*Your rate will be 0% APR or 10 to 30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25 per month over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lender license.

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one Who What Wear team member or friend of the brand will share the top 30 fashion and beauty finds on their current wish list.

I'm always giddy at the first sign of warm weather, but this summer, there's a lot more to get excited about. For starters, the possibility of dressing up to meet friends on a more regular basis. Hey, maybe I'll even be packing a bag for an actual vacation in the near future. As you can see, I'm really setting my hopes high for a fun and fashionable summer.

To go along with my dream summer, I naturally need a dream wardrobe, too. I decided to curate a wish list from my go-to for the best of the best brands and trends: Moda Operandi. After all, I deserve something (or two or three somethings) special to kick off my summer in style. Breezy dresses, chunky footwear, statement bags, and jewelry—it's all here. Plus, it's all available to buy now and pay for over time with no hidden fees thanks to Affirm. So go ahead, get that dream ticket item you've been eyeing… I know I will.

See more of the fashionable retailers that offer Affirm's savvy pay-over-time services at check out.

*Your rate will be 0% APR or 10 to 30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25 per month over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lender license.

Here at Who What Wear, we're big on highlighting brands we're proud to recommend to you and shop from ourselves. For my spring wardrobe, I'm not only adding in cream-colored denim and hints of ballet-inspired pieces—I'm also shopping from female-founded labels because I feel passionate about putting my money into companies that breaking barriers and inspire others to continue the cycle. Birdies, M.M.LaFleur, Pairess, and Universal Standard are a few I found from the International Women's Day coverage on Affirm, my favorite buy-now, pay-later service. After digging a bit deeper into each of them, I found myself deep in a world of female power, really cute clothes, and inspirational quotes from the CEO's and founders of these brands I will be adding to my daily affirmations every morning.

Affirm teamed up with these companies for International Women's Day, creating a series of social posts to highlight each one. This partnership makes it even easier to support the brands since it gives you the option to break the costs of your purchases into easy bi-weekly or monthly payments. With Affirm, I'll never pay more than I agree to upfront because they'll never charge me late or hidden fees. Plus, it's super easy to use: I select Affirm as my payment option at checkout, enter a few pieces of information to get a real-time decision, and I see exactly what I owe upfront. Keep reading for some of my favorite pieces from each of these brands.

*Your rate will be 0% APR or 10 to 30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25 per month over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lender license."

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one Who What Wear team member or friend of the brand will share the top 25 finds on their current wish list.

I’ve harped on and on about how my style always veers more toward classic looks: ballet flats, classic gold jewelry, the list goes on. So when a trend hits, I take longer to pick it up (if I even do at all). This season? That trend is chunky shoes, specifically chunky-soled boots. Going from the softer silhouette of a ballet flat or loafer to a chunky and heavy shoe felt like a huge change for me, but there was something about it that kept making me rethink the trend. TBH, they remind me of the platform, extra-chunky shoes I used to wear in the '90s and early '00's, specifically from Steve Madden.

I had a change of heart while I was scouring the internet for a pair of winter boots and landed on this pair. Sure, they're not the exact definition of a lug sole, but the heel is a solid block and a nice transition for me into the world of chunky-sole shoes. What makes shopping for a trend I'm still testing easier is that I can use Shop Pay’s installments feature in partnership with Affirm, for a flexible and transparent way to pay later for whatever I'm shopping for. All I have to do is select Shop Pay at checkout and choose to pay in 4 installments. Best of all, paying later won’t impact my credit score, is interest-free and has no hidden fees. So from thick block heels to a true lug sole (and even a few sneakers), these are the 25 under-$150 pairs I have my eye on for when I'm ready to take the plunge.

Selecting Affirm as a payment option is subject to eligibility check and approval. Estimated payment amount excludes taxes and shipping fees. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners.

Looking back, I realize how excited I was about shopping this year. I had just shaved off the weight I wanted to lose after having my baby, and I was looking forward to the number of new outfits I’d meticulously selected—everything was coming up sunny! Then March came and cast a dark shadow over my wardrobe. Suddenly, all I cared about were my sweatpants and cozy slippers. As I sift through my closet, the blazer I picked up in January now feels outdated, and honestly, where am I even going to wear the heeled boots I acquired in February?

One thing I learned over the course of this year is that quick buys and hyper-trendy pieces simply do not stand the test of time. Now, rather than frequenting the fast fashion sites I used to shop on, I’ve been turning to The RealReal any time I have an itch to shop (and let's be honest: that itch is always there). The luxury consignment shop is a fan favorite here at Who What Wear, and I know some of the most stylish women I work with are picking up one-of-a-kind pieces from there all the time. What’s better? The Real Real is partnered with Affirm, so that designer bag I’ve been eyeing is much more accessible than before because when I purchase it, I can break the cost into simple monthly payments with an APR as low as 0%. With Affirm, I'll never pay more than I agree to upfront because they'll never charge me late or hidden fees. Plus, it's super easy to use: All I do is select Affirm as my payment option at checkout, and I see exactly what I owe upfront. Here are the pieces I strongly believe won't grow stale in your wardrobe and are so much more affordable with Affirm.

The ten-year-old in me who was watching Summer Roberts walk through her high school hallways with a baguette bag in tow is rejoicing because this year has proven that the throwback bag will always reign supreme. From mini to almost-medium sized, the classic bags from the early '00s has a huge presence on The RealReal, so enjoy picking your favorite.

I've said goodbye to buying jewelry I won't be able to pass down to my daughter, Sophie, when she's ready to raid my closet. I also have friends who are in the jewelry business and have always told me that the up charge on brand name pieces is not worth the price. I love that at The RealReal, I can get quality pieces and not pay the unnecessary cost of purchasing them from a more traditional jewelry store. From pearls to chain links, I think I'm set for creating a curated jewelry collection.

I'm a big fan of ballet flats. Platform loafers and pool slides will come and they will go, but the ballet flat will always remain the classic shoe style. The shoe can be worn with essentially anything, but my favorite way is to pair them with relaxed, slightly distressed jeans and large sweaters. Here are my four favorites:

Two years ago, my husband and I bought our project home and have been working on renovating it ever since. Early this year, we finished up our living room, and I've been on the hunt for items that feel just as special as the ones I'm adding to my wardrobe. I can now say goodbye to my personal life because I'll be scrolling through The RealReal until all my shelves are filled.

*Your rate will be 0% APR or 10–30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25/mo over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required.

We’re deep into fall, so it’s safe to say we were ahead of the curve when we predicted a few things: Leather everything is here to stay, and the chunkier the shoe sole, the closer you are to fashion heaven. As a fashion editor, I naturally have a running (and never-ending list) of things I’m lusting over. In a perfect world, I’d be able to just click "add to cart" on every single item, and it would magically appear in my closet, but there are these things called life and a savings account that I can’t ignore, so the next-best solution is shopping with Affirm. If you’re not aware of what Affirm is, here’s a quick rundown: It’s a payment alternative to credit cards. Essentially, you can split your purchases into ​easy bi-weekly or monthly payments​, ​you’ll know exactly what you owe upfront and Affirm will never charge you late fees or hidden fees—which means investment pieces are more accessible than ever. My dream come true.

My co-workers and I are true believers of shopping for trends that seamlessly integrate into our current wardrobes, so I was curious to see what they were shopping for this season. Luckily, Luisaviaroma, the Italian-girl hotspot for some of the most-coveted items, is an Affirm merchant, so we were all able to pick up some key pieces we’ve been eyeing all season. See what they are here.

If you shop before 11:59 p.m. PT on October 22, be sure to use the code TR20 at checkout for 20% off everything from LuisaViaRoma in this story (and the code AFFIRMWWW for special offers from our other retailers).

I’d be lying if I said Michaela Bushkin, my fellow senior editor, didn’t inspire my shopping decisions on the daily. Right now, the trend on her mind is (no surprise here) chunky shoes, specifically chunky Chelsea boots. She picked up these ultra-trendy Proenza Schouler Beatle Boots from Luisaviaroma not only because of the style but also because of the interesting details.

She says, "This pair from Proenza Schouler are not your average black boots—the contrast white stitching detail adds such a unique touch. That particular detail really pops against an all black-and-white ‘fit like this one, which features my second-favorite trend: animal print.” I do love how she styled the boots to work for fall. With a miniskirt and a fuzzy sweater, she's channeling all the modern Cher Horowitz vibes. Here are some more of our favorite chunky-shoe styles to consider.

I always turn to Jasmine Fox-Suliaman, Who What Wear’s audience engagement editor, for advice when I’m on the hunt for any new accessory because she seemingly knows what to pick before anyone else does. This season, she’s staying loyal to the sweetheart of the fashion world and standing by the Jacquemus Le Chiquito bag.

The itty-bitty mini bag is not new, but once again this season, it’s one of the most sought after. And for good reason! Polished accessories are everywhere right now—just take a look at your favorite fashion girls. "What's great about this bag is that it's a petite version of one of fall's biggest handbag trends: polished top handle bags," says Jasmine. "For me, there's nothing better than a trend that can last past one season, and this bag can do just that. It may be small, but I'm excited to be able to style it with everything from knitwear and cutouts to suits. And the classic chocolate-brown crocodile is something that can transition well into seasons to come.” Have the bag and want something else? Here are a few more polished accessories we have on our lists.

Shackets, leather blazers, perfect trousers—'tis the season for investing in separates that you can mix and match. Anna LaPlaca, an associate editor here at Who What Wear, is honing in on key structured separates this season, and she hit the mark with this Remain leather blazer she picked up at Luisaviaroma.

"There’s nothing more timeless than a really great blazer, and this fall it’s all about slightly oversize shapes that feel lived in but with all the polish of a blazer. I love that it adds a cool edge whether I’m throwing it on for my Zoom calls or wearing it as a layering piece for fall,” she tells me. I find myself agreeing with Anna and also consider this trend to be one of the best of the season. It's just as good in chic neutral tones, muted hues, or bold prints.

Disclosure:​ ​Your rate will be 0% APR or 10–30% APR. Payment options through Affirm are subject to an eligibility check, may not be available in all states, and are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required. California residents: Affirm Loan Services, LLC is licensed by the Department of Business Oversight. Loans may be made or arranged pursuant to California Financing Law license 60DBO-111681.

In the mood to shop? Your timing couldn't be better! For 48 hours only, visit our Shop With WWW event here and take advantage of exclusive offers from our favorite brands and retailers (while they last).

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one Who What Wear team member or friend of the brand will share the top 25 finds on their current wish list.

When shelter-in-place orders hit the U.S., my boyfriend and I had just returned from a vacation in Kauai to an apartment we'd barely moved into. We were the proud owners of a bed, a couch, one desk, 10 plants, and a couple rolls of toilet paper. The first few weeks were… I'll call them romantic: picnic dinners on the floor, work on the couch, etc. By the second month, we'd splurged on essentials and hung some things on the walls. But now it's six months later, and I need to make this apartment a place I want to be every single day.

Even if you didn't kick off the pandemic in a new home, I can venture to assume you're also in need of an interior overhaul, especially since it seems we're going to be living in our home office/gyms well into 2021. That sounds daunting—I know—but with Affirm, I can purchase all the pieces of furniture and décor I want from my favorite brands like West Elm, Design Within Reach, Shoppe Amber Interiors, Lulu and Georgia, and McGee & Co., then break the cost into simple monthly payments with an APR as low as 0%. With Affirm, I'll never pay more than I agree to upfront because they'll never charge me late or hidden fees (ever). Plus, it's super easy to use at any of the retailers: All I do is select Affirm as my payment option at checkout, and I see exactly what I owe upfront. All the work is done for me, and sooner than I'd be able to otherwise, my apartment is becoming the dream living space I've been wanting. Keep reading to see the home items I'm buying now.

* Your rate will be 0% APR or 10–30% APR based on credit and is subject to an eligibility check. For example, a $700 purchase might cost $63.25/mo over 12 months at 15% APR. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required.

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one Who What Wear team member or friend of the brand will share the top 25 finds on their current wish list.

I currently rotate between two full athleisure outfits a day (one for working and one for working out, of course), which means I'm going through an unprecedented amount of athleticwear. Much faster than my wallet can keep up, actually. Since I'm mostly shopping for my work-from-home lifestyle these days, I keep turning to the brand that has been my go-to for all things athleisure since I started running as a teenager. Whether I'm looking for classic or trendy pieces, adidas always has me covered.

It doesn't look like my regular office attire will be necessary anytime soon, which means that a fall athleisure upgrade is in the cards. And when I say there are 25 cool and comfy items I want right now, you know I'm not exaggerating. Luckily, with the help of Affirm, I can jump on all the pieces I want and break up the total cost into simple payments that work for me. There's no interest on my purchase, and Affirm never charges late or hidden fees (ever). Plus, it's super easy to use. Once my cart hits $50, all I need to do is select Affirm as my payment option at checkout, and I see exactly what I owe upfront.

And as for what's in my cart? We're talking really good biker shorts, a tie-dye crop top, long-sleeve tees that are perfect for in-between seasons, and lots more. Shop my sporty picks below.

A note from our sponsor: Selecting Affirm as a payment option is subject to eligibility check and approval. Estimated payment amount excludes taxes and shipping fees. Payment options through Affirm are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders.

Struggling with negative thoughts that perpetuate self-doubt has been an ongoing personal battle for me. I'll admit I've adopted a façade of positivity. On the outer fronts, I walk around with a permanent smile on my face, promoting the illusion that I have my shit together and feel great. Truly, though, I'm internally beating myself up about something.

It could be anything that I'm angry at myself for—something so small that I've turned into a grandiose issue in my head: You didn't respond to that email fast enough, you didn't make time to call back so-and-so, you've been saying you're going to do this one thing for the longest and still haven't done it, etc. It's like I'm constantly screwing with myself and never giving myself credit.

To foster a more loving relationship with my inner self, I began reading positive affirmations. Studies show that it can boost your feelings of self-worth. I wasn't going to say them aloud in the mirror, though; one study showed that saying them verbally has the potential to negatively affect your mood and actually make you feel worse.

Thankfully, my best friend Abeni has remained a permanently positive force in my life. She told me she was beginning a positive-affirmation challenge at the start of December. Without having to ask her or even agreeing to join in, she's been sending me positive affirmations every single morning. It's like the universe knew I needed to see these. Her positive affirmation is the first text I wake up to every morning. They read as follows:

Today I will focus on my blessings. Today I will be more grateful where I am.

Life loves me. Today I will welcome this new day and focus all good things in this present moment. I will greet each new beginning and each new obstacle with a positive mind. I will focus on love and being loved. There is nothing that can keep me down.

I will learn something new each day. I will approach each day with a new mindset.

Today I will remember to celebrate life more and always treat myself. Today I will be thankful for every closed door. Today I will celebrate the past. Thank God for the past. I will cherish the sound of my laughter.

She's more like a sister to me than a friend and has been a fountain of hope in my life for seven years now. These positive affirmations landed into my iPhone's messages every morning, and even on the days I didn't feel like moving from my bed (most days), I couldn't help but read them.

I feel fortunate to have a friend like Abeni who showers my life with positivity on a daily basis.

Reading these positive affirmations reinforced gratitude in my life. But in all honesty, I have to re-read them a few times throughout the day for them to stick. When I was dealing with stressors this week and could literally feel self-defeating thoughts creeping into my mind at any given time of the day, I'd pull up my morning affirmation.

It's vital to realize that you can't do this alone. You might be under the impression that you're the only one thinking this way, but you're not. I've fallen victim to segregating my thoughts into solitary confinement, but that only aided my cyclical battle with self-doubt. Doing this with a friend made all the difference—it's like having an accountability partner. I have a few sister circles, and we share daily devotionals, bible verses, and now positive affirmations together. Becoming intentional about taking in all that is love and light in my life has impacted my spirit abundantly.

Remember to pause in the midst of life's chaos, breathe, and digest positive reminders whenever you can.

Next up: six morning rituals that will help with anxiety.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

Claire Fountain—celebrity yoga teacher, personal trainer, and wellness expert—founded #TrillYoga with her unorthodox approach to breaking stigmas and stereotypes in the yoga and wellness space. After getting into yoga for depression and anxiety, she has always been a mental health advocate beyond all her fitness endeavors. She also has an e-book series called Built and Bendy that promotes strength training, flexibility, mindfulness, and positivity-led health goals.

Growing up, I learned about positive affirmations in therapy. Now, they seem to be everywhere as your quick fix to making everything right. Want to change something, just think your way to a better life by ridding yourself of negative thoughts and thinking all positive things!

But I can’t be the only one who starts to roll my eyes now with some of these motivational lists or how to affirmation guides. Most end up sounding superficial or seemingly empty, others feel too idealistic, and the rest just sound pretty corny to me.

Let’s start with what an affirmation is: An affirmation is a quote or phrase that affirms something about who we are, what we do, etc. It can help to reprogram the subconscious mind, be transformative, or at least inspiring. It feels best when it also effects behavior change, but we will talk more on that later.

Affirmations can be good at times. Positive thinking and taking control of our self-talk IS a good thing. However, this doesn’t happen instantly, nor can it, as most thought patterns that center around our self-esteem and the idea of ourselves are ingrained in us as early as childhood. These subconscious thought patterns are what make us feel like fakes when we repeat stock positive affirmations. Forcing ourselves to repeat things we innately do not believe can actually make us feel worse, not better, as they act as a reminder of our flaws and shortcomings we already believe about ourselves. What an exhausting inner battle that can create.

How then can we find a way to create affirmations that don’t suck, and that might help us instead of hurt us? How can we change the underlying thoughts and create a lasting impact instead of a fleeting falsity?

Some of this has to do with learning how to correctly create affirmations. The rest centers around what you’re saying and how you’re posing the affirmation. So let’s get started.

ASK INSTEAD OF AFFIRM

As we learned earlier, affirmations target the conscious mind instead of the subconscious. There is a way to fix this though, according to a study on the “effectiveness of declarative versus interrogative self-talk.” Basically, the participants who asked themselves questions instead of creating blanket declarative statements that were negative or positive, i.e., affirmations, solved twice as many problems during the study’s final test. The test was given after they could write down “I will…” or “Will I…?” 20 times. 

The reason this works is because probing questions require you to dig up some of the deep negative thoughts that might not be so great, but bringing them to light allows you to work through them. 

To remedy this, ask yourself questions instead of creating declarative statements. Explore answers as a means of lasting thought change. Keep a notebook and write down these revelations. From here you could create strong statements that work on healing your subconscious mind and keeping your conscious mind in a supportive mode.

USE THE PRESENT TENSE, AND SAY WHAT YOU WANT, NOT WHAT YOU DON'T

Let’s say affirmations do help you feel inspired. Keep them in the present tense and highlight what you’d like to accomplish or how you’d like to behave once you get your interrogative work of self-inquiry done.

Say them at the right time and act accordingly

When I learned about affirmations, I was taught to do them right when I wake up before any stresses of the day could interfere, and right before I went to sleep so as to have them on my mind during sleeping hours which can be transformative for learning and memory. I would also say these have to extend to your day and should be aligned with actions that support the affirmation. There’s nothing more defeating than not behaving in a way that supports your goals. I would also refer to "Ask Instead of Affirm" to get to the bottom of why behavior change is a struggle if you find this component not lining up.

GET OFF PINTEREST AND HONE IN ON YOU

I find it way too easy to get discouraged when you look around and can’t find a good fit with what everyone else seems to say works. You are not everyone. Your childhood experiences that shaped you and your life are yours alone. Channel any affirmations you decide to use from a place of authenticity by way of the "ask not affirm" exercise. What you end up with might not look like fluffy social media posts or motivational pages. Maybe they only work for you, maybe they are unconventional, maybe they aren’t giant feats for success defined by society standards. But if they work for you and touch on areas you’d like to improve or rewire, that’s all that matters. 

Next up: Learn how to "reboot" your brain when you're feeling wildly unproductive.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

Miranda Kerr. Just seeing her name makes us want to do everything we can to be more like her. If it isn’t enough that the home-grown heavyweight is unequivocally stylish—she’s talented, too. Between modelling gigs, ambassador roles and caring for her adorable son Flynn Bloom, our star export has found the time to design her own collection for Austrian jewellery powerhouse Swarovski—and of course, it’s beautiful.

Favouring delicate proportions, feminine designs and refined crystal applications, the collection represents the values Miranda holds dear: brilliance, love, joy, luck, spirit, strength and grace. We love that there's room for self-expression—we’ll be styling ours by layering different pieces, depending on our mood.

“Every symbol in the collection is very important and personal to me,” says Miranda. You heard her—wear a piece of the collection, and you’re one step closer to the woman herself. Keep scrolling to see the stunning images shot by Margaret Zhang, then shop our favourite pieces from the Duo collection below!

How do you like to layer your jewellery? Let us know in the comments below!