I might be a fashion editor, but it might surprise you to learn that I don’t shop a whole lot. I know what you’re thinking; 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.
This jumper is too beautiful for words and reminds me of the Ganni style that sold out a few years ago. Trust me, I won’t let this one pass me by.
Carry the mesh shoe trend into party season with these affordable H&M kitten heels.
This dress comes in several colours, but this taupe tone looks the most expensive.
M&S tailoring always fits me like a glove, so I immediately added this set to basket.
These fit true to size, just like everything I buy from M&S.
DeMellier handbags aren’t cheap but they look so premium—at least three times their actual price tags.
I tried this coat on in store and loved it (see above), but decided to wait until payday to buy it, only for it to sell out. Now, it’s back, and currently hurtling its way to me.
Upgrade every outfit you wear with these statement (but not too statement) earrings.
The wool finish means this skirt will keep you toasty throughout the winter months.
M&S cashmere is some of the best on the high street, and I know this striped style will feel relevant in my wardrobe for a long, long time.
I saw this in store and couldn’t get over how expensive it looked.
The perfect elevated top option (just add jeans and slingback heels).
I have plans to wear this gorgeous taffeta skirt with the necklace and draped top above.
This designer-looking jacket is sure to be a sell out.
I have a few formal occasions on the horizon, and I have my eye on this dress for all of them.
I own a few gold necklaces, but none that look like this.
These will dress up or down with ease.
Another winter, another pair of & Other Stories boots that have found their way onto my wish list. The buckle detail may be small, but it makes these knee highs feel so current.
I’ve decided to treat myself to a new coat this year. This versatile, trend-proof style from H&M is absolutely it.
My favourite dress brand, Ghost, just released a brand-new style (and in my favourite hue to boot!).
These shoes occupy my every waking thought.
I know this will be the item
I hear great things about Raey’s jeans; especially this ’90s, loose-fit cut.
Arket’s bestselling sling bag now comes in this current-looking patent, burgundy finish.
The necklace making initial jewellery feel fresh again; I love it’s size, length and the fact it comes in gold and silver.
This autumnal take on Dôen’s cult Bijou dress has won over not only me, but the rest of the editors on our team.
So chic, this jacket will always look elevated. Not into the white? It also comes in a rich brown hue and failsafe black.
A no-brainer add-to-basket for me.
These earrings will make all your outfits look polished.
Chic with a capital “C”.
A sleek (and affordable) way to take on the enduring cargo trouser trend.
There’s still life in the denim skirt trend; this style will look great with knee boots too.
Mango’s newest Mary Janes have sell-out written all over them. Better still, they also come in bright red.
I love the simplicity and Carrie Bradshaw-ness of this dress.
I’ve been on the hunt for a sleek black coat, and I’ve just found it courtesy of independent brand, Almada Label.
A new tailored trouser from H&M spells one thing—a quick sell-out.
These best-selling Mary Janes have just been restocked, and I won’t allow myself to miss out again.
The perfect top update to my skirt and jeans collection.
This bag comes in a handful of versatile tones, but this khaki version is my favourite.
Editor-in-Chief, Hannah Almassi, sent me a link to this skirt, and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since.
I had my eye on the gold version, but now I’m tempted by the silver shade.
Regular readers of my column will know how much of a fan of Charles & Keith I am; it’s expensive looking handbags just cannot be beaten. Now, I’ve fallen for this crescent bag.
A pretty, balletcore addition to any knitwear collection.
Next Up, Autumn/Winter 2023 Fashion Trends: The Expert-Approved Looks You Need to See