As an editor at Who What Wear, I typically spend a lot of time looking at new-in products, so I thought it would be handy to have this space where I’m able share with you the very best pieces I come across and the shopping picks I’m personally adding to my wish list.
This month, like a lot of us, I’m finding myself looking for a fresh start. With the onset of a new year, I’m on the hunt for easy items that can breathe life into my existing wardrobe for the whole year ahead. Think classic items with a twist—a tailored coat in supple chocolate leather, snake-print trousers that I’ll dress down with T-shirts and chunky knits, or the perfect roomy tote bag (because who has time for tiny bags in 2024?) in a luxurious tan suede. I’ve been working on my capsule for a good few years now, so I don’t need to stock up on much, but there are inevitably a few timeless pieces in the new in sections, across both high street and designer brands, that have caught my eye to elevate my current basics.
Denim is one area I do need an update in, and for 2024 I’m planning to invest in a pair of smart dark indigo jeans—ARKET’s Cloud style has come highly recommended from my fashion friends so they’re currently top of my list. They have a loose slouch which keeps them looking effortlessly cool. On the other end of the spectrum I’m also being drawn to creamy white denim this year, and Reformation’s Val jeans will fill that gap in my collection. I won’t be saving these until spring as you’d expect though—they look even fresher on cold days layered up with cosy textures like leather, cashmere and suede.
Whether you’re looking to invest in some key new-in buys for the season ahead or for some inspiration to “shop” your existing wardrobe, keep scrolling to see what a fashion editor is actually adding to basket right now. These are the 12 items on my current 2024 wish list that I believe are really worthy of your time and money.
I’ve been waiting for this perfect knit to come back in stock all winter.
2024 continues to be all about the retro-style trainer, and while there’s an option to follow in Scandi girls’ footsteps and go bold and bright, in order for them to fit in with my neutral capsule wardrobe I’ll be replacing my scuffed up black and white Adidas Sambas with these chic navy alternatives.
If you haven’t already heard, DeMellier is the (more) affordable luxury bag brand fashion people can’t get enough of right now. And while this perfect tote comes in so many colours, the tan suede is top of my list.
I’ve been saving up for this coat for months, and although it’s an investment, it’s one of those pieces that will seriously elevate my most-worn jeans and T-shirt outfits in seconds.
The V-neck knit is back (thankfully, because I’m not a huge fan of roll necks!). This classic breton will get so much wear.
I love these cream-coloured jeans with simple leather loafers and black knitwear for wearing right now.
While my style is quite classic, I do have a not-so-secret obsession with western details. Fringed jackets, cowboy boots—you name it. This shirt is a nod to my favourite trend, but it’s polished enough to still feel timeless and grown-up (a key aim for my wardrobe this year).
You could say I’m an outerwear addict. I just think coats make the smartest investments because you get so much wear out of them (especially living in England). As a stylist, they’re also my trick for making a boring outfit feel incredibly chic, and this slouchy oversized trench will do just that with any of your existing looks that are feeling a little tired—from smart office outfits to relaxed weekend wares.
These high-street jeans come highly recommended from my fashion industry friends, and I think we can all agree they look like they could pass for a designer pair.
I know it’s a risky play, especially if you’re clumsy with your morning coffee like I am, but IMO there’s nothing that can freshen up or elevate a wardrobe better than cream tailoring. Pair this blazer with your favourite jeans, or go all out with the full suit and silky shirt for a Rosie Huntington-Whiteley-approved tonal affair. Maybe just hop in a cab on rainy days.
These may not feel like a classic at first glance (snake-print leather, you say?), but in my experience animal prints like this can work like a neutral in your closet. They never really date, and if you simply swap them in for your overworked jeans, they become surprisingly easy to wear. These fun trousers in particular will add major style points to a simple white shirt or T-shirt. Plus, you can dress them up or down with trainers or a heeled boot and blazer. See? They’re actually incredibly versatile.
Trust me, these are the best heeled black ankle boots on the high street. They’re comfy as they’re not too high, and the curved heel and fiercely pointed toe make them look like a designer pair.
This super soft, draped wool coat could easily pass for designer.
I’d really like a spacious bag that I can fit everything in, and this is so timeless.
Adding a pop of red to winter outfits feels both fresh and completely classic. I’ll be following Kendall Jenner and Jennifer Lawrence’s lead with this thin knit that’s easy to layer under blazers and coats, as well as being perfect for tying around shoulders.
You should know I’m about to enter my cosy girl era, and this extremely chic textured dress is coming along with me.
I always find a pop of white or cream adds such a nice freshness to heavy winter outfits—these boots are an easy way to do it.
They may seem “out there” but silver leather trousers come back every year. I find they’re a really easy way for a minimalist like me to add some fun into my wardrobe as they pair so well with all my existing neutrals. I always wear mine with a white T-shirt and black blazer—it’s a perfect low-key party outfit that can take you from day to night.
A cream knit always makes an outfit look expensive, whether it’s paired with the silver trousers above, tailored black wide-legs or your favourite pair of blue denim.
Just incredibly, incredibly chic—and they will be forever. I’d use them to dress up all my favourite jeans, but they’d look equally as good with mini dresses, skirts or tailoring.
I know us Who What Wear UK editors bang on about these trousers a lot, but it’s only because they’re so good. I bought them in black last year and wore them on repeat, so I’m investing in this lighter colour this year.
I’ve had my eye on Toteme’s classic T-Lock style for a while now and it’s still top of my list for an investment purchase.
I tried these for a photo shoot recently and they’re buttery soft—honestly, the most comfortable shoes I’ve worn in a long time. So, of course, they went straight into my basket.
I’ve lost count of the amount of editors and influencers that have recommended these to me as the best pair of jeans they own.
Toteme’s knitwear is always beautiful quality, and as someone who’s not a huge fan of high polo neck jumpers, this new collared v-neck is a dream.
The older I get the more room I like to have in my handbags for all the crap I inevitably end up carrying around. I’ve long been a fan of Loewe’s timeless puzzle crossbody, but this. This is the dream.
I’ve become obsessed with finding the perfect Mary Jane ballet flats since seeing so many chic celebs wearing the style. These are certainly an investment, but I’ve only heard amazing things about the fit and comfort. Zara, Massimo Dutti and & Other Stories all have high street options too, though.
I need to refresh my shirt game since they’re my most worn item. I always turn to Everlane for quality classics.
I’ll take one in every colour please, COS.
I’ve wanted this silk set for a couple of years now and it’s still top of my wish list, which gives me confidence that it’s a wise investment I know I’ll want to wear for years to come.
Strapless tube tops have my full attention, and this sculptural style is the main reason. I can see myself wearing it with loose jeans, and some pointed-toe sling backs or strappy sandals for when I want to feel a little more dressed up than usual.
White tank tops are my most worn staple, so I know for a fact the cost per wear for this will creep down rather quickly.
Still living rent free in my mind, especially this elevated Khaki colour.
I just know I’ll wear these all year on repeat.
Up Next: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week