In 2019, I’ve had to replace many wardrobe workhorses that wore out (RIP). So while I feel I’ve shopped a lot, I really struggled to make a list of “new” favorites for this post, as most of my purchases were replacements. But I don’t mean to diminish the joy that these eight items have brought me in the last year. So, without further ado, here they are:
——————– REBECCA TAYLOR CREPE LACE TOP ——————–
Only in writing this post did I realize that I never shared this Rebecca Taylor top here (a serious oversight). It’s easily one of my favorite purchases of all time–in a year I’ve worn it so much it’s starting to look threadbare. (A plea: I have been trying to find the top in my size in cream for months, to no avail, so email me if you see it anywhere. TIA!) While the top is sold out everywhere now (set an alert on secondary markets if you are interested), the dress version can still be found (in limited sizes) here and here.
——————– ZARA RUFFLED CABLE KNIT SWEATER ——————–
I buy (no exaggeration) half of my knits from Zara, choosing novelty over durability. And this ruffled piece is my favorite Zara purchase of the year (I regret not buying a backup). The cropped length works well with both high-waisted pants and mini skirts. Even though it sold out several weeks ago online, you might check your store for more inventory.
——————– TED BAKER WRAP COAT ——————–
This coat is technically a purchase from 2018, but I really feel it belongs on a favorites list, so here it is. It elevates every outfit that you wear with it (and has such neat details, like the pretty floral lining and magnetic wrap fastening). If you must get a mid-range dress coat, buy this one.
——————– COACH TRIPLE CROSSBODY ——————–
A year ago I might have been surprised to learn that a bag this plain made it on my 2019 favorites list, but here we are. It’s not a bag that inspires awe, but it is so practical for my everyday life that I would be remiss if I left it off this list.
——————– TORY BURCH GIGI SANDAL ——————–
A rare combination of comfortable (like wear-all-day comfortable) and fashionable, these Tory Burch sandals are the perfect complements for warm-weather outfits, casual or dressy. I especially like that they are two-toned and a mix of suede and calfskin.
——————– MADEWELL CHECKERBOARD CAPE SCARF ——————–
This cape scarf went everywhere with me this spring/summer. It was lightweight enough to not feel suffocating on warmer days, but warm enough that it sufficiently replaced a warm-weather jacket (which, when traveling light, saves so much room). This pattern went on sale and sold out several months ago, but you can find other colorways at Madewell.
——————– HALOGEN® X ATLANTIC-PACIFIC LONG WOOL BLEND TRENCH COAT ——————–
Cold weather makes me a little (okay, a lot) coat hungry. I didn’t need this pretty pink wool-blend trench coat, but I really wanted it. And the longer length (almost ankle length on 5’2 me, which is not the intended fit) works surprisingly well with cold-weather outfits.
——————– ANN TAYLOR AZRA SUEDE PUMPS ——————–
I’ve had to replace some work favorites this year, including my trusty black Mila Leather Pumps (reviewed here). Instead of just ordering another pair of Milas, I tried the slightly slicker Azra and couldn’t be more pleased. They are comfortable from the start (considering the heel and the pointy toe) and elongate even the stubbiest of legs. The quality is extremely fair for the price.
Honorable mentions: Ann Taylor Liv Leather Block Heel Sandals (see on me here), J. Crew V-Neck Fringe Sheath Dress in White Multicolor Tweed (see on me here), H&M Crêped Dress, Ann Taylor Boyfriend Cardigan (See on me here), FALKE Cosy Crew Socks, and Free People Rosie Mini Dress.
What were some of your favorite purchases of 2019?
