In 2020 I spent more (on snacks) at Yamibuy and Target than I did on clothes (Surprised Pikachu) so the thought did cross my mind that maybe this list should comprise snacks. But I reminded myself that this blog is about “fashion,” and resolved to not let 2020 ravage my end-of-the-year traditions too.
So, without further ado, here are my favorite purchases of 2020:
—————— Zara Pleated Plaid Skirt ——————
This skirt reminds me of the Before Times: in the weeks before it became apparent how earth-shattering COVID-19 would be, I wore it all the time and everywhere. It made me feel sophisticated with little effort, and the fall palette goes with everything.
—————— Rebecca Taylor Pointelle Knit & Lace Dress ——————
Rebecca Taylor makes the best little black everything (a similar crepe top made my 2019 favorites list). This dress might seem ordinary, but the details–flutter sleeves, mock neck, and pointelle details–make it a Complete Look. It doesn’t need any styling to look polished.
—————— J.Crew Balloon Sleeve Cable-Knit Cardigan ——————
This cardigan is technically a 2019 purchase, but wasn’t featured until 2020 so missed last year’s list. It seamlessly weaves together some of my favorite things: cable knit, balloon sleeves, and leather buttons.
—————— Ann Taylor Ribbed Mock Neck Sweater Shell ——————
The mock (turtle)neck is one style line that I can’t get enough of in 2020, and I can fully appreciate why Steve Jobs wore it daily. But not all mocknecks are created equal: some are too floppy (and thus look sloppy) and others feel suffocating. But this Ann Taylor sweater shell strikes that delicate balance. (A WIFW post is forthcoming.)
—————— Gap Plaid Wool-Blend Shirt Jacket ——————
This Gap shirt jacket, like the J. Crew cardigan from above, is technically a 2019 purchase. But I really feel it would be unjust for it to not be on a favorites list, so here it is. It kicked off my shacket buying spree of 2020.
—————— Alice + Olivia Lindsey Fit & Flare Dress ——————
Part sporty (side stripes!), part fancy, this dress is one of those desk-to-dinner pieces that I used to blog about. The side stripes add a dose of cool to the basic LBD. In an alternate timeline, I could see myself wearing this dress with a double-breasted white blazer to work, then pairing the dress with sneakers on the weekends.
—————— Abercrombie & Fitch Puff-Sleeve Linen-Blend Dress ——————
This Abercrombie & Fitch Puff-Sleeve Linen-Blend Mini Dress (reviewed here) is a piece that both looks good and feels good. I consider it the perfect warm-weather dress: it’s light and flowy, but has enough design details–square neckline, puff sleeves, side pockets, and somewhat wrinkle-resistant linen blend–to not be mistaken for a beach cover-up.
Honorable mentions: Fame and Partners The Maya Dress (I bought not one, but two full-length gowns in 2020. In my defense, I had several fancy weddings on the calendar that I would’ve worn them to…), J. Crew Sweater-jacket With Fringe, Zara Knit Cardigan with Jewel Buttons (last seen here), AllSaints Fetch Leather Crossbody Bag (reviewed here), and Abercrombie & Fitch Puff Sleeve Cropped Cardigan.
What were your favorite purchases of 2020?
