Unexpected Items To Transform Your Wardrobe
Today’s edit is once again brought to you by my own shopping wish lists and learnings from recent purchases. These guys are the surprising top 5 pieces I’ve been researching and lusting after for my own wardrobe, and after pulling the pin on a few, I realise that they are the unexpected transformers I never knew I needed until now.
I get excited when I’m surprised and delighted by clothes and accessories I didn’t expect to love, and I hope this serves as a reminder that you can always try a new trend and wear it in your own unique way.
Let’s do this!
Vests (Or Gilets, Or Waistcoats)
I avoided these guys for a long time but finally pulled the pin when I needed a top for evenings to wear back with a black skirt I already owned. I ended up buying a fitted style from Zara (sold out unfortunately) and I’m super surprised at how much I love the look of it on (when I’ve always traditionally shunned anything tailored on me — I’m too short and non-serious to pull that look off!).
I personally love the collarless styles most and prefer fitted rather than oversized silhouettes, but as always you do you! They look great as part of a matching set, or worn more casually with denim.
2. Shift Dresses
For some reason I can’t quite believe these have made a comeback, but I’m so glad they did? Clearly hemlines of all sorts are on the way up, and this style of dress is such a happy-medium for anyone not used to a shorter silhouette. I’m obsessed with the Alexa-Chungness of this look — so adorable with a great pair of sandals and gold hoop earrings. Polished but also lighthearted and fun, adding to cart as I type…
3. Mini Skirts
Don’t be freaked out — they don’t have to be ultra short if you don’t want them to be. I’m looking forward to not being so covered up after years of midi and maxi lengths reigning supreme, and I love that you can choose from different waistbands (elastic, wrap-style, tailored) to switch up the overall look. Cute with flats or mini-heels, but I’d personally avoid any sky-high footwear.
4. Bracelets
Did bracelets ever actually go away? No, but they certainly haven’t been in the spotlight much thanks to the attention earrings and necklaces have gotten over the last few years.
Whether you opt for chunky or sleek, or go for a stacked or simple look, bracelets are having their moment again and look rather excellent worn back with a clean mani or a much-loved timepiece.
5. Sarongs (Or Pareos)
Don’t underestimate how handy and chic a lovely sarong can be. The ultimate in beach-to-bar dressing, they double as a skirt when worn with a one piece or tank and can really take your seaside styling up a notch or two. A holiday must-have that only covers up what you want it to.