A little later than I’d usually share these seasonal reviews of what I wore. But, as winter also starts to come to a close, it’s interesting to also have a chance reflect on any similarities across the colder months.
If you were hoping there might be a “dash” of colour tucked away amongst my most worn, you’d be mistaken. Neutrals through and through reign supreme. For me, I’m glad to see a shift away from purely dark “neutrals”, to lighter, brighter ones. I’ve found it uplifting to wear earthier neutrals for autumn, not to mention it complements my complexion more than the harsh contrast of black.
So, let’s dive into what I wore the most…
Isabel Marant Etoile black floral mini skirt
As I’ve started to think a little more critically around how I like to wear certain elements, it occurred to me that during the colder months in particular, I really only like to wear print on my lower half. This isn’t just unique to this moment in my style journey. Looking back over the years, this has generally held true. I love a printed skirt or trouser moment, but feel a little overwhelmed when there’s so much going on near my face. I suspect this has to do with contrast. I have dark hair and dark features, which are pronounced during the cooler months when my complexion appears fairer.
So to the skirt, the first “most worn” item I wanted to talk about. Isabel Marant has long been a favourite of my for skirts. I love the often wispy silhouettes. Wrap details. Floral prints. Feminine without feeling too feminine. This skirt in particular I love for the black based floral print, which I find works nicely for me nine months out of twelve. This particular one features an asymmetrical hemline which is longer at the sides. Something I find especially flattering.
Among oat cotton/linen shorts
Now more so than ever, I’ve found myself really gravitating towards high-waisted styles. So only natural that my most worn pair of shorts would lean into that shift. This pair from Among, I especially like as they have a little more length through the leg. The cotton/linen blended fabric is also so breezy to wear, machine washable, and softens what would be an otherwise very tailored silhouette. Love these so much I also have them in chocolate brown, and a deep blue. Sold out, but these are a fantastic alternative. I own them in the black and can vouch for how good they are.
H&M straight leg trousers
I really wasn’t surprised to find that these straight leg pants from H&M had made it into my most worn list. Even throughout winter, they’ve continued to be a silhouette I’ve reached for weekly. The cinched waist and relaxed fit through the leg just feel easy, and I’ve found them to be tremendously versatile. One of those rare closet staples which truly works year round. Not only that, they wash well too. Probably little surprise I purchased them in three colours.
Arket off-white t-shirt
Not very exciting, but my most worn top was a simple t-shirt. A sign that I was using them to layer, with a simple knit thrown over top. I’ve sung the praises of this Arket t-shirt before. The weight gives it a really nice drape, and the price is great too. They also have a heavyweight option if you prefer something with a bit more structure.
Quince khaki cotton/merino cardigan
The slightest hint of cool weather, and I immediately start to pull out my knitwear. Any excuse. Mostly, I found myself wearing cardigans as a layering element, as autumn generally tends to have a slow start here in Sydney. This one from Quince has been a great little addition to my wardrobe. I love the khaki colour, and the cotton/merino blend is soft, warm, and hard-wearing.
Everlane authentic stretch button fly skinny jeans
Gen Z might think that the skinny jean is over, but it’s still thriving in my wardrobe. More than two decades on, it’s continued to remain a huge part of my style uniform. My most worn pair happened to be the authentic stretch skinny from Everlane. The quality of these jeans are fantastic. I’ve worn mine countless times; so safe to sat mine have been thrown in the wash a lot. They’re a mid-weight, but have enough stretch that you can comfortably lunge in them. Plus the elastic hasn’t given out. I love this style so much I actually have them in a few colours…
Everlane oversized wool blazer
You’re probably familiar with the golden rule, or rule of thirds. Sometimes an outfit can just look unbalanced without that “third” element. And I’ve been finding that it’s often a blazer that I crave. Going back to a style staple from my early twenties, I’m wearing blazers more than I ever have. At least since our move to Sydney. This one from Everlane is great for so many reasons. It’s a beautiful Italian wool; has a slight grain to it which adds texture, but doesn’t feel too heavy. Good for wearing over silky camisoles, but works equally well over knitwear too. I own this in the herringbone, as well, and finally added the black wool version to my closet this year, opting for my usual size US4 for a perfect fit.
Kindersalmon wool coat
I’ve stopped trying to count how many times this Kindersalmon coat has popped up in my most worn. Years on, it’s still an absolute favourite in my closet. The colour, not something I typically would have thought to go for in outerwear, is part of why I love it so much. It’s a lush double faced wool, with a subtle herringbone pattern to the exterior, and a minky brown contrasting interior. This, goes with everything. Light neutrals, colours and brights, an all black outfit. One I’ll continue to wear on repeat in the years to come, too.
YSL tribute slides
If you ever needed a sign of how mild autumn in Sydney can be, then this is probably it. A pair of slide sandals ended up my most worn. I often tend to wear these almost like slippers around the house; they’re quite comfortable, plus they go with everything so I’m never bothered if I have to quickly nip out of the house, and these are what I have on my feet. While I wouldn’t walk 5km at pace in these, I can do some seriously long distances in my YSL slides. The leather version far outpacing the patent in comfort. I’m usually an EU40 but I sized up to an EU41; probably not necessary for the leather, however it never hurts to have a bit of extra length across the foot when wearing a slide. Plus, I suspect it probably afforded me some additional width across my foot, too.
Quince crossbody camera bag
Finally, my most worn bag. Unsurprisingly, it turned out to be this little croc embossed leather camera bag from Quince. The size of this is convenient. Enough to fit in all my essentials, and then some. Plus it has a zip up closure; great for when you’re constantly bending over to pick up your little one (hello #mumlife!). Mine’s definitely seen some wear and tear since I bought it. The structure of the bag has softened so warps inward slightly when empty. Not an issue from a practical use perspective, and given the price, I’m not too bothered. Definitely a bag I’d recommend if you’re looking for a smaller crossbody option, but don’t want to break the bank.
