You know a brand is good when I’ll go to the trouble (and expense) to buy it using mail forwarding. Not once, not twice, but many, many times. At this point, Quince has cemented itself as one of my favourite go-to brands, and with good reason. Classic, timeless styles, with quality that rivals their more expensive counterparts. So I wanted to break down what I think are the ten best pieces to buy from Quince right now, along with a handful of honourable mentions (because honestly, it’s hard to narrow it down to just ten items!).
1 | Quince 100% Organic Cotton Sleeveless Maxi Dress
Kicking things off with this super cute, cotton midi dress. I’m 172cm tall, and this is an ankle grazer on me so if you’re taller, you may find it fits more like a long midi. That said, it’s the execution which Quince have really nailed on the head. It’s lined, and the fabric has some real weight to it, which instantly makes it feel like a premium, more expensive piece. It has seamless pockets at the hip, which don’t disrupt the flow of the silhouette, and more importantly, adjustable straps. Sizing is on the large side; I’m wearing the S but I think the XS would fit me a little better as I have quite a bit of room under the arms. In case you haven’t clocked it yet, this is a dupe for the Jenni Kayne Cove Dress, which I believe is one of JK’s best sellers. And I’ll be honest, I’ve tried the Cove Dress, and found it just didn’t really work for me (surprising as I love the Quince version). Perhaps the only difference that I can see, is that the Jenni Kayne one is a slightly different length, fits a little larger (it’s also generously cut), has a marginally higher quality cotton with a bit of extra weight to it (with a slight sheen), and doesn’t have the smocking detail at the back. Personally, if you were picking between the two, it’s the Quince one, no question.
WEARING: Size Small (runs large, I need at least one size down). Measures 48cm underarm to underarm and is approx 131cm long
Honourable mention goes to the 100% European Linen Scoop Neck Midi Dress; another JK dupe which I think Quince have really nailed (honestly, the key difference is that JK’s version is raw silk, whereas this is linen). The linen is soft and smooth, and it’s lined with cotton for maximum comfort against the skin. Pocket placement is really fantastic as it creates this subtle sculpted shape at the hips. Adjustable straps and smocking at the back, with side zip closure. This too runs large. I recommend going down a size.
2 | Quince 100% Organic Cotton Striped Crew Sweater
Can’t go wrong with a classic crew neck, and Quince’s 100% cotton sweaters are some of the best. Unbeatable for the quality (IMHO). Again, you’ll find that this striped knit is another dupe for Jenni Kayne, this time for the Chloe Sweater. It has that same boxy relaxed fit through the body, loose, long sleeves, and double layered collar. That last detail is really the one that makes this feel like such an elevated piece, combined with the fact that the stripes on the sleeves line up with the stripes on the body – a sign that intention has gone into the design. Plus, the cotton is a beautiful quality, that’s heavyweight too. This is a good option for late summer, and the transitional seasons in particular. I’ve sized up two sizes here, which gives me this chic, slouchy fit (which I love paired with loose linen shorts). If you’re petite, I would recommend sticking to your usual size. Love the speckled beige & ivory colour but there’s a few different variations (including an espresso with white stripe – chic!). Overall, great value for money, as this will set you back just under $60 for an organic cotton piece.
WEARING: Size L (up two sizes as I craved a super relaxed fit). Measures 70cm underarm to underarm and 58cm long
3 | Quince 100% European Linen Long Sleeve Shirt
If you’re searching for the perfect linen shirt, then this is it. I’ve tried my fair share, but I think this ticks all the boxes if you’re looking for a classic option. I tend to like my shirting on the relaxed side, so I’ve sized up not one, but two sizes to get that ease I crave (recommend you do the same if you like this fit!). Linen is a great fabric as it’s breathable and feels cool to wear during the warmer months. Plus, the more you wear it, the softer it gets. This is thick enough to have a little bit of structure and shape, while still giving you a good, easy draped fit. Comes in a whole heap of colours, most of which are completely opaque. The lighter colours I’d recommend wearing with skin-toned undergarments. Personally I prefer these to the UNIQLO linen shirts as the density of the Quince version is slightly higher. Can also pair with a matching short!
WEARING: Size L (up two sizes as I craved a super relaxed fit). Measures 55cm underarm to underarm and is 74cm long
4 | Quince 100% European Linen Wide Leg Pants
I feel like we need to start by talking about the price. Under $40 (USD)! Simply unreal. One of the reasons why I love Quince so much (and recommend it to many of my styling clients), is that price to quality ratio is outstanding; few other brands out there are delivering the same value (something they achieve through their D2C model). Quince does a couple of linen trouser styles, but in my opinion, these are the best and most flattering. For most people these will be a high rise; the waistband is thick and substantive, but doesn’t dig in, and you can cinch it with the matching tie (that has silver metal trim). The colour range is excellent too. These aren’t lined, so if you’re concerned about opacity I would recommend sticking to the darker colours as you’ll be able to see the pocket outline (cotton lined) for lighter colours. Love the full length, and they’re not cut too dramatically wide either.
WEARING: Size S (fits true to size). Measures 35cm across waist laid flat, 54 across hip, 103cm long and 76cm inseam
5 | Quince Vintage Wash Tencel Camp Shirt
I’ve had this shirt in my closet for quite a while now, and the quality that always draws me to it, is the beautiful drapey nature the tencel. It just hangs so beautifully. It’s made from 100% tencel and is wrinkle resistant – love an easy-to-care for piece! It’s slightly gathered along the shoulder, and then has this unique flicked out shape for the sleeve which is really quite fun. The style reminds me quite a bit of the Madewell Courier Shirt, without the pockets on the bust (and different fabrication). This is a nice short-sleeved shirt option for those living in warmer climates as it feels cool and lightweight to wear. The white is a little bit sheer so needs to be worn with skin-toned undergarments.
WEARING: Size S (fits true to size, though petites might like to size down one). Measures 62cm underarm to underarm and is 73cm long
6 | Quince Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Crewneck Sweater
If you asked me what my favourite favourite piece from Quince is, it’s this. Their Cashmere Oversized Crewneck Sweater. I’ve been reaching for this with solid regularity since it started to get cool, as it’s such an easy one to throw on, and looks good worn both tucked or untucked. It reminds me a little of a similar style I bought from Naadam a few years ago, which shed like absolute crazy. While it’s not quite as thick, this feels plush; the cashmere Quince sources is Grade A, and you can see listed in the description that this particular knit is 15.8 – 16.2 microns thick, 7 gauge, with fibres 34-36mm long. The details on this are simple, yet done well. I especially like the double layered collar – it’s subtle but reinforces the sense that this is a quality piece. Also, just a disclaimer, yes this will pill (I think mine started to around wears 5-8). This is not an indicator of quality; even luxury branded cashmere sweaters will pill (all my Jenni Kayne ones have, as has my cashmere knit from The Row). Maintenance is key – invest in a solid fabric shaver or cashmere comb to give it a little freshen up from time to time.
WEARING: Size S (fits true to size for a relaxed fit. Petites may like to size down). Measures 57cm underarm to underarm and is 65cm long
Honourable mention goes to the $50 Cashmere Crew. One of the first items I ever bought from Quince, and I maintain to this day that it’s the best value for money cashmere knit you can buy. The cut is very classic, so a great option if you’re looking for a style to wear to the office which doubles up for the weekend. Stick with your regular size as it’s a true fit.
7 | Quince 100% Washable Silk Maxi Skirt
My second favourite item I own from Quince is their 100% Washable Silk Maxi Skirt. And I say “maxi”, in particular, as I love the grace and elegance of this full length skirt. These skirts have a wide, thick elastic band which is concealed on the interior, which comfortably sits against the waist. I wear a size S and while it’s not snug at the waist, I wouldn’t size down – the XS is actually too small! I find this a boon anyway, to have that little bit of give, as it means I can reasonably do a half tuck with a thicker knit, and am also not bothered if I bloat at all during the day. It’s very well cut – notches above Realisation Par, whose viral silk skirt I bought years ago only to complain about how it bubbled and pulled over the hips. Honestly, can’t fault it. Can also confirm that I have washed Quince’s washable silk pieces, and they come out looking fantastic. This truly feels like luxury on a budget. Also comes in a shorter, midi length option.
WEARING: Size S (true to size). Measures 35cm across the waistband (unstretched), approx 49cm across the hip, and 105cm long
8 | Quince 100% Organic Cotton Oversized Cable Cardigan
The heavyweight, great for milder summers and perfect for the transitional seasons. I just love that element of texture. The nice deep V. Those deep chocolate tort buttons. So chic. I know I’ve brought it back to Jenni Kayne quite a few times in this review, but this is definitely a more affordable option for one of their iconic knits. And having owned both, I can once again say that there’s very little in it (…and I actually prefer the Quince colour selection). A great way to add texture into your outfit with a simple wardrobe staple. Plus, it’s 100% cotton so easy going, breathable, and can be laundered in the wash. This is a very generous fit, so you may want to consider sizing down depending on your preferences.
WEARING: Size S (very relaxed fit – size down if petite). Measures 68cm underarm to underarm and is 70cm long
Honourable mentions go to this organic cotton & linen cardigan (a dupe for the Jenni Kayne Cody), which I wore on repeat all summer. Along with Quince’s cashmere cocoon cardigan. Can’t go wrong with either.
9 | Quince Italian Leather Handwoven Pouch Crossbody Clutch
There were two things I just had to try the very first time I ordered from Quince. One; the $50 cashmere crew. And two; one of their leather bags. I was so impressed the first time around, that I decided to try out another one of Quince’s bag styles; the pouch crossbody clutch. I added this to cart purposefully as I was seeking out a style which I could wear for a special occasion, but that would double up as a more fancy everyday bag. And this delivers. The size is reasonable; fits keys, iPhone Pro Max, cardholder, lipstick, sunglasses etc. The fastening is a magnet closure, which is an 8/10 on the strength scale. Not at all flimsy. And I love the little crossbody functionality. You can buy this bag in either the smooth leather (giving sleek, classic, quiet luxury), or a textured leather. Both are gorgeous, but I think which one you favour will come down to what you want to communicate. Personally, I like the slight sheen of the smooth leather, but if you crave texture then the handwoven version is the one.
10 | Quince Eco-Knit Milano Stitch Oversized Shirt Jacket
Rounding out my list of the ten best pieces to buy from Quince right now, is their Eco-Knit Oversized Shirt Jacket. Quince gets loads of raves, but I don’t think I’ve seen many people talking about this jacket. The lightweight, EcoVero Lenzing blend is so silky and smooth to the touch, but has all the warm of a knitted piece. Cut rather relaxed through the body, this adds in that “good chill” into an outfit. I will primarily wear it worn loose, just like a jacket, though you could button it, tuck it etc for more options. Has functional front pockets too.
WEARING: Size S (relaxed/oversized fit; recommend sizing down if petite). Measures 59cm underarm to underarm and is 79cm long
Like I said, when it comes to Quince, I can’t really stop at just ten. So here’s a handful of additional items that are total knock outs, to wrap up this edit of the best pieces to buy from Quince.
Honourable Mentions
Quince Featherweight Cashmere Ribbed Tank | I especially like the weight of this. It’s a very fine gauge knit which makes it feel special, precious even, though not “delicate”. It’s not fully opaque, but enough that unless I was wearing white, I wouldn’t notice the colour of my bra underneath. The weight and density of the yarn also plays well into the concept of a year rounder – aka, something which you can work into your outfits 12 months of the year. Fits true to size.
Quince Italian Wool Double-Breasted Slouch Coat | While I haven’t actually had a chance to try this one for myself (yet), I would recommend this in a heartbeat for my styling clients. It’s just under $200, but if you told me it was double that (or more), I’d believe you. It truly looks expensive. The shade range is limited – just camel and black – but I think both are versatile/timeless colour options, and when you’re spending this kind of money on a coat you want it to work back with everything in your closet.
Quince Tencel Rib Knit Maxi Slip Dress | In one word; showstopper. This dress is cut in ways I can’t even comprehend, that it hugs the curves just so. Snatched at the waist, but not compressive at the bust, there’s this slight bubbled effect at the hemline which seems to accentuate this hourglass ideal. I don’t wear many tight dresses but this one, I always feel amazing in. The fabrication is a lightweight tencel blend which is uber stretchy. I recommend sticking to your usual size.
Hi. Love your blog. I live in New Zealand & I see Quince don’t ship internationally. Would you mind telling me which service you use to get your items? Thanks. Jinine
Author
Hi! So previously I was using Shipito but have found in the last two years it’s gotten *very* expensive so I switched and am now using Planet Express. Super fast, though the interface is a little clunky, and much cheaper!