Winter Most Worn Items (2021)

Again sharing this a little later than anticipated, but I thought the analysis still relevant all the same. Regardless of which hemisphere you’re in. I’ve continued to remain on a steady roll of updating my spreadsheet tracker; usually by keeping regular tabs of what I’m wearing on my phone, and transferring it across when I have a spare moment.

One of the things that struck me a little more clearly about winter, was just how obvious the most worn pieces were. I was much more conscious that those items were things I’d reached for on repeat. Unlike previous years, where a short-lived romance with a wardrobe favourite would act as a disguise for what I really reached for the most.

I think this is in part because the core of my wardrobe has become much more “capsule-like”. The building blocks which I lean on daily are quite narrowly defined, and I can pick them out at a glance. Given my propensity for outfits that are pretty basic, it’s little wonder why these items tend to be such serious workhorses. 

If there’s one thing I’ve taken away from my daily outfits, it’s that I realllly like denim. In the past I’ve always taken to trying to “fix” issues I think I have with my style. This is exactly the type of thing I’d conjure up as a problem, rather than appreciating it for what it is. A comfort within myself to wear what I love, with unabashed confidence. 2021 has been the year that I’ve leaned into what makes me feel most comfortable, and (in my opinion, at least), aligned that more fully with my actual lifestyle. Though I will admit I do still occasionally make the odd purchase for my fantasy self.

Enough reflection. Let’s chat through my most worn pieces for winter 2021, shall we?

The Curated Cashmere Sweater

worn in size S

Best basics, the cashmere edition is coming. I promise. In the meantime, this is a little glimpse at the cashmere knit which comes up trumps for me. The Curated totally nailed it. There’s texture in the fisherman style knit; the bell sleeves add some shape to an otherwise simple design; I adore the chunky collar; and it is so soft. One I’ve been tempted to buy in other colours, for sure. This was gifted to me, but if you’ve got the budget to splurge on it I promise you it’s worth every penny.

Saint Laurent B/W Stripe Tee

worn in size M

Minor caveat here. Sydney winters are mild. Our last day of winter was in the low twenties, if that’s any indicator, so it’s little surprise that a t-shirt was my most worn top. This was one of those items I really splashed out on. Normally I wouldn’t even consider spending big on a basic like this, but the black and white stripes got me. Safe to say I’m happy with my purchase. No twisted seams, and I really like the subtlety of the YSL logo on the pocket. It doesn’t feel flashy at all. That said, this striped tee from the men’s section would be a great alternative.

Marle Felix Dress

worn in size NZ8

I’m the type of person who will unquestioningly shop out of season. Always with the intent of saving said item for next year. Sometimes it pans out, sometimes it doesn’t. The Felix dress from Marle was an example of an instance where I totally bet on the right horse. It’s a piece which is luxe, but also relatively simple to maintain (hand wash setting in the washing machine). Love the ribbed texture, the length which isn’t too long, and the silhouette skims the curves rather than hugging them. A total ten in my books.

H&M Straight Leg Trousers

worn in size UK8/EU36

Good quality comes at every price, the key is knowing what to look out for. And these trousers from H&M are undeniably one of my best buys, particularly where value for money is concerned. There’s a couple iterations – one with a fixed waist with a wool-feel texture, and another with an elasticated panel at the back in more of a suiting style fabric – but ultimately they’re the same trouser. I found myself gravitating towards straight leg pants a lot more than anticipated, and these were perfect in every way. High waisted, with pleats at the waist, and tailored to get that cropped effect I adore. One that I’ll continue recommending, season on season without hesitation.

Everlane 90s Cheeky Straight Jeans

worn in size 25 ankle 

Could there be a more perfect jean? I really don’t think so. I especially leaned into wearing winter whites with my ecru pair being the most worn of the bunch (I have these jeans in multiple washes…). My inseam is just shy of 69cm to the top of my ankle bone, so I like the ankle length to reveal a bit of skin. If you’re looking to shift away from skinny jeans, these are a great intermediary between a classic skinny, and a typical straight leg jean.

Everlane Black Wool Blazer

worn in size US4

After what felt like a two-year hiatus, I’m back on that blazer train. Figuring out how to incorporate them into outfits with a (messy) toddler has been one thing, but I realised just how much I’ve missed that tailored element. The oversized wool blazer from Everlane is definitely up there as one of my favourites. And a bit of a departure from previous advice, but I suggest sticking with your usual size for a perfectly relaxed (but still perfect-fitting) blazer.

The Curated Boyfriend Coat

worn in size S

Definitely my favourite coat of the season, and one I found myself reaching for without fail. I’ve really come to appreciate more oversized and relaxed silhouettes, and this slipped into that narrative nicely. If you’re curious to know my full thoughts on this piece, I have done a full review HERE.

Tied for first place with my Curated coat for most worn outerwear piece was my Max Mara trench. Clearly a little bit more of a climate-specific winter staple, but one I loved having on high rotation all the same.

Polene Numero Huit Bag

It tends to go without saying that my most worn bag of the season will generally be one of my newest additions. A sparkly new purchase (or in this case, PR Gift) which outshines all the other bags you own. For the very fact that it hasn’t been broken in yet. Also, I have a lot of black bags, and this warm camel bucket bag was a nice way to break things up. Plus that silhouette and shape; it’s unlike anything else I own, and felt like a bold piece to wear with many of my more basic outfits. I plan to share a more thorough review in future, for those curious about wear and tear, and usability etc.

About Arianne Ballet Pumps

worn in size EU40

One of my best purchases of 2021, without a doubt. Classic ballerina pumps tend to go with most outfits, and for me what I love most about these is the low block heel, and squared off toe. They don’t feel too prissy, but then they add a touch of elegance and refinement to many of my outfits. Comfortable to boot, too.