As I’ve looked back on my outfits and purchases of 2021, two things stand out to me: it was a year of style experimentation and buying WAY too much stuff.
I recently tallied my purchases, and it was interesting to have the hindsight to see which ones were meaningful and which were not. I am a little astonished by the number of items I didn’t want after a few months. This was likely due to experimenting and overshopping. The latter was certainly influenced by the seemingly unending pandemic. Like many people I may have tried to buy a little bit of happiness. Very unhealthy, I know, but I want to be honest with you guys (and myself).
This has left me with a major goal to not make the same mistake this year. I set a budget for myself (half of what I spent last year!) with the intent to purchases slowly and less frequently. And if I want to experiment with style, to utilize thrifting.
In light of making smart purchases in 2022, a review of the best purchases (and gifted items) of 2021 is in order. I find looking back at what has staying power helps shape my wish list moving forward.
Best Purchases of 2021 (see Best of Gifted down below)
Listed in order of purchase.
1. Mirabel Bag + Strap by Clare V
In April, I plunked down a chunk of money for a new, wear-everywhere bag. It took me a really long time to find a black bag I loved and that would be incredibly functional in my closet. And the Mirabel continues to fit the bill. It comes with a thin leather strap, but I knew I wanted a thick, design-forward one for looks and comfort. The thick, crossbody strap makes the bag extremely comfortable to wear. It’s so easy to toss on and go. And the black and white motif compliments most of my coats. My only complaint is that I wish the top handle functioned better or that it wasn’t there at all. If the bag is unzipped it makes the top handle useless because the bag sort of tips open.
I love that Clare V bags feature high-quality, durable leather, and their bags are made in LA. They are playful, unexpected, and I enjoy the ability to change up my bag with a strap swap. I am always happy to support this woman-owned company! Other favorites: the Petit Moyen and the Grande Fanny.
2. Anine Bing Los Angeles Sweatshirt
If you’re like me and you’ve searched thrift stores for a cool, old vintage crewneck sweatshirt, only to realize everyone else had beat you to the punch, then this sweatshirt is for you. It’s like cheating, and buying a new item that feels vintage-y. I don’t know how to describe it, but no other new sweatshirts seem to rival the softness and the drape of this one. I love wearing it with absolutely anything, jeans, skirts, shorts, slacks, and it’s fun to pair with a turtleneck for an ultra 90’s look. They come in a few other cities too: New York, Paris, I love that they look like old university sweatshirts. I have the Los Angeles sweatshirt in a size medium.
3. Vincent James Merino Wide Leg Pants
These were a hit for me in the summer, and I’ve just started wearing them in the winter too (thanks to long coats!). They are so flowy and elegant looking. I’ve worn them for casual and dressy occasions. They are like a relaxed take on the trouser trend. This style is mostly sold out but the brand just came out with a wider version that looks super cute and has added pockets! These are a great alternative too if you’re looking for something more trouser-like. I recently bought them and I love the flat front.
4. ABLE Shilpa Dress
After seeing this dress look so cute and effortless on my friend Paige, I kept tabs on it until it came back in stock. Made of thick jersey, It’s a no-fail dress for me in the summer. It makes me feel elegant and chic, and keeps me cool at the same time. In the early fall there is a window of time where I can wear it with boots and sweaters, and it’s super cute! You can use my code ANDREA15 to save.
5. Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan
This is probably the most year-round item in my closet. It’s incredibly soft, lightweight and warm. And the cocoon shape looks good with almost everything. This is a true classic and one of my favorite sweaters. I sized down. It’s easy to wear over a tee and it layers very comfortably under coats. It does pill from time to time, and the price is quite high. But there are usually discount codes to be had. It now comes in a slightly-more budget friendly alpaca-blend version. Next up on my sweater wishlist: the Fisherman Cocoon Crewneck, I love how long it is.
6. Piper Buckle Footbed Sandal by Freda Salvador
I was not into ‘dad sandals’ until suddenly, I was. And this is my favorite take on them. The footbed is soft and comfy, the croc-print leather has a bit of sheen; they lend just the right amount of polish to a summer outfit. I tend to feel too underdressed or casual in the summer, and when I started wearing these, I felt a lot more confident about my outfits. Use my code 15ANDREA to save.
7. Nike AF1s
I was definitely influenced by every young person around me to get these shoes. They are wildly popular with the young crowd, and their chunky-comfort reeled me in. My daughter has the same pair. I highly recommend these! Sometimes I do feel a bit silly when I go somewhere and no fewer than four other people are wearing the same shoes, but, c’est la vie. Leather sneakers are so much easier to keep clean than cloth sneakers, and they’re warmer too. I sized down a half size in these.
8. Emi Boot
These were my big splurge boot of the fall. (Don’t worry, I found a discount code to ease the pain, and now I have my very own: 15ANDREA.) These are the type of boot that add sophistication to nearly every outfit they are paired with. They are extremely lightweight, warm and handle light rain pretty well. The toe is almond-shaped, a bit on the pointy side, and the lug sole and croc-finish are utterly chic. I love these shoes. Now they come in a super cute putty color. I wear these in my true size. Update: use code BOOTUP to save 25% on these through 2/10.
9. Acne Studios Mini Musubi Bag
They say a good handbag can transform an outfit, and I believe it. But for me, it can’t just look the part, my bag has to be highly functional too or it feels like a mere adornment. (I know, I’m way too practical.) This bag does both of those things. It looks amazing and is super functional. It’s the perfect size for everyday use, not too big or too small. I can easily access my items by just reaching in, no fuss. The top handle is super convenient, especially when popping in and out of the car. The thick crossbody strap is the height of comfort. Can you tell I love this bag? It was on my wish list for quite awhile, and when I had the chance to buy it secondhand from a friend, I jumped on it.
10. Slouch Coat
This coat is a bit of a style-maker for me. I was very drawn to the herringbone fabric, and thick warmth of the jacket, and oversized shape. But I hedged on whether to get it, because it felt a bit ‘too bold.’ Now, I reach for it so often I can’t imagine not having it. It’s very warm, and covers a multitude of sins at early morning school drop offs. Plus, I think it looks cool over anything I wear it with! This fabric is sold out, but it comes in many other colors. I wear it in a size 2.
My Favorite Gifted Items of 2021
A big part of my job is working with and promoting my favorite brands. This means a lot of products run through my hands in the process. I try my very hardest to only promote items I would actually buy. There are a lot more than five gifted items that I love but, for the purposes of keeping this blog post short, I chose to limit my selection. These are the items I keep wearing over and over.
Everlane ReNew Long Liner
No secret here, you guys have seen me wear this over and over. I *love* this jacket. It’s a great option for a mildly cold place like the PNW. It functions well on most days that are 45 degrees F and above. I love that it fits over all my chunky sweaters. I wear it a ton because it’s warm and it’s lightweight (not heavy on my body). It has a dual functioning zipper, so if you’re a fast walker like me, your legs can move. The length looks flattering over any pants shape and the coat just so happens to be perfect for dog walks. I wear this in my usual size.
Everlane Oversized Alpaca Crew in Warm Camel
This sweater style has been a staple in my closet since it first came out about 3 or 4 years ago. I still wear my very first black one all the time. In the fall I added this camel beauty to my collection and it has quickly become another go-to for me. I love the soft fabric, warm color and all-around cozy factor. I wear this in my usual size medium.
Mandrn Bag
My favorite go-to small bag. I love the camel one in the summer, it’s great for traveling and wearing with all my favorite neutral outfits. The black woven option is a recent addition. I love the texture and versatility of the dark shade. Use code ANDREA20 to save.
Nico Belt
When the accessories you wear are cooler than you are, you rise to the occasion. At least that is my strategy. After being on the hunt for a western-style belt for a long time, I was lucky enough to get this beauty from Freda Salvador. I love the long belt tail, it reminds me of the 90’s. This belt is super high quality, soft leather and the buckle is solid brass. The black is currently sold out, but she’s lovely in mocha.
Everlane Felted Merino Half-Zip Sweater
Another item I know you guys have seen over and over. This half-zip sweater is such a winner in my life. It’s very warm and very soft. And I love the functionality of the zip feature. It makes the sweater easy to take on and off without getting makeup on it. I love wearing it unzipped to show off my necklaces, or zipped up to be cozy under a coat. This sweater pills a fair amount, fyi! I shave mine regularly to keep it at a minimum. Love it in black! I sized up.
It’s interesting looking back on all these particular items, it helps me re-shape the picture of my own personal style. What about you? Do you analyze favorite items, purchases or outfits? If not, you might be missing a valuable style-clarifying exercise.
I love this roundup! Super cool choices!
Thanks Rebecca! It was fun to analyze it all.
These are so so great! I love the thoughtfulness of really thinking about your favorites. Now I’m wondering what mine would be!
Oooo…. do I hear a blog post coming on?