Now that it’s the end of the year I, like many of you, am in a state of reflection: what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, what I’ve accomplished, but also what I’ve acquired, and boy did I acquire things. As I was going through the list of things I bought this year, I wanted to share items with you that truly felt like a return on their investment—whether I wore them season after season or felt like the best version of myself every time I put them on.
There’s one more trend I noticed in 2022. Each seasonal shift, I opened my closet, and for the first time in years, felt like my wardrobe needed a reset. In hindsight, I realize that this feeling was a byproduct of the pandemic (when I opted for comfier clothes to wear at home and rarely reached for more expressive pieces). My wardrobe needs and tastes changed with my lifestyle, and now that things are getting back to “normal” (so to speak), I more clearly see the items of clothing I had before that were impulsive, impractical, and that no longer speak to who I am.
As a result, I spent a lot of time this year getting rid of things that no longer felt like me in order to trade them with items I liked more. I held sidewalk sales, sold on The Real Real, and donated to friends and Goodwill to make room for newness. These practices reminded me of the inherent waste that comes from shopping (be it a waste of money, resources, time, apartment space, or brain space).
I recently watched a TikTok by viral stylist Allison Bornstein, where she said that your wardrobe shouldn’t be an archive but a working space of items that truly reflect “who you are, what you do, and your lifestyle.” This idea resonated with me as someone who sees shopping as an act of self-exploration but who is working towards being more careful about what I buy. As we head into the new year, I want to take this resolution of intentionality with me as I rebuild my closet.
By now, you’re probably thinking, “Okay, Kristine, we get it, get to your list,” but throughout my time working in the fashion industry, I’ve truly grappled with the waste it produces, and I feel like we don’t talk about it enough. How can I—we—balance the self-expression of our closets with more conscious consumption? I’d love to hear your thoughts on how to navigate being a more mindful shopper. Are there any rules that you abide by? Am I being too virtuous?
Now, on to the list of my favorite purchases and pieces of the year (some of which you may recognize from past newsletters):
Babaa Jumper No 17 in Mist, $235 (originally $290)
I’ve eyed this jumper for a few years and finally pulled the trigger. It is 100% wool, hand knit, and has a voluminous, balloon shape. Putting it on feels like a sigh of relief.
A timeless box chain necklace I wear almost daily from every fashion girl’s favorite jewelry brand.
In August, I wrote about this viral bag and still stand firmly behind it. It’s been the perfect casual crossbody for running errands, walking the dog, going on hikes, and fits all of my essentials.
I love utility pants as an alternative to denim. The Neil pant by Alex Mill is great because you can wear it high-waisted or slung lower on your hips, depending on the vibe you are going for.
I contemplated getting an Away suitcase until a friend told me about Canadian-based brand Monos. I love its sleeker design and that its interior is organized with multiple compartments for storing shoes or laundry.
Fane Bra Bag, $530
I wrote about this bag in my When In Paris newsletter, and although expensive, it was worth every penny. Its minimal design and scratch-and-stain proof brushed leather make it an ideal handbag for me, as someone that prefers quiet luxury.
Levi’s 501 90s Jean, $49 (originally $98)
For me, 2022 was the year of the 501. I bought a vintage pair in Paris this May and knew I needed more washes. Levi’s re-issued the 501 with a ’90s twist and it has the same relaxed fit and mid-rise I love in my vintage pair.
Every time I decide I want a pair of Salomons, they sell out, so when I saw this white pair I knew I had to jump on them. They have cloud-like OrthoLite footbeds, and now I can’t buy sneakers without them.
This was the year belts came back into the fold—a forgotten accessory that I’m glad is getting its time to shine again. I found a great deal on this braided belt during the SSENSE sale and love that it doesn’t have any hardware I’d have to consider when getting dressed.
Kindle Paperwhite, $100 (originally $125)
I read 48 books (!) this year, and it’s all thanks to my Kindle. If you buy anything next year, please, please buy a Kindle and download the Libby app so you can borrow books from your local library. While I used to be a paperback die hard, the Kindle was too convenient and lightweight for me to pass over.
Éliou Gold Amaya Ring, $75 (originally $120)
I wanted a serious piece of hand bling and knew I would find what I wanted at Éliou. The Amaya Ring is bulbous and garish which was exactly the look I was going for. I bought two and stack them for extra opulence.
This lip oil moisturizes, stains, and shines my lips to perfection. I also love its minimal packaging. My shade of choice is Taupe.
This humble ribbed tank top was in my rotation month after month. Though I said it in November, I’ll say it again: It’s the only tank top you need.
I absolutely agree and always thinking about minimalism even as we transition from full time traveling. But then grappling with wanting newness in my closet! It’s a balance :)
yesss! conscious consumption is always on my mind as well... been foraying a bit into customization/diy to reenergize existing clothing - replacing generic buttons with custom selects to add a personal touch, dyeing denim to my preferred wash.. think I'm going to explore this further in 2023 lol