Happy New Year, friends! It’s time for one of my most anticipated posts of the year—my best fashion purchases of 2024. A few days ago, I shared my Fashion Fails, but today’s post is all about celebrating the wins. As a personal style blogger, I make a lot of purchases throughout the year, but these are the pieces that truly stood out—the ones that earned a spot in my closet and will deliver the best cost per wear over time. From timeless classics to trendy favorites, here’s what made the cut!
My Best Fashion Purchases In 2024
Denim, Oh How I Love Thee
Let’s start with my favorite wardrobe category—denim! As the foundation of my everyday outfits, I made quite a few denim purchases this year, but not all of them remained in my closet. I’m particular about fit and feel, and with some perimenopausal “fluff” to contend with, finding the right rise has become more important than ever. These are the jeans I purchased this year that earned a spot in my closet and will be on regular rotation going into 2025.
LEFT: Treasure & Bond sweater // Sam Edelman Waylon // RIGHT: AG Chiro Jacket // Treasure & Bond sweater // Sam Edelman Waylon
PAIGE Claudine w/ Surf Side Hem // I discovered these white ankle flares at Evereve early last spring, and I wore them a ton. I love that distressed raw hem. Plus, the white denim is high quality and not see-through, and the ankle-length flares pair easily with sandals and sneakers for spring/summer.
KUT from the Kloth Meg // These were another Evereve purchase last spring, and they also made the the Top 24 In 2024—so they’re one of your fashion favorites, as well! I love how they’re cut closer to the hips and thighs for a more streamlined silhouette that maintains the wide-leg look.
LEFT: All Day Stretch Twill Jacket // VEJA Esplar // RIGHT: Nordstrom turtleneck
Pistola Lennon Crop Boot (option) // I found these jeans last fall, also at Evereve! I wanted something casual to alternate with my favorite MOTHER Dazzler to wear with sneakers and flats, and these delivered! The crop boot silhouette is fun for a change, and the denim on these is very soft and stretchy and comfortable. Plus, they have such a good wash. Nordstrom carries these jeans in a bunch of other washes, if you’re interested.
MOTHER Hustler Roller Skimp (option) // This pair has sold out, but I had to include it because they’re the only full length wide leg style I’ve found that works for me, and I love them. This pair has very similar measurements, but in a darker wash.
LEFT: Abercrombie puffer // Vince sweater // RIGHT: Nation LTD blouse // Dolce Vita pumps
MOTHER Weekender in Wanted! // The MOTHER Weekender has been a favorite for several years, but this year I added three new washes to my closet, and I love them all. My latest addition is this faded dark grey wash with whiskering and subtle fading down the thighs, and I’ve already worn them a ton. I love how they add a subtle edgy touch to my classic sweater-and-denim uniform.
MOTHER Weekender in Teaming Up // This pair has a versatile dark wash with just a hint of distressing, striking the perfect balance between polished and that effortless, lived-in look I love.
MOTHER Weekender in Layover // I still wear my older raw hem pair a lot with more casual looks, but the lighter Layover wash is a great option for those who prefer a finished hem.
Jackets & Vests
Moving on to jackets and vests… These are the completer pieces that take my basic outfits up a notch, and I’ve been making a concerted effort to have good ones in my wardrobe for every season. Here are the ones I added this year that I’m most excited to bring with me into 2025.
LEFT: Reese Stripe Tank // PAIGE Laurel Canyon Flare // RIGHT: The Reset Too Good Tank // FRAME Le Easy Flare // Sam Edelman Bianka
Talbots Casual Twill Crop Jacket // You may recognize this jacket from the the Top 24 In 2024, as well. The twill crop jacket in the light beige color turned out to be a really nice addition to my fall wardrobe, and I’m looking forward to breaking it out again this spring. It has a classic, yet modern silhouette, and it’s very flattering and versatile.
Evereve Camp Jacket // I got a lot of wear out of this little black twill jacket, and while it has a few design flaws that bug me, it was the perfect shape and weight for wearing with all of my short sleeve tees and tops last summer and fall.
LEFT: MOTHER Weekender // Michael Kors Sonny Hobo // RIGHT: cashmere crewneck // MOTHER Weekender // HOBO Render
Barbour Clydebank Quilted Jacket // This is more of a coat than a jacket, but I didn’t buy other coats this year that made the cut, so I included it in this section. This was a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale find, and I loved how the green quilted fabric and chocolate brown corduroy trim complemented my fall looks—especially when I wore those dark brown Veronica Beard Lada Chelsea Boots, which was often.
Cooper Quilted Vest // This little quilted vest has been quite the workhorse in my fall wardrobe! It’s the perfect mix of sporty and refined, making it an ideal topper for all my pullover sweaters and hoodies.
Shoes & Boots
As Jen at Everyday Style School often says, “Shoes define your style”—and I couldn’t agree more. The right footwear can truly make or break an outfit, setting the tone for your entire look. That’s why narrowing down this list was no easy task, but I managed to pick my top eight favorites. These are the shoes and boots I added to my wardrobe this year that stood out the most.
LEFT: Faherty rugby stripe t-shirt // KUT from the Kloth Meg // RIGHT: Treasure & Bond sweater // Wit & Wisdom ankle flare jeans
Birkenstock Madrid in Metallic Black Birko-Flor // I’m already a fan of the Birk Madrid Big Buckle, so when I saw this more delicate version in the Metallic Black, I knew I was going to love them, and I did. I wore them a ton all spring, summer, and fall; and I can’t wait to pull them out again this spring.
Vionic Merlot Sandal (also at DSW) // These were a really good find; I don’t usually wear Vionic, but I felt like these sandals were a nice marriage of comfort and style. They had good arch support, and the block heel kept them stable. The light brown color was highly versatile, too. Unfortunately, after I injured my ankle in March, I couldn’t wear this heel height for many months, but I will bring them back out this spring.
LEFT: Sanctuary Sequin Tee // AG Mari // RIGHT: Evereve Camp Jacket // The Reset Too Good Tank // FRAME Le Easy Flare FRAME Le High Rise Flare
Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Mesh Pointed Toe Pump in Black/ Black Dot // These mesh slingback pumps with the black on black dot pattern are so pretty and fun. They’re perfect for holiday outfits or dressing up denim for winter date nights. And the best part? They’re actually comfortable—a rare quality in pumps.
Sam Edelman Bianka in Granada Tan // Same design, completely different vibe! This pair features a bold leopard hair calf print that I fell in love with early in the fall. The only reason these didn’t get more wear was an ankle injury that had me reaching for flats most of the season, but they’re definitely staying in my rotation for 2025.
LEFT: Evereve Camp Jacket // MOTHER Weekender // RIGHT: Jenni Kayne Fisherman // MOTHER Dazzler
Paul Green Hadley Platform Sneaker // Speaking of ankle injuries, I had a much more significant ankle injury last spring, which had me relegated to sneakers for a large portion of the season. These white leather sneakers were a lifesaver—they also made the Top 24 In 2024, and for good reason! The luxe leather, cushioned insole, and solid arch support made them incredibly comfortable right out of the box—no break-in period needed. The slight platform is an added bonus, making them perfect for styling with full-length flares as well as cropped and ankle-length styles.
adidas Handball Spezial “Earth Strata Gum” Sneakers // These retro-inspired sneakers were a fall addition to my wardrobe, and they’ve quickly become a favorite. The warm brown tone is such a refreshing change from stark white sneakers, and they strike the perfect balance of trendy and classic. I love how they pair with the warmer hues I’ve been wearing this season.
LEFT: Cooper Quilted Vest // Jenni Kayne Flynn // MOTHER Weekender // RIGHT: Vince Boiled Cashmere Cardigan // MOTHER Weekender
rag & bone Walker Chelsea Boots // While they’re almost sold out, I couldn’t leave these off the list because they’ve been a major player in my footwear rotation this fall and winter, and they’re definitely coming with me into 2025. These black leather rag & bone Chelsea boots are casual yet elevated, and complement so many of my denim-and-sweater outfits.
Veronica Beard Lada Boots // These chocolate brown leather Chelsea boots are just as versatile and comfortable as the pair above, and they’ve also been on heavy rotation this season. Between the two, they’ve been by far my most worn boots for fall and winter, proving that a great pair of Chelsea boots is a cold weather wardrobe essential.
Tops & Sweaters
Tops and sweaters are another huge wardrobe category, so I tried to narrow down this section to my absolute favorites, prioritizing the ones that are still available for purchase in at least a few sizes.
LEFT: Frank & Eileen Derry Signature Jeans c/o // Paul Green Hadley // RIGHT: Pistola Lennon Crop Boot // Splendid Liza
Taylor Stripe Trim Sweatshirt // I love this easy rust-colored pullover from Evereve, with the sporty side stripe detail—it was perfect for pairing with jeans and sneakers in the fall.
Gia Cowl Neck Top // This chocolate brown cowl neck top was also on heavy rotation over the past few months, as we had a very mild fall this year. It also layered nicely under my favorite jackets.
I found so many more good tops at Evereve this year, but most are completely sold out. I would have also included the Michael Stars Nara Mock Neck Top, Mika Smocked Tank, James Pullover, Z Supply V Neck Knit Denim Sweatshirt, Sundry Golden Hour Tee, and the Cruz Sleeveless Hoodie.
LEFT: PAIGE Claudine // Sam Edelman Bambi // RIGHT: Pistola Monroe // P448 John
Faherty Rugby Stripe Organic Cotton Boat Neck T-Shirt // I found this pullover last spring, and I wore it a ton. It’s a really nice quality, the boxy fit is right on trend, and the navy and white stripes give it a classic nautical vibe.
Faherty Golden Hour Pullover Sweater // Then I found this cotton/linen blend sweater at the #NSale, and even though they were similar, I couldn’t resist adding it to my closet as well. I love the classic roll-neck design, lightweight fabric, and easy fit.
LEFT: KUT from the Kloth Ana Coated Flares // RIGHT: AG Mari Slim Jeans // similar loafer mules
Vince Boiled Cashmere Cardigan // I loved this luxe cashmere cropped cardigan so much that I ended up buying both the jade and the rose. I snagged the rose first and couldn’t resist the jade when they went on sale again—it felt perfect for the holidays, and I expect the rose will get more wear as we move into spring. This piece was a splurge, even on sale, but I plan to have both colors for a long time.
Jenni Kayne Flynn // Another splurge-worthy cashmere sweater that I managed to snag on sale, this relaxed v-neck pullover is so versatile and easy to wear. I love the 23″ length and the easy fit. It layers beautifully under jackets and vests, and also looks chic on its own with a few well-placed accessories.
Dresses & Skirts
I don’t wear dresses often—and skirts even less—but these are the ones I found myself reaching for time and again this year. They’ve also been go-to pieces for several of my trips.
AG Aja Dress Side Pleat T-Shirt Dress // This was an Evereve find, but I found a few sizes left on the AG website. I love the lightweight fabric, midi length, and ruched design. It looked like the type of dress that would highlight my lumps and bumps, but it turned out to be very flattering and forgiving in that regard. It also packed well and didn’t wrinkle, which is always a bonus.
Tommy Bahama Palma A Dora Sleeveless Sheath Dress (option) // This linen-blend sheath was also one of the Top 24 In 2024. I brought the white version on my trip to Italy in 2023, and I loved it so much that I added the black one to my wardrobe last spring. The flattering silhouette and lightweight, breathable fabric make it perfect for hot-weather destinations, so it often comes with me when I travel. I’m excited to see a new split-neck version this season!
Bags & Accessories
I consider my handbag an outfit accessory, so I’m putting these categories together.
HOBO Render // This glazed leather shoulder bag with the optional crossbody strap is a great size for everyday, and the Natural color is highly versatile. I found myself carrying it a lot in the fall, and I think it will be really nice in the spring, as well.
Naghedi Nomad Hobo Bag // I made a few other handbag purchases this year, but these are probably the two I carried the most, other than my luxury designer bags. I never know if I should include those in these lists or not.
I also made a concerted effort this year to add some new fashion jewelry to my collection. These are my favorites that are still available…
LEFT: Yara Midi Skirt // RIGHT: Rails Geneva Cardigan // Victoria Emerson Rodeo Earrings
Jenny Bird Ola Bangle (also at Nordstrom) // I love the wavy design on this gold bangle, and it’s a nice quality for an accessible price point.
Marlyn Schiff Beaded Necklace with Coin Charm // This is a new-to-me brand, and Marlyn Schiff is a local artist, which is cool. I love the mix of pyrite stones and the gold plated coin. I’m also wearing the Victoria Emerson Rodeo Earrings, which I love, but they sold out.
Jenny Bird Florence Hoop Earrings // I’m such a fan of this brand, the styles are modern yet elegant, and the quality is so nice. I love how this design creates the illusion of two earrings stacked together.
Connected Cobra Bracelet Set // I also picked up this double-bangle set from Victoria Emerson, and I love the ribbed texture—it has a subtle edgy vibe that I like. I actually have both the gold and silver. The Mira Triple Chain Necklace I’m wearing here is another favorite, but sadly, it sold out.
LEFT: Gia Cowl Neck Top // RIGHT: Vince Raglan Turtleneck
Nili Lotan Jane Alligator-Embossed Leather Belt in Dark Brown // Belts are making a strong comeback this season, and they’re such a simple yet impactful way to complete an outfit. I was “influenced” by Helena (Brooklyn Blonde) to try this alligator-embossed leather belt in chocolate brown, especially since I’ve been wearing a lot of chocolate brown footwear this fall.
Nili Lotan was a new-to-me designer, but now I can’t stop noticing her under-the-radar, high-quality designs. Most of the clothing is out of my budget, but I feel like the belts are a worthwhile investment.
STYLE TIP: Match your belt to your favorite shoes for an effortless way to pull your look together.
Tom Ford Selby Sunglasses // And I love these sunglasses so much that after I lost the ones I purchased last year, I bought them again when they went on sale in the spring. Would you believe, I found the first pair a few months later under my car seat! Oh, well, now I have two. I keep one in the car and the other in my purse.
Travel Essentials
Finally, this isn’t exactly fashion-related, but I thought it might be good to mention my favorite suitcase for shorter trips. And I’ll throw in my favorite fashion travel set, while I’m at it!
LEFT: Marina Muscle Tee // Frank & Eileen Derry Signature Jeans c/o // Paul Green Hadley // RIGHT: Naghedi Nomad Hobo Bag // beek flip flops
AWAY The Bigger Carry-On // I had the Away Carry-On for several years, but having the slightly bigger capacity makes all the difference in being able to travel carry-on only for shorter trips. Now I carry this bag whenever I can.
Frank & Eileen Carmel Travel Set c/o // While this set was gifted and not exactly a purchase, it’s my favorite for warm weather trips. I brought it with me to Florida last spring and then I also wore it in Maine this summer. It’s also nice for wearing to the nail salon in the summertime, as I’m always chilly in there, and the pants roll up easily for a pedicure. (I think that’s where I was going in that photo above.)
Oh, and those beek Sunbeam Flip Flops probably should have been included in the footwear category. The quality leather levels up the plastic classic flip flop design, and I love that they have some arch support. I wore them a ton this year, and they’re also my go-to for pedicures. They finally replaced my well-loved Tory Burch Miller Sandal for that purpose.
I’d love to know, what are some of your favorite purchases from the past year?
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photos: Alison Cornell
18 Responses
Wonderful post! Thank you so much for all your hard work and for sharing your favorites. I have the Talbots jacket and love it too-can be worn spring, summer and fall here. I ordered a pair of Mother weekenders and they didn’t look right for some reason, probably need to retry another pair in store-I am pear shaped so unsure if anyone else has experienced any fit issues-curious! Shoes are always hard for me due to finicky feet; oftentimes it’s struggle to find cute well fitting shoes with arch support and wide enough toe box. Unfortunately, Vionic has never worked for me.
Ana, you’re not alone. I’ve tried many Mother jeans but the fit just isn’t right for me. I am more curvy on the bottom and in my eyes, Mother Denim make me look like I have short legs. I’ve wanted Mother Denim to work, but they just don’t. Oh well – you can’t win them all. I tend to gravitate toward Frame denim. Do other brands work for you?
Thank you for your reply! I agree I have wanted Mother to work lol-I have a pair of the Mother insiders, crop, they are ok? I do like Frame (have a grayish pair that Jo Lynne featured a few years ago) and 3 pairs of AGs. I like Kut from the Kloth. I felt like the Mother weekender drew attention to my hips–maybe just in my head lol! I do need to get into Nordstrom and just try some jeans on!
Yeah, not every denim brand works for every woman. Mother just happens to work for me, and I love the fabrics and washes too. Finicky feet are so hard! I hate it when I can’t wear all the styles I love.
Love the look of Mother jeans! I have one pair of the insiders and they are fine for spring/summer. Honestly I have enjoyed the Gap flares you featured! Yes, ugh, on finicky feet. The struggle is real and it seems like very few companies make cute comfy shoes, it’s better the past few years though-I am a huge Dansko fan, they fit me well but I don’t wear their clogs but prefer their flats and sandals and boots.
Could you please comment on the sizing for the Cooper vest and vests in general? I loved the Cooper on you and according to the size chart would wear a L but black was sold out so I ordered the Taupe. When it arrived I tried it on and it zipped perfectly but when I went to wear it open, it looked huge. I see the black is in stock in small and would like to order. It probably won’t zip but will look better open? Sorry if this is too confusing. Love your style and look forward to your daily posts.
I rarely zip a vest and don’t even usually test it out when I purchase them. I’m not sure if I can set the Cooper or not but I just wanted to look right when it’s unzipped because that’s how I wear it 99% of time I have the small so I feel like you can size down if in between.
Thanks so much for your feedback!
Jo-Lynne, did you stay true to size on the Pistola jeans or go up a size? The ones on Nordstrom website says they run small.
The ones I got at Everee run a bit big and I was able to fit comfortably in the 29. But I’ve had other pistol jeans that ran small and a different style so it might depend on the wash.
Can’t wait to receive the Cooper vest. I ordered the XS and SM to try. I know I’ll get lots of use. It probably went on sale at one point but by the time I ordered it was full price but I know I’ll wear it a lot.
Great finds and keeps for you.
It hasn’t been on a major sale. Evereve only does 10% off until they put things on Clearance. It is one of the only boutique stores I shop where I am willing to pay full price for most things. I hope you love it! Good idea to buy both and pick the best fit.
That split neck TB palm a Dora is on order! I was excited to read the narrative “you’ll love it so much you’ll want it in all the colors…. But only black is available now. Hoping I’ll see them in the TB store in Maui soon😊 that’s one item I’ll duplicate.
Yeah, I couldn’t resist ordering it too, even though I have the other one. I love a more open neckline so I want to try it.
It’s fun to see what purchases made your top list. For me, my favorite jeans/pants purchases are the Nili Lotan Shon, Frame Le Palazzo wide leg, Ruti On The Loose and The Wideish Pants and finally the Izzie Pull On Barell corduroy’s from Anthropolgie. I also lived in the On The Go skirt from Ruti. For sweaters, I bought the JCrew Fair Isle wide mockneck sweater, The Bennett classic button down shirt from Anthro, many white t-shirts from Uniqlo, and a BP button V neck relaxed sweater from Nordstrom. Favorite shoes are Adidas Nora, Beek Gallito shearling slides. I currently waiting for a delivery from P448 for the Monza tennis shoes in bright yellow. I bought a Quince Crescent Woven crossbody bag which is fantastic! Like you, I live in jeans and sweaters. I didn’t buy many tops this year becuase what I have many from previous years that still work great. Most of my purchases were higher end, but there weren’t many and I wear them a lot! Have a safe New Years.
“Most of my purchases were higher end, but there weren’t many and I wear them a lot!” – That’s key! Cost per wear is what matters. HNY!
I agree-higher end does last longer, years in fact, and I am trying to not buy as much and focus on quality and things that I will wear often. Lately, I have been taking stuff to the consignment store-I think in the next few weeks I will really either donate or take to the shop and focus on finally organizing my closet. I must add lower price alternatives do last as well–I have several items from Gap Factory and they do hold up very well!
Great posts, loved the fashion fails and faves. Unfortunately I also bought the Vince smocked dress in creme no less and still haven’t worn it. It feels so bare… I’ve bought several dressy cardigans and jackets to wear with it but just can’t pull the trigger.