Despite my best efforts, I am a 34928-tabs-open-at-all-times kinda gal. The alternative might mean banishing any fun finds to purgatory, i.e. my "favorites" (yeah, right) folder. The risk of that seven-layer chocolate cake recipe, DIY hair mask, and article about the health benefits of a nightly glass of red wine (important!) never seeing the light of day again is too high.
My Instagram saves are a different story. Here, there is a method to my madness. Call me Dame Dewey Decimal. I found most of my wedding vendors, brush up on my French, and discover new beauty hacks via long scrolling sessions.
Having all this inspiration at my fingertips has also helped break me out of a closet rut. I've been guilty of "hating everything in my closet" more times than I can count, when I'm really just a reconfiguration or single item away from a whole new vibe. Scroll along for the 'fits that caught my eye—and that you'll hopefully be inspired to test-drive in the New Year. (You know the saying—new year, new…)
Everyday Comfort
Being California-based, my daily uniform generally consists of well-worn jeans and an easy tank. I'm perpetually on the hunt for holy-grail denim and new necklines to spice things up. Nina looks perfectly at ease in her scoop-neck and straight-leg jeans. If only artistic talent was an "add to cart" item.
LNA tanks take up a sizable amount of real estate in my closet. I love how flattering this V-neckline is, and the 5% spandex blend keeps it from feeling restrictive.
These tanks are on mega sale so there’s no excuse not to stock up. Thank me later.
No denim dive is complete without mentioning the OG. These Levi’s are a great length and only get better with each wear.
Zara jeans have not been missing recently. Don’t sleep on this wallet-friendly opportunity to update your denim.
With so much denim saturating the market, finding an every day pair can feel daunting. With their wide variety of sizing, length and washes, Everlane has something for everyone.
Layered Luxury
Layering a silky slip dress under a cozy knit cardigan always makes me feel like a librarian with a double life. Perfect when you've got a good book at 4 but a cocktail party at 6.
This merino cardigan is lightweight but will keep you properly warm. A good one to have on hand if you're perpetually cold (like yours truly).
This gorgeous chocolate hue is truly a feast for the eyes.
Extend the earth tone look with a pair of suede cream or light brown boots.
This dress became an absolute sensation on TikTok, and after one try, it's easy to see why. Buttery soft and beyond flattering.
The Aviator
A '70s-inspired look that translates perfectly to 2022. Fresh, contemporary, and flawless from head to toe. No notes.
These oversize aviators made from lightweight bio-acetate will jazz up any look, vintage-inspired or not.
A boxy-cut leather jacket is less fussy than a blazer. Bonus points for being faux.
A tobacco-colored option with a slightly nipped in waist.
LBBD (Little Black Backless Dress)
I've been obsessed with low-back dresses ever since discovering French actress Mireille Darc (if the name doesn't ring a bell, look her up). Pairing it with a pointy-toe boot lends the whole look a glamorous witchy energy.
As the name suggests, this daring gown pairs a low-dipped back with a high back slit without sacrificing elegance.
This high-neck silk number comes in a variety of shades, making it a perfect bridesmaid dress for anyone on wedding party duty.
If you like the look but crave some color. This gorgeous orange is a visual shot of Vitamin C.
The metal details on these make them feel like jewelry for the feet.
Peekaboo Tights
Peekaboo tights are an exciting way to show off a little skin in colder months. Layering it under a big black coat or fur only amps up the glamour quotient.
Pair this houndstooth pair with spiky-heel pumps for an air of sophistication.
The vertical lines will only elongate your gams.
It's faux fur, it's reversible, it's a yes from me.
Waistcoat Dressing
I’m a sucker for a waistcoat. Having a well-tailored one on hand is a great alternative to a plain tank or tee. (Also, Santa, if you’re reading this, I’m putting this Chanel bike basket on my Christmas wish list, thanks.)
This loose-fitting vest feels like something Sienna Miller would call a staple.
Love the crop on this one, and the oatmeal color is universally flattering.
A pink alternative, because why not?
A Lydia Tár Approved Look
I've been thinking about Lydia Tár since seeing Tár, in part because of Cate Blanchett's tour de force performance but equally because of her incredible wardrobe. I could see her poring over the piano in this menswear-inspired outfit. Plus Neelam's gorgeous curls are a good reminder to give my blow-dryer a break.
Layering a sweater-vest in lieu of a conventional sweater is a fun twist on a traditional look. Plus, this might be a more practical option if you live somewhere with more temperate winters.
Lydia would've stomped all over the competition in these lug-sole loafers.
A wallet-friendlier (but equally chic) version.
Drape beautifully, come in two lengths, and they're on sale. C'mon!
Business Up Top, Party on Bottom
The white button-down is giving Sharon Stone at the ’98 Oscars. The zebra-print micro mini is something Paris Hilton would’ve thrown on before hitting Les Deux. A perfect nod to Y2K that's not too on the nose.
When it comes to a crisp, well-cut button-down, J.Crew is hard to beat. This one comes in a variety of fits (but size up if you want to achieve that oversize look).
This is the skirt equivalent of that friend who drags you on a wild night out (when you thought you'd be staying in).
A sweater-skirt option. (It is winter, after all.)
Next up: Decoding YSK Fashion Trends: Here's What Actually Looks Good 20 Years Later.