Ever look at your closet and think to yourself, What did I even wear before I bought this piece? For the fashion set, there’s at least one piece (such as a basic staple or a statement bag) that is integral to personal style. Of course, what constitutes a great buy depends on the person. Some people live to follow the trends of the moment, while others prefer a good capsule wardrobe. So, what was actually worth buying this year? In order to satisfy my own curiosity, I asked 15 stylish women to share their best fashion buys of 2021. Consider this Spotify Wrapped for shopping.
WHO: Mel Mondigo. How would you describe your personal style? . Minimal chic.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? These Maryana boots are what I reach for when I’m wearing a dress or a skirt. They add a different flare to the look, and they’re quite comfortable considering the heel height.
One of the best things I bought (and consider a must-have piece for anyone) is a tailored coat. It instantly makes any look polished and put together.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I will be adding more tailored blazers and trousers to my closet next year for sure.
WHO: Remonia Morrison. How would you describe your personal style? My personal style is casual chic with a lot of neutral tones, however, I have been incorporating a pop of bold color here and there, and I love to wear pieces that make me feel powerful—like a suit or a structured trench coat.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? The Frankie Shop’s Bea Pleated pants are the best-fitting trousers I own. It is well-tailored with an excellent waist-to-hip ratio. It isn’t easy to find off-the-rack trousers that perfectly fit my waist and hips. It’s a classic piece that I will wear over and over again as the years go by.
I also swear by a classic black trench coat. It’s something every girl needs in her closet, and it’s a staple you can wear for years to come.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I love ’90s fashion, so I am keen on adding more miniskirt suits to my wardrobe and trying out tennis dresses and skirts in the new year.
WHO: Jana Rose Carrero . How would you describe your personal style? . My style is effortless chic, and at times, it can be playful with an edge.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? My Bottega Veneta Mini Jodie bag was by far one of the best purchases I made all year.
I also found myself living in flatform flip-flops—they’re definitely worth the hype.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I’ll be investing in the romantic draped pieces we saw from brands like Jaquemus or the jaw-dropping deconstructed pieces we saw from Ottolinger and ACNE Studios.
WHO: Naomi Parris. How would you describe your personal style? . I would describe my style as ’90s-inspired. I love to mix statement pieces with timeless pieces.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? This piece was worth every penny—I mean, do you see this dress?! It speaks for itself. I’m so grateful to support and collect timeless pieces from Black-owned brands.
Even though I’m not super big on buying designer pieces with the logo plastered over the product, these Gucci slides have become one of my favorite purchases of the year.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? For 2022, I’ll be investing in more draped pieces because I’m always down for a dramatic moment.
WHO: Megan Furber. How would you describe your personal style? . My everyday style is casual, but I’ll never leave the house without a statement piece. I tend to invest in statement pieces because a pair of sparkly Saks Potts pants are just as timeless as a black blazer.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? This bag is the definition of small but mighty. Everyone laughed when I purchased this bag, saying how I would never use it (or fit anything in it) and how they were wrong. It has traveled the country with me, adding a certain je ne sais quoi to surprisingly every look.
I searched nationwide for this Ganni shirt, and I’m pleased to report she was worth it. This is truly the prime day-to-night piece. Whether it’s left open or fully buttoned, this shirt does the most.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? In 2022, I cannot wait for the rise of the back-to-school trend. I have a couple of Ganni knits in my collection that scream this trend, and I’m looking forward to living in an oversize collar shirt and pleated skirt until spring.
WHO: Chiara Perera. How would you describe your personal style? . My personal style is classic. I always joke and say that I dress like a granddad who turns into a drag queen at night.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? These shoes are the best. After almost a year and a half of not wearing heels, my feet have become a little weak, so these beauties came to the rescue! The prettiest flats make a world of difference during the day and, of course, look fabulous at night.
I do not know why I did not have this bag in my life sooner. It is so practical; it is the best running around town bag with your hands-free. It is so easy to style and also so fabulous!
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I am excited to get into the maxi trend. I have been loving the longer hem, as it makes everything feel more fabulous. If you, like me, love the Olsen twins, then this is the easiest way to emulate their style.
WHO: Richlove Rockson . How would you describe your personal style? . Casual with a dash of elegance.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? This year, green has dominated my wardrobe! This two-piece set from ASOS is not only very comfy but also elegant.
Let me tell you, brown leather pants are one of the best things you can buy. They’ve become an essential item in my wardrobe this past year on account of the fact they’re so versatile.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? Spring/summer 2022 showed us that colors are here to stay! I will try to broaden my wardrobe with more colorful pieces.
WHO: Rawan Thaher . How would you describe your personal style? . I would describe my style as versatile and colorful. I don’t limit myself to a particular aesthetic when it comes to dressing; I’ll wear whatever I want as long as it makes me feel good.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? A faux-leather trench coat is worth every penny. I love this piece because it gives off an edgy feel and has endless styling possibilities.
Prada’s Re-Nylon Re-Edition 2000 mini bag was the It bag of the year for me. I love the simplicity of the shape, fabric, and size. I’ve always been a big fan of shoulder bags, so naturally, this one was a must-buy for me, and it did not disappoint.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? It’s great to see that bold colors such as saffron will make an appearance in 2022, as I think it’s such a great way to express yourself. While I’m not a fan of red, I can see myself gravitating to pieces with bold colors, whether an accessory or head-to-toe look.
WHO: Diane K. How would you describe your personal style? . My personal style is constantly evolving based on my feelings. Lately, I have been into “rich auntie vibes,” trying to mix statement pieces with chic and timeless pieces.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? This Balenciaga handbag has been my dream bag for two years, and recently I had the chance to buy it on sale. It’s a masterpiece that can be worn with just about everything.
I love H&M. Lately, they’ve elevated their offerings regarding style and fabrics. I’m obsessed with their boots—they’re the perfect everyday staple.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I will definitely crush on the ’90s style–inspired pieces we saw on the S/S 22 runway. I also love the micro-miniskirt trend that is making a comeback.
WHO: Lina Safi. How would you describe your personal style? . My style could be defined as minimal streetwear. I’m always wearing a mix of tomboy-inspired and classic pieces.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? Without a doubt, every time the temperature drops, I wear leather pants. I love how versatile leather pants are and how instantly it makes your look seem so stylish!
A coat trend we’ve seen bubbling up a lot this year is quilted jackets. I invested in a few smaller and long ones and love both of them—they’re the perfect staple for the season.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? Honestly, despite graduating from college last year, watching the new season of Gossip Girl has me wanting to wear more the back-to-school wear to reminisce about the good old times during school. I would love to style an outfit with Lacoste’s polo shirts, sweaters, and vests.
WHO: Nicole Omuteku. How would you describe your personal style? . I would describe my style as sophisticated and modern. I own a lot of pieces with structure and clean lines.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? This bag is my latest obsession. I use the checkered strap to add interest to my outfits.
I love to layer with pieces like this!
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I’m going to start investing more in statement pieces. For years, I’ve had the approach to investing more in basics that you wear most often. But lately, my style consists of more exciting pieces.
WHO: Kathryn Zahorak. How would you describe your personal style? Retro, flirty, natural.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? Leaning into the shoulder-bag trend, I fell for this Staud bag when I saw it online. The color and hardware paired well with the bold colors and prints of 2021.
L.A. brand Ciao Lucia pieces make me feel like I am on a Mediterranean holiday. I bought this dress for my engagement party but will wear it again when I need a little romance in my life.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I feel like suiting is here to stay—we all love the ease of a matching set. So I’ll definitely keep investing in it.
WHO: Shrutika Gavhane . How would you describe your personal style? . My personal style is a hybrid of minimal and street style–inspired.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? Sneakers are always worth investing in, and these Air Jordans did not disappoint. I love how comfortable the shoes are, and I’m obsessed with the colorway on these shoes.
I’ve been living in sweatsuit sets all year long. They’re the perfect thing to wear for a quick coffee run as well as relaxing days at home.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I’m obsessed with all the shorter hemlines we saw on S/S 22 runways. I will definitely be investing in a good miniskirt next year.
WHO: Tiffany Daniels . How would you describe your personal style? . I would describe my style as an eclectic mix of boho-chic. I wear lots of patterns, texture, color, and artistic statement pieces.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? I’ve been in love with colorful leather pieces lately; there’s something so effortlessly chic about them. I’ve worn this blazer in more ways than I am proud of, and I’ve only had it for a few weeks. It is a closet staple and worth every penny!
I live in a walkable city, so any footwear that strikes a balance between comfort and style is a winner in my eyes. I have been wearing platform Chelsea boots with everything from jeans to midi dresses!
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I predict that I will be investing in more pieces with bright and bold colors. I love all things neutral/pastel-toned, but I think bold hues are on-trend now and well into 2022, so I can get on board!
WHO: Justyna Czerniak. How would you describe your personal style? . I would describe my style as elegant, but I’m not afraid to go a bit wild sometimes and have fun with my choices.
Can you share two things you bought this year that you feel were worth every penny? While I love how there are so many great pieces in the world, for me, moderation and simplicity are always my driving forces when shopping. I love buying timeless pieces like this blazer, that I can wear for years to come.
Trust me when I say, there’s no better way to spend your money than on a tweed jacket. I wear mine all the time.
Are there any pieces or trends you predict you’ll invest in for 2022? I saw Prada’s silver Cleo bag during my trip to Paris, and I almost bought it. It’s now sold out, so I’m waiting for it to come back so I can invest in it for 2022. I have a feeling statement baguettes aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Next: 19 Stylish Readers Share What They’re Buying for Winter
