I'm a Picky Fashion Editor—12 Chic Buys I'll Be Adding to My Wardrobe in 2024

As an editor at Who What Wear, I typically spend a lot of time looking at new-in products, so I thought it would be handy to have this space where I'm able share with you the very best pieces I come across and the shopping picks I'm personally adding to my wish list.
This month, like a lot of us, I'm finding myself looking for a fresh start. With the onset of a new year, I'm on the hunt for easy items that can breathe life into my existing wardrobe for the whole year ahead. Think classic items with a twist—a tailored coat in supple chocolate leather, snake-print trousers that I'll dress down with T-shirts and chunky knits, or the perfect roomy tote bag (because who has time for tiny bags in 2024?) in a luxurious tan suede. I've been working on my capsule for a good few years now, so I don't need to stock up on much, but there are inevitably a few timeless pieces in the new in sections, across both high street and designer brands, that have caught my eye to elevate my current basics.
Denim is one area I do need an update in, and for 2024 I'm planning to invest in a pair of smart dark indigo jeans—ARKET's Cloud style has come highly recommended from my fashion friends so they're currently top of my list. They have a loose slouch which keeps them looking effortlessly cool. On the other end of the spectrum I'm also being drawn to creamy white denim this year, and Reformation's Val jeans will fill that gap in my collection. I won't be saving these until spring as you'd expect though—they look even fresher on cold days layered up with cosy textures like leather, cashmere and suede.
Whether you're looking to invest in some key new-in buys for the season ahead or for some inspiration to "shop" your existing wardrobe, keep scrolling to see what a fashion editor is actually adding to basket right now. These are the 12 items on my current 2024 wish list that I believe are really worthy of your time and money.
Shop My 2024 Shopping Picks:
2024 continues to be all about the retro-style trainer, and while there's an option to follow in Scandi girls' footsteps and go bold and bright, in order for them to fit in with my neutral capsule wardrobe I'll be replacing my scuffed up black and white Adidas Sambas with these chic navy alternatives.
The V-neck knit is back (thankfully, because I'm not a huge fan of roll necks!). This classic breton will get so much wear.
While my style is quite classic, I do have a not-so-secret obsession with western details. Fringed jackets, cowboy boots—you name it. This shirt is a nod to my favourite trend, but it's polished enough to still feel timeless and grown-up (a key aim for my wardrobe this year).
You could say I'm an outerwear addict. I just think coats make the smartest investments because you get so much wear out of them (especially living in England). As a stylist, they're also my trick for making a boring outfit feel incredibly chic, and this slouchy oversized trench will do just that with any of your existing looks that are feeling a little tired—from smart office outfits to relaxed weekend wares.
I know it's a risky play, especially if you're clumsy with your morning coffee like I am, but IMO there's nothing that can freshen up or elevate a wardrobe better than cream tailoring. Pair this blazer with your favourite jeans, or go all out with the full suit and silky shirt for a Rosie Huntington-Whiteley-approved tonal affair. Maybe just hop in a cab on rainy days.
These may not feel like a classic at first glance (snake-print leather, you say?), but in my experience animal prints like this can work like a neutral in your closet. They never really date, and if you simply swap them in for your overworked jeans, they become surprisingly easy to wear. These fun trousers in particular will add major style points to a simple white shirt or T-shirt. Plus, you can dress them up or down with trainers or a heeled boot and blazer. See? They're actually incredibly versatile.
See My Previous Shopping Picks:
Adding a pop of red to winter outfits feels both fresh and completely classic. I'll be following Kendall Jenner and Jennifer Lawrence's lead with this thin knit that's easy to layer under blazers and coats, as well as being perfect for tying around shoulders.
They may seem "out there" but silver leather trousers come back every year. I find they're a really easy way for a minimalist like me to add some fun into my wardrobe as they pair so well with all my existing neutrals. I always wear mine with a white T-shirt and black blazer—it's a perfect low-key party outfit that can take you from day to night.
I've become obsessed with finding the perfect Mary Jane ballet flats since seeing so many chic celebs wearing the style. These are certainly an investment, but I've only heard amazing things about the fit and comfort. Zara, Massimo Dutti and & Other Stories all have high street options too, though.
Up Next: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week

Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her top-selling column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily interned at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she managed the fashion team and travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.
-
3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel Stale
Foolproof solutions.
-
I Can't Stand It When People Follow These Fashion Rules to a T
It's time to break the rules.
-
10 Style Tips That Will Make You Look Rich This Summer
Number four is already trending.
-
35 Stunning Wedding Guest Dresses From Reformation, Nordstrom, and Revolve
From garden ceremonies to black-tie affairs.
-
Brand Layering: The Art of Knowing Which Labels to Pair With Each Other
The ultimate styling hack.
-
Trust Me—Buy These 22 Things
Here we go again.
-
The Simple Styling Trick That Turns Pencil Skirts From Corporate to Chic in 5 Seconds or Less
It's completely free and ready to copy.
-
Serious Question: How Isn't Every Single New COS Item Out of Stock Already?
I'm actually shocked.