2011 hasn’t really been a big year for me in terms of shopping.
Before you shoot me down for crimes against blogging, that’s not entirely true. I have made an awful lot of wedding related purchases.
But pure, unadulterated retail therapy, where you just shop because… well, because you can, has been few and far between.
So picking out my favourite sartorial acquisitions for the year was relatively easy. In 2011 I have tended to favour rare investments rather than vast hauls from Primark or H&M, and what I have bought has been worn repeatedly, and in countless different ways. Here’s my top three…
#1 The Little Blue Dress
Easily one of the biggest splurges of the year, I find it hard to describe how much I love this frock. From the moment I slipped it on in the changing room, I knew we would make many happy memories together. So far it’s already had two outings this year, and I’m mentally wearing it to numerous events in 2012. I adore the fit and quality of Reiss clothing generally, and I feel the cut of this particular dress does great things for my figure. You may be interested to know it’s currently in the sale here.
#2 The Kimono Top
Perhaps the hardest working item in my wardrobe this year, I have worn this top to death! For me, it works equally well for day as it does for evening and pairing it with a simple jersey top, skinny jeans and ballet pumps has become my fool proof no-brainer outfit for those mornings when I just can’t be bothered to agonise over my choice of outfit. The light, billowy sleeves and draping fabric also give me the opportunity to waft, and we all need a little wafting at times, no? I’m determined to add more kimono tops to my wardrobe in the near future. Currently lusting after a couple in the Warehouse sale here and here.
#3 The Zara Blouse
As a mother to a particularly grubby 2 year old boy this top should ring plenty of alarm bells. A sheer cream blouse? Surely that’s just a chocolate/baked bean/jam smearing accident waiting to happen? What can I say? I’m a risk taker. Besides, making it through the day grime-free in this top gives me a deep sense of achievement. I love the cropped sleeves and the ruffles and the fact it goes with everything.. skirts, jeans, heels, flats.. everything. Zara excels at multi-tasking items like this, which is why I’d love to counter the simplicity of this cream number with the busy print of this floral blouse.
So… what were your top three fashion purchases in 2011, and what are you hoping to get your hands on in 2012?
Loveaudrey xxx
Am so checking out the blue dress in the sale! All 3 items are gorgeous. Where are your jeans from in the second photo? Xx
I loved the kimono top so much I bought it myself. Unfortunately it was only available in Tall sizes and I’m far far far from tall, but it looks nice anyway. Love the blue dress especially!
Alas,,, I rarely buy clothes but I had another kimono for ASOS for Christmas which I love and this is perhaps one of my favourite items… http://www.dorothyperkins.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33053&storeId=12552&productId=4224282&langId=-1&categoryId=&searchTerm=red%20tyck&pageSize=20
xxx
All gorgeous, but that blue dres…wow!! xx
Great post. I particularly love the kimono, so pretty! I may do a post like this myself, always interesting to read about other people’s favourite outfits x
You look amazing lovely – those are really great staple pieces that just look so timeless.
Tx
@Daisy Be patient with the dress. It’s a gamble but I reckon it’ll get reduced even more in time. The jeans are Topshop Baxters. I love them and own about 3 pairs!
@Charlie Haha! I bet you can waft even more in the Tall version! Love the red tunic. Need to see this other kimono too, I’m so keen to get another one.
@Georgie Aw thank you.. it’s a fabulous dress, it really is!
@A Lauren to Herself Oooh yes you must, I’d love to read it!
@Lion Loving Tiger Thank you lovely. I def lean towards buying more classic things as I can’t afford to constantly update my wardrobe.
Loveaudrey xxx
Love all of them – I think that dress is really fab though! Well worth the investment! x
You look so lovely in all of them! For me, 2011 was all about the black peg leg trousers, black polka dot skater dress and grey nordic knit jumper for me….they’re the hardest worked items for me atm….
2012 I’m determined for it to be all about pretty blouses, even prettier dresses and luxurious knits….that capsule wardrobe I’ve been wanting forever I’m determined to amass this year!!
You have some Really nice things, I love the kimono top, its so pretty, happy new year 🙂 x