4 Pieces of Clothing I'm Happy I Bought In 2022
Shopping for longevity.
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A year in review often feels trite and even a little self-indulgent. On the other hand, perhaps it can be an exercise in mindfulness – using the calendar as a map to reflect on what did and didn't work. Instead of landmarks, though, my map has clothes marking pivotal moments and defining which turns I took. In the past, I would shop without thinking about that item's future, leading to piles of things I hated. I'm changing and shopping way less, but still add pieces here and there. Now, it's just for things that I can wear forever.
Vintage Chanel Sweater Top: TheRealReal
The year started on a low-key note. I didn't wear a New Year's Eve outfit, and I didn't go to any parties. One thing I did was take an author photo for my book jacket a week after the holiday. After a few months (I know) of searching for the right idea, I landed on a blue vintage Chanel top that I found on The Real Real for $125. I wanted the image to project both seriousness and optimism, which this particular hue did. The sweater was also sleeveless. For so many years, I hid the burn scars on my arms, but they are, in part, what led me to fashion – I wanted to show them.
Sure, it's just a top, but it marked a new chapter for me.
Embroidered Tights: Wolford
Over the years, I've gone through phases with dresses. Sometimes tights and skirts are the only things I feel comfortable wearing, and others, I can't believe I own them. This year was a tights and dresses year. I think I needed to push myself out of baggy pandemic work-from-home jeans or something. I have plenty of black tights (most with runs in them), but I wanted something that could make an outfit. One day before a work event, I stopped by Wolford and saw a pair of sheer rose-embroidered tights that were exactly what I was looking for. They don't have any sort of unique anti-run technology, but the quality is great. I'm a mess, and they've been fine so far.
Running Sneakers: ON Running
I have become one of those people who runs and doesn't shut up about it. I annoy myself sometimes. After recently dealing with a little injury that sidelined me from my newfound favorite activity, I've become overly aware of how much it changed my life. Of course, no runner is complete without the look, especially the sneakers. After trying out a few pairs, I started wearing ON running. They changed the game for me, taking my body over 1200 miles this year. The problem with running shoes is that you can't wear them beyond a certain mileage, and can seriously hurt yourself if you're not careful (I learned this the hard way). What I like about ON is that they have a subscription program for recycling, so you can swap out your sneakers and get a pair made from old shoes.
Black Pants: Mara Hoffman
Somehow, after years of working in restaurants with black pants as my uniform, I looked in my wardrobe and couldn't find any (it’s probably for the best). For my book tour, I wanted a pair to style different looks with them - including that Chanel top. Immediately, I looked to Mara Hoffman, a brand whose quality and ethics match the incredible style. The pants are comfortable but elevated - and I’ve worn them with every top in my closet.