When I look back at my wardrobe wear count at the end of each season, I always like to look back and review my “top 10” from the previous year. It’s always fun to see if these pieces still work for me now, or if newer versions outrank them in my wardrobe hierarchy.
In a way, I’ve been putting off reviewing my most worn items for summer 2024. It’s still hot in Sydney. Close to or above 30 degrees Celsius most days, making the first two weeks of autumn feel more like an extension of summer. This seems to reflect a change in seasonal weather patterns that I’ve noticed; a cooler change later in the year (April/May) with the weather starting to warm up around the end of August to early September.
I’m wondering if this is detrimental to my seasonal data collection? Should I use my own seasonal reference points? It seems to be the case that autumn and winter are just a blip on the annual calendar, while summer eats up most of my records.
Or, perhaps more logically, it makes sense to take them as they are. Mind you, my warm weather wardrobe should far outweigh the wardrobe space reserved for cosy autumn/winter pieces.
In any case, food for thought. Let’s talk about the pieces I wear most often in the summer.
1.Most worn dresses
Sezane Sabrina Mini Dress & Pippa Dress
I’ve been wearing these once a week since adding them to my wardrobe – Sabrina and Pippa by Sezane.What works for me is the wrap detail at the waist, which I find really flattering. Although the simple cotton stretch fabric is the same, the two silhouettes are very different. the Sabrina is miniature and short, with exaggerated sleeves and a cinched waist. Pippa, on the other hand, has classic sleeves with cuff detailing and a long skirt with side slits. The black is very practical, but I think I might expand and add coloured options next spring/summer.
2.Most worn shorts
Denim Shorts
It’s definitely made it into my wardrobe hall of fame so far; the Everlane A word denim shorts. Still one of my favourite pieces in my wardrobe and they wear and wash so well. The high waist combined with the wide leg opening works for me. For anyone considering purchasing this pair, I would recommend going a size smaller as they run large in the waist. Another pair in high rotation is from JAG. White denim with clashing stitching, the fabric is nice and soft and comfortable to wear. Despite my desire to wear more fitted clothes in terms of cut and fabrication, I usually come back to reality every summer as my denim shorts always dominate.
3.Most worn shoes
Minimalist Flats | AERE, Everlane Day Gloves and Flat Ballet Flats, YSL
A few years ago, this wasn’t even a contest. My YSL black tribute was probably the one I wore the longest. But by summer 2024, the four styles were fairly evenly distributed; these came from AERE’s lace-up sandals, my Everlane everyday gloves, Everlane ballet flats, and the YSL tribute. As chic as these tributes are, I’ve noticed that as I’ve gotten older and had kids, my feet seem to have “opened up” a bit. I’ve always thought they were best suited for regular/narrow feet, but it’s never felt more true than it does now that I usually have a chance of getting blisters every time I wear them. One thing I’m really starting to realise about shoes is that I’ve always gravitated towards simple, classic styles. I love quirky things, but it has to have a neutral element to make it suitable for every day wear.
4.Most worn tops
lack Tank | DISSH, Everlane, Madewell, Marle and Tibi
While a very old spaghetti strap tank from Everlane is my go-to top, this summer’s trend is instantly recognisable. I prefer black cotton tank tops to anything else. For me, it’s become a back-up measure. When I go to daycare and need something simple …… I reach for a black tank. When I want an effortlessly chic outfit? An all black look with a black tank. Despite participating in some pretty intense wardrobe planning at the beginning of the year, this is one of those pieces in my wardrobe that I’m happy to have lots and lots of multiples of.
5.Most Frequently Carried Bags
Chic crossbody bag
Ending with my oldest bag. I tend to cycle through my bags several times throughout the season. But generally, I’ll favour one or two. This summer, it was this sweet perforated tote from Karen Walker and my Sezane Claude bag. Similar, but different. I love the subtle texture of the KW bag and appreciate the internal clips that keep it feeling quite secure despite the wide opening at the top of the bag. Then there’s the Sezane Claude, because it feels indestructible and adds a lovely texture and shine to an outfit. What do they have in common? They allow me to keep my hands free. As much as I love the look of a shoulder bag, it’s not always the most practical option. These have the perfect combination of style and function.