Every year a selection of pieces catch fire with the fashion set, becoming highly coveted sartorial phenomenons that gain cult status quickly and often sell out in a flash. On the last day of 2016, we’re reflecting on the year’s most buzzed-about wares and accessories. Here, our editors share the buys they’ve been endlessly pining for. Score them for yourself before it’s too late.
2016 Fashion Obsessions
"I'm not a flat shoe kind of gal, so Gucci's heeled loafers were my must-have of the year. I coveted them for months, and since I splurged I basically haven't taken them off."
—Sari Tuschman, Editor at Large
"I have a newfound obsession with statement bomber jackets and this Stella McCartney piece was the one that started it all for me. It may seem too sporty for some people, but pairing it with cropped jeans and ankle boots demonstrates its versatility."
—Andrea Navarro, Associate Beauty Editor
"This bag was on the arm of all manner of editors, bloggers and fashion enthusiasts this year—I'd be lying if I said I wasn't jealous every time I spotted it on Instagram (which was a lot, unfortunately for me). While it's certainly been a trendy silhouette for 2016, I'm sure I'll still be looking to get my hands on one in 2017. (Cut to me scouring every resale site known to man looking for a deal!)"
—Kristi Mikesky, Managing Editor
"I'd say jeans make up 50% of my closet, which means I thoroughly appreciate when someone reinvents the classic staple. Virgil Abloh at Off-White reimagined denim in a fresh yet respectful way. (He even worked on a collaboration with Levi's to learn about the dyeing and construction process.) Thus, it wasn't surprising to see his cult jeans on every fashion insider this year."
—Nicky Deam, Editorial Director
"It seemed like every fashion girl had a pair of Rebecca de Ravenel Les Bonbons earrings this year. While they surely make a statement, the oversize shape is timeless and perfect with sleek hair for effortless glam. I'm still angling for a silk thread pair in black."
—Laura Lajiness, Fashion Editor
"I was smitten when I first spotted this bamboo carryall on blogger Chriselle Lim over the summer. It became one of the most buzzed-about handbags on Instagram, sported by celebs like Jessica Alba and Ciara—and best of all, it costs no more than your monthly Brazilian."
—Samantha McDonald, News Editor
"I've completely fallen in love with Ellery this year for its eye-catching sleeves, and this off-the-shoulder top with cascading ruffles was literally on every street-style star during Fashion Month. This piece seemed to kick off the trend of statement arms (from bell to balloon silhouettes) that's positioned to only get bigger in 2017."
—Amy Lee, Associate Fashion Editor
"I was a serious ballerina for the first 20 years of my life, so I love any piece that allows me to be fashion-forward and nostalgic for that time. Miu Miu's fantastic take on the ballet flat is the cooler, edgier version of the classic silhouette."
—Erin Nicole, Lifestyle Editor
