The 5 Items Our UK and US Editors Have on Their 2021 Wish Lists

Something I’m often asked is, who do editors look to for fashion advice? Naturally, I rely on my friends just like anyone else—they’re more honest than a mirror and have saved me from buying things in a moment of pure sartorial lust that, in hindsight, I know I would have regretted. Then, of course, there are other editors; my colleagues whose tastes I trust implicitly. In fact, at the start of any new season, I’m always keen to learn which pieces have caught their eye—it is, after all, an editor’s job to tell you which buys are the best.

So, I decided to do just that—ask Who What Wear’s editors from both sides of the Atlantic which items are on their new season wish lists. As a treat, I’ve shared their suggestions with you below. Essentially a master document featuring every noteworthy garment or accessory on the market right now, you’ll have to move quickly, as I can guarantee these pieces are going to fly. 

I was already partial to a knitted co-ord many moons before this year’s cozy combos came in. I think the trend will continue well into next summer, and I’ll be making the most of what’s available because I know I’ll wear the look for many more seasons to come. 

This set is my current favorite, but I get the feeling there will be stiff competition over the next few months…

I wanted these shoes A LOT when they first launched in the summer of 2018. I missed out and have sorely regretted it ever since, only being able to track down secondhand options about 3 sizes too big. So I think I need to seize the day and buy these ahead of life going back to normal and holidays, weddings, and events requiring such lovely sandals.

On the flip side, I really could do with something comfy and chic to wear when WFH. I’ve been brainwashed by the internet and simply must have these. 

I’m always on the lookout for interesting black tops, as I have so many pairs of patterned trousers and quite a few jazzy skirts. This bell-sleeved number from Mother Of Pearl ticks all the boxes, plus it’s sustainable. 

Square frames are just about the only type of sunglasses I wear now (as well as a big trend for 2021), and this smokey blue color is unique yet versatile.

I’ve noticed cut-out sweaters gaining steam on my feed lately, so it’s only a matter of time until it’s completely everywhere. My & Other Stories knits last forever which is really amazing considering the price.

Who knew hats looked so good with sweatpants? Bucket hats were huge about a year ago but for today it’s all about making it fresh with a little added detail. I’m pretty sure my Brooklyn friends are responsible for the red hat selling out like hotcakes, so I’m trying to snatch this one in the black and white color-way before it’s gone, too.

By Far just brings it every time when it comes to their boots, and I’m super impressed with this muted pastel shade of yellow. I’m so ready to kick my basic black boots to the curb now.

I recently wrote a fashion story asking my coworkers for their favorite jeans of all time, and a style from Agolde popped up more than once. I spotted them in leather on Shopbop’s new arrivals page, and I’m so excited to try them—right in time for winter!

Next spring there is a real move towards joyful, feel-good dressing—and the color that really stood out to me across all collections is this vibrant, bright pink. I’d wear this slip dress to rescheduled summer weddings or ideally on a beach at some point in 2021.

A second-skin top one of the only—and best—things I bought in 2020. It’s so easy to wear with jeans or midi skirts, and thanks to designers like Prada and Miu Miu it is poised to be one of the key buys in 2021.

If you can’t tell, I’m really craving summer right now, as I compile this list in the pitch black at 4:35 pm. Classic beach bags were seen all over the SS21 collections, and I’ve been eyeing up a Loewe basket bag for years.

I’ve seen this top all over my Instagram feed, and think it looks so beautiful and elevated—and I’d wear it with relaxed straight-leg jeans.

I can’t afford these—but they are my dream shoes that I would love to own in 2021. I love the chunky sole and back-to-school feel of the silver clasp—to me they are perfect.

Bags are a piece I tend to invest in since they stay in my closet forever and get so much wear. Prada’s new Cleo bag is the one I’m eyeing right now. I especially love that it takes inspiration from the brand’s iconic shapes from the ’90s.

I just love the draped, wrapped-up effect of this sweater from Frankie Shop.

Though this may not be the most practical purchase, I can’t stop thinking about the micro miniskirts that were everywhere on the S/S 21 runways. I love the idea of pairing one with a tee and boxy blazer.

More and more, I’ve been shopping for vintage pieces so always have my eye out for a great new find. This ring combines my love of all things Chanel with my current silver jewelry obsession.

These sneakers are sitting in my shopping cart right now.

Do I really need another quilted coat? Well, technically, no. But, as I’m spending a ridiculous amount of time outside, I know I will wear this. Plus, it’s very similar to the Prada version I’ve seen but on a more affordable level.

I can’t get enough of shoes that are great as slippers.

Isabel Marant jumpers will always be on my wish list.

These Ganni boots keep selling out and I can see why. Not only are they very cool, but they’re also very practical.

I want someone to invite me to a wedding next year, just so I can wear this dress.

I wrote a story this week on different bag trends I’m seeing on Instagram, and I’m heavily into the chained straps trend. I usually think gold hardware or accents on a bag can look tacky, but something about a gold or silver chunky strap on a bag looks so luxe and different. I’m eyeing this Staud one right now.

Fashionable pyjamas are the 2020 trend that I’ll gladly be taking into 2021. This Holiday the Label pair has been on my wish list for quite some time, and I think I’ll be purchasing this one to wear into the new year.

Cow print has easily become my favourite animal print by far, and the second I saw these boots launch on Instagram this week, I added it to my wish list.

Coach’s return into the trending scene was something I was not expecting, but I just can’t get over their newest handbags. I’ve already pre-ordered my furry Ugg x Telfar bag, but is there such thing as too much faux-fur? I’m so ready to rock a Coach bag, and I don’t care who knows it.

I’ve always been obsessed with Princess Diana, so when Rowing Blazers announced that they’d be reviving her favorite sweaters, I definitely jumped in my seat a little bit. What better way to move into 2021 than dress like the people’s princess?

I’m all in for the Princess Di throwbacks right now, and the pie crust collar is at the top of my list. Chalsie Joan hand-makes every item to order and I’m obsessed with every single one of her blouses.

Flat shoes are having a moment and I couldn’t be happier. I have my eye on these JW Anderson loafers, and I love the statement topstitching detail.

Like many others, I am always on the lookout for the perfect pair of jeans. This Mango pair has the killer combo of high-waisted fit, wide leg and classic, un-bleached dark denim. Delicious.

Cawley Studio has the best shearling offering IMO, and its Avis jacket has everything I want from a jacket: warmth, versatility and a little throwback appeal. The brand’s Ella sheepskin vests are also worth a look.

Citizens of Humanity does tailoring so well. Case in point? These belted trousers are a super flattering fit and will look fab with chunky boots and a tucked-in cable knit jumper.

Much like most people, I’ve become obsessed with homewares this year and when it comes to trending home decor, you can’t go past Anissa Kermiche. This Insta-famous jug is high on my wish list. 

I love the idea of investing in elevated-looking loungewear, especially considering our team will be working from home over the next few months. This hoodie looks super cosy, but still feels fashionable thanks to its unique pastel yellow colour way.

This Ganni dress is one of the brand’s classics and I love the way they have updated their signature style for winter. I’d wear this with a roll neck knit underneath on cold days or with a cropped jacket once spring arrives.

I’ve been on the look out for a new coat, and know this one will be a classic in my wardrobe for years to come.

As an Aussie ex-pat, I love supporting our homegrown labels and Aje is definitely one of the best exports. This retro-inspired varsity knit has cozy written all over it.

Should something akin to normality resume, I’ll have a total of six (yes, six) weddings next year. As luck would have it, they have zero crossovers in guests, so I’m planning on wearing this gorgeous midi to the lot of them. 

I have a thing for bags (original, right?), particularly top handles. So when my favorite high-end label Khaite unveiled this style, my heart skipped a beat. 

Hoops are part of my everyday uniform, and I intend on wearing these sparkly little numbers with my knitwear to make it feel more special. 

Three of my favorite coat details collide in this wonder coverup—checks, double-breasted closure, and faux fur trimmings. Divine. 

I collect knitwear, and this cool style is next on my wish list. The built-in arm warmers are a chic interpretation of the ’90s shrugs I’ve seen creeping back into fashion. Apparently, it can also be worn as a scarf; I think I just have to buy it to find out how. 

Next Up, Spring/Summer 2021 Trends: The Most Important Fashion Looks You Need to Know