fashion

'I'm Mamamia's lifestyle writer. Here are the 9 items I always recommend.'

In my three years as Mamamia's lifestyle writer, I've recommended a lot of products.

What to buy in the sales, dresses to wear to a wedding, the best leggings, blazers, and jeans on the market... you name it, I've probably got an article I can send you to.

But if you look carefully, in amongst these pieces are some items I've recommended before - because having tried them myself, I know just how good they are.

They aren't the up-to-the-minute, trendy pieces for summer 2022 (if that's what you're looking for, head here). These are more those wear-on-repeat staples you'll wonder how you lived without.

And if I'm doing my job right, you'll recommend them to friends, family and colleagues too.

1. Summery Copenhagen Gina LS Dress, was $359, now $251 (and currently 30 per cent off.)

Image: The Iconic/Mamamia.

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There are few brands that have a hold on me and my Mamamia colleagues like Summery Copenhagen.

Formerly Cecilie Copenhagen, the cult Danish brand is instantly recognisable with its signature woven pieces.

Owning a dress (or any other item from the brand) is an investment that you'll keep in your wardrobe forever. And although patterned, it feels like a basic that can be worn again and again.

I will always recommend the short, long-sleeved dress as it works for various occasions and three out of four of the seasons.

2. Cotton On The 91 Tank, $19.99 (and currently on sale).

Image: Cotton On/Mamamia.

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I've always purchased my staple t-shirts and singlets from Cotton On. Besides the obvious affordable price point getting me in, if looked after well, these basics really do last.

I've been recommending the Cotton On Turn Bank Tank for who knows how long. But as it's no longer as available, this style is just as close.

The 91 tank, which Mamamia's Lifestyle Editor Tamara Holland swears by, is so flattering. 

The high neckline accentuates the collarbone and shoulders, and although a relatively tight fit, the ribbed material sits nicely and isn't too hugging.

3. Petal + Pup Harvey Pants, $72.

Image: Petal + Pup/Mamamia.

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To pair with tanks, everyone needs a simple pair of tailored black pants. You'll wear them to the office, to drinks with friends and to fancy events.

I can't count how many times I've been stopped and asked where these pants are from; I wear them most days to work and love them. 

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4. ABrand A '94 High Slim Jeans, $99.95 (and currently on sale).

Image: The Iconic/Mamamia.

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I bought these jeans in two shades because I liked them so much - this lighter wash, and vintage blue for dressier occasions. 

They're high-waisted, have a slight 'mum jean' fit (not baggy but not tight) and they're cropped at the ankle. Plus, if you're shorter, they come in a petite range. 

Sizes range from six to 16 and at $99.95, they sit between expensive and affordable options, making them the perfect investment pair.

5. Nike One Womens Mid-Rise 7 Inch Tights, $44.99 (and currently on sale).

Image: Rebel/Mamamia.

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I've spoken about these bike shorts too many times, I KNOW. But there's a reason why: they are the best I've ever owned. 

They're the perfect length - not too short, not too long, they don't roll up while exercising and they last through a gazillion washes. 

They also don't constrict your tummy area, which is important because if you get bloated like I do, some bike shorts and leggings can feel suffocating by 2pm. Not these.

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5. LSKD Elixir 7/8 Length Tight, $95 (and currently on sale).

Image: LSKD/Mamamia.

You know how some people collect handbags or antiques? I collect leggings. I wear them almost every day and I've tried most brands that make them.

But I keep coming back to these from LSKD; and for a few reasons. They have a pocket for my phone, are so soft and have that second skin feel while contouring you in all the right places.

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6. New Era Casual Classics - New York Yankees Cap, $40 (and currently on sale).

Image: The Iconic/Mamamia.

There's a reason American sports caps have been favoured for so long. Coming in various colours and sports teams, they look cool with just about anything.

A navy one like this is an obvious choice, but I also recommend this vintage blue colour and khaki. Trendy.

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Kirstin Ash Tidal Hoops Small, $118.

Image: The Iconic/Mamamia.

After losing some really special dainty gold hoops (we all have one piece of jewellery that we feel guilty about losing, that was mine), my mum gifted me these from Kirstin Ash. And I've worn them every day since.

They're the perfect size to wear on their own, or if you have two or more ear piercing holes, they look great stacked behind some larger hoops. 

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Oh, and they're waterproof so you can wear them in the shower or the surf.

Prene The Brighton Neoprene Tote Bag, $99.95 (and currently on sale).

Image: The Iconic/Mamamia.

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If you're someone who wants a do-it-all bag that's lightweight, durable and large, this is your guy. 

The neoprene material gives it a sporty chic vibe and the size will allow you to fit your laptop, makeup and anything else you might need. It's such a great work bag, nappy bag or travel bag. 

At Mamamia, we independently choose and write about products our writers genuinely recommend. We have affiliate partnerships so if you use these links to buy something, Mamamia may earn a small commission.

Charlotte Begg is Mamamia's Lifestyle Writer. For more fashion, beauty and homewares recommendations, you can follow her on Instagram here.

Feature image: Supplied.