fashion

'I'm a lifestyle writer. Here are 16 items in my shopping cart this January.'

Despite not feeling as refreshed and revitalised as I'd hoped after the summer break (anyone else really tired?), I'm inspired to start my year strong.

My motivation comes from the environment around me, especially when I'm still working from home most days. If I'm dressed in clothes I love and my space is clean and inviting, there's a much higher chance of productivity.

This January, my online shopping cart reflects that mood, featuring clothes and homewares that make me feel good - whether that's for work, lounging around or going out.

But first, here's what the Mamamia team are wearing to work (when not working from home). Post continues below.


Video via Mamamia.

Here are a few of the items I'm just about ready to get the debit card out for.

Clothes for work.

Per Una Pure Cotton Pintuck Ruffle Midaxi Smock Dress, $109.

Image: Marks & Spencer/Mamamia.

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This year, I'm after pieces that I'll wear over and over again, and first on my list is this throw-on-and-go dress. 

It'll take me from summer to winter, and from work to weekend lunches. Something like this in black (or any neutral colour, really) will quickly become a wardrobe staple.

H&M Pointed Mules, $29.99.

Image: H&M/Mamamia.

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Over the summer I've lived in sandals, and these mules will be their replacement once it starts cooling down. 

The light denim shade makes them cool and the pointed toe makes them sophisticated. They'll be the perfect 2022 work shoes, IMO.

Rubi Amy Mini Shoulder Bag, $24.99.

Image: Cotton On/Mamamia.

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While a large tote is the most practical bag choice for work, I like having a smaller purse too for meetings or after-work dinner. And this is the one I've got my eye on.

Baguette bags are everywhere this summer, especially ones featuring contrasting stitching. They're large enough to fit the essentials but small enough to compliment an outfit without distracting from it. 

And at this price point, you can jump on the baguette trend without breaking the bank.

Casual clothes.

Cotton On The One Organic Rib Crew Short Sleeve Tee, $19.99.

Image: Cotton On/Mamamia.

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TikTok convinced me I need this top. 

It's slightly tighter fitting than your typical white tee and from what I've seen, it hugs you in all the right places. At $19.99, I say sign me up.

Showpo Leyton Tie Waist Jeans in Khaki, $69.95.

Image: Showpo/Mamamia.

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After building up my classic pant collection (black tailored pants and a few pairs of denim jeans), it's time to add a few more everyday options. 

Khaki will never date (in my opinion), and with their raw hem, contrasting stitching and belt tie, these pants are just cool.

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Top Handle Bag, $180.

Image: The Iconic/Mamamia.

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I've been dreaming about this bag ever since I saw it in Emily in Paris. While Lily Collins wore it in daring bright yellow, I'm eyeing off the black as it will go with more.

And although it's on the expensive side, I'm thinking about cost per wear: I'll use it for groceries, the beach and everyday errands so it's worth the splurge.

Activewear.

Nike One 7 Inch Bike Shorts, $50.

Image: The Iconic/Mamamia.

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These are the best bike shorts I've ever owned. They are the perfect length - not too short, not too long, they don't roll up while exercising and they last through a gazillion washes. 

I already own the black pair (and wear them once to twice a week), so this fun watermelon colour is a no-brainer. If you're looking for some bike shorts but don't know where to start, try these.

Uniqlo Women Oversized Parka, $59.90.

Image: Uniqlo/Mamamia.

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I've been hunting for a rain jacket for who knows how long, and now with this temperamental summer weather, I need to give in and buy one.

Uniqlo is known for its great quality affordable pieces, and I'm hoping this waterproof parka with its oversized fit is no exception. Take that La Niña.

New York Yankees Vintage Navy '47, $39.99.

Image: The Iconic/Mamamia.

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Classic, cool and practical, I've loved this iconic cap for years. It'll get so much wear I should probably just give in and buy it.

Loungewear.

Emu Mayberry Slippers, $59.95.

Image: Emu/Mamamia.

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Slippers were my best investment at the start of the pandemic; I've worn them every day since.

But two years later and still working from home, it's time for a new pair, and this natural colour will go with everything. (Yes, I still care about colour coordination while at home.)

KIP&CO Waffle Bath Robe, $99.

Image: The Iconic/Mamamia.

I'm looking for a robe that I can chuck on post-shower while doing my hair and makeup. And this waffle tie-dye option is to die for.

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Items for work.

MiGoals 2022 Weekly Spread Diary, $22.46.

Image: MiGoals/Mamamia.

I'm one of those people who still loves writing down her to-do list in a diary. I like seeing what meetings I have and what tasks I need to complete in front of me so I can tick them off as I go. 

I bought this exact diary last year and used it to death. It has your week laid out for you with enough space to write down what you have on each day, and it also has sections for goal planning, tracking your expenses, and quarterly reviews to track your progress which I found really helpful. 

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I might be a little late but I'm ordering another one for 2022.

Circa Jasmine and Magnolia Soy Candle, $39.95.

Image: Circa/Mamamia.

This candle smells like summer - jasmine, magnolia and a hint of frangipani. I've used an entire one already, so I'll be ordering a new one for my desk. May as well pretend I'm on holiday?

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Homewares.

Maison Balzac J'Ai Soif Carafe Set Amber, $89.

Image: Adore Beauty/Mamamia.

This is my go-to gift for friends because it's stylish and functional.

Not only will it keep me hydrated but it doubles as a vase. Chic!

Country Road Zoe Ring Stand, $24.95.

Image: Country Road/Mamamia.

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I always take my rings off when I wash my face, but they end up sitting on my bathroom counter, and knowing me, one day I'll knock one off and lose it. This fixes that issue and looks cute next to my toiletries.

Tamsin Johnson Spaces for Living, $74.95.

Image: Booktopia/Mamamia.

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Coffee table books are my kryptonite. And this new one by Australian interior designer Tamsin Johnson is sitting at the top of my cart. 

Not only is it architectural eye candy to flick through but it also looks great on display.

What's on your wish list this January? Tell me in the comments below!

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. 

Feature image: Supplied, The Iconic and Adore Beauty.