fashion

'I'm Mamamia's senior lifestyle writer. Here are the 10 items in my shopping cart right now.'

I've had some pretty big life changes recently, and with that, there are a few activities that spark joy when things feel uncertain – one of them being shopping.

Window shopping, online shopping, in-store shopping, you name it. If it's new and shiny, it has my attention.

But unlike in previous years, where I've jumped on trends, the older I get has me focusing more on styles and silhouettes that will be new for me now, but won't feel outdated in a year's time. 

From the chicest designer-looking belt to the silk shirt we all need in our wardrobes, here's what's sitting in my shopping cart this July.

Kmart Long Sleeve Slouchy Button Front Pyjama Set, $25.

Image: Kmart.

ADVERTISEMENT

Starting off strong with the bargain of the season. 

A former Mamamia employee got me onto this pyjama set that's supposed to be a dupe for Skims without the price tag. Love the colour too.

COS Striped Merino Wool Jumper, $135.

Image: COS.

ADVERTISEMENT

I've mentioned it before, but I would happily own only COS for my workwear – they are known for making good quality pieces that aren't ludicrously expensive.

Simple black and white (or navy and white) stripes is one of the few patterns that will never go out of style and I've been needing a jumper with it for ages.

Bohemian Traders Oversized Shirt in Denim Ice Blue, $250.

Image: Bohemian Traders.

ADVERTISEMENT

I spotted this oversized shirt IRL recently, took a photo and haven't stopped thinking about it. 

It comes in this light blue, a medium wash and dark blue, as well as a short-sleeved version and matching jeans.

The Fable Stormy Night Silk Shirt, $199.

Image: The Iconic.

With so many trends each season, it's easy to forget just how important timeless pieces are to own – especially, a good quality silk shirt.

ADVERTISEMENT

This one is 100 per cent silk and comes in so many colours, I'll wear it day, night, whenever.

Nude Lucy Brooks Pants, on sale for $67.50.

Image: Nude Lucy.

Nude Lucy makes great pants at a really affordable price – I bought a cream pair almost identical to these last season and they're a heavyweight cotton material that looks structured like denim but are comfortable thanks to the elastic waistband. 

ADVERTISEMENT

A black pair (on sale) is a no-brainer buy.

Country Road Harlow Slide, $139.

Image: Country Road.

My fabulous colleague Leigh Campbell is one of those people who every winter, continues to wear her spring/summer slides, and I've kinda caught on.

With so many brands styling slides with pants even in winter, like the Country Road ones above, I'm on board. 

Witchery Organic Waist Belt, $179.95.

Image: Witchery.

ADVERTISEMENT

The chokehold this belt has on me... my goodness. 

I spotted it a while back when online window shopping and it looks like it could be designer without all the extra zeros on the price tag.

Is it still a little bit expensive? Yes. But as something I know I'll have for many seasons, it's worth it.

Mejuri Chunky Huggie Hoops in Gold, $148.

Image: Mejuri.

ADVERTISEMENT

I own these in silver and they are some of the best quality hoops I've come across. 

It only makes sense to get them in gold too.

Arms Of Eve Isabella Hand Bag in Liquorice, $99.

Image: Arms Of Eve.

ADVERTISEMENT

This is the one exception to my 'timeless styles only' rule. But it's affordable, and that's how I justify it. 

The bag is from one of my favourite local jewellery brands Arms Of Eve and looks very similar to a popular bag at the top of my wish list that's forever sold out. 

Nere Wonda 55cm Suitcase, $200.

Image: STRAND.

ADVERTISEMENT

Finishing off with a random one, but a good-quality suitcase is a worthy investment. 

I own this exact one in the larger size and it's probably the lightest hardshell suitcase I've come across... and in khaki? C'mon!

I've got to get the matching carry-on.

Charlie Begg is Mamamia's senior lifestyle writer. For more fashion recommendations, read her articles here and follow her on Instagram.

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/Bohemian Traders/Witchery/Mejuri.

Calling all parents! Take our survey now to go in the running to win a $50 gift voucher.