There are a few items in store this season that will take have the power to add instant attitude to your outfit. These are my top 10:
Let’s be honest, replacing your entire wardrobe every season is simply not a reality for most of us. But those with a passion for fashion still want to keep up with the hottest trends. Luckily, if you shop smart you can stay in vogue without spending your entire salary. Here are 10 items that you can pair with the basics in your closet to make you stand out in a crowd.
The ones I just bought 
1. The statement jacket: Kelso blue jacquard jacket (R599, Edgars).
Why I love it: I adore this one from Kelso. It has a great fit and the pattern is interesting without being overwhelming. And the dark blue will go with most colours. Interesting jackets can liven up a very basic outfit. Easy peasy. Throw it over a little black dress, wear it with jeans and a tank top, dress it up for workwear with a chunky necklace and heels or dress it down for a night out with boyfriend jeans.
2. The high-waist skinny: Salsa Secret PushIn skinny jeans (R1599, Edgars).
Why I love it: It hides my jelly belly! That little bit of jiggle that seems to stick no matter how religiously you gym gets smoothed away in these jeans. I’m always skeptical of high waist jeans because they tend to pull in odd places, but these have a brilliant fit. I chose the high waist skinny jeans in black because they’re still oh so retro, but they’re also classic enough that they can last a couple of seasons – as a good pair of jeans should.
Tip: The size of these jeans will be smaller than your normal fit since above your waist, not around it. So where I’m normally a size 32 I bought a size 28.
The ones I want
3. The poncho: Boiled wool poncho (R 1,099, Witchery at Woolworths). Throw it over whatever you have on and you look stunning. And it’s like carrying your blanket out with you so bonus comfort points. I love the leather-style trim on this one – spot on trend.
4. Textured leggings: Quilted ponte leggings (R199, Woolworths). Thank the stars, flimsy, slightly see through leggings are a thing of the past. I love the wide range of thick, textured leggings in store right now. They’re nice and warm, and more comfy than stockings. Look for quilted patterns, zips or faux leather inserts.
5. The chunky knit: Boxy cable knit (R1,299, Country Road at Woolworths). When it’s cold and dreary outside the only thing I want to wear is an oversized knit. Pair these with leggings or skinny jeans, and a pair of leather ankle boots. It’s what I like to call hipster-chic.
6. Faux fur: Chubby jacket (R329,99, Mr Price). Fluffy collars, full faux fur jackets and all the trimmings are everywhere to be seen. And I love it. Let’s face it, though, this trend is probably not going to stick around for long so look for an item that won’t lighten your wallet too much.
7. The fedora: Felt fedora (R449, Witchery at Woolworths). Nothing adds glamour like a wide brim hat, and the felt fedora in an incredibly versatile accessory that works with crisp work wear or slouchy casual pieces. And they happen to hide bad hair days as well. Bonus. My favourite way to wear this is with pin straight hair or a side braid poking out underneath.
8. Chunky boots: Dr Martens boots (R1500, Edgars). Nothing says 90′s grunge like a pair of Dr Martens. I love this floral print style because it adds a bit of femininity to it. If these are a bit too chunky for your liking, look for a nice pair of “construction-style” boots – they’re everywhere.
9. The statement making scarf: Crackle print scarf (R349, Witchery at Woolworths). Scarves are a weakness of mine because they can make the simplest of outfits look smashing. And they keep you warm.
10. Smashing sneakers: Lessa sneakers (1219, Dune at Edgars). With sporty-inspired wear taking center stage on the runways, a standout pair of sneakers is a must. I am in love with the variety of metalics that are arriving in store. Bling for your feet.
Tip: In order to make these items work extra hard and go with most items in your closet, stick to a neutral palette. Greys, black and white are always smart choices.