I Worked at a Prestigious Mag for Years, and Editors Actually Buy These 10 Items

Between the hundreds of collections shown four times a year (pre-fall, fall, spring, and resort) and the thousands of new pieces revealed at market appointments, it’s safe to say fashion editors see a lot of fashion. Having worked at a prestigious magazine for five years, I lived the glamour of being surrounded by racks and racks of clothes newly off the runway, and had premier access to the newest trends (cue Devil Wears Prada reference). Influenced by new designers and existing designer relationships with the publication, my job was to tell the consumer what to buy season after season. Throughout the trend meetings, the question that would always come up? But Adrienne, what are you buying? What does the fashion editor who not only sees it all actually add to cart?

After an extensive reflection, I’ve landed on 10 pieces fashion editors are actually putting their paychecks toward. It’s a highly curated list, as fashion editors are tough customers; they work seasons ahead, so they already know what will be out on the store floors in six months (I’m guilty of stalking Chanel’s SoHo store until they received the denim Boy bag I saw in the fashion closet months prior). They know the real markup on the price tag, and along with season’s statement pieces, they devote themselves to trusted basics. An accumulation of both wardrobe staples and must-have trend pieces, below is an inside look into what editors are actually buying now.

A Boxy Blazer

An instant outfit-maker, a blazer will complete any look any season. However, it’s not just any ol’ blazer—editors tend to opt for a boxier, oversize silhouette. Style tip: Pair this with a minidress or tapered trousers for a more defined silhouette.

London-based label Rokh creates structured, tailored pieces like no one else.

Expert advice: Buy a size or two bigger for a more dramatic effect.

A Suit

A suit that’s been tailored to perfection exudes confidence. It also makes for a rather effortless decision-making process when getting dressed in the morning, because you know it will never fail you. 

+ Faux Leather-Trimmed Woven Pant ($297). I would love a full closet of Tibi suits, please.

+ Straight Suit Trousers ($100). The best part about suits—and most likely the reason editors are buying them—is the creative freedom they allow. Layer a snug turtleneck underneath or simply a bra; the styling is in your hands.

A Statement Shoe

Here’s a popular fashion style hack: Start getting dressed from the feet up. Statement shoes, whether they’re jeweled mules or quirky heels, always add a little something extra to a mundane outfit.

The magical combination of a slingback and a sculptured heel. 

A light feather, if you will.

Everyday Jewelry

After being an editor for five years, I basically built an everyday jewelry collection. I have about six to eight pieces I refuse to leave the house without. Admitedly, some pieces were gifted, but once my collection began to flourish, I became particular about which items held the honor of an everyday piece. They range from personalized nameplates and dainty gold chains to a variety of hoops and stackable rings.

A fashion editor’s wardrobe essential.

Splurge on rings you actually want to wear every day from companies you believe in (à la Gemist).

An insider secret: Hoops will never go out of style.

Feel Good Denim

We all have that one pair of jeans we wear till the bitter end. We personify them, deeming them our best friends. Editor or not, a true pair of high-waisted, straight-legged denim is a must.

Sustainably made from cotton, Slvrlake denim has perfected this worn-in wash and straight-leg silhouette.

The relaxed look of this denim can seamlessly be worn casually during the day or dressed up for a night out.

A Commuter Handbag

Believe it or not, fashion editors are somewhat realistic. Though we admire the outrageous tiny-bag trend, we also are aware of the handbag’s role: to carry your belongings from point A to point B. Ditch the grocery canvas tote bags and invest in a fashionable commuter bag. You do have to live with it every day.

Pricier, yes, but so worth it. This London brand specializes in sophisticated travel bags.

Slouchy, oversize, and insanely roomy.

Just the other day, I saw a former fashion editor carrying the bag and instantly became inspired to buy my own. 

A Transseasonal Coat

Puffers, faux furs, and shearlings are not at fault here, but realistically the sole style an editor is willing to invest in time after time is the trench coat. Like the suit, it serves as a blank canvas when styling a look. Drape a sweater over the shoulders or even dare to double up on the trench.

I’ve already thought of 10+ ways I can style this one.

Unexpected outwear and deconstructed details are key things to look for when shopping for a transseasonal coat. 

A Fitted Frock 

An emphasis here on fitted. There’s nothing like a dress tailored to a T. Yes, editors see thousands of dresses, but they only pull the trigger on styles that have the perfect fit.

If you’re unclear on where to start, look for silhouettes with a high neck and petite puff sleeve.

Fitted with a hint of volume is also a good recipe. 

This dress emphasizes fit on both the waist and the cuffs, which compliment the tiered maxi quite well. 

The Season's It Boot

Each season, I dedicate (some) of my funds to investing in new boots. I select my favorite boot trend of the season and go for it.

This season’s winner: a mock-croc knee-high boot.

I was unaware I needed a black version until now…

Trendy Handbag

It’s unclear if it’s due to the fact that I covered the ready-to-wear market at the magazine, but my biggest spend will always be a trendy handbag. (You always want what you don’t have, right?) There’s no guided instructions on when to buy one—when the time is right, you’ll know.

It’s not just a bag; it’s Prada.

A timeless treasure. Up Next: 6 Winter Outfits That Are the Epitome of "Less Is More"

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