I'm 5'2'' With Expensive Taste—12 Really Chic New-In Buys I've Found Recently
When it comes to curating a wardrobe that feels both luxurious and accessible, Chiara of @chiarasatelier has it down to a fine art. A longtime favourite of ours, she has a real eye for finding those pieces that quietly elevate a look—whether it’s a high-street buy or a designer investment—and her approach to dressing feels both refined and realistic, which aligns perfectly with our ethos here at Who What Wear UK. So, it only felt natural to invite her to share a monthly shopping edit with us.
At 5'2", Chiara also brings a wealth of knowledge when it comes to petite styling—think clever tips, smart proportions and a tried-and-tested list of go-to brands that actually work for smaller frames. Needless to say, if you're building a wardrobe that works hard but looks consistently elevated, her edit below is an excellent place to start.
Winter is in full swing, and the recent touch of frosty weather, combined with Christmas already hitting the shops (although I do begrudge this slightly), has got me more than a little excited for the coats, knits and going-out tops that will become staples for me over the next few months.
As such, I've been on the hunt for the perfect black winter coat and the best puffer that also looks chic for my dog walks, and have found both, plus some fabulous winter evening looks that will carry me (and you) through the season. Oh, and let’s not forget some gorgeous shoes and bags!
DÔEN
Lucine Lace-Trimmed Silk-Satin Blouse
Lace is such an easy way to dress up your jeans or trousers with minimal effort—just add jewellery. This Dôen top is so stunning, and I feel like you can style it with anything you already have in your wardrobe, and wear it all year round.
Reformation
Calia Sheer Top
Similarly, this one is from Reformation, and would look fabulous under a blazer. If you are feeling bold, try it with a sexy triangle bra underneath and pair with black trousers.
Gucci
Horsebit Ankle Boot
It is time to think about boots, and one of my favourite pairs to date is these from Gucci. A fun take on the brand's classic loafers, they're timeless, modern and most importantly, warm. Be quick, because they're selling out fast!
Reformation
Petites Mason Pant
I'm a jeans girl, but when it comes to evening events, I love to wear a pair of trousers, as they instantly smarten up even a simple T-shirt. But, as someone petite, a visit to the tailor is sometimes inevitable. Not today! I found two pairs of trousers that work for petite frames, and the first is this pair from Reformation’s petite section. I already own them, and they're perfect.
Reiss
Royal Ballet Chiffon Trousers
If you already have a trusty pair of classic black trousers, these chiffon layered trousers are the perfect way to add something interesting to your wardrobe. Classic pieces with a twist are always fun.
DeSavary
Wool Straight Trench Coat
I've been on the hunt for the perfect black winter coat, and I just found this beautiful one! The shape is perfect and it feels so warm and cosy, but still chic.
Now, there's been a lot of talk of animal print as a trend recently, but I personally think it will always be a classic. Plus, it's an easy way to inject a little fun into your wardrobe if you're a uniform dresser like me. This Iris Tote by The Hosta is the perfect leopard-print tote.
Reiss
Atelier 100% Brushed-Cashmere Tank Top
This is the time of year when it gets chilly in the evenings, but you still want to look good when you pop out for a nice glass of wine with friends. For me, this cosy knit from Reiss is perfect to wear with a pencil skirt or trousers, and coupled with some fabulous earrings and bracelets, it will keep you toasty but chic.
Yaitte
Oversized Grey Melange Plaid Flannel Shirt
It wouldn't be a Chiara edit without a shirt, and this one from Yaitte is on my winter wish list. I think Yaitte shirts are the best and are totally worth the price; I've had some of mine for years, and I cannot recommend them enough.
I've also been on the lookout for a cosy coat that looks cute when I head out on walks with my fur baby. This week, I came across the nicest-looking puffer coat ever from Moncler, which is fluffy but still made of puffer material.
Talking of fluffy things, I'm very into the idea of adding texture to a simple outfit right now, and the quickest and simplest way is with a little clutch. I spotted this one from Me+Em, and I love it. It's sparking a lot of joy!
Hayley Menzies
Dalton Cardigan Blue
Lastly, I've been wearing this cardigan constantly in this confusing weather. I love the colour (although I believe it comes in red and pink too), and if, like me, you love a bandana print, you'll end up reaching for this almost daily. It's a crowd pleaser, and it's easy to see why.
