2024 is So Last Year: My Style Wrap Up

What I’ve Learned, Wardrobe MVPs & Underachievers, Favourite Looks, and my 2025 Style Ins & Outs

Hey there! I fully intended to share this before 2025 officially began, but somehow that didn’t go to plan—how are we already halfway through January?! Still, I love the fresh start a new year brings. It’s the perfect time to pause, reflect on all the moments—big and small—that shaped the past 12 months, and reset for what’s ahead. For me, it’s an opportunity to step into the year with a positive mindset, a clean slate, a list of goals and intentions to approach differently, and, above all, a deep sense of gratitude for everything that’s been.

Last year definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone, especially in the style space. I started my Instagram account almost two years ago as a creative outlet just for me, and last year, I really committed to showing up consistently on this platform and defined what I stand for: sharing real outfits as a 40-year-old mum, while building a thoughtful, conscious wardrobe filled with timeless, long-lasting pieces. I also took the leap and started this Substack—something I’ve wanted to do for so long. I’m genuinely proud of myself for finally making it happen!

So, this Substack is a roundup of everything I’ve learnt last year—the good, the bad, and the not-so-stylish! It’s a mix of favourite outfits, style wins (and struggles), and my plans for the year ahead, so let’s dive in…

Favourite 2024 Outfits

Rounding up my standout outfits from 2024—looks that truly felt like me. The ones that, as soon as I put them on, made me feel instantly polished and put-together…

Any outfit with my Assembly Label coat - I’ve had this coat for almost 2 years and it’s one of my hardest working A/W items. It elevates any outfit and always gets a ton of compliments!

Dress rental wins - 2024 was the year I finally gave it a go, and let me tell you—I’m hooked. I rented three stunning Alemais pieces that would have been way out of my budget to buy, and now I can confidently say I’ll never purchase a special occasion outfit again!

Bali looks - I spent time planning out outfits for my Bali trip and I found it really paid off! There have been a ton of the looks that I’ve been wearing on repeat all summer!

Denim will forever hold a special place in my heart - and 2024 was no exception - my love for denim runs deep and an outfit featuring a pair of jeans will always be up there!

Summer styling remastered - I love summer, but styling for it has always been a bit of a challenge—until this year! I’ve finally found my comfort zone by leaning into my summer style and embracing what works for me. I’ve even added a touch of colour to my outfits, in a way that feels true to my style. It’s been a game-changer!

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Closet MVPs

I thought it might be helpful to spotlight a few wardrobe staples I couldn’t live without last year (and very likely this year too!) Over time, I’ve been curating a collection built on timeless, versatile pieces that truly stand the test of time. Thanks to tracking my wardrobe with the Indyx app, it’s been easy to identify my hardest-working items—those go-to pieces I’ve reached for again and again!

Assembly label sandals -These were a last-minute purchase before my Bali trip, and they’ve quickly become a spring and summer staple. The brown tone pairs perfectly with my entire wardrobe, making them an effortless go-to!

Arket suede bag -I fell in love with this bag after seeing The Anna Edit with a similar one, and I knew it would get some wear—but I didn’t realise just how versatile it would be. The texture and colour add the perfect touch of interest to any outfit no matter the season!

Uniqlo White Tee - I’ve been wearing these tees for a few years now, and they’re hands down my favourite. The fabric is slightly heavier than a standard tee, which gives it a bit more structure—and I absolutely love that! I always size up for a more relaxed fit.

Arket Cloud Jeans -2024 was definitely my wide-leg era, where I embraced more relaxed, oversized looks. These Arket jeans were such a great secondhand find! They’re incredibly versatile—I wear them to hang out with my kids, but also for a day at the office.

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Wardrobe Underachievers

I added a fair few new pieces to my wardrobe last year and whilst I’m focused on building a hardworking wardrobe, there are always going be be those pieces that don’t quite live up to expectations. Here are the ones from last year that didn’t pull their weight. I find it so helpful to reflect on these misses—they’re a great learning opportunity to avoid similar mistakes with future purchases.

Leopard Print Tie Top - I picked this up secondhand after seeing it all over Instagram—I adore leopard print, but I just haven’t reached for it. The underwear situation feels a bit tricky than I first originally thought and on those scorching summer days, it’s ended up being way too hot to wear.

Adidas Sambas - I’d been eyeing a pair of Sambas for ages but couldn’t settle on the perfect colour. I finally landed on these gorgeous green pair, and while I absolutely love how they look, they turned out to be the most uncomfortable sneakers I’ve ever worn. Thankfully, they’ve broken in over time and are much better now, but I’m still slightly traumatised by the whole experience!

Dissh Satin Pants - I added a pair of neutral silk pants to my spring wishlist and came across a great Dissh pair on Depop. While they’re nice, I couldn’t shake the image of the Arket silk pants I’d originally fallen in love with, and these just didn’t measure up. Lesson learned: it’s better to go for the pieces I truly love rather than settling for a cheaper alternative. I ended up buying the Arket ones and I’m really glad I did.

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Style Ins & Outs for 2025

Ins… A lot of these are already part of my routine, and I’m excited to continue them into 2025:

• Prioritising secondhand shopping

• Emphasising quality over quantity

• Embracing outfit uniforms for easy, go-to looks

• Leaning into my three style words: minimalist, effortless, and polished

• Giving accessories a more active focus in my outfits

• Adding colour to my looks so they truly feel like me

• Curating seasonal wish lists and mood boards

• Committing to slow fashion and conscious style choices

• Sharing the authentic, everyday outfits I actually wear as 40 year old mum go three kids

Outs…

• Synthetic fabrics

• Buying secondhand just for the bargain

• Overcomplicated outfits

• Settling for second-best (or cheaper option) when it comes to wishlist items

• Feeling the pressure to keep up with the latest Instagram trends and constantly buying new

Do you have any style goals for 2025? What were your style hits and misses from last year? Did you have a favourite outfit of mine? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop me a note in the comments below!

A huge thank you for following me along on this style journey - it’s been so fun sharing it with everyone and your support means the world! Remember style is about joy and creativity, not perfection!

P.S. Stay in Touch!

If you’d like to see more from The Julia Style Edit in 2025 and have it delivered straight to your inbox, make sure to subscribe! Feel free to share this post with a friend who might find it helpful, too.

For more daily style inspiration, you can also follow along on my other platforms:

• Instagram - where I share all my daily outfits

• Pinterest - where I pin things I love (& my outfits too!)

• LTK - where I save all the outfit links & sizing details

• Indyx - where I track what I’m wearing & what’s in my wardrobe

Let’s stay connected!

Until next time,

Julia x