While we're sheltering in place [1] due to the COVID-19 pandemic [2], the POPSUGAR Fashion editors have all agreed that, for most people, shopping isn't exactly top of mind. But as a part of an industry that's struggling, it's hard not to acknowledge fashion brands and what they're going through — especially the smaller labels [3] that have experienced major delays in production, financial troubles, and shipping issues given the effect of the current crisis. Many well-known companies have shifted their spring sample sales online [4], encourageing people to shop if they can, and, most importantly, brands big and small are doing their best to give back to the community, whether it's by making masks and gowns for healthcare workers [5] or by donating a portion of online proceeds to charities [6] dedicated to helping those in need all around the world.
"Even if shoulder pads are off-trend by the time I can give this dress the debut it deserves, it won't matter to me."
If you can shop right now, it's OK to. We get it, you're bored! Shopping [7] is definitely a fun solution. But for me personally, I was torn. I had been saving up for a Simon Miller handbag I really loved for months before the coronavirus outbreak, but it quickly faded into the depths of my memory when I realised what was happening to our country. Eventually, I did my research and connected with someone from the brand. As it turned out, Simon Miller, which is a relatively smaller label, had been donating t-shirts and jeans to SELAH [8], a movement responding to homelessness, and creating face masks for medical workers. I felt good about spending my dollar on the bag and was so much more excited to receive it knowing that it was from a philanthropic company. Not only was I technically giving back, the purchase inspired me to make my own donation to the World Health Organisation's COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund [9] too. That new bag is now the one item I just cannot wait to wear once the lockdown is over.
I knew I must not be the only POPSUGAR editor with a similar story. When I talked to my team, I learned that they were all pretty much planning outfits around must haves [11] they'd either stowed away for Spring, or recently bought before they knew they'd be at home for awhile. Our News and Culture Director Lindsay even had a fabulous hot pink birthday dress on hand [12] she was planning to debut for her own birthday gathering. "The good news is that, even if shoulder pads are off-trend by the time I can give this dress the debut it deserves, it won't matter to me — because I have never and WILL never stop wearing shoulder pads," she wrote on Instagram underneath a selfie she posted in the ROTATE mini.
The fashion items I gathered from our POPSUGAR editors below aren't necessarily meant to inspire you to shop. They're just a handful of little gems that speak to our own independent personal styles, and a reminder that outfits that make you happy [13] — and fashion in general — is on the other side of this, and we'll be able to debut our feel-good pieces soon.
I Can't Wait to Wear My . . . Leopard Print Ganni Dress
"I can't wait to wear my Ganni Leopard Printed Cotton Poplin Maxi Dress [15] ($325). It's a statement print that's a little out of my comfort zone, but the silhouette makes it so wearable. I had planned to wear this as a cover-up on a March holiday to the beach, but instead, I'm making it work as a 'house dress' now with slippers. Still, I can't wait to style it with a great bag, my favourite sandals, and a belt to pull it all together. I'll be smiling ear-to-ear when I do!" — Hannah Weil McKinley, Content Director, Fashion and Shop
I Can't Wait to Wear My . . . Going Out Shoes
"A few weeks before the shelter in place [16] started, I was already pre-planning all my spring outfits and treated myself to two new pairs of sandals. One pair of white faux-croc Schutz slingbacks for the office and a fun pair of black strappy Dolce Vita Sandals [17] ($75, originally $125) for going out. I'm already daydreaming of all the outfits I can mix and match them with when this is over." — Krista Jones, Associate Editor, Shop
I Can't Wait to Wear My . . . Topshop Dress
"I've been dreaming of wearing this springy Topshop dress [18] ($38, origianlly $75) for months. I purchased it in February with the idea that I'd wear it with heels this season. I'm excited to reimagine the look with white sneakers and a high ponytail in the summer, or black booties and a moto jacket in the fall. Saving it has really made me think about how versatile it can be year-round. The mish-mash florals just make me smile." — Macy Williams, Editor, Shop & Must Have
I Can't Wait to Wear My . . . Vans
"Nothing screams "helloooo, summer!" quite like these colorblock Vans Sk8-Hi Sneakers [19] ($65). Sure, they may be a bit obnoxious, but they add some pep to my step and much-needed colour to my wardrobe. I can't wait to pair them with my overalls or denim shorts for warm days spent walking around my neighbourhood." — Victoria Messina, Associate Editor, Trending and Viral Features
I Can't Wait to Wear My . . . Simon Miller Puffin Bag
"I've been a big fan of the Simon Miller Puffin [20] ($420) for awhile because of all the ways you can wear it. The strap can be lengthened even further to create a miniature top-handle (or basically the illusion of a pouch clutch), or you can fully loosen the leather straps and wear it as a crossbody bag. You can play around with the snap details to create interesting shapes too. It definitely speaks to my eccentric personal style with its multicolor, multifunction capabilities, and, as I mentioned earlier, the brand is doing its part to give back during the COVID-19 crisis. My first look with this purse will be baggy denim cargos, a tight white bodysuit, and white '80s slouch boots." — Sarah Wasilak, Editor, Fashion
I Can't Wait to Wear My . . . Tie-Dye Slip Dress
"This lightweight slip is not only incredibly soft and comfortable, but it's airy enough for really hot summer days. I love the bright colours and can't wait to wear it with white sneakers and a white denim jacket. Add some trendy sunglasses and I've got myself the perfect warm-weather outfit." — Perri Konecky, Editor, Trending and Viral Features
I Can't Wait to Wear My . . . Madewell Denim Shirt
"I'm admittedly a bit obsessed with all things denim, so when I saw this light-wash Madewell shirt [21] ($65), I knew I had to have it in my closet ASAP. Unlike most other denim shirts I've tried on, the material is lightweight and perfectly worn-in. I love tying it up so it's more cropped and styling it with a pair of patterned shorts." — VM