Some of you have written about your style journeys in 2016 and layed out plans for the future. With this post I'm trying to do the same.

All in all 2016 was a good year for my wardrobe and style growth. I have made 32 purchases, without counting underwear. They include a trench coat, 2 jackets, 2 skirts, 3 dresses, 3 pairs of trousers, 3 handbags, 5 pairs of shoes, 9 tops and some accessories.

I made two big mistakes, both when buying ballet flats.
A black pair turned out to be insanely uncomfortable. I bought them on holiday abroad when buying gifts for family, because I thought I had to buy something for myself, too. Lesson 1: If I want mementos, I'll take pictures. Easy, cheap, satisfying. No need to buy stuff just for the sake of it. Especially when I'm pressed for time.
My other mistake was relying on past experience with a certain brand and their flats. A few years back I owned a pair of white flats that were great. Last summer I've seen identical shoes in a store and bought them immediately. Big mistake. It turns out I should have tried them on a bit more carefully. Lesson 2: Just because two things look exactly the same on the outside (including the brand), doesn't mean they are exactly the same. Especially if they were made in different years.

I'm very happy with all other pieces. Some of them quickly became my favourites and major workhorses. Even better - I bought a lot of them during sales.
The absolute winners are: black knee-high boots, blue suede pumps and a tan trench coat. I suspect silvery-grey plaid trousers and ski trousers will end among the top picks as well, but I haven't had a chance to wear them yet. Pictures are below.

In 2017 I would like to fill my remaining wardrobe voids and develop a more cohesive and defined style.

First priority list for 2017:
- bottoms: jeans and trousers (including some in white and in black)
- tops: elegant and casual ones, in colours and in neutrals
- accessories: I have almost none
- shoes: elegant black leather booties, white or cream sneakers, leather summer sandals
- black leather gloves with warm underlining
- sports gear: ski gloves and ski jacket, swimwear, a wrap skirt
- some underwear, including white camisoles

I also have a wish list, which includes: a jacket in light or bright colour, an elegant summer dres, a summer hat, a small or medium sized white or cream handbag, nude pumps, elegant black leather high-heel boots (knee high), running shoes, a hoodie and maybe a pair of comfortable ballet flats. I'm always happy with a new skirt or a dress, a new backpack would be nice, too. But all those are just wishes that come second to the first priority list.

Thank you for reading and I hope every one of you has a satisfying and stylish year 2017!

*Edit: spelling.