Bootcut Jeans, New Balance’s Sneaker Collab and More Fashion on Our Editors’ July Wishlist

It might be cold outside, but our editors aren’t succumbing to an all-pants winter. Silk capris, lace-adorned shorts and layered midi skirts all show up this month, best worn with chunky boots now and swapped for mules or fresh kicks (all of which feature below, of course) when the weather turns.

Full-length styles aren’t out of the picture entirely. Bootcut jeans are making a quiet comeback, with local label Zero Meaning and Scandi favourite Jeanerica offering subtle flared takes on the returning silhouette. On days that call for something softer, Paire’s merino-blend trackpants go big on comfort, while Shona Joy steps in for something a little more wine bar-appropriate. Here’s everything the Broadsheet team is adding to cart this month.

Gitika Garg, assistant editor – art, design and style

I know we’re in the depths of winter, but all I can think about are silky shorts. I’ve been searching for the perfect pair: below the knee, not too wide, with lace trim preferable. The hunt is still on, but a few contenders have caught my eye, including Silk Laundry’s satin pedal pushers, Maem Disko’s lace-trimmed number and these 100 per cent silk ones from The Frankie Shop – currently ranking number one.

A trip to Melbourne boutique Somebuddy Loves You is always dangerous. I left crushing on these straight-leg Paloma Wool pants I tried on. The subtle waist detailing and snap-button fly set them apart from similar styles. I’ve also been eyeing a wider, more relaxed pair from Shona Joy.

Icy blue is the colour of the season. I’d wear this cashmere V-neck jumper from New Zealand label Wixii on repeat. It’s the kind of elevated basic that layers effortlessly and adds a hit of colour to an otherwise neutral outfit. Two other things on my radar: this bolero-style knit from Bassike and Tory Burch’s pierced mules. I’ve wanted the latter ever since they debuted on the runway in 2023 and now they’re finally on sale. I’m choosing to take that as a sign.

Simone Richardson, shopping editor

Layering is practically a hobby at this point. And what’s not to love? There’s always a new combo to uncover, and an old gem often makes its comeback in the process. But it requires time. When there isn’t any (read: WFO days), two-piece sets are the shortcut, either worn together or mixed-and-matched with other wardrobe heroes. This tonal duo by Demodemode just became my third from the Shanghai label, and now I’m looking to this silk-cuffed set by Orseud Iris for (now regular) Martini nights at Bar Carnation.

As for the bottom half: bootcuts are back, baby. A long-haul flight keeps me from raiding my mum’s epic vintage wardrobe, so I’m looking at new styles instead. This dark denim pair by Aussie label Zero Meaning scratches the itch nicely, while Jeanerica’s mottled corduroy cut offers a little more edge. Both flares would do serious work paired with Dries Van Noten’s leather kicks, Wixii’s chartreuse headband and SC103’s slouchy slate bag. Someone hide my wallet.

Holly Bodeker Smith, newsletter editor

Shopping for undies has always felt like a chore, so once I find my ride-or-die style, I stick with it. I’ve been loyal to Boody for a few years now and am eyeing a new set in emerald green. Also in the comfort corner, I’ve basically been living in my Suku pyjamas this winter – the buttery bamboo beauties were on my wishlist for a good five years, and I haven’t regretted buying them for a moment.

For leaving the house, I’m currently relying on Paire’s Cool Blend set in navy. The fabric reminds me of one of my favourite vintage finds: a pair of 1940s US Navy wool sailor flares (like these) that I wore for years before outgrowing them. I struggle to find the same kind of fabric and construction in contemporary pieces. The pants dress up or down beautifully – great with a low square heel or a cowboy boot – and the jacket goes with everything in my winter wardrobe. Finally, these New Balance kicks embrace the slim-sneaker trend while leaving room for my toes to breathe.

Evie Baker, photo editor

The search for a winter-friendly going-out top is never straightforward. It needs to be warm, but with a slightly cooler edge than an everyday thermal. The Naya wrap top by WA label Nu Onda hits the right balance, a black long-sleeve that works multiple ways. I’m also fixated on Bassike’s bolero, cosy enough for the couch but chic enough for everywhere else.

Not every winter night calls for going out, though. When plans are more relaxed, slouchy pants and a cool sneaker become the uniform, and New Balance’s collab with Chicago-based designer Joe Freshgoods has been delivering on the latter. My new Pinky & Kamal trench completes the look: suitable for a casual, low-key night but still polished and intentional.

On the accessories front, chunky belts aren’t going anywhere, so I’m adding St Agni’s eyelet style to the rotation. The brand’s Savannah bag caught my eye while browsing, too. That understated print is exactly what my winter outfit rut needs.

Emmanuelle Lee, social media coordinator

I’ve spent far too long searching for a wedding-guest dress, but thanks to Connor Ives, the hunt is officially over. Everything he designs feels considered, and this style had me at the shell detailing. The final outfit only came together once Broadsheet’s shopping editor Simone put Dries Van Noten’s wedge mules on my radar. That translucent aquamarine heel is easily the most beautiful detail I’ve seen on a shoe all year.

With my birthday around the corner, I’m also plotting my first designer purchase. The Balenciaga City bag in volcanic grey is the frontrunner, and I’m fairly certain it’s going to win.

The rest of my wishlist slots neatly into my existing wardrobe. St Agni’s suede coat and Five by Flynn’s grey and dusty blue co-ord are exactly the kind of pieces I’d wear on repeat. And if loving ugly shoes is a crime, I’ll happily plead guilty (Asics’s mules have officially won me over). I’m finishing it all with Cleopatra’s Bling’s silver necklace and Love Isabelle’s turquoise bracelet for one last flourish.

Maggie Zhou, fashion editor-at-large

With fashion, we look behind to look forward. I’ve taken a renewed interest in ’50s silhouettes, particularly in necklines and flared details. I love how brands are twisting these into modern styles, like Harris Tapper’s Bardot velvet blazer and Aaizel’s Melbourne-made cap-sleeve jacket. I can picture both styles with a headscarf by local brand Olga Joan – this lace one is particularly dashing – and Bared Footwear’s Vulture boots in chocolate.

I’m taking inspiration straight from the office, too. Broadsheet’s social media coordinator Emmi recently wore these silk capris by Sydney label Maem Disko, which have a flirty edge to them, and group sales and partnerships manager Shan sported this chunky striped scarf from Tild. Petition to start a shared office wardrobe, anyone?

Nadia Bailey, travel editor

I recently scored a pair of vintage Zambesi black silk pants on Depop, which turned out to be a whole two sizes too big. Instead of grouching about it, I’ve decided to double down and commit to the oversized look. I plan on wearing them slung low on the hips, with a classic tuxedo blazer from Cos (sized up for maximum impact) and a minimalist leather belt by Ann Demeulemeester for some polish.

I’ve got some travel plans that will be taking me to tropical climates, so I’m looking to add a couple of suitcase-friendly pieces to my wardrobe. This dress from Aere ticks a lot of boxes: it’s lightweight, breathable and with its bias cut and twisted straps, it feels a little more elevated than your typical maxi. Plus, it’s on such a deep discount, there’s little reason not to buy it. I’ll be pairing it with some sleek, square-toed sandals from Nelson Made and a design-y Cos tote that looks like MM6 and Issey Miyake had a beautiful baby.

Meg Nolan, social media performance executive

I have two big problems at the moment. One: I want everything on the Esthe website; and two: the insistent urge to buy summer pieces despite being in the depths of Melbourne winter. To ease the seasonal blues, I’ve decided I can rationalise the latter impulse if I swear I’ll wear them as winter layering pieces.

First on the list is this black cotton organza maxi dress I’ve had my eye on for weeks, potentially paired with a printed black hoodie and jeans. Tell me you see the vision, too.

I’m also steering away from black and blue jeans in favour of something a little more unexpected – and this olive-brown pair by Cos fits the bill. I’ve also fallen head over heels for this Camilla and Marc top in the perfect shade of red. And last but not least, some bling: I’m mulling over one (or maybe two) of these chunky ear cuffs. The devil is in the details, after all.