What did the BAZAAR team add to their fashion collections this year?
It’s the end of the year. Naturally, we’re looking back and reflecting on how we spent our time–and our money! In this audit of our favourite fashion purchases of the year, a common theme has emerged.
Our approach has been practical, with a focus on buying investment pieces for the long-term to build our collections of shoes, bags, and timepieces. We’ve also noticed that our purchases were international as well as intentional; we’ve been shopping all around the world, from Bangkok to Barcelona.
Below are the best purchases we have made in 2025 and the stories behind them.
Shirts from Black Cactus
(Photo: Instagram/@blackcactusshop)
“One of my favourite finds this year is Bangkok-based label Black Cactus. I walked away with three of their shirts (trust me, I could’ve bought more but was practising self-restraint). There’s just such joy in their designs—the pops of colour, the quirky illustrations, the embroidered linen… It’s like wearing personal graffiti. Plus points for remarkable craftsmanship, fabrication, and their sustainable one-size-fits-all approach to clothing.”
— Aziz Draim, Creative Director
Salomon XA Pro 3D
(Photo: Instagram/@hansbyhstudios)
“I walked into ETC Seoul looking for a pair of gloves to brave the winter, but couldn’t help myself when I saw these shoes on the shelf. This model was sold out in Malaysia! I almost stopped myself, considering whether I could give these outdoor trail running shoes the life they deserve. The answer is no, but I bought them anyway! Sleek and stylish, these silver shoes have been a great way to break up my all-black outfits. They may be shoes made for the outdoors, but they sure look great on me in the city. Who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll have their day out in nature… Unlikely!”
— Zue Wei Leong, Associate Fashion Editor
Coach Empire Carryall Bag 34
Photo: Coach
“With the rise of east-west bag this year, I’ve fallen in love with the Empire Carryall Bag 34. It’s spacious, chic, and so easy to pair with every outfit. Thanks to its crafted natural grain leather, the stunning texture and look makes it so easy to carry in any weather condition. I’ve styled this for multiple occasions; from celebrating Eid to going on outings with friends and family or heading to the office. It honestly has become my ultimate everyday bag.”
–Amalina Anuar, Digital Director
Casio AQ-230GA-5AMQY
(Photo: Casio)
“I’m starting to build a little Casio Vintage collection and have added to it this year with the AQ-230GA-5AMQY model. I have a soft spot for square or rectangular watches and fell in love with the retro aesthetics of this one. It’s elegant, light and is versatile enough to go casual or dressy. I rarely go for gold colours but this one just looks good against my skin, and snugs my wrist just
comfortably.”
— Aziz Draim, Creative Director
Maison Margiela Tabi Leather Slingback Pumps
(Photo: Farfetch)
“This was a serendipitous find in Barcelona, Spain. I was strolling around the city when I happened on a tiny shoe shop with an even tinier selection of luxury shoes. The owner explained that she was retiring after 30 years and hoping to find homes for these last pairs of shoes before she closed the doors to her store the very next day. These were the last pair of slingback pumps–and they were in my size! It felt like it was meant to be. It was one of those moments that reminded me of the thrill of physical shopping experiences, rather than the endless scrolling and adding to cart. A highlight of my summer, for sure!”
–Zue Wei Leong, Associate Fashion Editor
