The 8 Pieces PureWow Editors Get Complimented on All the Time

Rachel Bowie, Director of Special Projects and Royals

“Last year, I was pregnant with my now five-month-old and on a vacation in London. I popped into ME+EM and the salesperson recommended I check out their daisy print cheesecloth midi dress. (That version of the dress is sold out, but can be found here.) She promised, ‘This is something that will absolutely grow with your bump and be great after, too!’ She was right. I lived in it. Even through my third trimester. The cheesecloth material is airy and flattering and also super forgiving and petite-friendly. Better yet, I got non-stop compliments on the dress whenever I wore it. (I'll never forget someone approaching me on the subway to ask where my dress was from—the ultimate praise.) My coworkers commented on it, too. For me it was the ultimate one-and-done style. Now, imagine my delight when I saw that ME+EM made it a signature silhouette in their spring/summer lineup. The tulip version is new and fully in stock."

Stephanie Maida, Senior Commerce Editor

“It may be the newest addition to my handbag collection, but the JW Pei Harlee shoulder bag has already earned a lifetime's worth of compliments (ahem, not to brag or anything). I'd heard so many good things about this brand, which is not only totally wallet-friendly, but also celebrity-approved, and had been drooling over its sleek-but-unique structural designs for ages. This past fall I finally settled on this beauty—and it was the best $89 I've ever spent. Between its asymmetrical crescent curvature, sturdy shape and super high-quality vegan leather material—not to mention its luscious color—it's no surprise that it's been catching folks' eyes wherever I go. I've had fashion girls pay me compliments on it at work events, and—not joking—straight dudes telling me how cool it looks at sports bars. Equal opportunity style in this one little bag (that, FYI, is roomier than it looks!).”

“Oh, my beloved Sam Edelman Mary Jane slingback heels—how would I go from office days to after-work events without them?! I've had these shoes for around three years now, and they have not failed me yet in terms of cuteness, comfort or ability to rake in the compliments. They put such a fun twist on that preppy, dark academia look, and, as a petite girlie, I appreciate the extra height they give me. But don't be fooled—these are hardly clonkers. They're honestly super lightweight, and the thick, sturdy heel makes them very easy to walk in. I frequently get complimented on these hybrid beauties in professional settings, at work from colleagues or at press events with my peers. After telling me how cute they think they are, these shoes' complimenters always follow up with the same question: Are they comfortable? I sometimes get a little too excited to exclaim: Yes! Yes they really are! Can you believe that?! I can walk *all day* in them!”

Marissa Wu, SEO Editor

“I have worn this Sézane suit many times to much fanfare. I bought it last fall/winter maybe? I am a Sézane girl through and through. Or, rather, Sézane fits into the three words I gave myself to define my style: tailored, timeless, polished. (Also French. My friends say I have a very European aesthetic.) Naturally the color always gets a compliment. And also the style in general, I like that it's a suit but it doesn't scream ‘I work at a bank.’”

“These pants are also super versatile and I've styled them with a ton of sweaters. (Still trying to figure out the shirt, though.) Similarly to the suit, my fashion friends were all wild for this. Some compliments that were sent: ‘This is so freaking chic!’ and ‘It's perfection!’ I can't wait to wear it in spring, early summer and fall. Nasrin is known for her bright, loud and happy prints. She's an independent designer working in the Navy Yards and she manufactures ethically in a factory in India.”

Sydney Meister, Associate Editor

“I have a few items that fit the bill! First is this Marina Ribbed Crop Cardigan—the perfect dress up/dress down shirt. During the day, I’ll wear it casually with light-wash jeans and a white tee. Then at night, I’ll button just the top with A-frame styling and pair with a skirt. Not only do I get constant compliments on the coffee shade but I also love how buttery soft the material is. Definitely a transitional wardrobe staple.”

“I literally wear this belted jacket three times a week. The coat is all about balancing structure with softness, reimagining classic trench vibes with a more casual, daytime-friendly length. The rich cocoa hue is also a standout. What I love most about the Lisa, however, is how the suede is thick enough to feel substantial without being heavy, and the satin lining allows for easy layering over knits and other cool-weather essentials.”

“I couldn’t tell you why, but for some reason, I equate jewelry—the baubles I wear on my body every day—with how things are going in my life. Handcrafted from recycled 14-karat solid gold (or sterling silver), this charm balances luxury with sustainability. Its design is meticulously thought out, featuring an egg-shaped silhouette—symbolizing renewal—adorned with one marquise-cut and five round lab-created diamonds. The real draw, however, is that it’s set in a pattern that pays homage to the five elements: fire, water, earth, spirit and wind. Have I won the lottery since I started wearing it? Not exactly, but I will say this: Since adding the Element Pendant to my rotation, I’ve felt more grounded and confident—like the best version of myself. And, I will note that I recently went on the best first date I’ve had in years. Maybe it’s the energy of the piece, or maybe it’s my therapist. Either way, I’m not complaining.”