Top Picks: GQ Staff’s Favorite Purchases of 2025

As 2025 comes to a close, many reflect on their favorite purchases over the year. El-Balad recently surveyed staff members to find out what items truly mattered to them. Their selections showcase a blend of style, functionality, and a few unexpected categories. Here’s a look at the top picks of the GQ staff for 2025.

Favorite Fashion Picks of 2025

Gerald Ortiz: Vintage 70s Fishtail Parka

• Gerald Ortiz, Style Commerce Writer, highlights a vintage M65 fishtail parka.
• This purchase fulfilled a long-standing desire and offers a stylish, rock star vibe.

Ian Burke: Levi’s 501 Shrink-to-Fit Jeans

• Ian Burke opted for raw denim 501s, which he now wears almost daily.
• Purchased for approximately $60, these jeans have become his best-fitting pair.

Michael Nolledo: 3sixteen Square Toe Side Zip Boots

• According to Michael Nolledo, these boots combine style and comfort, making them a standout purchase.
• He appreciates their durable design and all-day wearability.

Tyler Chin: Akila Atria Sunglasses

• Tyler Chin replaced lost sunglasses with a new pair from Akila.
• The Atria model provides a stylish, yet practical choice for everyday wear.

Yang-Yi Goh: U-Turn Orbit Basic Turntable

• Yang-Yi Goh returned to vinyl with the U-Turn turntable, rekindling love for his LP collection.
• This purchase motivated him to rescue stored records on his next visit home.

Standout Accessories and Home Items

Kelsey Niziolek: Santa Maria Novella Incenso Eau de Parfum

• Kelsey Niziolek fell in love with the warm, comforting scent reminiscent of Italy.
• This dark fragrance features notes of frankincense and cardamom, perfect for any season.

Jordan Bowman: Ricoh GR IIIx HDF Digital Camera

• Jordan Bowman praises the portability and image quality of the Ricoh GR IIIx camera.
• Inevitably, having a compact camera enhances spontaneous photography opportunities.

Alyssa Bereznak: Oror x Renoma Archive Club Metro.001 Sunglasses

• Alyssa Bereznak discovered stylish sunglasses during a shopping trip in South Korea.
• These retro-inspired shades fit perfectly into her aesthetic.

Conclusion

The staff’s selected favorites from 2025 reflect a mix of timeless fashion, innovative accessories, and nostalgic pieces. Each item not only enhances their wardrobe or lifestyle but also elicited joy and satisfaction. As the year wraps up, these top picks underline the importance of meaningful purchases in our lives.