These 6 Items Were the Best Things We Bought in 2019

Editors pride themselves on having the ability to be impartial when it comes to their work. We can't simply fill our articles with pieces we'd like to buy and wear—we have to think about the overall appeal of them.

This unbiasedness can only go so far, though, for sometimes, we invest something so great that we can't help but sing its praises. Which is why we gave Who What Wear's team of UK editors the opportunity to share the one item they consider the best thing they bought in 2019 with the masses.

From the handbag that had the entire office swooning to the dress that instilled one editor with extra confidence, keep scrolling to see our editors' best buys of 2019…

EMMA SPEDDING, EDITOR: WANDLER BAG

"Okay, so this is a bit of a cheat because it was a part Christmas present, so it's technically before 2019. I'd loved Wandler handbags for so long, but the price was way out of my budget and I didn't think it was something I'd ever be able to actually own. Last December, though, I put together quite the payment scheme to be able to buy it: Firstly, I bought it with a discount, and then I paid for it partly with a voucher I had. I put some money towards it and the other significant chunk was a very kind Christmas present from my parents. The leather is beautiful—it really makes any outfit feel so much more put-together, and the best part is I know I will treasure for years and years. As an indecisive shopper, it's always those things which I think about the most and really plan for that are the best purchases.” 

Shop Emma's Must-Have

ELINOR BLOCK, ASSISTANT EDITOR: VINTAGE POLKA DOTS

"I think the best thing I bought in 2019 was a vintage polka-dot dress. It was so good for summer and didn't look vintage at all. Polka dots are a timeless trend, so I know I'll get the wear out of it for years to come."

Shop Elinor's Must-Have

JOY MONTGOMERY, SHOPPING EDITOR: FRINGED JACKET

"I have always been partial to the Wild West aesthetic, especially when it comes with a side serving of '70s styling, so naturally, I bought into one of autumn's biggest trends; the retro-inspired fringed jacket. My £40 H&M jacket proved to be an outfit saviour, gracing many of my daily looks. A verified multitasking wardrobe winner."

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ZOE ANASTASIOU, FASHION EDITOR: BEC & BRIDGE DRESS

"I see a successful purchase as one that I can wear repeatedly and never tire of, and this year, that buy was a yellow linen midi dress by Aussie brand Bec and Bridge. I wore it to death during my holiday to Italy and out and about in London when the weather permitted. Although it's not available anymore, I'll certainly be stocking up on more Bec & Bridge pieces."

Shop Zoe's Must-Have

ALYSS BOWEN, SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR: BLACK KNEE-HIGH BOOTS

"My best buy of 2019 has to be my vintage '90s knee-high boots. I got them in a vintage shop in Paris for 20 euros and wear them at least three times a week. They go with everything (skirts, dresses, trousers—you name it, they go) and I get compliments every single time I wear them."

Shop Alyss's Must-Have

MAXINE EGGENBERGER, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: PUFF-SLEEVED DRESSES

I've always disliked the word "flattering," but I can't think of a better term or phrase to describe puff-sleeved dresses. I bought a handful of them this year, as after discovering Ghost's puff-sleeved dress helped to balance out my full bust and slight shoulders, it has become my go-to silhouette for any occasion that calls for a frock.

Shop Maxine's Must-Haves

Next up, see our guide to the key trends for spring/summer 2020.