How We're Rewearing the Best Things We Bought Last Summer

For most people, rewearing an item of clothing won't exactly be a groundbreaking concept. However, we're seeing more and more influencers making a point of posting shots of themselves in "old" pieces and patting themselves on the back for it. This might make you roll your eyes, but unfortunately, clothing longevity is becoming a rarity in an industry where newness is always available for those who want it.

We like to think that we're a team who gets the most out of the things we buy and are constantly rewearing old favourites. We're nothing but rigorous when it comes to testing out a new style before welcoming it into our wardrobes. We also believe that trends and sustainable shopping needn't be mutually exclusive: It's all about how you style something and the little details or accessories that make it feel fresh again.

Also, if nothing else, working out what the hardworking items in your wardrobe are will help you to shop better in the future. Once you have identified the features that make you want to wear something again and again (whether it's a neckline or silhouette), you can ensure that everything you buy will stand the test of time. Win-win.

So I wanted to find out exactly how Who What Wear's editors are wearing their favourite 2018 summer items for the new season. Unsurprisingly, there were plenty of dresses (this time with a more laid-back twist) alongside odd high-street shoes and versatile jumpsuits. Scroll down to see what we chose.

Emma Spedding: Rixo Dress

THEN: I bought this Rixo dress over a year ago when I went to our Los Angeles headquarters on a work trip and had bought it to only wear for smarter occasions or parties. It was probably my most expensive purchase of the year, so last summer I only wore it to work dinners where I wanted to look smart and never in the day (out of the fear of ruining it).

NOW: This summer, though, I've decided to brave the "splash risk." In fact, I wore it for a day of sight-seeing on holiday in Venice with trainers, a basket bag and stacked gold medallion necklaces. I did, however, wear two napkins over the top as I ate my spaghetti pomodoro.

SHOP RIXO DRESSES:

Joy Montgomery: Arket Jumpsuit

THEN: I bought this Arket jumpsuit in the sales last summer, and thank god I did, because once the heatwave hit, I was wearing it at least once a week. I even wore it for one of my Who What Wear interviews (and received a compliment, may I add), which proves its sheer versatility. Last year, my favourite way to wear it was with a pair of nude H&M mules and chunky gold jewellery. Super easy yet seriously statement-making.

NOW: I'm still waiting for the heat wave to hit (come on summer), but in the meantime, I'm embracing a bit of seasonal layering with my Ninety-Percent bodysuit, which is perfect for adding a pop of colour. I'm also finishing the look with my trusty Tevas, which essentially haven't left my feet for the last eight weeks, FYI.

SHOP ARKET JUMPSUITS:

Hannah Almassi: Striped Mango Dress

THEN: I actually bought this dress in summer 2017, so it's the third year of wear. Last year, I wore it for more formal occasions (like evening events and work days) belted and with heels.

NOW: This year, I'm enjoying wearing it more casual and loose-fitting with flat sandals, a shell necklace and a basket bag. My summer 2019 vibe is a lot more chilled out.

SHOP MANGO MIDI DRESSES:

Nell Block: & Other Stories Heels

THEN: I didn't actually wear these sandals last year, as my feet were too swollen from being pregnant (the joys). But when I bought these sandals nearly three years ago, I knew I'd made a solid purchase. They are classic black sandals that genuinely go with everything. Need to make jeans look smarter? Put them on. Want some shoes that won't destroy your feet when you're going to an all-day wedding? Yep, these are ideal. My favourite outfit, however, was wearing them with some frayed hem jeans and a blazer for work as I could walk around in them at lunch and even commute home in them without having to do the ol' trainer switch.

NOW: These sandals are still available in & Other Stories, which probably proves my point that this is a style that has staying power. Right now, I like to wear them with wide-leg cropped white jeans, a white T-shirt and maybe a dress or jacket thrown over the top.

SHOP & OTHER STORIES SHOES:

Related: I Just Tried on M&S's Entire Summer Collection—Here's What I'd Recommend

Alyss Bowen: & Other Stories Dress

THEN: I got this dress last summer on the sale at & Other Stories have already lost count of how many times I've re-worn it (and how many times someone has complimented me on it). Last year, I loved wearing it for formal events—such as weddings and parties—with strappy heels and a mini bag.

NOW: This year, I'm wearing it as the ultimate throw-on-and-go dress for work, styled with trainers and hoop earrings. It's low effort yet high impact. It never fails to make me feel great! I know I'll be wearing it for many summers to come.

SHOP & OTHER STORIES DRESSES:

Up Next: The Secret Place Fashion Editors Are Now Shopping for Sustainable Clothing