8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead)

8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead)

      It might be surprising, but even the most selective members of the Who What Wear UK team make *some* shopping mistakes. Whether it was a spontaneous sale buy that was never used again or a trendy item that quickly lost its appeal, we’re not ashamed to confess we haven’t always made the best choices. This very topic sparked a lively discussion in our group chat this week, prompting us to reflect on the items we regret purchasing the most and those we wish we had chosen instead. Knowing that you might feel the same way (or are at least interested in our list of hits and misses), we compiled our responses to help you avoid buyer’s remorse. So, if you’re curious about how Who What Wear UK editors shop when no one is looking, keep reading to check out our curated selection of items that are truly worth buying now.

      ### Regrettable Purchases According to Who What Wear UK Editors

      **Natalie Munro, News Writer, on Wedge Mules**

      "This is an easy answer, but hard to admit. I have some really stylish wedge mules, but I can never wear them as they hurt my feet the moment I leave the house. Heeled mules can look gorgeous, but they are less practical for walking (it takes considerable effort to keep them from slipping off), so looking back, I’d opt for a style with more support."

      **What She'd Buy Instead:** Minimalist Slingbacks

      A simple slingback strikes the right balance between chic and uncomplicated. Whether you’re dressing it up with tailored pieces or keeping it casual with jeans, this adaptable shoe is a wardrobe essential—just ensure you select a comfortable heel height suitable for all-day wear.

      ---

      **Humaa Hussain, Junior Branded Content Editor, On Micro Bags**

      "I once bought a tiny bag for a wedding and ended up not using it again. Regrettably, it’s now sitting in its dust bag in my wardrobe. I prefer larger bags, like those of Mary Poppins, which can hold everything, and though I might sound very millennial, I believe mini bags are better suited for Gen Z."

      **What She'd Buy Instead:** Dressy Shoulder Bags

      There is indeed a middle ground; a medium shoulder bag can seamlessly transition from daily use to evening outings. Minimalist, 90s styles are making a comeback (proof that classics can still look great decades later), and a neutral color ensures your bag matches everything.

      ---

      **Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor, On Knitted Dresses**

      "I need to clarify that I don’t dislike all knitted dresses, but I’m unlikely to buy another thick, wool maxi dress after I ended up sweating profusely, leading it to become a bobbly, misshapen lump after just one wash. Even in the coldest winter months, a full-length wool dress can feel excessive, and I’ve learned that even if something looks appealing on a hanger, it doesn't guarantee practicality. Always try things on."

      **What I'd Buy Instead:** A Cashmere Jumper

      A cashmere crew neck sweater can do much more than just pair with jeans. If you want to wear a dress while staying warm in cooler months, layer a knit over your dress or tie it around your shoulders or waist for easy access. It’s far easier to manage temperature than with a knitted dress, and a well-cared-for high-quality knit can last a lifetime, making the cost per wear worthwhile.

      ---

      **Rebecca Rhys Evans, Acting Deputy Editor, On Cheap Button Ups**

      "What I thought would be a quick fix for affordable basics ended up being more trouble than it was worth. The high street offers many great options, and I refuse to spend excessively just for a designer name, but after experiencing four buttons (yes, four) fall off a top I’d only worn twice, I recognized the value of investing in quality over convenience."

      **What She'd Buy Instead:** Premium Basics

      You shouldn’t have to pay a fortune for a plain white tee to feel you are getting your money’s worth, but there are excellent independent brands and premium labels that invest significant effort into producing high-quality clothing with exceptional fabrics, ensuring your pieces last much longer than a single season.

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      **Brittany Davy, Junior Writer, On Flared Jeans**

      "Honestly, my biggest regret is probably flared jeans. While I loved the trend and jumped right in, I found it nearly impossible to find flat shoes that looked good with them. Too flat and the hems dragged; too small, and they got lost in the denim; too big, creating an unintentional early 2000s vibe. In my view, flared jeans are best paired with heels."

      **What She'd Buy Instead:** Straight Leg Jeans

      There’s a distinction between “boring” and “classic”—while straight leg jeans may not reinvent the wheel, if it isn’t broken, there’s no need to fix it. Straight leg jeans perfectly match ballet flats,

8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead) 8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead)

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8 Fashion Editors Share the Items They Wish They Hadn’t Purchased (and What They Would Choose Instead)

Indeed, even the most experienced editors can feel buyer's remorse. To assist you in learning from our errors, we share the items we regret purchasing, as well as those we wish we had acquired.