By Florenne Earle Ledger published 12/09/2024
We’re continuing our wardrobe story series where we learn about the tales of different wardrobes, emphasising the importance of seeing our clothes as parts of ourselves and our lives, not just physical and disposable objects.
Our Editorial & PR Assistant, Flo, shares the stories of some of her favourite items.
Who doesn’t love replying “Thanks it was €2” when someone compliments your outfit? This dress was love at first sight. I was visiting my boyfriend who was living in Seville for a few months, and there was a sale at the iconic European vintage chain, Humana. The sale was a week long, each day the price of everything in the shop dropped by another euro. On the day we went everything was just two euros. I saw this dress and instantly loved the print, but I wasn’t sure if the oversized fit would work for me. I decided to buy it anyway as something was drawing me to it. That was over two years ago and I have worn it hundreds of times since! It’s been to so many fun summer events with me, and it’s so comfortable whilst still being stylish. Whenever I don’t know what to wear I can count on this dress to help me feel confident.
This skirt was the last piece of fast fashion I ever bought, five years ago in 2019. In my first year of uni, I had found out some bad news and was having a hard few weeks. Hours away from home, my mum sent me some money and told me to treat myself. This was really out of character for her, so it was sweet. Even though shopping never cures your problems, I went to TopShop and bought this skirt that I’d been eyeing up for a while. Since then, I chose to cut ties with fast fashion, but even 5 years later I still love this skirt and wear it all the time. The pink colour is one of my favourites!
For my 23rd birthday two of my friends presented me with a bag of things they’d found in various charity shops they thought I would like. One of the items was this iconic circle-printed dress. I love the colours and the shape of it. Every time I wear it I’m reminded of my two amazing friends and how thoughtful they were to get this for me!
Some years ago, I saw an influencer wearing these trousers and was obsessed with them. I did my research but couldn’t find any second hand and I had recently stopped buying fast fashion so I wasn’t prepared to buy them new. I kept thinking about them for a few years and looking for similar trousers. Literally three or four years later, the influencer who posted the photo said they were selling some clothes on Vinted. I had a look and saw THE TROUSERS for sale. After wanting them for so long, I found it funny that not only had I found them second-hand, but they were the exact pair I’d seen on Instagram all those years ago. I knew I had to buy them and they’ve been a wardrobe staple ever since.
When I got my first proper paycheck since leaving university I was visiting a friend in Leeds. We were browsing some vintage shops and I saw this fluffy orange jacket and loved it. I didn’t really want to spend the money on it as I’m used to all my clothes being super cheap in charity shops or on Vinted. My friend convinced me it looked great and encouraged me to treat myself as I had just been paid. The jacket became a milestone purchase, reminding me of starting my job after graduating. The cashier could sense my financial stress as I was buying it and gave me a free tote bag which made the whole experience funny. Since making the purchase I’ve worn the coat literally hundreds of times. Every autumn/winter I’m excited to wear it again. It’s the perfect cut and makes all my outfits brighter!
Want to share your wardrobe story? Get in touch with us team@whering.co.uk and tell us for your chance to be featured in our series.
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