Sustainability Scoop
5 reasons to rethink
the ‘new outfit’ mentality for kids
Stop! The summer’s slew of social events don’t mean a whole new wardrobe for your little ones. Here’s why outfit repeating is the low-key sustainability shift you should embrace
Summer’s in full swing here and suddenly your calendar is stacked with birthday parties, family barbecues, splash pad meetups, and summer weddings. It’s fun—but it can also trigger a familiar anxiety: “Do they have anything to wear?”
For parents of young kids, the pressure to show up in a fresh outfit for every photo-op can feel real—even if it’s unspoken. But here’s the good news: the culture is shifting. As the world wakes up to the environmental toll of fast fashion, a quiet revolution is gaining momentum. Outfit repeating isn’t just okay—it’s admirable.
Here’s why it’s the smart (and sustainable) move this summer:
The kids’ clothing industry generates an estimated 3.1 billion pounds of textile waste every year in the U.S. alone. And much of that waste comes from barely-worn “occasion outfits. Rewearing helps reduce waste and teaches lasting values. “I used to feel guilty reusing the same dress for parties,” says Prelove You member, Samantha, “but now I realize it’s something to feel good about. My daughter loves it, and I don’t stress about stains or spills.”
Even for young kids, the photo pressure is real. With every party, playdate or milestone moment documented and shared, there’s an unconscious push for newness. But the tide is turning—celebrities and sustainability influencers are proudly repeating red carpet outfits. Cate Blanchett, Emma Watson and Billie Eilish famously repurpose their red-carpet looks. It’s time to bring that energy to the summer party circuit!
Kids often want to wear their favorite clothes on repeat. That sparkly tutu or dinosaur T-shirt? It’s their version of a comfort blanket. Outfit repeating actually builds identity and joy—something fast fashion can’t replicate. James, dad of Miles, agrees: “My son wore the same shark shirt to every birthday party this spring. He thinks it’s lucky. And honestly? I kind of love that.”
A cardigan over a party dress. Sneakers instead of sandals. Layering a fun tee under a romper. There are a million ways to remix one item without buying new. A Prelove You pro tip? Snap a photo of three outfit combos using the same “event piece.” Let your kid help style them—they’ll be more excited to rewear it.
Summer’s in full swing—and so are record-breaking heatwaves. The fashion industry accounts for up to 10% of global carbon emissions, and every unnecessary purchase adds to the load.
Rewearing is a simple act of resistance—and a practical way for families to cool things down.
How to Talk Rewearing with Your Kids
Repeat-Worthy Picks
4 staples they’ll want to wear again (and again)
