CONSCIOUS WARDROBE STAPLES
In my constant search for the perfect wardrobe, I’m always on the lookout for that elegant-forever lasting piece of clothing that can still add something new and fresh to the closet whilst it will work with what's already in there and at the same time have the quality to last for years to come and by that make it a conscious choice.
his winter I was in need of new pair of trousers, I have been living in my black jeans for almost daily of this winter season, so when Vogue launched their #VogueRewear challenge to show how you’re styling your favourite item, in seven different ways, ahead of fashion week; I took the opportunity to use this as the perfect moment to do some further research for this needed wardrobe staple addition.
However finding the perfect trousers, like most items that you are looking for and have THAT specific idea of what it is that you want, turned out to be more difficult than anticipated. Scrolling down my usually go to Net-A-Porter's Trouser section nothing hit my requirements. Scrolling through our latest issue in hope of finding some other inspiration I came upon Max Mara's latest campaign and found the perfect high rise white trousers in wool.
After making my contribution to our #VogueRewear challenge. I wondered what it was that made me get these trousers and I realised it is a much more complex thing to me than just pressing the buy now button. For any new wardrobe staples that I’m adding to my wardrobe I’m making sure it passes my conscious checklist before purchasing. Its made up on the below six criteria:
Material
The trousers are made of wool. Wool is a very sustainable material according to Why Wool Matters, a short film on YouTube by The Campaign for Wool, a film to educate consumers about the benefits of wool and help to support and grow the wool industry. A major part of that change has to be moving from a linear system to a circular one.
Shape
A high rise cut; no matter what will always look chic. You can wear it casually with a loose jumper over or elevate it with a tucked in top. Perfect for versatile dressing which will make more wearable.
Fit
Your body changes constantly and buying something on the edge of being too small is always a danger for those holidays ahead filled with feasting.. My recommendation is buy the size you feel comfortable in, don’t look at the label, some models differ from others and if you always take your normal size you might find yourself in a struggle.
Colour
A conscious wardrobe is a multifunctional wardrobe. Colours can be fun but make sure that they work together. I picked white on this occasion as I don’t want to spend the winter wearing only black and it lifted my spirits. However, I chose so knowing white does go with a lot in my wardrobe.
Life
Another important aspect is to realise that this piece you're buying is like investing in a long term partner. Hopefully for life and you could then in your turn pass it onto the next generation. So when shopping consciously always ask yourself if this is something you would wear 10 years from now.
Craftsmanship
A personal favourite is to dig for the labels inside the clothes and find out not only the material composition but where this garment has been made. Is it designed in London but made in China? Is it made locally? Do they offer on their website information about their factories? At the same time look at the details, the way it has been put together - do you think it was good made and will last long?
If all above is satisfactory for your new discovery like it turned out for me - I congratulate you on your new conscious chosen staple piece and can’t wait to see you in our #VogueRewear challenge worn differently 7 times, (and many many more in the future).