The Power of a Versatile Wardrobe

Hi there D-RAVEL, Darc again (@darcbert)!

As an Iowa native, I have been spending the last couple of days recovering from the recent storm that hit my (and D-RAVEL’s) hometown. After finally being lucky enough to get my power back up and running on Saturday, I couldn’t help but spend some time reflecting on what my values were pre-storm and how they have changed post. 

It is no secret that climate change is evident within the new normal, but this doesn’t mean it’s too late to make a change. I will admit I am guilty for falling into the hands of fast fashion companies. It is easy to turn a blind eye to the human and environmental injustices for the ease of trendy/cheap clothing. I am wanting to stop this cycle within my own closet, and am hoping this can convince some of you to join me as well. I’m here to explain to you the power of a versatile wardrobe.

The Change We Need

By now, most of us know that fashion trends move in a consistent cycle. Recently, the 90’s are incredibly popular within influencer and celebrity wardrobes. We all also know that this trend will not last long. Just like the 90’s left back in the 90’s, it will leave again by 2021. As easy as it is to fall into the thrill of buying these clothing pieces, the real disaster hits as you stare into a full closet and say “I have nothing to wear.” 

According to Business Insider writer Morgan McFall-Johnsen, “The fashion industry produces 10% of all humanity’s carbon emissions, is the second-largest consumer of the world’s water supply, and pollutes the oceans with microplastics.” 

So how do we satisfy our need for trending items while also reducing our global carbon footprint? The solution is in versatile clothing items. I have created a list of my top 10 favorite items from summer 2020 that can be worn and styled dozens of ways to fit your image now and in twenty years. Not only can these items be new staples within your basics collection, but they are also amazing items to pack when you’re traveling for a week overseas with just a carry-on (we’ve all been there). Read on to discover the power of a versatile wardrobe!

1. Bandeau Swim Top

With the small top trend exploding, swimsuits (especially those made with 437’s luxe fabric) are amazingly handy and multifunctional. Not only can the swimsuit be tied dozens of different ways, but it can be worn as a regular top as well to heighten your ‘going out’ fit. 

2. Tennis Skirt

Tennis skirts are an item that have definitely been trending recently, but have a versatile function making them much more desirable to add to your closet. TALA garments are made from 92% recycled raw materials, collected pre-consumer, or more simply, directly from factories. So, not only is this item from an environmentally conscious brand, but you are also adding an item to your closet that can be easily dressed up/down for any occasion. 

3. Bra Tops

These amazing Felina bra tops can truly do it all. They can work as a soft and supportive bra during workouts and can be styled with gold jewelry to make a statement while spending the day on a rooftop bar. 

4. Long Sleeve Button Up

Another 437 item… these button up tops are made to be oversized and worn in multifaceted ways. Whether you are throwing the top over your swimsuit to spend the day on the beach, or tying it up as a going out top paired with some beige trousers, this one piece of clothing can be worn and styled dozens of ways. 

5. Bermuda Jean Shorts

Madewell is an ethical brand that partners with Fair Trade Certified, a non-profit organization that holds fashion companies to strict ethical and sustainable standards. By 2030, Refinery 29 writer Eliza Huber states that all Madewell operations will be carbon neutral. Bermuda shorts are a cycled trend item that many influencers grabbed onto. Although the item has been going in and out with the times, these shorts are the perfect dress up/dress down item to throw in your closet.

5. Biker Shorts

Biker shorts are a huge trend right now. These shorts are comfortable, stylish, and flattering to each and every body shape. I have fallen in love with the different ways to style and wear biker shorts. Not only do I have multiple Madewell pairs because they are ethically made, but also because I can wear them on my hike and to a fancy brunch right after.

7. Grey Sweats

Grey sweats have been a constant since forever. They can be worn to lay on the couch for 12 hours straight or to walk the shops of NYC. These popular sweats by American model and actress Emily Ratajkowski are the perfect“classy”sweats. I absolutely love the vibe these give me and I know they would pair perfectly with my Air Force Ones.

8. Staple Black Romper

Black anything is always a staple for your closet, but this romper is something special. Because it is shorts and not a skirt, it really gives you the opportunity to take it dozens of different directions.

9. Scarf

The famous and trendy silk scarves go for outrageous amounts of money, so why not instead support a handmade, ethical, item on Etsy? This scarf can be worn as a top, belt, bandana, headband, made into a bag and many more. This is a must have for my closet right now and a necessity on any vacation I plan in the upcoming months.

10. Tennis Shoes

People generally have a love/hate relationship with chunky trainers, and that may be why I made sure to list them last. Although they may not be everyone’s favorite, these vegan trainers are the perfect shoe for staying comfortable and stylish to finish off any outfit. These shoes are PETA approved and are an incredibly versatile addition to your closet/suitcase. 

These are just a few of my favorite items that I will be adding to my wardrobe as I transition to a more sustainable closet. I am intrigued by all the up and coming ethical brands, and I can’t wait to support them in the future.

Although it may not seem like a big step to helping our planet, if we can convince just one of our friends to join us in this journey, soon we will create a movement in order to accomplish real change. 

I can’t wait to see how you all style these pieces on your next vacation! If you buy any of the items listed, please comment on this post and tag us @D-RAVEL with a picture of you in your item! We love talking with each and every one of you!