The (Guilt Free) French Wardrobe

Fashion, it’s a fickle thing, two seasons and countless collections in-between. The pace that the industry moves at in today’s consumer society is speedy to say the least. Raf Simons, who until recently was the creative mind behind luxury, fashion powerhouse Dior, opened up about his own experience of the industry to Cathy Horyn for System magazine. Raf states:

“Everything is done in three weeks, maximum five. You have no incubation time for ideas, and incubation time is very important.” Business of Fashion, 2015 

The quote is a brief snippet that sums up the feeling of the article. I can only relate this to my own creative mind (not that mine is a patch on Mr Simons, of course) that sometimes moves at a glacier speed. However the end result, in my opinion is always worth the time it took. Doesn’t creativity need time to nurture and develop? I really recommend reading the whole article; it’s a very interesting piece.

Of course, the constant need for new trends, styles and products trickles down onto the high street fuelling this obsession with fast fashion. For instance, Zara has a continuous stream of new arrivals available on a daily basis. I’ll admit, I am guilty of getting caught up in the addictive nature of fast fashion. Buying something, wearing it once or twice and then it lies in drawer for the foreseeable future. But how sustainable is this?

I only really began to think about this when I was approached by Rêve En Vert, a French, luxury clothing website. Rêve En Vert’s ethos is very inspiring, focusing on quality, respect and longevity. The concept of sustainability is also extremely important to them in both the products they make and sell. Rêve En Vert only features designers who operate their businesses with respect for both people and the planet. The company also supports the Paris climate change summit, which took place late last year. You can learn more about this issue on Rêve En Vert’s website here.

I was lucky enough to receive one of Rêve En Vert's own organic, t-shirts from their R.E.V by Rêve En Vert collection.  Not only is it guilt free, this t-shirt is also beautifully made with the highest quality materials. This is an essential item for The French Wardrobe, wouldn’t you agree? I styled my tee with a lose pair of Cos trousers, an old (but still a favourite) Mango coat, the cosiest H&M jumper and my old faithful Adidas Superstars.

So, put down the credit card, step away from the Zara changing room. Thank you Rêve En Vert, guilt free fashion never looked so chic.

All images - Erica Richardson