Shanley Knox
I came across {r}evolution apparel while browsing on twitter last weekend – and instantly needed to know more. Sustainable fashion? West Coast? For women who travel? I was in. I chatted with founders Kristen and Shannon this week you could get to know them, and learn more about what {r}evolution apparel has to offer for women on the go.
FGS: Tell me a little bit about yourselves?
KS: We’re Kristin and Shannon the founders of {r}evolution apparel, a versatile and sustainable clothing line for female travelers. We launched our first piece, the Versalette, in 2011 with the highest-funded fashion campaign in Kickstarter history.
FGS: What is the vision behind {r}evolution apparel?
FGS: What is the vision behind {r}evolution apparel?
KS: We are a fashion movement for change. Our goal is to spark conversations about fashion and consumption and to get people asking, “Where do my clothes come from?” We believe there are more important things in life than what’s in your closet.
FGS: How did it begin?
KS: We are travelers by nature. We were in Central America, taking Spanish classes and researching ideas for a business plan, when we started designing a line of 10 pieces that could be worn over 100 different ways. The ultimate clothing line for versatility and functionality.
FGS: You are opening an online store soon, what kind of items can we expect?
KS: For now, the Versalette is the only piece we have on sale. We plan to grow our collection very slowly by launching one piece at a time!
FGS: How did it begin?
KS: We are travelers by nature. We were in Central America, taking Spanish classes and researching ideas for a business plan, when we started designing a line of 10 pieces that could be worn over 100 different ways. The ultimate clothing line for versatility and functionality.
FGS: How are you committed to sustainable living and design?
KS: It’s an evolving lifestyle that we try to improve upon each and every day. Neither of us shop — we haven’t bought a new piece of clothing in almost two years. When we do need “new” clothes we go to thrift stores. We’re both vegetarians. We don’t drink bottled water. We recycle. We compost. We try to eat only local foods. We try our best to consume only what we need, and to reuse/recycle when we can.
KS: It’s an evolving lifestyle that we try to improve upon each and every day. Neither of us shop — we haven’t bought a new piece of clothing in almost two years. When we do need “new” clothes we go to thrift stores. We’re both vegetarians. We don’t drink bottled water. We recycle. We compost. We try to eat only local foods. We try our best to consume only what we need, and to reuse/recycle when we can.
FGS: What can customers expect from your line that sets you apart?
KS: Our line is not for everyone. But if you’re a woman, looking to downsize your wardrobe, preparing to go on a trip or simply wanting to shop more sustainably, then we think the Versalette (and the rest of the line to come) is a great option. We provide women the opportunity to “do more with less.” Our products are also made entirely in the USA from recycled fabric, organic cotton, and other natural resources. All of our packaging and labeling is also eco-friendly.
FGS: Do you intend to create all your own clothing or will you source from other green designers as well?
KS: We plan to stick with the line of 10 pieces we’ve already designed, but look forward to collaborating on spreading a message of sustainability with other green designers!
KS: We plan to stick with the line of 10 pieces we’ve already designed, but look forward to collaborating on spreading a message of sustainability with other green designers!
FGS: I see you have the Versalette available on your site – can you tell me more about this piece, in particular?
KS: As mentioned, the Versalette is one piece that can be worn over 20 different ways. It’s made in the USA with 100% recycled fabric and is available in four different colors: cherry, charcoal, sage and indigo.
KS: As mentioned, the Versalette is one piece that can be worn over 20 different ways. It’s made in the USA with 100% recycled fabric and is available in four different colors: cherry, charcoal, sage and indigo.
FGS: You are opening an online store soon, what kind of items can we expect?
KS: For now, the Versalette is the only piece we have on sale. We plan to grow our collection very slowly by launching one piece at a time!
FGS: What kinds of material do you work with most commonly?
KS: A knit-blend of 50% recycled cotton scraps (from factory cutting-room floors) and 50% recycled water bottles.
KS: A knit-blend of 50% recycled cotton scraps (from factory cutting-room floors) and 50% recycled water bottles.
Shop {r}evolution apparel.
Say hello to Kristen and Shannon on twitter.
Written by Shanley Knox
Reclaimed Fashion: Joan Vorderbruggen’s Upcycled Slip Dresses
