Brand Collab: Reformation

This Summer, I had the amazing opportunity to create some digital content for Reformation. Mostly known for their floral and feminine Summer dresses, Reformation recently launched an entirely sustainable collection of shoes. A few years ago, I recall listening to a podcast featuring an interview with Reformation founder, Yael Aflalo, where she mentioned that one of her inspirations for starting the brand was from seeing the pollution created by shoe manufacturing. Fashion and apparel in general are huge sources of pollution, waste, and a variety of social issues, but I have been seeing more and more brand become increasingly conscious about their supply chains and production.

Lately, I’ve been thrifting my shoes from Crossroads. The only pair of shoes I bought new recently were my STAUD heeled sandals and New Balance sneakers. I know for some, wearing second hand shoes might seem gross, but I always check to make sure any shoes I purchase are lightly worn and have a clean sole. Second hand shoe shopping can be tedious as well since selections are always changing and sizing can be tricky, but I think it’s a great sustainable alternative and relatively affordable.

According to Ref’s website, “On average, a pair of Ref Shoes emits 37% less carbon dioxide, uses 58% less water, and results in 100% less waste compared to conventional footwear.” Though shopping second hand is the most sustainable method, Reformation does take great efforts to provide products that are as gentle on the environment as possible. Of course, it’s very difficult to make something new without leaving any carbon footprint, but I think brands do have a responsibility to make products in a way that’s as sustainable, ethical, and conscious as possible. Everything takes more time, money, and effort with these ideals in mind, so I understand it’s not always possible to have your cake and eat it too, but personally, I’m trying to make small choices as a consumer to put my dollars towards brands, businesses, and services that match some of these values.

With the chance to select an outfit and a pair of shoes from Reformation’s new Summer Collection, I chose the Aribella Dress in Verine and the Marcella Ruched Kitten Heel. Though I’m not typically drawn towards prints and I've been finding myself avoiding colors, I was drawn to this dress because of the midi length and gorgeous silk fabric. I wore this outfit out on Melrose and to my pleasant surprise, I received so many compliments. In my opinion, I think it’s because this fabric really shimmers in the Summer sun and has a somewhat vintage feel (or maybe it’s just because this color just so happens to compliment my Summer tan).

For the collaboration, I shot most photos myself using a simple backdrop and my tripod. I even managed to style this look with an old Free People bag that matched perfectly.

Overall, I know consumption and shopping are very personal choices. I know I won’t always be perfect and like everyone else, sometimes I buy things that I don’t need or regret purchasing in the first place. As time goes on, I hope to really only acquire things that I treasure and bring me joy. And as my personal style continues to shift and evolve, I aim to find the perfect balance between new pieces and secondhand finds.

What has recently brought you joy?

xx

Ella Kol