The Versalette from {r}evolution apparel

I’m excited to present to you today an interview with Kristin and Shannon of {r}evolution apparel, a newly forming eco-fashion line! They’ve just launched their first piece, The Versalette, with a Kickstarter campaign to finance the production. They’ve been blogging for the past year about their journey to produce sustainable clothing at All of Us Rev. Check out The Versalette Kickstarter campaign, and their new home, {r}evolution apparel.

Tell us about the Versalette. What makes it so special?

The Versalette is the first piece launched by {r}evolution apparel — a sustainable women’s clothing line that focuses on versatile design and recycled materials. The Versalette is one garment that can be worn over 15 different ways — as a skirt, dress, poncho, shirt, scarf, purse & more. It’s a great representation of the {r}evolution apparel brand and epitomizes our mission of “doing more with less.”

How did you first come to this idea?

About a year ago, we were packing for a trip to Central America. We wanted to start a social enterprise, but weren’t sure exactly how we wanted to make an impact. While packing, we realized that there was a real need for ultra-versatile clothing to accommodate travelers, minimalists, and nature-lovers like ourselves.

We designed 10 different pieces for {r}evolution apparel. The entire line is designed be mixed and matched, converted and reversed to make up over 100 different looks.

Why a Kickstarter Campaign?

The short version: we don’t have any capital yet!

But, really, launching a Kickstarter campaign is an awesome way to test the market before manufacturing the product. Not only are we hoping to raise start-up money through Kickstarter, but we’re also using it as an opportunity to see how our target market responds to the Versalette.

What’s next, if the Kickstarter campaign goes through? Surely it will!

As of December 1st, we’ve raised our $20k goal — with 21 days to go! We’ll now be able to follow through with the production of the Versalette. We’re planning to work with a manufacturer on the east coast of the United States, and we’re looking forward to putting in our first order, and continuing to work on the rest of our line!

Once we get into production, we’ll carry out the orders for Kickstarter, start to contact boutiques, and begin retail sales through our website.

Can you explain the production process behind The Versalette?

The Versalette is made out of a 50/50 blend of fabric using recycled cotton from American factory floors and recycled water bottles. All of the fabric-making and manufacturing takes place in a factory in the United States, and all phases take place within a 200-mile radius. Although no process is perfect, we’re thrilled with the system’s ability to reduce waste, water use and harsh chemicals.

Is there any other question you’d like to answer? Anything else you’d like to tell our readers?

As we mentioned, we’re in the process of raising capital through a Kickstarter campaign. If you’re interested in pre-sales of the Versalette or learning more about our signature piece, you can check it out here. We also tweet at @AllofUsRev and you can Like us on Facebook here!

Thanks, Kristin and Shannon!