How many times have you stood staring at an overflowing closet, lamenting the fact you had absolutely nothing to wear?! It’s a sad reality that the average woman only wears 20% of her wardrobe – the horror of being labelled an “outfit repeater” often leading to wear-it-once purchases that then stay hidden, collecting dust till the end of time. So, while we wait patiently for the Clueless technology of our dreams to become a reality, inspired by The Social Outfit‘s Wear The Change challenge, we tasked our digital editor, Lauren Baxter, with styling one of our free sewing patterns – the Peppermint Bardon Dress – five ways over five days. Because just like the loveable Lizzie McGuire, we’re all outfit repeaters ‘round here. 

An ethical fashion challenge set during Refugee Week (20-26 June), Wear The Change aims to raise funds for The Social Outfit’s non-profit community programs. Participants style one garment five ways over five days to shine a light on the problems of fast fashion all while supporting women from refugee and new migrant backgrounds with training and employment pathways in the fashion industry.

“Wear The Change means having the opportunity to support women from refugee and new migrant backgrounds with crucial training that can ignite fulfilling careers and lives,” 2021 ambassador Nina Gbor shares. “In addition to raising funds for The Social Outfit’s community programs for these women, it’s a chance to invite society to learn and engage in the lived experiences and realities of migrants and refugees. Ideally, it might foster more communication, empathy and more harmonious connections between various communities.”

If you want to get involved alongside changemakers like Nina, Jan Fran, Montaigne, Clare Press and more, head to the link here to register your interest and then get creative! There’s a tonne of prizes to be won by fundraising or just playing along on Instagram. Bonus points from us if you choose a Peppermint pattern to style! 

LOOK ONE – LAYERS ON LAYERS

When layered over a simple black turtleneck and paired with boots, a bright print can go from summer to winter in a flash. Add a jaunty baker boy hat for bulk hipster points.

LOOK TWO – SUMMER LOVING

A gorgeous design on its own thanks to the lovely patternmaker Elbe Textiles, with a sun hat and strappy heels and you’ll be ready for fun in the sun.

LOOK THREE – KNIT PICKING

We’re all for a cozy knit here – the bigger and chunkier the better in our opinion. Add a belt and hey presto your dress is a fun, new skirt.

LOOK FOUR  – FRINGE BENEFITS 

Putting on a jacket, particularly one as extra as this vintage number, can easily change up your look. Talk about fringe benefits.

LOOK FIVE – BUTTONED UP

Don’t be afraid to wear your loud and proud pieces to the office. Whack on a collared shirt underneath and hello business-casual.