The Transformers

Keeping your wardrobe up to date with all of the hot trends can be costly unless you know what you’re doing. One option is to sit one or two trends out, but that’s no fun. You can also wait for sales and shop secondhand. Another option that is almost as fun as shopping itself is to purchase clothes that can be worn more than one way.

If you do a little sleuthing, you will find there’s lots of cool clothing, shoes, and accessories that are convertible, reversible, and detachable…in other words, transformers. With a few nips, tucks, wraps, buttons, or zippers, they can be transformed into a completely different style or item.

This idea isn’t anything new, and it may sound a bit un-glamorous, because typically this feature is used on men’s and ultra-casual clothing worn for sports, camping, and hiking. Believe it or not, some of the pieces are quite stylish and pass for high fashion.

If you don’t believe me, just check out the October issue of InStyle magazine, pages 232- 236. The magazine pulled several pieces, mostly in black, for their “Your Look” titled, surprise, Transformers.

You can still find them if you want, but this idea is no longer limited to utility jackets that turn into vests and pant that turn into shorts. Of course, these are great for an outdoorsy, rustic look, but if you’re looking for clothes that can go to work and simply go out, you’re in luck. Several designers and labels have taken this idea to the next level and up a notch. They are offering pieces that can go out to dinner, dancing, or even a formal event.

There are pieces like maxi dresses and skirts that can be worn as miniskirts and dresses simply by pulling them up or down. The genius part is they can be worn alone, with other pieces, or just similar fabrics. Another choice is a caftan-like piece that can be wrapped and belted to not only create a dress out of a skirt or shawl, but can create several different-looking dresses. Lots of these garments even come with directions that show you how to do this.

Other “transformers” are shoes that have removable straps to become mules, boots that go high and low, with and without faux fur, and totes and handbags that can be transformed from handheld, to over-the-shoulder to clutches.

I pulled a few items from Shopforclothes.com, you can refer to the magazine. This trend may not be as fun as buying more than one item at a time, but it will feel like you did – without the price.