For the February issue of Vogue Germany, the subject of sustainability is presented as it relates to what has lasting quality in a wardrobe. Several editors from Vogue’s international publications weighed in and not surprisingly, their most “valuable” pieces evoke a fond memory or are simply workhorse items that define their signature look. From the A.P.C. jeans Emmanuelle Alt has authentically faded with continuous wear since they were a dark blue to the three-row S.J. Phillips necklace Anna Wintour’s been wearing since the eighties, these beloved pieces are a key element to their uniform.

This got me thinking about items in my closet I’ve had for decades that hold special meaning and unfortunately some I’ve regretfully parted with. Although it hasn’t seen the light of day in years, a Louis Vuitton Speedy bag I received for my sixteenth birthday 40 years ago is perhaps the oldest. I think it’s time to take it out for a spin. Holding on to treasured items and better yet, using them, is another way to practice sustainability.

From top left: 

Christiane Arp (Vogue Germany): “My “heart” is a Chanel jacket from the spring/summer 2011 collection. Eric Pfrunder, Artistic Director at Chanel, gave it to me after a shoot after he learned from Karl Lagerfeld that I was currently processing a big family loss would have. This jacket has magical powers to this day. As soon as I put them on, I feel safe and protected, as if a family of friends is hugging me. A piece of material that has been breathed a lot of life and love into.”

Anna Wintour (Vogue USA): “It is always said that diamonds are forever, but amethysts, citrines and aquamarines are at least as durable. I have been wearing my three-row SJ Phillips chain with exactly these stones since I got married in New York in the eighties. Whenever I wear them, I think of my husband, my children and how I took over the management of American VOGUE. I think about my life. For me, this chain is the definition of sustainability, because it will always remain part of my wardrobe.”

Emmanuelle Alt (Vogue Paris): “My favorite piece of clothing is the “Butler” jeans from APC. When I bought it, it was dark blue. Over time, it became brighter and now has a very individual wash. Producing stonewashed jeans is the worst thing you can do to the environment, so I’m all the more pleased that I was able to achieve this effect naturally.”

Thaleia Karafyllidou (Vogue Greece): “This vintage silk blouse from Celine actually belonged to my mother. She bought it almost 20 years ago. She gave it to me last year. She knew how much I love her. The blouse is an absolute classic. I can wear it during the day and with the right accessories in the evening. It is much more important, however, that it feels incredibly good and that whenever I wear it, I think of my mother.”

photos: Vogue