Focus on slow fashion and longevity when building your capsule wardrobe by investing in the best sustainable staple items.
Curating your wardrobe in a way that each and every item complements one another is the perfect antidote to the mid-week, pre-work ‘I don’t know what to wear’ conundrum. These wardrobe staples are fundamental in creating a capsule collection of clothing in which longevity and quality are key: tailored trousers which won’t lose their structure, a classic white t-shirt that won’t fade in just a few washes, for instance. Slow fashion goes beyond that of being aware of how often we make new purchases to encompass a more holistic approach to our wardrobes that considers processes, resources, people and the planet.
Establishing your wardrobe essentials – be it finding a pair of jeans with just the right fit or a classic trench that can thrown over almost anything – is the first step in establishing your everyday hero pieces. Focusing on natural materials, recycled where possible, and ensuring transparency within supply chains and sourcing can all ensure that your wardrobe is built to last.
The Plain White T-Shirt
Far from basic, the plain white t-shirt is a wardrobe essential that can be dressed up with a blazer, layered under winter knitwear or thrown on for casual weekend attire. Organic Basic’s 95% GOTS organic cotton tee comes in classic white and black and, according to its impact index, helps to save 0.7kg of carbon dioxide, 379g chemicals and 28g of waste.
The Button-Down Shirt
Layerable over jeans, slip dresses or tailored trousers, having a button down shirt in your wardrobe can be the perfect go-to for both work and weekend dressing. Made from 100% TENCEL™ Modal fibres and using only natural dyes, Neu Nomad’s oversized ‘Boyfriend Shirt’ is beautifully soft.
The Trench Coat
Perfect for transitional seasons and rainy days, Filippa K’s ‘Tamara coat’ prioritises sustainable fibres, lined with recycled polyester and created using recycled trims. Slightly oversized in fit, this coat can be layered over almost any outfit, worn loose or belted depending on your desired silhouette.
The Layerable Turtleneck
Beautifully soft, Base Range’s 100% organic cotton turtlenecks are an essential for any lover of layers. Made in Portugal, with a focus on clean lines and feminine silhouettes, it focuses on minimal environmental impact and natural materials without compromising on style. With a fluted hem neckline, Base Range has elevated the simple turtleneck into a key component of any capsule wardrobe.
The Tailored Trouser
A modern twist on the tailored trouser, Maggie Marilyn’s ‘Meet Me at Seven Pant’ is minimal enough to complement almost everything in your wardrobe without losing their flare. Made from repurposed fabric supplied by a local company in New Zealand, Maggie Marilyn’s focus on transparency means these trousers can be traced from supplier to seamstress.
The Tailored Blazer
Hanna Fiedler’s minimalistic ‘Waldemar Jacket’ is ideal for those times when your outfit needs that little something to make it meeting ready. Focusing on sharp but still feminine silhouettes, this made to order piece is created from 100% natural materials, with both the wool and silk sourced locally in England.
The Denim Skirt
Denim, be it skinny jeans, an oversized jacket or a mini skirt, is a key component for most of our wardrobes. Requiring high quantities of water and chemicals to produce, sourcing sustainable denim can help to significantly reduce the impact of your wardrobe. If you’re looking for a softer, worn look, search for second-hand pieces. Alternatively, Outland Denim’s no frills denim mini is a flattering fit that is made from organic cotton and considers its energy and water consumption.
The Little Black Dress
Birdsong’s ‘Black Mini Wrap Dress’ combines two of the most classic takes on this staple; a little black dress with a wrap around detail and puffed sleeves in a mini length is ideal for almost any occasion. Made to order in the UK using sustainable fabric, TENCEL™, this dress is made with longevity and comfort in mind.
The Cosy Socks
More than just a toe-warming essential, socks can provide that little bit of flair to an otherwise simple outfit. Made from 75% organic cotton, Lucy & Yak’s range of funky socks are cosy, comfortable and anything but simple.
The Weekend Loungewear
Though not an obvious wardrobe staple, good loungewear can make or break a weekend in. Riley Studio’s ‘Co-Ord Track Pants’ are made from regenerated waste materials and come with a matching jacket that can be styled for both going out and staying in. These gender neutral sets can be traced back to the source, with Riley’s ‘Made By Kind Humans’ campaign ensuring that its makers are celebrated.
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