10 Best Sustainable Wardrobe Staples to Add to Your Closet for Earth Month
It was only natural that for Earth Month, we’d work with Erin Houston and Emily Kenney of wearwell, our collaborators behind the Sustainable Shop, to curate the best eco-conscious pieces to bring into your wardrobe now — and have for life. Use this round-up as the foundation of a versatile capsule wardrobe, or better yet: get inspired to shop more mindfully. It’s easier (and chicer!) than ever to do so; Erin and Emily are committed to sourcing from brands that are good for both the planet and the people who bring each piece to life.
But first, meet the 10 not-so-basic essentials that'll have you stoked to be shopping sustainably.
Best Sustainable White Button-Down: Aspen Shirt
It’s not easy finding the perfect white button-down when fabric, silhouette and even the shade of white are all important factors to consider. But your search ends here: the Aspen, from People Tree — the first international fashion brand certified by the World Fair Trade Association, with all its pieces fully traceable in a transparent supply chain — is the blouse of all classic blouses. It falls on the body beautifully, skims and floats just so in all the right spots and best of all, is made of wrinkle-resistant Lyocell.
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Best Sustainable Denim: Mikey Jeans
The fit of these jeans is worth waxing poetic about. Made by Boyish, a sustainable denim line inspired by vintage styles, the Mikey is crafted from OCS-certified organic cotton, TENCEL Lyocell and recycled elastane for a comfortable stretch that still holds its shape.
We love the cut — it’s a high-rise, wide-leg jean — and personality by way of a well-placed, well-worn detailing and a raw hem. Pair it with the Aspen and pumps for some juxtaposition, or throw on your favorite tee and sneakers for an off-duty look.
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Best Sustainable Pants: Sasha Trousers
These olive green trousers are another find from People Tree. Made of 95% organic fair trade-certified cotton, comfort (by way of fabric and the drawstring waist) is unparalleled. The tapered leg elongates and elevates so that no matter how you wear this — a tee, bodysuit, blouse or sweatshirt — the outfit always looks thoughtfully styled.
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Best Sustainable Tank Top: Nuon Top
This top is the very definition of an anything-but-basic basic. It’s designed by Tonlé, a zero-waste line that sources scrap waste from mass manufacturers and reimagines what would’ve ended up in the trash into beautiful pieces. The Nuon tank is no exception and perhaps, a prime example of what can be done in the sustainable fashion space. It’s simple, chic and timeless; you’ll want one in black and cream.
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Best Sustainable Summer Top: Kenzie Top
Run, don’t walk — because no matter what we do, we can’t seem to keep the Kenzie in stock (also by fan-favorite, People Tree!). It’s crafted from organic cotton jersey and features an under-band elastic panel that helps sculpt so if you wanted to go sans bra, you could, comfortably.
Not to mention: the yellow is the literal ray of sunshine we all crave at the first sign of warmer weather, and with the square neckline and cross-over back detail, we’re calling it now: the Kenzie is the top of summer.
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Best Sustainable T-Shirt: Cotton Print Tee
Combine the perfect plain white tee with the sweetest floral print and you have a T-shirt you can’t seem to stop wearing with anything and everything. (And we mean it: throw it on with the Mikey jeans, tuck it into the Sasha trousers or pair it with a skirt depending on the aesthetic you feel like channeling for the day.) You can tell the thoughtfulness behind the shape: the cut is relaxed yet flattering, featuring side slits for a comfy fit at the hips.
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Best Sustainable Statement Top: Margie Blouse
This is another People Tree find we can’t get over. With the Margie blouse, you get a vintage look that’s been brought into the present day with a modern silhouette for a fresh yet timeless feel. We appreciate the nod to the 90s ditsy floral print and 80s homage by way of structured shoulders. Tuck this into trousers for work, or take it to the weekend and pair it with the Mikey jeans for a touch of edge.
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Best Sustainable Dress: Willow Dress
The Willow comes in eight styles and good thing it does: it’s another piece that people love and want in every color. Understandably so; this is one of those easy, breezy, boho dresses you can throw on no matter when or what. The block print is hand-printed and made of 100% modal for true comfort. Keep it flowy as is, or add a belt to create an hourglass silhouette while tying in your shoes or bag — it's a true all-season dress.
Also worthy of note is the brand behind the dress. Maelu is a BIPOC woman-owned label that prides itself on traditional craftsmanship and producing in partnership with a gender-equality NGO. Plus, a portion of their profits is donated back to the communities they work with, too.
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Best Sustainable Lightweight Jacket: Jeffrey Jacket
The Jeffrey is by Boyish — maker of our favorite jeans (like the Mikey we mentioned above) and just solid denim pieces all around. Though we’re nearing the height of spring and thinking of summer, something we often neglect is the need for a jacket for early mornings, office days (air conditioning can be brutal!), and cool summer nights.
We love this pale camel-colored safari-style denim jacket that combines form and function. The tie at the waist adds softness back to an otherwise utilitarian look, and yes, the pockets are fully functional.
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Best Sustainable Bag for Summer: Syuti One Bag
Of course you can wear the Syuti any time of year (we love the idea of juxtaposing a summery straw bag against a cozy knit), but for warmer months in particular? This natural rattan palm bag is a seasonal staple you can wear from day to night, on vacation or even a weekend trip to the farmer’s market. The crossbody strap means you can do it all hands-free, and the closure keeps all your belongings secure.
And though straw bags seem to available from every brand, who you buy from matters — and can make a viable impact. This one in particular is made by Manava, a woman-owned brand committed to providing Cambodian artisans with a sustainable income and education on everything from financial management to healthcare.
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