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My Sustainable Summer Capsule Wardrobe: how to make one for yourself

posted:

4/06/2023

@caroline__potter

MEET

Caroline

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Sustainable Summer Capsule Wardrobe - woman with a loose summer dress holding a pile of sustainable clothes. On the background, there are several hats on the wall.

I’m quite the minimalist—in the sense that too many options and clutter overwhelm me. When I buy new clothing items, it’s important both for my mental health and daily life to have just the right pieces of clothing that I will need. Each season I carefully select what items to highlight in my wardrobe and add a few classic essential pieces I may need to fill the gaps, always favoring natural fiber and other sustainable options. So, how we make one capsule wardrobe that’s sustainable and summer focused at the same time?

When it comes to choosing new clothes, the first thing I focus on …

natural fiber fabrics both good for my health and the environment

AND

pieces I know I will treasure for years and not grow tired of wearing.

The fashion industry (especially fast fashion) keeps pushing on us fashion trends that, besides helping produce tons of textile waste and leaving a high carbon footprint, will also be out of trend by the next season. So instead, I choose timeless styles and high-quality pieces made with sustainable fabrics.

Having a minimalist wardrobe has saved me a lot of time, space, and energy. It’s made such a positive impact that now I don’t struggle with large piles of clothes to care for and won’t even last for many years.

This summer, I’m pregnant with baby #3, so I know I will be living in loose summer dresses, but pulled together a list of my sustainable summer favorites for any woman in any season! The best thing is you can use these clothes year after year after year!

Best Natural Fiber Fabrics + Brands for Sustainable Living >

Image shows different item clothes for summer, like a white dress, a pair of jean shorts, raffia sandals, floral shirts. Text reads sustainable summer capsule wardrobe.

Why a Capsule Wardrobe?

As someone who easily gets overwhelmed, the first time I heard of the concept of a capsule wardrobe, I was blown-away. I was like, ‘you’re telling me I can keep the same 10-15 pieces of clothes and create different outfits every day?!’

A sustainable summer capsule closet or wardrobe means having timeless pieces, especially high-quality clothing, that complement each other. Say goodbye to pieces that can only be worn a few times before they’re out of fashion! Think of a classic black tank top or a denim jacket you can wear in multiple different ways with different pants, skirts, etc.

Limiting my amount of clothes has helped me improve my personal style, and now I’ve got a perfect capsule wardrobe with high quality items made in a sustainable way for every season.

My Sustainable Summer Capsule Wardrobe

For warmer weather, I use different combinations of clothes to create different outfits without having to worry about following the latest trends that won’t be in the next year. Choosing outfits take less time now and my laundry days have shortened!

Mix and match these easy pieces however you think looks best, whether it’s for a date night or a day running errands. I hope you enjoy this list with my favorite items!

Daily Staples

Dresses

Shoes

  • All Birds Tree Runners: You’ll feel like you are walking on a cloud. These last forever and can be tossed in the washing machine. 
  • Rafia Mule Sandals
  • Beek Gallito Leather Slides: I’ve worn and been obsessed with all Beek shoes for years. They last forever and are the most comfortable (no wear in time necessary). I’ve been wearing mine for 3 summers now and they truly last.
  • Embossed Pearl Sandals: I’ve been saving for these for something a little dressier. 
  • Teva Outdoor Water Sandals // Best summer investment, I joke these are the ultimate mom shoes (but really everyone needs a pair). Super comfortable, great traction and safe! My littles have the kids and baby ones too.
  • Teva Universal Midform: These are a little dressier daily look that isn’t so much of an activewear vibe. So comfortable and great for daily use.

Activewear

Because I know you want to look and feel good while being active, these are also a great addition to your wardrobe, especially during summer seasons. You’ll love how long these items will last even if you keep using them every other day!

  • Vuyori Daily Legging
  • Vuori Elevation Shorty (Biker style shorts) // I’ve been living in these as they are so soft and comfortable. I’ve been dressing them up with a loose floral blouse or change out for a t-shirt for workouts. I love Vuori for workout apparel because the styles are elevated and the fabric is sustainable or recycled.
  • Volley Skirt: This is such a fun edition as it is sleek, soft and so cool for hot days. Gives you that “dressed up” sporty look!

For more check out the Best Natural Fiber Fabrics + Brands for Sustainable Living >

I hope you enjoy my ideas! Let me know what you think and what fun items you’ll add to your capsule wardrobe this summer.

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