This season doesn’t just bring long-awaited sunny days and unpredictable showers (and beautiful tulips, here in the Netherlands): it usually comes with a desire for something new and fresh.
So, what if you’re feeling that way about your clothes but also want to honour your sustainable lifestyle, without falling for the fast fashion idea that you must replace everything?
The answer is simple, practical, and fun: curate an ethical spring capsule wardrobe!
I’ll show you how to go into this with the right mindset, the most important things to focus on, and a spring capsule wardrobe checklist to make it even easier, with plenty of stylish eco-friendly options.
The right mindset before building your ethical spring capsule wardrobe
- Think beyond this spring – Fast fashion brands are already filling your inbox and TikTok feed with ‘what’s trending this spring’. But fuelling overconsumption by chasing temporary and impersonal trends is the opposite of building an ethical spring wardrobe. Instead, focus on timeless clothes that feel YOU. That way, you’ll happily rewear them for years, reducing your environmental footprint and waste
- Actually, think beyond spring, too! – For example, the lighter garments in your ethical spring capsule wardrobe can be worn in summer, too. Layers? Ideal for autumn
- Buy less but better – It’s easy to go overboard in spring. I used to keep falling for my ‘jacket trap’: every year, I was convinced I needed a new one. And so I ended up with way too many hanging around, some almost looking like duplicates. Instead, when adding to your ethical spring capsule wardrobe, prioritise clothes that:
– were made ethically
– were made to last (unlike fast fashion garments, designed to fall apart after a few wearings)
– match your style
– work well with each other (and with what’s already in your wardrobe). For example, it’s easier to pair up a patterned top with a monochrome pair of trousers, or vice versa
This will also save you money in the long run!
How to build a spring capsule wardrobe ethically and functionally
- Start from your wardrobe – It’s literally the best time of the year for a spring clean! So, go through all the clothes you own, do a proper wardrobe declutter by getting rid of what you always find excuses not to wear (don’t bin them! Sell them or donate them), and notice:
– what spring garments you already have (and like)
– what you still need to buy (don’t forget there’s an ethical spring capsule wardrobe checklist coming up!) - Choose the best sustainable fabrics for spring – Breathable ones are perfect for this season (some of the most ethical options are organic or recycled cotton, linen, hemp, and modal fabrics) but, since the weather can be unpredictable, include some warmer ones too (like organic or recycled wool)
- Think layers – This will obviously prepare you for those changes of temperatures and sudden showers, but guess what? It’ll also give you plenty of opportunities to get creative with your outfits! Which takes me to the next point…
- Create new spring outfits using the same garments in different ways – An ethical spring capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to be boring! For example, when you pair up the same top with different bottoms and layers, it’ll look like a brand new outfit (and even more so when you accessorise it)
Your ethical spring wardrobe essentials and inspiration
As promised, here’s a sustainable spring capsule wardrobe checklist for you, but don’t forget: you don’t have to buy all these items, and you might already have quite a few.
I only created this list of ethical spring wardrobe essentials to give you some initial direction and ideas.
(Use the filters on the side to narrow down your search!)
Basic white t-shirt
A true spring staple (and beyond): perfect to go with all kinds of trousers and skirts, underneath your layers, or even with a spaghetti dress or dungarees.
Consider a breathable organic or recycled cotton t-shirt.
Long sleeve top
Spring isn’t all sunshine and warmth. So, pick a long sleeve top too (one that goes well with your trousers).
Organic or recycled cotton are always great options, or you could consider Tencel, other modal fabrics, or when it comes to synthetics, recycled ones.
Button-down blouse
That way, you can choose to keep it buttoned up or open depending on the weather. A print or patterned blouse can also go well with a monochrome t-shirt or top underneath.
Why not look for durable hemp or breezy linen?
Jumper or cardigan
Let’s face it: you’ll need them, during the chilliest spring days or evenings!
There are plenty of excellent jumpers and cardigans made with ethically sourced cotton, or for an even warmer feel, organic and recycled wool too.
Jeans
Timeless and versatile! Blue jeans, in particular, will go with most (if not all) of your tops.
Denim jacket
Another classic spring staple, especially when you braved a dress or short sleeves but the weather got chillier.
Tip: for double-denim outfits that don’t look overwhelming, pick a darker jacket if you own lighter jeans (or vice versa).
Breezy dress
Longer ones tend to be a safer bet, in spring.
And rather than a dress that only works as a standalone piece, how about choosing one that works with some of the items already in your ethical spring capsule wardrobe, like your white t-shirt or a cardigan?
White trainers
You can’t go wrong with them!
And when you pick a versatile colour and design, they’ll probably go well with your spring dress, too.
Other options for your ethical spring capsule wardrobe
Depending on your style and preferences (and what’s missing from your wardrobe), you might also want to consider:
- Tailored trousers
- A blazer (perfect for layers!)
- A reliable raincoat or trench coat
- A mid or long skirt
- Boots
- Flats
- A jumpsuit or dungarees (also ideal for layers)
Finding the right ethical garments and accessories for your spring capsule wardrobe
Don’t worry: you won’t have to spend hours scouting for small online stores with tiny collections.
At Project Cece, we brought hundreds of fair trade brands in one place, with filters to simplify your choice.
So, from breathable fabrics to items that match your priorities (like vegan or eco-friendly clothes), you can easily find the right pieces for your ethical spring capsule wardrobe.
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