For this week’s instalment of building an ethical summer wardrobe, I want to introduce you to my new favourite shape: the sustainable shirt dress. Well actually the shape isn’t all that new, it just feels very current right now.
versatility
This shirt dress is the second of it’s kind in my wardrobe. I can justify having more than one as it is such a versatile shape. Frequently I wear it as shown, bare-legged with white trainers. However, it can also be used as a cover up. Try it over a vest with jeans or over a jersey dress, basically a summer alternative to a cardigan. Talking of seasons it’s also a style that works well into autumn, teaming it with tights or leggings.
Non Print, Prints
Prints are something that can so easily make a garment look dated. Tropical palm prints are all the rage now, but a few years down the line they’ll be old news. So where possible I try to fill my wardrobe with what I describe as a non-print. A simple timeless print.
Sustainability
This dress is from sustainable German brand Frieda Sand. Founder, Kirsten, works closely with ethical and Fair Trade producers to create garments that are made to last, to be worn season after season. Frieda Sand seeks to use natural and sustainable fabrics. This dress is made from 50/50 organic cotton / modal, and is delightfully soft and light to wear.
Other Sustainable Shirt Dress Options
Another sustainable brand that sell great organic cotton shirt dresses are Eight Hour Studio. They sell loungewear that can also be daywear and specialise in mix and match prints for a striking effect. I photographed their shirt dress recently, please click here to see People Tree also have an organic cotton chambray version, please note it doesn’t button all the way down the front.
The Footwear
You could easily dress this outfit up or down, but as I spend most days running after two kids I want to be comfy. Trainers are a vital part of my wardrobe. White trainers go with everything. TOMS has recently launched their optic white leather Lenox Sneakers, which tick every box for a good pair of white trainers. Classic, completely white and made from leather so they’ll last. To keep them clean, I use a damp cloth and don’t wear them in the mud! Also for every pair purchased, a new pair of shoes is given to a child in need. #OneforOne.
My necklace is from one of my favourite jewellery brands Edge of Ember and the earing you’ve seen before. But I’ll tell you about them another day…
Shop My Sustainable Wardrobe
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Shirt Dress* | Frieda Sand
White Leather Trainers* | TOMS
Necklace* | Edge of Ember
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