What do you love the most about spring? Along with flowers, walking in the park, and sunshine, getting to go out in a dress without layering a bunch is one special pleasure. Because let’s face it: you might love the layered look when it first hits in fall, but there is something so nice about wearing a stunning outfit that doesn’t get covered up in a coat the instant you walk outside.
I love dressing in a single-item outfit because it takes the guesswork out of getting ready. A single dress or a jumpsuit that flatters your figure and makes you feel like a million bucks can carry you through so many different occasions. And there’s something that is so classy about a whole, un-separated outfit that says “Wow, she’s a woman who has her stuff together!” Ironically, they are also incredibly fail-proof because you don’t have to worry about matching your top to bottom, etc.
Without further ado, here are our picks for single-item outfits that are worthy of the #sustainablestyle hashtag.
When You’re Feeling Utterly Lovely
Staud Veronica Dress, $295 $118
The romantic balloon sleeves; the buttons on the bodice; the peony-pink color. This cotton poplin dress is so adorable it hardly needs further explanation—but it *is* made in the U.S., so there’s that. Style with a straw bag with a top handle and statement earrings!
When You’re Having A La Dolce Vita Moment
Reformation Nikita Dress, $248
Ah Reformation, what would we do without your steady stream of sexy but classy dresses, season after season? Date nights, rooftop BBQs, and weddings just would not be the same. This senorita-style dress comes in CO2- and water-saving viscose in 4 colors; made in LA.
When You’re Boss & You Know It
Ekyog Combinaison (jumpsuit), 155 Euro
I have been crushing on French ethical label Ekyog for some time now. This jumpsuit is discreetly sexy in the front with a low-cut V-neck. In the back, there is more of that subtly sensual, parisienne thing going on. It’s somehow both appropriate for office (if you’re a creative), for gallery receptions, and date nights (just add heels, clutch, and super sparkly earrings).
When You Use Your Passport More Than Your Driver’s License
Faithfull The Brand La Villa Crepe Jumpsuit, $190
Each Faithfull garment is made in Bali, Indonesia using traditional techniques such as hand-dyeing and hand-printing.
This boho-glam jumpsuit covers and reveals in *all* the right places. It’s as great for grabbing brunch with friends in your home city, as for walking around cobblestone streets in some foreign country. With this stunning color, I think all the outfit needs is confidence—or go all out with red lips, gold jewelry, and sunglasses.
When You Want To Look Sleek While Being Secretly Comfy
Filippa K Ashbury Dress, 175 Euro
I discovered Flippa K in Stockholm and have been in love ever since. This 100% organic cotton dress is perfect for those days when you want to look effortlessly chic, maybe even a bit conceptual and arty, while being as comfortable as being in your PJs. Honestly, I feel like that all the time. I would definitely wear at least midi heels with these to give some structure and weight to counterbalance the floatiness of the garment. Wear your hair in a polished bun and voila, you’re instantly elegant!
When You Want To Get The Most Bang For Your Investment
Faithfull The Brand Nina Crepe Dress, $190
Another Faithfull item because I couldn’t just choose one. But even if you splurge, you’ll feel good knowing that this dress was made in an artisan factory where techniques have been passed down for many generations, in support of fair wages, sustainable local economy, and traditional art. Also, my rule is to never buy a piece of clothing that you can’t wear to both a classy place and a date, and this one definitely checks both marks.
Which one of these #sustainablestyle looks has your heart going pitter-patter?
Related: What I’ve Decoded About French-Girl Style In France—& Ethical Labels To Know
PSA: Madewell Introduces Eco-Friendly Swimsuit Line Made Of Recycled Plastic
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Photo: Respective brands
