Fashion Director’s cut: 5 sustainable (& remarkably sophisticated) pieces to add to your wardrobe

It’s sustainability month on IMAGE.ie, so fashion director Marie Kelly has picked her top five sustainable fashion buys for this week.

Like many women, I’ve struggled to find sustainable brands that offer the aesthetic I crave, which is streamlined and tailored, sophisticated and directional. But researching this edit gave me more than one lightbulb moment. When I did a deep dive into some sustainable online retailers like Baukjen and Everlane, I found pieces that tick all of my sartorial boxes, and at reasonable price points.

My first find was this pair of athleisure-style tailored pants. Wide-leg trousers worn with trainers is one of my favourite looks. It’s so comfortable but chic, and as you can see from the image below, it can look smart enough for a business meeting.

Lily trousers, €146 at baukjen.com

Soon, boiler suits will be like cardigans in my wardrobe – abundant. I’m all for an easy throw-on that looks cool but effortless too. This light-wash version is from H&M’s Conscious collection. I’ll wear it over a fine knit polo neck and with trainers now that autumn is here.

Denim boiler suit, Conscious, €34.99 at H&M

I love a khaki jacket, and khaki trousers, although not together, mind you. They’re seasonless, so they always feel like a smart buy. This utilitarian-style jacket from Everlane is perfect for weekend wear, although I love the idea of wearing it over fluid skirts and dresses.

Modern utility jacket, €73 at everlane.com

Reformation is one of the best-known sustainable brands, and this dress is just one of the reasons why. The brand produces stunning pieces, which admittedly are not cheap, but I’ve seen a similar dress to this in Maje and it’s actually about €50 more expensive. Again, sustainable clothes aren’t always financially out of reach.

Carmelina dress, €340 at reformation.com

A good retro print always catches my eye, and this gorgeous shirt is a result of a collaboration between People Tree and the V&A Museum in London. The co-ords are a little too shouty for me, but the shirt on it’s own is divine. Worn with a polo neck and oversized cardigan, it will work really hard for you this season and beyond.

V&A cosmic print shirt, €129 at peopletree.co.uk

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