How To Build A Vegan Capsule Wardrobe
When talking about sustainable fashion, certain terms are frequently recurring: think “recycled”, “fair trade” and, increasingly frequently, “vegan”. One such phrase is “capsule wardrobe”. From fashion brands to sustainably minded influencers, eco-fashion tastemakers are embracing the capsule wardrobe – the concept of a wardrobe consisting of a few classic, timeless pieces that are so easy to mix and match that nothing else is needed.
By Sascha Camilli: writer, speaker, activist and vegan fashion expert.
Although it's now closely linked to sustainable fashion and minimalism, the term “capsule wardrobe” was coined decades prior to Marie Kondo and her penchant for tidying – but not quite unlike it. Style consultant Susie Faux (we sure love the vegan-friendly name) who ran the London fashion boutique Wardrobe in the 1970s, came up with the idea of owning fewer, better made pieces that were versatile enough to be matched interchangeably with one another. And voilà, the capsule wardrobe was born.
Through the decades, fashion magazines offered up their own versions of the capsule wardrobe by way of endless lists detailing the “Top 10 Garments You Must Own” or “Unmissable Pieces to Add To Your Wardrobe”. And for many years, vegans everywhere have been rolling their eyes at these lists. From cashmere sweaters to leather bags, these suggested “must-haves” were anything but vegan-friendly. But times have changed, and today, a vegan capsule wardrobe is easier than ever to obtain.
The “bones” of a functional yet fashionable vegan capsule wardrobe are simple, versatile pieces like the ones below – once you’ve built a base wardrobe that feels like you, feel free to get playful and add some statement pieces.
The Vegan Leather Jacket
A versatile addition to any capsule wardrobe, biker or bomber jackets are iconic pieces. Paired with jeans or thrown over a dress, a good vegan leather jacket lends edginess to an otherwise casual or polite look. The quality of vegan leather jackets has grown immensely as vegan fashion has gained popularity – check out Albaray for timeless options.
The Sustainable Jumpsuit
A jumpsuit is rarely included on “must-have” lists – but let's face it, it's one of the most suitable pieces for a capsule wardrobe. Easy to pair with heels or flats, the jumpsuit is an entire outfit in itself, removing the conundrum of having to match up the top and bottom. A sleek, simple style can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Take a look at 1 People, KOMODO or Organique for chic and sustainable designs that will easily take you from morning to evening.
Shop all sustainable jumpsuits
The Organic Cotton Jeans
An evergreen fashion staple, jeans are a cornerstone of the capsule wardrobe. Choosing organic cotton means saving on water and resources, as well as avoiding toxic chemicals. A classic straight-leg or boyfriend style like can be reinvented time and time again for a multitude of outfits – the very essence of minimalist dressing. A flare can add drama, while a wide leg can work exceptionally well dressed up for evening. Explore Baukjen, BIBICO and Albaray to find your new favourites.
The Wool-Free Knit
A cosy, relaxed knit can be worn with jeans, a skirt, or layered under a biker jacket, making it the ultimate capsule wardrobe item. Opting for wool made from plants rather than animal skins or virgin synthetics is easier than ever - meaning your choice is kind as well as stylish. This winter, warm up with knits and cardigans in soft organic cotton from Baukjen, KOMODO and VEGAN Happy.
The Plant-Leather Everyday Tote Bag
A structured, simple daytime bag is one of the most crucial wardrobe essentials. Plant leather such as those made from corn, apple, cactus, or grape are just as resistant and durable as animal skins, providing a touch of effortless luxury to your daytime looks while hold all your must-have essentials. Canussa, Miomojo, and Melina Bucher are where it's at.
The LBVD – Little Black Vegan Dress
There's a reason why this one tops all the lists of must-haves - and vegan versions are readily available. A relaxed, loose style that will match easily with sandals as well as boots and sneakers is a capsule wardrobe life-saver. When choosing materials, go for eco-conscious Tencel, ECOVERO, or organic cotton from Baukjen, VEGAN Happy, or Albaray.
The Organic Cotton Tee
Ah, the appeal of the white t-shirt. Looking as effortlessly perfect with a structured blazer as it does with a pair of distressed jeans, this modest item is actually the hero of the capsule wardrobe. The ideal piece s is soft and comfortable, but not too flimsy. Try supine cotton from Lavender Hill, lightweight lyocell from Planet Loving Company, or Greek cotton from Albaray.
The Wear-It-With-Everything Vegan Sneaker
Dresses. Skirts. Jeans. You’ll know when the right sneaker comes along as it will be a perfect match for most outfits in your wardrobe. What makes today's vegan sneakers even more worth a place in your capsule wardrobe is the fact that they are often made from environmentally friendly materials such as organic cotton, cereal-derived fabrics, plant leathers, and recycled rubber. For your perfect pair, try Ration-L, COG, or Zeta Shoes.
The Glamorous Vegan Heel
Okay, it’s time to leave behind the daytime and pass to after-dark territory. Sultry sandals made from plant leather, or sleek stilettos with serious bombshell appeal crafted from cruelty-free fabrics - a nighttime outfit sizzles with a good heel. Team it with a sparkly dress or a pair of tuxedo trousers for an elevated elegance. Sashay over to Agazi, Minuit Sur Terre, or BLOOM Paris for dance-worthy designs.
The Statement Evening Bag
Every wardrobe needs that one party piece: the high-octane accessory that will take your outfit from so-so to spectacular. Use yours to add instant glamour to a more demure dress, or sparkle more subtle for a quiet luxury look. Thalie, Eslla, and Svala have got you covered.
By Sascha Camilli
About Sascha
Sascha Camilli is a vegan fashion writer, speaker and activist. Her book Vegan Style is out now on Murdoch Books. For more about Sascha, you can read our interview with her or read her newsletter Kind Of Wild. You can also follow her on Instagram.
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