Her Style

Fostering a more ‘sustainable’ spring wardrobe

While I make a point to regularly discuss “sustainability” with my clients, I feel the need to use air quotes every time I say the word. It seems like sustainability can take on so many different meanings, and it’s often used as a way to create buzz without any backing. 

When I talk about creating a “sustainable wardrobe,” I mean one that is not only a little friendlier on the environment — but that also feels more sustainable for you to maintain. 

Spring is the perfect time to tackle this challenge. As we clean out our closets and stock up on summer clothes, we can all take steps toward creating more sustainable wardrobes. 

This talk of sustainability in fashion might give the impression that you need to exclusively shop at thrift stores or turn up your nose at anything that isn’t organic, fair trade cotton. But the most effective strategy for building a sustainable wardrobe doesn’t involve how or where you shop — it actually doesn’t involve making a single purchase. 

The best way to foster sustainability in your closet is to wear what you already own. I know this sounds simple, but increasing the versatility and lifespan of the items in your closet is not only nicer on the planet — it’s also more economical. Plus, cutting down on impulse purchases can even help you connect with your personal style. 

In order to do this, it is paramount that you take care of your closet and clothing, which likely means starting with a good closet edit and shopping with intentionality. Other tips for creating a sustainable wardrobe include:

• Take inventory of what’s already in your closet

• Get rid of items you no longer wear or need

• Tailor your clothes so they fit just right

• Invest in timeless staples, then add trendy touches

• Rent special occasion items you’ll only wear once

I hope you take time this spring to evaluate what you already own, and see if you can style it in a fresh way!

His Style

A smidge about heritage

Gents! Happy March and happy birthday month to me. (Yes, we are celebrating the entire month.) As I’ve gotten older, I’ve started thinking about legacy. What will I leave behind for younger generations? How will I be remembered? And what will I be remembered for? Other than being really, really, really, ridiculously good-looking, of course. (Zoolander, anyone?) 

Naturally, I started thinking about this in fashion terms. What is the fashion world equivalent of “legacy”? I landed on “heritage,” as nothing in the fashion world embodies legacy quite like a heritage brand. 

What is a heritage brand?

In men’s fashion, a “heritage brand” refers to a brand with a deep legacy rooted in tradition, craftsmanship and an unwavering attention to detail. These are your OG brands, which often trace back several decades — and in some cases, several centuries. 

Typically, these brands use old-school manufacturing techniques that have been passed down through generations to create beautifully crafted garments and accessories. In short, heritage brand garments and accessories are made to last.

What are some notable heritage brands?

There are many examples of heritage brands in men’s fashion. There are well-known fashion staples, like Brooks Brothers, Alden, Levi’s and Carhartt. And there are more modern, lesser-known heritage brands, like Dehen 1920, White’s Boots, Viberg and Iron Heart. 

Each of these brands brings its own unique, time-honored traditions to crafting garments and accessories that will outlive you.

Why should you care?

According to the National Retail Federation, American shoppers returned $816 billion (with a b!) worth of goods in 2022. Where did the majority of those returned goods go? Landfills. 

Unlike fast-fashion pieces, items crafted by heritage brands are made to last. Not only are they timeless, but they’re also ethically and environmentally more sustainable. You’ll be lucky if that shirt from Zara makes it through the weekend! 

In a world full of fast-fashion trends, be a heritage brand. Leave a legacy. Be good, and be good at what you do. Until next time, peace and love!