How To Create a Sustainable Cottagecore Wardrobe
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The cottagecore aesthetic is all about romanticizing the simple, rural lifestyle and embracing a return to nature. A key component of this aesthetic is the wardrobe, which often features flowy dresses, vintage-inspired pieces, and natural fabrics. However, creating a cottagecore wardrobe that is also sustainable can be a bit challenging. Here are some tips to help you find and style sustainable clothing pieces that fit the cottagecore vibe.
Shop Secondhand and Vintage
One of the best ways to build a sustainable wardrobe is to buy secondhand and vintage clothing. Not only does this reduce the demand for new clothing production, but it also gives new life to pre-loved items. Here’s how you can do it:
Thrift Stores: Visit local thrift stores and consignment shops to find unique, vintage pieces that fit the cottagecore aesthetic.
Online Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Depop are great for finding secondhand clothing. My favorite shop is The Real real, they have amazing deals and you can return items!
Vintage Shops: Look for specialized vintage shops that curate high-quality pieces from past decades.
Shop My Closet: Discover curated cottagecore pieces in my collection! Handpicked vintage dresses, cozy cardigans, and unique accessories await you. If you are new to Poshmark, you can also use my code and get $10 to start shopping with. Use code: BROOKESLULUCOLL
I love shopping on The RealReal because it offers such a wide range of high-quality items, from designer clothes to unique vintage finds, all carefully authenticated for peace of mind. The platform’s return policy is a huge bonus too—it gives me confidence to try new pieces, knowing I can send them back if they don’t quite fit my wardrobe vision. It feels like a treasure hunt with added assurance, which makes sustainable luxury shopping even more enjoyable.
Choose Natural Fabrics
Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool are more sustainable than synthetic ones like polyester and nylon. They are biodegradable, often require less energy to produce, and are generally better for your skin. When shopping for new items, look for:
Organic Cotton: Grown without harmful pesticides and chemicals.
Linen: Made from flax plants, it’s durable and gets softer with each wash.
Wool: Natural and biodegradable, perfect for colder months.
Support Sustainable Brands
Many brands are now focusing on sustainability, offering clothing made from eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices. Look for brands that:
Use Sustainable Materials: Fabrics like organic cotton, Tencel, and recycled materials.
Practice Fair Labor: Ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for their workers.
Minimize Waste: Incorporate zero-waste patterns and upcycling practices.
Some sustainable brands to consider includeHere are five eco-friendly fashion brands that align well with the cottagecore aesthetic:
Known for its sustainable practices and vintage-inspired designs, Reformation offers a variety of flowy dresses and feminine pieces perfect for a cottagecore wardrobe.
This brand perfect blend of dreamy bohemian and cottagecore aesthetics. Expect to find flowy maxi dresses adorned with intricate floral prints, lace details, and vintage-inspired patterns.
With a focus on high-quality materials and timeless designs, Sezane produces charming, sustainable pieces that effortlessly blend French elegance with cottagecore charm.
Renowned for its romantic, vintage-inspired clothing with a sustainable approach.
Their dresses feature timeless designs with delicate floral prints, flowing silhouettes, and intricate detailing, blending effortlessly with the cottagecore aesthetic. From romantic maxi dresses to elegant midi styles, DOEN offers beautiful, sustainable fashion that not only enhances your wardrobe but also supports a greener planet.
DIY and Upcycle
Creating your own clothing or upcycling existing pieces is a fantastic way to embrace sustainability. Here are some ideas:
Sew Your Own Clothes: Use patterns from the 1940s and 1950s for authentic vintage looks.
Upcycle: Turn old jeans into a chic skirt or transform a men’s shirt into a dress.
Embroidery: Add floral or nature-inspired embroidery to plain clothing items to give them a cottagecore twist.
Quality Over Quantity
When building a sustainable wardrobe, focus on quality over quantity. Invest in timeless, well-made pieces that will last for years instead of trendy items that will quickly go out of style. Consider:
Classic Dresses: Look for timeless silhouettes like A-line or wrap dresses.
Versatile Pieces: Items that can be styled in multiple ways, such as a simple white blouse or a cozy cardigan.
Proper Care: Follow care instructions to extend the life of your clothing.
Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe consists of a small number of versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create many different outfits. This minimalist approach is both sustainable and stylish. To create a cottagecore capsule wardrobe, include:
Floral Dresses: A few floral print dresses for different seasons.
Neutral Basics: Items in neutral colors like white, beige, and soft pastels.
Layering Pieces: Cardigans, shawls, and aprons that can be layered over other items.
7. Accessorize Sustainably
Accessories can make or break an outfit, and sustainable options are plentiful:
Handmade Jewelry: Look for artisans who use recycled materials.
Vintage Accessories: Hunt for vintage scarves, hats, and bags at thrift stores.
Natural Materials: Opt for accessories made from wood, leather, or other natural materials.
Final Thoughts
Creating a sustainable cottagecore wardrobe is a rewarding endeavor that combines the charm of vintage fashion with the principles of sustainability. By shopping secondhand, choosing natural fabrics, supporting ethical brands, and focusing on quality, you can build a wardrobe that is both beautiful and eco-friendly. Embrace the creativity and simplicity of the cottagecore aesthetic while making mindful choices that benefit the planet. Happy styling!
Brooke
Hello Gorgeous Threads
Follow On LTK for Affordable and Sustainable Cottagecore Finds and Inspiration
Welcome to my blog!
I’m Brooke, a homeschool mom and cottagecore enthusiast dedicated to creating a cozy, sustainable home. My journey into cottagecore is all about savoring life’s simple pleasures, from baking to gardening. I’m passionate about curating unique, sustainable pieces for my shop and sharing tips for a more eco-friendly lifestyle. I’m excited to connect with like-minded women and offer consignment services to find new homes for cherished items. Thank you for joining me on this journey. I can’t wait to share more about the beauty and charm of cottagecore living with you!
