Photo: Eileen Fisher
If there’s anything we know from constantly restocking our ever-growing kids’ closets, it’s that buying more isn’t necessarily always better. When it comes to our own wardrobes, we’re eyeing pieces that can cost quite a pretty penny compared to some of our (admittedly) favorite fast fashion brands. The difference? We’re expecting to wear these items with years (even decades) in mind, not just one season.
Our own sustainability strategy involves investing in timeless and effortless essentials that go well with practically everything. Think classic sneakers, sleek outerwear, and luxe leather accessories that look even better with age, to name a few. The best part: Many brands that prioritize transparency and quality already have a built-in ethical and eco-friendly business model, all major plusses in our books.
Even cooler? These companies are going against the capitalist grain and actually encouraging shoppers to buy less from them. And in the case of minimalist-cool label Cuyana, that translates to the literal motto of “buy fewer, better things.”
So whether you’re calling it quits on fast fashion, or looking to shop slower and smarter (hey, every journey is different!), we’ve rounded up the best “buy less” brands to know now.
Cuyana
Originally our go-to source for long-lasting leather goods and accessories, San Francisco-based Cuyana now offers a full range of women’s essentials, including womenswear, jewelry, home goods, and more.
Tradlands
Slow fashion brand Tradlands focuses on “perfecting essentials for women, inspired by thoughtful tailoring, expert details, and quality fabrics.” That’s why we’re fans of the company’s outerwear, dresses, jumpsuits, and more that are designed to last.
Eileen Fisher
Pioneering designer Eileen Fisher was among the first to rebuild her business to be more sustainable and socially-conscious. From working with fair-trade factories and reselling gently-loved pieces (and saving garments from the landfill) to using organic and responsibly-sourced materials, the designer truly walks the green walk.
Eileen Fisher Sandwashed Cupro Shaped Dress, $124 (orig. $248)
Aday
Aday is known for its timeless silhouettes made from technical fabrics and recycled materials, meaning you can wear their minimalist tops, merino wool sweaters, and other essentials all year-round. The goal? In the brand’s words, to create “truly versatile clothing [so] you can buy fewer things, because each piece enables you to do much more.”
Mejuri
We’re fans of the ethical and sustainable fine jewelry brand for its minimalist-chic designs without the markup. You can’t go wrong with their classic hoops and effortlessly cool chain necklaces, and the brand has many other adornments ranging from dome rings and bracelets to men’s pieces and engravable accoutrements.
Vetta
Vetta makes it easy to give your entire wardrobe an eco-friendly makeover, regardless of your style. Its capsule collections are organized by Edgy, Minimal, Glam, Lounge, and other categories, and everything is made at either a family-run factory in NYC or a mostly-solar-powered manufacturer in LA. The company uses sustainable or deadstock fabrics, such as organic cotton and tencel, and all of its packaging is recyclable.