We’re finally here – the season of blooming trees, Sunday picnics, and that lovely-yet-confusing shift of the weather. It seems no matter where you live, spring comes with a handful of equal parts sunshine, gray days, random rainfalls, and even some lingering snow. But if you’re anything like me, you’ve already tried to break out your sundresses and summery, linen shirts at the first sight of a 70 degree day. The best way I’ve found to dress for any type of spring day, while still feeling like I’m ready to frolic through a field of wildflowers? Some truly lovely, versatile pieces in gorgeous neutral shades. If you’re looking to freshen up your wardrobe with a few pieces this spring, here are a few favorite, ethically-made essentials of mine that will carry you through this transitional season, all the way through a sun-filled summer.
The Penny Chore Coat by Only Child
There are few things I love more than the freedom of not slinging a bag over my shoulder, thanks to some super functional pockets. So it’s been no surprise to me that I’ve been essentially living out of this Chore Coat that has not two, but four, perfectly-sized pockets to carry everything I could need. This has been a great essential to throw on over everything from a springy dress on cooler evenings, to boyfriend jeans and a sweatshirt for just the right amount of polish. The cotton canvas truly goes with everything and adds the perfect finishing touch for a light, spring look. Only Child creates versatile basics with personality in Oakland, designing with sustainability in mind. Each piece is made to order, and they only use natural, environmentally-friendly fibers. Plus, they create a variety of sizes for everyone (this jacket is made for sizes from 0-20)!
(P.S. I’m not saying I’ve discovered that one pocket can hold a whole bottle of wine – but I’m also not saying that I didn’t (gladly) discover that it can.)
Grab 10% off your first Only Child order with code: YELLOW10
Short Sleeve in Natural by Rachael Harrah
Does anything really feel like spring more than a breezy, 100% natural linen button down? This boxy, cropped blouse oozes ease and is a great go-to essential for any outfit in its dreamy natural shade. Rachael Harrah is a female-founded line designed and ethically made here in Los Angeles. Rachael Desztich, the woman behind it all, set out to create pieces that make women feel like their best, most comfortable and confident self. She works closely with everyone who has a hand in making her designs, and makes sure to minimize her environmental footprint by using natural fabrics, low impact dyes, and only producing in small batches.
D’or Ankle Rain Boot in Classic Moutarde by Alice + Whittles
I’ve always wanted to be a rain boot person, but have never found a pair that felt as feminine as they do functional. Enter: Alice + Whittles. These lightweight, minimal rain boots fit like a glove, and I immediately loved this golden-camel neutral hue paired with the gold hardware details. Plus, they’re made from 100% natural fair-trade tree rubber that is sustainably sourced! The Alice + Whittles founders set out to create a contemporary line of footwear that prioritized sustainability and social consciousness without sacrificing style. Mission accomplished.
Button-Up Bow Top by Hackwith Design House
If you’re looking for your new go-to, stunning top to take you through the summer, here she is. To me, Hackwith Design House is the expert at designing statement-making pieces that maintain an elegant subtlety. Their Button-Up Bow Top is no exception with its tie-front bow and mini ruffle sleeve detail. Hackwith Design House makes all of their items in-house at their Minnesota studio, often made-to-order, and have truly become leaders in the socially conscious small business sphere. In addition to their main collection, they have launched their Sustain Shop, which recycles HDH styles sent in by customers, turning well-loved pieces into a new style or finding a new home for those in great condition.
Mitul Dress by The Summer House
For a finishing touch to round out this list – the perfectly silky spring dress. I love a floral print as much as the next girl, but absolutely adore the gorgeous, abstract line drawing print The Summer House chose for this piece. With an easy, throw it on before running out the door shape, and drapey fabric, this dress is sure to be worn again and again. Ethically made in India with environmentally friendly materials, The Summer House creates truly gorgeous, socially conscious styles you’ll want to wear daily.
Product images via Only Child, Rachael Harrah, Alice + Whittles, Hackwith Design House, & The Summer House