Want to look good, feel good and be kinder to the planet? Us too. Our founder, Cat, has outlined a few ways you can begin building a more positive wardrobe, for yourself and the planet.

If you’ve read treen’s first blog post, you’ll know I pretty much cleared out my wardrobe whilst starting to think and buy more consciously. This is not for everyone, and I don’t believe a ‘one size fits all’ approach is the answer when it comes to living more sustainably. Once I’d sold my old items through online second-hand stores, I began by investing in high quality pieces that have dramatically opened up my wardrobe. These items have seen me through multiple outfits and occasions, all whilst doing good. For treen, that’s really what it’s all about.

Begin with what you already have

It’s always best to begin with what you have. Start by selecting the items you know you love and don’t want to live without — you’ll be left with the pieces you feel confident in, helping you build a wardrobe that will stand the test of time. Then it’s onto identifying what’s missing.

Build your basics

Bring a wardrobe together with a good selection of basics. This could be through investing in a good body (if you watch our Instagram stories you'll know how much we love these). Bodies can be worn with or without underwear. They’re versatile, easy to style as well as layer — simply pair with jeans and a jacket, or an unbuttoned open shirt. Depending how you style your body, it can be such an effortless staple to dress up or dress down an outfit.

Another item I’d consider a key basic, although not typically known as one, is a classic biker jacket. This is a piece you’ll instantly love! A biker allows you to wear colour and print, but keeps it cool. Our vegan leather jackets by Dauntless are created in New York by an amazing group of women who work under a fair trade standard. They are made using PU, which provides a very realistic imitation of real leather and is much kinder to the environment than traditional types of PVC. I have fallen in love with the Paige Biker in green!

Basics are anything but. The crux of every wardrobe, a few solid basics are the bedrock of every outfit and will enable you to keep your style fresh, every time. 

Invest in good shoes

Struggling to run for a tube or walk along cobbles isn't cute. Build your positive wardrobe with a selection of well made footwear. I’d suggest starting with a white city sneaker, a flat or mule, and a classic boot. Really good shoes will do you proud whether you are at a social event, shopping or how you feel after a long day on your feet. Durability, longevity and value for money are what to look for. At treen, we have gathered together a selection of styles I personally know pass the test. My top pick is the Opal Sneaker. Depending on your lifestyle you may want to try the Editor Ankle Bootie — fabulous worn with jeans or a midi dress.

Accessorising is key

Invest in versatile jewellery made to last. Jewellery can be a great finishing touch to any outfit. I usually get dressed and then add jewellery as the last step, although I can often base an outfit from a piece of jewellery I’ve chosen to wear. A simple yet elegant hoop or stud can do the job. My personal favourites are the Mini Tube Hoops. These are super lightweight and immediately boost your outfit. Another great option are the Tasi Hoops; also lightweight, these add a touch of elegance to your look. If you are not feeling the pearl one day, slip it off and wear the hoop on its own. The Roma Necklace made from gold fill, and Cosmic Necklace – choose from Sterling Silver or 18k Gold Plated – are both styles that will work everyday and with a range of outfits. Wear alone or together for a layered look. I’d suggest investing in a few key statement pieces you’ll love for years to come.

Embrace AM to PM styles

This is super important. Something I often ask myself is how many times I think I will wear an item. If it is only a handful, are you really head over heels in love with it? LOVE what you buy, it's your wardrobe and your style after all — own it. I would invest in a few pieces that can be worn day or night. If they can be worn more ways than one, even better!

The Friday Augusto Blouse is a great example. It is one size, meaning it is made to fit all of our different shapes and sizes. At treen, we’ve really enjoyed seeing how different it looks on our shapes, it is like a new top each time it’s tried on. Made from vegan silk (Cupro), it has an elegant sheen to it. Pair with your everyday jewellery and jeans for a day look. Refresh your make-up and add on an extra bangle and you are evening ready.

Other day to night winners are the Elle Shirt and Thursday Bahama Blazer. Timeless styles made well. Each can be worn to work, drinks with the girls or to that party you have next weekend.

Use our bags

With every purchase, you’ll receive a reusable drawstring or tote bag. They’re perfect for carrying cosmetics, groceries or laundry… the uses are endless. Made from 100% organic cotton, these cute bags are made to last.

treen is a space that all women can enter into, both online and in our physical store in Edinburgh. We want you to feel welcome and we exist to help you find the pieces you need to build a more positive wardrobe, for yourself and for the planet.

Don’t forget to share your purchases with us on Instagram using #shoptreen.