The sunny weather of recent weeks has seen thousands ditch the black and take to the streets in summery dresses, shorts and delicate little camisoles. But while the sunshine is due to stick around for a few more days, the forecast for the rest of the month says that more than a few showers are in the offing. This poses a problem. How do you dress for weather that swings from January to June and back again in the course of a single day? Winter woollies are too heavy, and dare we say, grim, for spring but the alternative could leave your teeth chattering from the cold. But don’t leave it to chance (or the high street). We’ve rounded up the key pieces that will take you from spring showers to summer sunshine in eco-friendly style.
Serfontaine white organic denim jeans, £98
Nothing says summer like white trousers but light linen and cotton are too cold for rainy days, while thick wool blends will leave you sweating in the heat. The answer is denim and there are plenty of green options around, including Serfontaine’s perfect straight cut jeans in organic cotton. Fairtrade eco-label, Monkey Genes, has a pair of beautifully cut white skinny jeans for £60, while Del Forte has high waist, wide leg organic cotton jeans for £72.50. Take a hint from Ines de la Fressange and team yours with a simple navy jumper for a pared down work look.
www.fashion-conscience.com
ASOS Africa printed boxy t-shirt, £25
Offering a subtle nod to the tribal trend, ASOS Africa’s Fairtrade t-shirt comes in a traditional Tanzanian kitenge print and is perfect for giving a summery twist to the classic blouse and skirt combo. Thanks to the boxy cut, it also smartens up dark denim jeans and adds a pop of colour to an outfit based on winter’s camel. If prints aren’t for you, check out People Tree’s Tasha chambray blouse, £45, which works beautifully with white jeans and also looks the business with neutrals.
www.asos.com
The Cambridge Satchel Company metallic leather satchel, £110
Locally made in East Anglia by a small family firm, The Cambridge Satchel Company’s small metallic gold bag is the ultimate in practical and comes in a hue that works with practically everything. Easily big enough to hold the essentials – and your children’s to boot – it’s perfect for adding a shot of glamour to your basics. Sling it on with jeans and a t-shirt for yummy mummy chic or use it to lift a plain white cotton dress.
www.asos.com
Olsen Haus ‘Love’ wedges, £76
100 percent vegan, organic and Fairtrade, Olsen Haus makes fabulous footwear with serious green credentials. Top pick and perfect for spring are the cream linen ‘Love’ wedges, which, thanks to their royal blue heel, nail the colour blocking and wedge trends in one. The low heel means they’re ultra comfortable and the nude colour means they go with absolutely everything.
www.olsenhaus.com
Jackpot Lyna navy polkadot trench, £65.60
A classic spring cover-up, Jackpot’s version has been updated for this season, thanks to the addition of a chic polka dot print. Made from organically grown waxed cotton, the trench comes with a hood so you won’t get caught out in a shower. Smart enough for the office, it also works for weekends teamed with skinny jeans and Veja Fairtrade sneakers.
www.fashion-conscience.com
People Tree vintage Laura Ashley print jumpsuit, £85
Featuring a delicate light grey and white leaf print, People Tree’s jumpsuit is beautifully cut and offers a warmer alternative to the summer frock. Made from 100 percent organic cotton, the piece is also Fairtrade and in keeping with People Tree’s ethical policy, can be traced back to its source at the Assisi garment collective in India. Add a black blazer and heels for work or dress it down with a cardi and flats for days off: either way, it’s an easy way to work the jumpsuit trend.
www.peopletree.co.uk
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