The Ones You Reach For - Styling a Sustainable Closet

There are pieces in my closet I reach for without thinking. A cream knit sweater that lays just right. The Balloon Pants (in black) that somehow go with every outfit I put together. A faded denim chore jacket that's so worn-in it seems to look better with each passing season.

They’re not the trendiest items, and certainly not the newest —but they’re the ones I live in.

We're sure you have these items in your closet too. These are the clothes you reach for. These are the pieces that make up the quiet rhythm of our days, and they’re the heart of a journey into slow fashion.

Slow Fashion Isn’t Just Slower —It’s Smarter

Slow fashion asks us to shift our focus from “what’s new” to “what works.” It’s not about never buying anything again —it’s about buying intentionally. That means asking:

- Will I want to wear this next year?

- Does it work with what I already own?

- Can I move in it, live in it, be myself in it?

The pieces I reach for most answer those questions with a confident YES.

My Most-Worn Closet Staples

Here are a few of my “greatest hits” —the pieces I consistently reach for:

1. The Cream Knit Sweater

I thrifted this one on Poshmark. It’s slightly oversized, ultra soft, and works just as well with denim as it does with skirts or over dresses. The color goes with everything, and because it's cotton, it's wearable through all four seasons.

2. The Well-Worn Balloon Pants

A favorite in our shop and in my own personal closet: The Balloon Pant. Can sweats be dressy? Can they also be comfy? YES! These are the ones I reach for when I'm looking for comfort and style in equal measure.

3. The Faded Denim Jacket

Found at a vintage flea market almost a decade ago, it’s the layering piece that gives every outfit that “effortless” finish, even when I put in zero effort.

4. The Simple White Tee

Another from Le Bon our go-to sustainable basics brand. The cut is slightly boxy, the fabric breathable, and it tucks beautifully. I’ve worn it dressed up, down, under cardigans, dresses —you name it.

How to Find Pieces You’ll Actually Wear

If you’re looking to build a slower, more sustainable wardrobe, here are a few tips to find pieces that will earn a permanent spot in your rotation:

1. Audit Before You Shop

Go through your closet. What do you actually wear? What colors or silhouettes do you gravitate toward? Look at the fabric content labels of those pieces. Start there. Let your real-life habits guide your next purchase —not a Pinterest board.

2. Stick to a Color Palette

Neutrals are always versatile, but even bold colors can be wearable if they fit within your personal palette. If you love jewel tones, look for pieces in those shades (light or dark) that complement each other.

3. Think in Outfits, Not Items

Before buying something new, ask yourself: Can I wear this with at least three things I already own? If not, it’s probably not a piece you'll get as much wear out of.

4. Invest in Quality, Not Quantity

Slow fashion often means buying less and sometimes spending more —on materials that last, stitching that holds, and designs that won’t date overnight.

5. Give It Time

Not every piece becomes a favorite right away. Some need breaking in. Others need to be styled a few different ways before they “click.” Don’t be too quick to judge —or to purge.

The Subtle Joy of Reaching for the Familiar

There’s something grounding about having go-to pieces that you know fit, feel good, and simply work. In a culture that’s always chasing the next big thing, slow fashion reminds us to pay attention to the now —to the clothes we already have, and the ones that truly serve us.

So maybe the question isn’t “What should I buy next?” but:
“What do I always reach for...and why?”

Answer that, and you’ll be that much closer to a slower, more intentional closet.

♡ KEEPER