Natural outerwear to cozy up in

A maroon silk dress, knee-high leather boots, and a luxurious, oversized wool coat draped effortlessly over her shoulders. It’s the kind of outfit that makes you dream of date night in New York or a romantic weekend in Paris. Natural, quality materials are not only sustainable - they’re classy.

As I began to take a look at my outerwear collection, I was disappointed to find that many brands use polyester and other synthetic materials in their jackets and coats. These are much cheaper options compared to their greener alternatives such as genuine wool or organic cotton.

I was also pleasantly surprised to find that I already own many jackets made of natural materials like cotton (hello timeless jean jacket!), leather, and wool. As I continue to add new pieces to my closet, I try to be more mindful about the materials used and how sustainable they are.

I’ve been inspired by brands like Anine Bing, Reformation, and Aritzia who are working towards cleaner clothing production, and creating classic styles that can be worn time and time again. I can’t wait to share a few of my favorite outerwear pieces with you!

Natural coats

Since watching city-based rom coms like Serendipity & Sleepless in Seattle it’s been my dream to waltz through the bustling, wintry city streets in an extravagant oversized coat. Now that 90s fashion has come back around (yay!), I’m living my dream in the classic Dylan coat by Anine Bing. Although it’s a bit of a splurge, this coat is made of a wool & cashmere blend and has a classic silhouette that I will wear for many years to come.

Many wool coats (even those put out by luxury brands) are a blend of wool & another synthetic material such as polyester or polyamide. Although recycled polyester is a better, more sustainable option - I try to opt for 100% natural materials when I can. Another coat I’ve been eyeing is the Reformation x Veda Crobsy 90’s longline leather blazer. This timeless leather coat demands to be in the next big NYC rom com. Linking these options below:

Shirt jackets

When I saw Aritzia’s (Wilfred Free) Autumn shirt jacket, I immediately fell in love. It’s a cropped shirt jacket made of 100% wool and trimmed with cotton. It is an instant outfit maker, and comes in many different color options. I ended up getting it in black and rich mocha brown. I’ve also had my eyes on Z Supply’s Austen washed shirt jacket for a more casual option. The oversized fit can easily be dressed up or down and makes a great, versatile addition to any closet. Links below:

Denim jackets

Ahh, the classic jean jacket. Effortlessly cool & goes with just about anything in the closet. When I saw Aritzia’s (Denim Forum) Ali jacket I knew she needed to join my collection. I love the oversized look and that it’s made of 100% Italian organic cotton. Another jacket that I’ve been loving is Reformation’s Marco bomber jacket. Made of 100% regenerative cotton, this is the ultimate “cool girl” jacket that easily makes any outfit. It’s surprisingly soft and keeps me warm on chilly days.

Lastly, Z Supply’s Maya Knit denim quilted jacket is the ultimate, cozy throw-on jacket that is made of 100% cotton (be sure to check different colors - some are synthetic blends). It’s similar to Free People’s Dolman quilted knit jacket, but has a slightly lower price tag. I recently ordered it in washed tan and can’t wait to see how it compares. Check out these casual styles below:

Corduroy jackets

Corduroy is such a fun throwback look and makes for an ultra-cozy jacket in the cold winter months. I love Reformation’s Layne corduroy jacket not only because the color reminds me of a teddy bear, but also because it’s made up of 100% organic cotton. Another corduroy jacket I’ve been eyeing is the Dr. Denim Mona cord jacket. I love the boxy fit, breast pocket detail, and that it’s made of 100% cotton. Links below:

Leather jackets

Finally, the ever-versatile leather jacket. For a more polished, dressier look, fitted leather jackets pair well with just about any office or date night look. I’ve been eyeing the Reformation x Veda Bowery leather blazer - I imagine this jacket would be a staple in Rachel Green’s closet (could it be any cuter?). For a more casual look, Madewell’s washed leather oversized motorcycle jacket is an investment piece that will add that “cool girl” edge to any casual look. Linking below:

As I continue to grow my closet, I’m searching for quality, classic pieces that I can wear time and time again. While they can be pricey, they’re investments that will last a lifetime with proper care. Making the switch to a more sustainable closet may seem daunting at first, but little changes make a big difference.

I’d say a good place to start is to make it a habit to always read material labels. Most shops carry natural and synthetic options, so I try to opt for the more sustainable (natural or recycled) options when I can. It gives me confidence as I continue to learn about materials and now I’m more aware of when I may be overpaying for cheap, synthetic clothing.

I also try to ask myself if the item I’m purchasing is something I see myself wearing more than once. I try to minimize one-wear looks, but when it happens - it’s always a great idea to donate or resell clothes to give them a second life.

What a blessing it is to have a closet full of clothes and an opportunity to express ourselves through fashion. I hope I was able to inspire you to gain more confidence in the clothes-buying process as you learn more about natural, greener clothing. & I hope you’ll remember to give yourself grace along the way. Stay warm out there, friends!

til next time,

Becks