3 Steps to a More Sustainable Summer Wardrobe
The days are longer, the sun is warmer, and summer is fully here.
If your goal this season is to feel good in what you wear and stay comfortable all day long, this might be the perfect time to rethink how you build your summer wardrobe—especially with sustainability in mind.
Why a capsule wardrobe works
Capsule wardrobes are having a moment.
Building one allows you to narrow your wardrobe down to carefully chosen, versatile essentials that truly serve your daily life.
Technically, a single capsule can work all year long.
But let’s be honest—if you live somewhere with four distinct seasons, that may not be so practical.
And now that it’s summer, your heavy winter coat isn’t exactly earning its place in your closet.
So let’s set those aside and begin creating your own sustainable summer capsule.
Step One: Take stock
This is where it gets real.
Take everything out of your closet. Set aside your winter pieces, and begin assessing what you already have.
Most of your items will probably fall into one of four categories:
repair, donate, recycle, or keep.
Extending the life of what you already own is one of the most sustainable things you can do—and repairing pieces is a great place to start.
If there’s a tear you’ve been meaning to fix on your favorite summer dress, now’s the time.
Gather the unfixable items in a bag and drop them off at a textile recycling point.
Anything in good condition but no longer your style? Donate it to someone in need.
Step Two: Make a list
Now that you know what you own, it’s time to identify what your summer capsule is missing.
This helps you avoid unnecessary purchases and gives you a clearer picture of what to look for—ideally from sustainable, long-lasting sources.
Your list will depend on your lifestyle, climate, personal style, and plans for the season.
But here are some go-to summer staples that work for almost everyone:
- Lightweight t-shirts and tanks
- Jeans or breathable trousers
- Shorts
- Skirts
- Short and long summer dresses
- Sandals
- Swimwear
- A sunhat and sunglasses
- Breathable sleepwear for warm nights
Step Three: Check twice, buy once
The most sustainable option is always to shop your own wardrobe first.
Next best? Carefully choosing new pieces that are well-made, ethically produced, and built to last.
This process takes more time and intention than heading to the nearest high-street store and stocking up on trends.
But in return, you get a wardrobe that respects your values, supports the people who make your clothes, and is kind to the planet.
Once you’ve identified what you truly need, explore İKİKIZ’s timeless designs made from 100% natural fabrics—pieces that will stay with you well beyond the season.