The Proof Is in the Fabric—These Items Are Equal Parts Consciously Made and Chic
When I was younger, my shopping motto was, "If it's cute, it's going in my cart." But now that I'm older, I'm a much more conscious shopper. I pay attention to how my favorite brands are making their products and sourcing their materials. I want to know how the cotton button-down in my cart impacts the planet, and I'm more than willing to invest in brands that share the same concern. I feel so much better about a cute piece in my closet when I know it was made with the bigger picture in mind.
Spring is right around the corner, and my wardrobe is begging for some new bags, shoes, and dresses. The Chloé S/S 23 collection is not only a new assortment of pretty items—it's a line of inquiry into fusion energy. According to Chloé Creative Director Gabriela Hearst, the one sure way to achieve climate success is the rapid elimination of fossil fuels, which account for around 84% of the world's primary energy consumption. Fusion—which, by the way, is the re-creation of the reaction that occurs in all stars—is a clean-energy solution that feels like a light at the end of the climate-crisis tunnel. Hearst and Chloé's design team worked hand in hand, extensively researching fusion energy for the S/S 23 collection to limit its environmental impact through the use of lower-impact materials, which account for 64% of the products in the collection. If you want to see some of these beautiful, consciously made pieces, just keep scrolling.
Bags are my weakness, so it's no surprise that Chloé's S/S 23 handbag, the Penelope, has been keeping me up at night. It comes in three variations: the shoulder bag, the medium flap bag, and the clutch bag that can be carried by hand or worn on the shoulder. It feels impossible to choose my favorite style, but no matter which one I go for, I can feel confident that the Penelope line is part of Chloé's commitment to reducing its environmental impact. Every variation of this style has been lined in linen because it's considered a lower-impact material by nature. In comparison with other conventional natural fibers, linen cultivation releases fewer greenhouse gases, consumes fewer pesticides, and calls for less water. On the exterior, the signature metal-coin closure and braided-leather details add a touch of glamour to these beautiful purses.
This mesh number has officially put winter to an end and transported me to a tropical vacation. Not only have metallics been spotted all over the runways lately, but see-through fabrics have taken center stage. This flared tank dress is crafted from a soft silk knitted in an innovative mesh with open stitches that widen as they draw closer to the hemline. And the pretty silver shade is achieved using pressure and heat. If you're currently swooning over the maxi length, flared hem, and scoop-neck silhouette, just wait till you see the other dresses in this collection.
Crochet dominated the trend cycle last spring and summer, and this season, that isn't changing. This sleeveless, flared tank dress is crocheted from wool and adorned with silver and gold hand-crocheted ring inserts at the sides and back. Might I add that this embellishment requires 11 to 12 hours of workmanship? The details are simply unreal. They play into the dark and moody vibe that took over during the colder months while still giving that summer feel.
Getting fresh footwear for a new season is a top-tier feeling, and that feeling is heightened when you know that 70% of the shoes offered in Chloé's S/S 23 collection are considered lower-impact. Not only are they stylish, but the stunning linen, silk, wool, and leather materials are 100% traceable. Whether you're eyeing mules, sneakers, or sandals, you can feel confident that you're investing in shoes that will earn you compliments and have a reduced impact on the environment.
