An Ethical Summer Wardrobe

If you’re a regular n4mummy reader you’ll know that I’ve set myself the challenge: to build a capsule summer wardrobe only from ethical and sustainable brands.

For me good design has to be paramount. But the ethics behind who has made the garment I wear, and with what consideration to our environment are important to me. So I’ve wanted to show you that it can be done, and that you don’t have to dress like a hippy.

A family holiday to the South of France was the perfect opportunity to try out some summer outfits. So here’s what I wore:

The Dilli Grey Shorts

I had a few pieces from the gorgeous artisan brand Dilli Grey. Owner Vickie has a great eye for timeless bohemian style. She travels to India to hand-pick the items. Not only does she nail stylish summer clothing, but she is so hot on working in partnership with artisans to ensure business is fair. Vickie has years of experience working as a buyer and is an expert in building sustainable relationships with her factories.

I fell in love with her hand embroidery, which I had in a pair of shorts and a tunic dress. The shorts were worn none stop, on bike rides, lounging by the lake or playing hide and seek with the kids. I teamed them with my 100% Organic Cotton hand printed V neck top from Eight Hour Studio. It’s normally an item I wear to bed, but it was upgraded for the holiday. I’ve written about Eight Hour Studio before, so if you’d like to read that post, please click here.

The White on White Embroidered Tunic

This tunic dress was so versatile. During the day I chucked it on over my swimsuit, and in the evening, I wore it out to dinner with these amazing pom pom sandals. The sandals are from IRIS who I mentioned in my earlier post. Made in Crete by local craftsman they are then hand finished with jewels and pom poms here in London. Daisy took a shine to them and I caught her trying them on.

Statement Jewellery

The necklace and the bracelets are actually the same items. Yes I’m telling the truth. Each individual bracelet fixes together with a metallic clasp, so can be joined together as a necklace. They added a pop of colour to an otherwise white outfit, and they’re handmade here in London. They are also from IRIS. I also wore my handmade Fair trade hoop earings from Justtrade.

The Clutch Bag

It’s a rarity I carry any other bag than my nappy bag. But Dr. Husband and I had the luxury of a date, so I gave an outing to this handwoven dhurrie clutch bag. Also from Dilli Grey, it’s the perfect size to fit your phone, wallet and a lipstick in.

Oh and one last thing, if you’re ever staying in the Charente, South West France do go to the Vielle Maison’s restaurant. It has a reassuringly small French menu, stunning views and is very reasonably priced.

For 10% off Dilli Grey please use code N4MUMMY10