By experience we know how busy you can be as a mom and the challenges associated. Clothing can be one of these challenges. You need your clothes to be functional, comfortable, yet you don’t want to compromise on style or on your sustainability values. Finding the time and energy to prioritise sustainable fashion choices while still maintaining a stylish appearance can be tricky. However, being a fashionable mom and embracing sustainable clothing can go hand in hand, something we truly believe in and try to live up to at MiliMilu. In this blog post, we will provide you with valuable tips and insights on how to dress sustainably and stylishly, allowing you to make conscious choices for yourself and the planet, all while having fun with fashion and set an example for your kids.

Why sustainable fashion matters for moms

Sustainability seems to be the new buzz word in recent years, but it is more than that. It is the future. As of today we need about 1.75 planets to provide the resources for our consumption. As for the fashion industry over 92 millions tons of clothing end up in landfills around the world each year and only about 20% of all the textiles are collected to be reused or recycled. This being said, if we want to leave our children a livable planet, we have to change our consumption habits. One is our take on fashion.

The goal should be to consume less and to wear our clothes for longer. Choosing clothes that are made from organic, natural sources are a good step into the right direction. The sourcing of these garments is more friendly to the environment and the production of the garments reduces the use of chemicals and dyes that are a hazard for the environment and for human beings. Especially small children have thinner skin than adults and harmful chemicals can be absorbed easier. Another reason to choose organic clothing. In addition, these fabrics are high-quality and last longer, so you can enjoy them for a longer period of time. Making them also a good choice from a financial point of view.

Finally, it is important to set an example for our children and to teach them about the concept of sustainability from a very early age onwards. Incorporating a more sustainable lifestyle as a family can be done with a few easy steps that involve the children too. From bringing them closer to nature, to recycling to fashion.

 Tips for sustainable mom fashion

Now how can you take a step towards more sustainable fashion, while not compromising on your need for comfortable and practical clothing as a busy mom?

Embrace timeless fashion

Investing in timeless pieces that never go out of style is key to building a sustainable wardrobe. Opt for classic cuts, neutral colors, and high-quality fabrics that will stand the test of time. Versatile staples like a well-fitted blazer, a pair of tailored jeans, or a little black dress can be easily mixed and matched to create numerous stylish outfits. Opt for high-quality, durable materials that will last for years, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

 Opt for sustainable fabrics

Choose clothing made from sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, linen, hemp, bamboo, or Tencel. These materials are produced using fewer chemicals, less water, and have a lower environmental impact compared to conventional fabrics. They are also comfortable and breathable, perfect for busy moms on the go.

Practise a capsule wardrobe.

Create a capsule wardrobe by curating a collection of versatile, high-quality clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. By having a smaller, well-planned wardrobe, you can avoid impulse purchases and focus on building a collection of pieces you truly love and will wear frequently. This approach saves money, reduces clutter, and promotes sustainability. A well-curated capsule wardrobe will not only simplify your life but also contribute to a more sustainable fashion consumption pattern.

 Extend the lifespan of your garments

Take proper care of your clothes to extend their lifespan. Follow the care instructions on garment labels, wash in cold water, air-dry when possible and mend any minor damages promptly, and store your clothes properly. By treating your clothes with care, you'll not only save money in the long run but also reduce your environmental impact by reducing the need for constant replacements.

 Styling sustainable mom fashion

 Color palette and patterns

Choose a color palette that works for your skin tone and hair color and don’t be afraid to experiment with prints and colors to inject vibrancy into your mom wardrobe. Opt for prints like stripes, polka dots, or florals that are both stylish and forgiving when it comes to stains or spills. Introduce pops of color through accessories, such as vibrant scarves or bold statement handbags, to instantly liven up your outfits.

Mix and match

Instead of buying new outfits for every occasion, mix and match pieces in your wardrobe to create new looks. You can pair a classic blazer with jeans for a casual day out, or dress it up with a skirt and heels for a more formal event. By mixing and matching, you’ll be able to get more wear out of each item in your wardrobe.

 Accessorize with purpose

Accessories can instantly elevate your style and add personality to your outfits. However, choose accessories that align with your lifestyle. Instead of delicate and easily tangled necklaces, opt for statement earrings or layered bracelets that are less likely to get caught on anything. Think bold sunglasses that are fashionable, but also protect your eyes from the summer sun. Utilize functional accessories like spacious tote bags or crossbody bags to carry all your mom essentials.

 Shoes

Finding comfortable yet stylish footwear is crucial for moms on the go. Opt for supportive flats, sneakers, or low-heeled boots that provide both style and comfort. Look for shoes with cushioned insoles and adequate arch support to ensure your feet stay happy throughout the day. As a mom, you likely spend a lot of time on your feet, so comfortable shoes are a must. Fortunately, there are many stylish options that won’t sacrifice comfort. Sneakers, loafers, and ankle boots are all great options that can be dressed up or down. One of our personal favourites are eco friendly and sustainable shoes by Kibo.

Layers

Layering is a mom's best friend when it comes to creating stylish outfits. Not only does it add visual interest to your look, and create depth and texture, but it also allows for easy temperature regulation throughout the day and adaptation to your various activities. Invest in lightweight cardigans, stylish jackets, and scarves that can be layered over basic tops or dresses. This technique adds depth and versatility to your wardrobe.

 Have fun with fashion and experiment

Don’t forget to have fun with fashion. Experiment with different styles and silhouettes to find what works for you and your lifestyle.

Speaking of fun: A very fun way to introduce your children to fashion and more so sustainable fashion is to try mommy & me matching outfits. Children love to dress up and wear clothes of people they love and admire, be it spiderman, princesses or mommy. Matching outfits enhance the self-esteem of children and strengthens the familial bonds, while creating a sense of belonging. It also has been scientifically proven that fun and laughter has incredible benefits. Happiness in childhood has been linked to healthy self-esteem and life satisfaction in adults. Dressing up together as a family is a great way to create happy memories and have your children grow more confident and surer of their actions later on. Now, how about that!?

 In summary, being a stylish mom doesn't mean compromising on sustainability. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can embrace a more eco-conscious approach to fashion without sacrificing your personal style. By choosing timeless pieces, shopping consciously, opting for sustainable fabrics, and practising capsule wardrobing, you'll create a wardrobe that makes you look and feel great while leaving a positive impact on the planet. Remember that sustainable fashion is not just a trend but a lifestyle choice that can benefit you, your children and the environment.

In case you missed the links to our MiliMilu collections:

• Sustainable and stylish women’s collections
• Mini Me and Mommy Matching Outfits
• Sustainable accessories with a showstopping effect

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