Building a Simple Closet with Everlane

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While I don’t often talk about fashion or clothing around here, simple and sustainable living has impacted all aspects of my life. In fact, much of my journey toward simple started with my closet. I sold or donated just about every piece of clothing I owned in 2014. I had been an avid sale shopper my entire life and had accumulated an entire SUV worth of stuff. Up to that point, I hadn’t really thought about the who, what, or how of my purchases. I was only concerned about cost and quantity.

That was really the turning point for my style. Once I stopped obsessing over “more” and instead, focused on what value the item was bringing to my life, I was able to figure out what my style even was. It’s actually quite amazing what happens when you strip everything away and only bring back the items that check all the boxes. You start to see these patterns emerge and everything feels right. I have found this to be true not only for my closet, but for our home as well.

As I shifted away from a mindset of more, I became extremely focused on what I was purchasing and why. Everlane quickly rose to the top of my favorite brands list because they were offering quality pieces, made responsibly, in a modern and clean style, for a price that I could afford. Not to mention, their transparent approach was one I hadn’t seen done to-date. The brand has been a staple in my closet ever since and has reshaped the way I think about clothes - and frankly, all of my purchases.

Everlane recently sent me a few of their new items for the season, so I wanted to share them with all of you. Whether you are brand new to Everlane or have been a fan for years, I hope this information helps you make informed decisions about what you add (or remove) from your own closet. Let’s get started!

For reference, I am just short of 5’4” and weigh about 120 lbs. My measurements are: 33” bust, 25.5” waist, 35.5” hip.

o u t f i t 1

I love a good black and white striped tee. When it’s also a sturdy material that keeps it’s shape, fits perfectly under sweaters, and doesn’t require any pulling or tugging, I’m sold. This is the Long Sleeve V-Neck Bodysuit from Everlane. I like the back detail which feels a little more dressed up than your average t-shirt and the material is perfection. It’s thick and substantial yet extremely comfortable and soft.

Everlane actually came out with their bodysuit earlier in the year, but this new version has snaps which is extremely handy. I don’t know about you, but I don’t love getting fully undressed just to go to the bathroom. My only complaint is that the snaps and the material they are connected to is a bit bulky. It’s not so bad on it’s own, but when you throw on high-waisted paints that are ugh… snug? in the crotch area, it takes a little maneuvering to get everything situated. With some wear, I think the material will soften and be perfect.

I went with a size small in the bodysuit, and it fits really well. I wouldn’t want to go any smaller, but I’d be afraid a medium would be too long in the torso. Since this is a bodysuit with snaps, I think sizing is a little more important than your average tee. Too small and the snaps may continually unbutton, yet too large and it could be really saggy. I would suggest going with your normal size.

  • WIDE LEG CROP PANT | bought by me | EVERLANE | $78 | size 2 | Made responsibly in Jiangmen, China

  • SUEDE BLOCK HEELS | bought by me | J.CREW, old | size 7 | SIMILAR

  • LEATHER ZIP POUCH | gifted | EVERLANE | $65 | Made responsibly in Ubrique, Spain

o u t f i t 2

I’m not much of a purse fanatic. In fact, I only own one and have had it for many years. I usually prefer to throw things in my pockets if possible, but sometimes you just need a little something in-between. This Leather Zip Pouch is such a great addition. The leather is incredibly sturdy and the size is perfect. It will be great for holiday parties used as a clutch and even as additional storage/organization in my purse or backpack when I travel.

While it’s not a downside to me, I did want to mention that the pouch does not have any additional pockets or zippers inside. It’s just an open bag. If you’re looking for a bit more storage, the Traveler Wallet may be a good option.

  • OVERSIZED ALPACA CREW | gifted | EVERLANE | $95 | Heather Gray | size S | Made responsibly in Fujian, China

  • CHEEKY STRAIGHT ANKLE | bought by me | EVERLANE | $68 | Bone | size 25 | Made responsibly in Bien Hoa, Vietnam

  • THE BOSS BOOT | bought by me | EVERLANE | $225 | size 7 | Made responsibly in Lastra a Signa, Italy

  • LEATHER ZIP POUCH | gifted | EVERLANE | $65 | Made responsibly in Ubrique, Spain

o u t f i t 3

The Cocoon Coat has been on my wishlist ever since it was originally released. I’m so glad I waited to purchase, though, because this new “peat” color is amazing. It’s the perfect shade of green/brown that is great for my pale skin. I also think it will hide dirt and wear well - much better than I have experienced with lighter color winter coats in the past.

I ended up ordering a size 0 in this coat after reading several of the reviews, and I’m really glad I did. I honestly could probably size down to a 00, but I like that the coat is oversized. I definitely wouldn’t want to go any larger, though. Something to keep in mind… the sleeves are quite short. I imagine they are intended to be cropped for those taller than I (I’m 5’4”). If you have long arms, this might be something to consider if a cropped sleeve isn’t your thing.

My only complaint with this coat is the lack of pockets. It’s cold here in Indiana, and my hands are always freezing. I almost always have gloves on, but I like the ability to have another layer of protection. My preference would be hidden seam pockets so that the look of the coat wouldn’t be impacted, yet it would be just a tad more functional. Either way, I think this coat will be a great addition to my closet.

o u t f i t 4

The Oversized Alpaca Sweater is another new item for Everlane this season. It’s very thin and light in weight yet incredibly warm. I like it layered over a thin tee. The weight makes it very easy to tuck into jeans and to layer coats over the top. I am wearing a size small in this sweater, and I like the fit. It has a cropped and oversized look, which is what I was going for. If you want something a little more cozy and oversize, I would size up.

My only complaint with this sweater is the fuzz! The first time I wore it, the alpaca decided to cling ALL over my wool coat. I sort of expected it since it was a brand new sweater, but it was everywhere. The next time I wore the sweater, we were running errands over the weekend. By the end of the day, I felt like I had alpaca fuzz all over me and in my eyes. The fuzz just goes everywhere - our closet floor was covered. Tyler finally helped me sweep the sweater - yes, I actually used a vacuum. Ha! So far, so good! I think with some wear, the fuzz will tame down. Just something to keep in mind!

  • OVERSIZED ALPACA CREW | gifted | EVERLANE | $95 | Heather Gray | size S | Made responsibly in Fujian, China

*Please Note: I was gifted items by Everlane in exchange for styling and sharing the looks in a post, however, the reviews are authentic and all opinions are my own. 

FASHIONKelsey Johnston