Style yourself for success, while keeping it cruelty-free.
What makes the perfect workwear wardrobe? These days, this question comes with a whole new set of layers. Once a display of all things formal and restrained, work-appropriate attire is now a flexible enough concept to include … pyjamas (video meeting dependant, of course!). For some, workwear still means a suit, while for others it’s colourful and quirky ensembles (artsy and media types, we’re looking at you). Many have to wear a uniform, while plenty happily WFH in activewear or trackies. Today, what we wear to work is as varied as the working world itself.
MAKE YOUR NINE-TO-FIVE CRUELTY-FREE
So how do you approach workwear with ethics in mind? In the main, you’ll want to look at the materials being used in garments and accessories. Read the labels to ensure blazers and knits are wool free and choose accessories that are free from leather. Sustainable fabrics include eco-friendly organic cotton along with other natural fabrics, such as linen and Tencel (made from wood-pulp cellulose).
Menswear brand Brave GentleMan offers made-to-order suits in bamboo – a natural fabric that can in many cases replace wool. Sustainable fashion label People Tree, albeit not 100 percent vegan, offers stylish separates that can be mixed and matched for a polished, formal office look. If your workplace is more informal, you might explore subtle prints at VILDNIS, the minimalist silhouettes at Dutch brand Noumenon, or the voluminous cuts and avant-garde designs at Nois New York. All three brands are fully vegan and use sustainable practices.
Two-Piece Brave GentleMan Classic Suit in navy, made to order from $3,600
Bag the job
Dressing for success does not ignore accessories, and it’s never been a better time to bring vegan leather into your wardrobe. Vegan leathers of today are made from a variety of plant-based materials, including cactus, apple, pineapple, and grape. The bag on your shoulder was the forefront of vegan fashion back in the day, and it’s still where much of the magic happens. Gone are the days of the leather-versus-pleather struggle: fashionistas today might choose a structured, sophisticated design from Alexandra K or complement neutrals in clothing with a colourful style from Ashoka Paris.
Left: People Tree, Flora Wide Leg Trousers in Natural, from $172 • Centre, from top: Alexandra K, Hope in Black Ink bag, from $409; Allkind Vegan, Hayley with Stud Detail in Black, from $116; Alexandra K, Joy Midi in Mokka Croco bag, from $424; Brave GentleMan, Executive in Espresso, from $410 • Right: People Tree, Shreya Jacket and Gianna Trousers in Navy, from $234 and $197
Foot work
Usually, your choice of shoes for work will depend largely on your workplace and the type of work you do. Whether formal styles are required or not, you may still want to choose a smart-looking design. Australian brand Zette Shoes, which offers Fair Trade, handmade vegan footwear, is a great choice for everything from heels to ankle boots to Oxfords – they know their office footwear. Another option is Allkind, where you’ll find a range of pared-back, sleek styles that will create a perfect foundation for your look, while allowing the rest of your outfit do the talking.
From left to right: People Tree, Amaira Velvet Shirt and Paula Velvet Trousers in Camel, from $49 and $52; Zette Shoes, Giselle Flat in Cognac, $179; People Tree, Alexandra Trousers in Black, from $154
Work from home
Working from home is here to stay for many, and we aren’t suiting up for it. In this case, loungewear is your best friend. It’s not quite pyjamas, but just as comfy while still presenting well when on those video calls. From the softest organic cottons to recycled fibres that create a faux-cashmere feel, the market is overflowing with amazing home-office options.
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ANATOMY OF A VEGAN SUIT
If suiting up for success is your vibe, here’s what you need to know to make it cruelty-free.
Fabrics
You’ll need to avoid garments containing wool, mohair, angora, alpaca, and cashmere. Wool is the most frequently used material in business suits, so make sure you read the label. Instead, look for fabrics such as organic cotton, linen, and recycled materials. Some brands now use hemp too, often blended with other fibres.
Lining
Look out for linings that are made from silk. Rather, look for recycled synthetics, which are frequently used, as well as natural materials such as cupro (a silk-like fibre derived from a waste part of the cotton plant).
Buttons
Buttons are most commonly made from plastic, but there are non-vegan varieties in horn, bone, and mother-of-pearl around that you’ll want to avoid. A great sustainable and cruelty-free option is corozo nut – a plant-based, natural, biodegradable material.
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WHEN THE CHOICE ISN’T YOURS
What do we do if our work uniform requires us to wear non-vegan items? Certain jobs make leather shoes a requirement, while some uniforms contain wool. Your best bet in this case is to raise the issue up with your manager and explore whether a vegan alternative may be available for you. There may also be others who feel the same way or are open to advocating for cruelty-free uniform options. If so, you may be able to create lasting change at your company, which would benefit animals and people alike.
Cover image: Zette Shoes, Lauren T-bar Mid-heel in Black, $169; People Tree, Jaspal Checked Jacket in Grey Check, from $81; Zette Shoes, Zari Block Heeled Sandal in Black, $179
