10 tips for a more conscious wardrobe

A more conscious wardrobe doesn't happen overnight. It grows with every decision you make when buying, wearing and caring for your clothes. These ten tips help you do more with fewer pieces.

Before you buy

1. Look in your wardrobe first

Once a year, take the time to look at what you have. What do you wear all the time, and what has been hanging untouched for months? This way you can spot gaps and avoid buying duplicates. Put pieces that no longer fit or that you don't like on a separate pile. You'll deal with them in tip 10.

2. Quality over quantity

A well-made piece you wear often is worth more than three bargains that lose their shape after a few washes. Look for clean seams, dense fabrics and a fit you feel comfortable in.

3. Plan instead of buying on impulse

Write down what you're really missing. If you see something you like while you're out, wait a day or two. If you still want it then, it probably suits you well.

4. Go for basics that combine easily

Neutral colours and classic cuts are easy to combine with each other. A simple T-shirt, a good pair of trousers, a warm jumper: these make lots of outfits. Our lookbook on the capsule wardrobe shows what this looks like in practice.

When you buy

5. Read the material and certificate

The care label tells you what a piece is made of. An independent label such as GOTS, OCS, GRS, RCS or RWS also shows that the share of organic or recycled fibres has been checked. At ORGANICATION, you'll find this information in the "Production" tab on the product page of each item. We explain what the labels mean in our article on the certificates on our labels.

6. Choose materials that suit you

Organic cotton feels soft and is easy to care for. TENCEL™ Lyocell has a fluid drape and feels smooth and cool. Wool keeps you warm and often just needs airing. Think about how and when you want to wear a piece, and choose the material accordingly.

7. Give second-hand a chance

Second-hand clothing extends the useful life of textiles, and you'll often find real one-offs. Online platforms, flea markets and second-hand shops are good places to look.

After you buy

8. Care for your clothes properly

Only wash when necessary; airing is often enough. Low temperatures, little detergent and air drying are gentle on fibres and colours. Turn shirts inside out before washing. More on this in our care instructions and in the guide How to care for your clothes properly.

9. Repair before you clear out

A loose button, an open seam or a small hole are quickly fixed. If you don't sew yourself, an alterations tailor can help. This usually costs less than a new piece. At home, a small sewing kit with needles, thread in basic colours and a few spare buttons is worth having.

10. Swap, sell or donate

What you really don't wear any more can make someone else happy. Organise a clothes swap with friends, sell pieces in good condition or give them to charities. Damaged textiles belong in a textile collection bin, not in general waste.

Basics that last

If you'd like to add to your wardrobe, versatile basics are a good start. For every piece, check the material and certificate on the product page.

FAQ

How many pieces does a wardrobe need?

There's no fixed number. What matters more is that your pieces combine well and that you like wearing them.

How often should I wash clothes?

As rarely as possible, as often as necessary. For jumpers and trousers, airing is often enough. Wash underwear and sportswear after every wear.

Where can I see which certificate an item has?

At ORGANICATION, in the "Production" tab on the product page. The Certificates page gives an overview.