Looking for timeless pieces that look cute with anything? Let me introduce you to Tradlands, an ethical fashion brand inspired by menswear, with refined details and pieces that stand the test of time. Also, washing-machine friendly. #micdrop
By: Lisa Fennessy
When I moved to Atlanta, I suddenly realized that I had nothing to wear. Seventy-five percent of my closet was long-sleeves, wool coats, tall boots and jeans for every occasion. That first summer was a reality check as I spent most days just trying to figure out how to wear less.
Living in a warmer climate means more cute dresses, slinky tanks, year-round sandals and transitional outfits to move from season to season. I love timeless pieces I can layer, style and wear in different ways depending on my mood or the time of year.
Tradlands clothing review
Enter: Tradlands. Tradlands makes essentials that are also washing-machine friendly and designed to last. (Me: You had me at “washing-machine friendly”!).
This brand debuted in 2012 drawing inspiration from men’s aisles where they saw durable fabrics, more refined details and styles that outlasted trends.
Their overarching values are:
1. Creating essentials that last.
2. Doing it ethically.
Tradlands produces in small batches (2 runs per year) using ethical facilities, paying fair wages and using natural materials like cotton, silk and Tencel.
In addition, they even offer a fun recycling program. Falling instep with other ethical brands like Patagonia, Tradlands offers their Worn Well Exchange where customers can either buy previously owned Tradlands garments OR sell back pieces they no longer wish to keep.
I’ve tried a couple pieces. Here’s what I’m loving.
Glenn Long Short | $119
I didn’t realize how big of a gap this piece filled in my wardrobe until I added it to the rotation.
First and foremost, I’m obsessed with the longer length of these vintage track inspired shorts. Let’s just say as a 43 year old woman, I value being able to bend over in any way, shape or form and never having to give a second (or first!) thought to my butt cheeks—ever!
Plus, these shorts are just classic. Dressed up or down, you really can’t go wrong. Throw on a t-shirt, baseball cap and some Berks and it’s off to the ballfield. Pair it with a chunky sweater and some thin sandals and it’s a cozy summer evening getup. Don a button down and it’s timeless casual through and through. I’ve even worn them over my one piece bathing suit and they look super cute like that too.
Made with linen and Tencel, these have a loose, oversized fit, snug elastic waistband, pockets and the cutest curved side hem. These wear light and breathable and run true to size. However, I do want to note, the waste band is snug and sits high-waisted just FYI. Personally, this is a pro for me as I find it adds shape to my silhouette (and screams for a cute French-tuck).
I’m 5’10 and 160 lbs and usually wear a medium. These shorts in a medium are a little snug in the waist, but they work for me. I wouldn’t go larger because then I fear they would balloon out.
Cottage Crewneck Sweater | $209
I’ve been dying to wear this 100% cotton chunky sweater in Birch since the day it arrived….it should be cool enough here in Atlanta by October, lol.
A couple things that stick out to me. It’s cropped in a way that it doesn’t swallow you up. Meaning, it’s big and chunky but you can still tuck it in without having to tuck a ton of fabric OR wear it out and it grazes my waist without exposing my midriff.
Love the untapered cuff that’s cut a little longer. (Am I the only one who is always pulling up my sleeves because sleeves are never long enough?!) And also the actual knit is a wider gauge. Both of these details support that cute, chunky look without having to wear 16 lbs of yarn.
Also love this color.
I usually wear a medium and a medium was super generous here. I wouldn’t size up or down.
Final thoughts: Tradlands clothing review
I also tried their button down Box Top in a medium and a large. It’s super cute too but the medium was a little too snug in the shoulders where the large was a little too boxy, so I think I’m in between sizes on that one.
I do however, currently have their Coveralls (not on their website yet!) en route in black, as well as a slouchy beanie and I have a feeling these will be winter staples FO SHO!
Have you tried Tradlands?
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