Gardening gear for fashion freaks

A bounty of gems from Sassafras, Smith and Hawkens, Gardenheir, and more...

Apr 20, 2024

Last weekend, I finally watched "Poor Things." Intrigued by Bella Baxter's style tips online, I focused on the film's costumes and overall style. It proved to be a visual treat, though ultimately, I couldn’t help but think to myself – this is just not my aesthetic.

The following night, I watched "The River," a 1984 film featuring Mel Gibson and Sissy Spacek as struggling farmers in Tennessee, battling against catastrophic floods to protect their land. After the vibrant spectacle of "Poor Things," I approached this quieter, more subdued drama with hesitation.

To my surprise, I found myself captivated by its unhurried storytelling and evocative portrayal of life in Tennessee. It made me reflect on my own sensibilities, leading me to the conclusion that THIS is my kind of aesthetic.

“The River” starring Sissy Spacek and Mel Gibson (1984)

My affinity for "The River" partially stems from my new-found connection to Tennessee. I fell in love with its rugged beauty years ago, drawn to its simplicity and raw vitality — a stark departure from the urban hustle of any major city. In Tennessee, life is marked by its seasonal extremes, its vibrant summers and desolate winters, its cacophony of insects and the ever-present threat of tornadoes.

Try as I might, I’ve never been a very feminine dresser; my sartorial affections lean towards the rugged comfort of men's clothing, especially workwear inspired items. With "The River" lingering in my thoughts and Earth Day approaching, it seemed like the perfect occasion to explore gardening-inspired apparel.

Some brand highlights below:

Smith and Hawkens – In similar vein to Banana Republic, Smith and Hawkens opened their first retail store in Mill Valley in the 1982. They were originally a garden tool supplier but evolved into a gardening lifestyle retailer.
Sassafras - If you don’t know Sassafras, welcome to the first day of the rest of your fashionable gardening life. The company was founded in 2004 in Japan and inspired by a love of gardening and vintage military garments.
Gardenheir - What started as an online store created by two avid gardeners, now has two physical stores in upstate New York. They offer a well curated and devastatingly beautiful selection of tools and clothing, all inspired by gardening.

Vintage Eddie Bauer Jacket

I've been eyeing this Eddie Bauer coat for weeks now. It's a stylish chore coat with a French flair and charming contrast stitching. What more can you ask for?

Vintage Smith And Hawken Utility Shorts

These shorts look like the love child of 70s military pants and a pair of Carhartts. Sadly not my size but I just think they are the most.

Lorna Murray Adult Capri Pleated-Brim Textile Hat Straw

Everyone needs a Lorna Murray hat! I wear mine all the time. It’s the best at keeping my cheeks out of the sun and folds up nicely for travel. You’ll look cool as a cucumber wearing this in the garden.

60S UNION MADE SEARS OVERALLS

I am an overalls gal, forever and always. Trendy or not, I will always have a pair. I love the way the look on everyone. Not to mention I can go out hands free, no tote needed for my phone, wallet, keys. I like how crisp this pair is, also knowing they will fade in a perfect way.

Vintage 90’s Smith Hawken Crewneck Sweater

Another gem from Smith and Hawken—a delightful vintage red piece to pair with your green shorts, to summon a bountiful tomato harvest. Ideal for those brisk early morning outings.

Vans Vault Slip-On VR3 LX Nicole McLaughlin Gardening Tote White Me Women 8.5

These are just just too fun not to include. We love a shoe collab, and this one is no different from Nicole McLaughlin, who’s art focuses on upcycling and sustainable fashion.

Sassafras Utility Vest

For the committed gardening fashionista, this vest is for you. Sassafras items are not widely distributed which makes them a little on the pricey side, but well worth it IMO.

Sassafras Japan plaid gardening shirt, made in Japan, size M

This isn’t just another plaid shirt, it’s a Sassafras gardening shirt with gorgeous and utilitarian pockets neatly placed on the front, and at a bargain price!

Vintage Cabin Creek Gardening Cottagecore Denim Jacket

How many denim chore jackets is too many? This Cabin Creek version feels just about perfect if you’re looking to add to your collection.

Vintage 1990 Human-i-Tees EVERY DAY IS EARTH DAY Single-Stitch size XL

What better way to commemorate earth day than with a perfect vintage shirt. This beauty will stand the test of time.

Vintage Smith & Hawken Jacket Denim Shacket Chore Gardening Smock Washed Cotton

Our favorite gardening brand makes these amazing smocks - perfect for holding all your planting tools, paint brushes, or beers.

Vault by Vans x n.m. (Nicole Mclaughlin) HERITAGE SUPPLY Gardening Tote RARE

Another Nicole McLaughlin x Vans collab in the form of a bag. Can hold all the same things as your smock!

90s vintage earth day t shirt natural no substitutes graphic Oneita xl Vtg tee

A very 90s, very perfect earth day tee.

Vintage Gardening Hat

If you’re spending hours in the sun working in your garden, you must protect yourself from those UV rays - possibly with this playful red wide-brimmed cap.

Vintage Smith & Hawken 1/4 Zip Pullover Reversible Size Medium Pink & Green

This is what Sissy Spacek’s character would have worn if she was an urban farmer facing a devastating flood in Brooklyn. Think of all the kale you could fit in that front pouch.

Gardenheir Italian Garden Clogs EU 36

Surely you’ve seen someone wearing these Gardenheir clogs out and about. I’ve written about what I think makes a good slide on shoe here, and these definitely meet the criteria.

GARDENHEIR Nylon Shop Coat in Dune S

Looking for a very functional trench coat?? I’ve got you. How perfect is this Gardenheir coat? It’s not often I see a good looking coat that repels water.

Vintage Recycling Shirt Mens XL White 90's Reduse Reuse Earth Day Mother Nature

And finally, one more perfect vintage Earth Day with one of the most memorable jingles ever on the front - recycle, reduce, reuse, and close the loop.