Patagonia has always been one of my most loved brands. They’re ethical, sustainable, and genuinely feel like a brand that tries to do better – long before it was trendy. My Synchilla specifically has become a favorite, admittedly after years of watching my husband wear the style.
The Synchilla just has this cool, retro kind of vibe to it. I had to have one.
Patagonia’s Synchilla isn’t your standard fleece pullover – it’s better for the environment. So let’s dive into exactly what this piece is perfect to add to your capsule wardrobe.
First and foremost, let’s talk about capsule wardrobes.
What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is one that is filled with mix and match pieces. Each style should be classic in both silhouette and color – never trendy. Each piece should be able to be styled multiple ways and hopefully worn for a few different seasons or occasions.
Capsule wardrobes don’t have to be boring! In fact, they can be quite fun. The only real rules are that pieces must have a use, must be quality enough to last as many years as possible, and must be versatile.
Why build a capsule wardrobe?
Fashion and textiles as a category are big contributors to our landfills. The fashion industry itself also frequently pollutes, produces in excess, and generally harms the environment. The seasonal trend kind of designing and shopping is an old way of thinking – we need to change because the planet is hurting.
Capsule wardrobes reduce the need to shop every trend, thus reducing the need for mass production of trendy clothes that inevitably end up in the landfill. Capsule wardrobe dressing also involves a commitment to shopping higher quality items that won’t wear out after a few uses, again reducing the textiles that end up in the landfill.
The long story short is that capsule wardrobes are better for the planet and if you’re privileged enough to be able to build one – you should.
Why Patagonia is an amazing brand to shop.
Patagonia produces clothing responsibly. Not only does Patagonia have several causes they commit to (such as donating 1% of every sale to environmental preservation), but they are truly one of the most transparent clothing companies on the market when it comes to the environmental impact and ethics of the products they sell. Each product page has an “impact” report, allowing you to fully understand how the item you’re buying is made and where it’s made.
I’ve written plenty of articles on why it’s important to shop ethically, but I’ve always hesitated to name drop any brands because the reality is that no brand is doing it 100% perfect. Patagonia, though, is one I go to time and time again because I think they genuinely try, genuinely care, and really mean it when they say they commit to our planet.
All the details of the Patagonia Lightweight Synchilla Snap-T Fleece Pullover.
The silhouette.
The Synchilla is a lightweight fleece pullover. The style features a slightly synched bottom hem and cuffs. There is a convenient chest pocket at the front.
Patagonia pattern blocks tend to be a bit boxy in fit. Patagonia has its roots in making gear for outdoor activities like hiking, so the roomier fit tends to prioritize function over fashion. Personally, I enjoy an oversized fit, so the Synchilla is one of my most used pullover styles.
The make.
Patagonia’s Synchilla is made with a 100% recycled polyester fleece. Using recycled polyester reduces CO2 emissions by 59%, which is a big improvement over standard polyester. There are components of the Synchilla made with nylon and spandex, two materials Patagonia is either committing to move away from entirely or source in a more sustainable fashion. While it’s not ideal to have these as part of the product, I do appreciate the transparency in their use.
On the Synchilla product page, Patagonia does list the mill and factory where the style is made. I love this feature. I truly adore the transparency and think it’s something every company should aspire to.
How to style the Synchilla.
I classify my Synchilla somewhere in between my jackets and my sweaters. The classic snap details give it an outerwear-like feel, but it still has the coziness of a sweater. I know the Patagonia Synchilla fleece was designed for outdoor use…but I’ve got to admit I often style it indoors as an around the house kind of item. It’s just that comfortable.
And sure – I also wear it on walks. I’m not exactly a hiker.
Where to buy the Synchilla.
I love the Synchilla for myself, but it’s also my go-to gift for my guy friends and family. It’s honestly sometimes challenging to shop men, but the Synchilla is usually a winner (for men and women alike).
Transparently you’re not going to find yourself a Patagonia Synchilla sale any time soon – so it makes sense to shop wherever Synchillas in prints you like are sold rather than hunt for specific deals. I typically buy my Synchillas from the Patagonia store directly or from Nordstrom (because who doesn’t love the free shipping and easy returns if needed).
I recommend ordering your Synchilla true to size.
Do you own a Synchilla or are you in the market? Let’s chat in the comments below!