Lately, I’ve been thinking about how often we reach for the same clothes over and over. Not because we have to, but because they just work. They feel good, they fit right, they wash well, and they’re made by people and companies I trust.
For us, that’s mostly Mate the Label and Pact.
Bear’s 14 now, which means he’s got a growing opinion about what he’ll wear (and what he definitely won’t). But these days, he’s practically living in his Pact long-sleeved shirts and pants. They’re soft enough that he doesn’t complain, but still look put-together. They’re perfect for school days, family dinners, and everything in between. I’ll post a few photos — he’s so cute in them, and I love how easy it is to layer when the weather’s being moody (which it always is in LA).
His favorite pair of pants from Pact has that magic combination of comfort and structure — kind of like grown-up sweats but nicer. And I have to admit, I love seeing him in his Pact sweater. It’s simple and classic, and makes him look like such a gentleman. We brought it on our last trip and he wore it to dinner more than once without any nudging from me.
I’ve been wearing Pact for years myself; their sweatpants, socks, underwear, and scoop neck tees are all part of my regular rotation. What I appreciate most is that nothing feels fussy. It’s all made from organic cotton, no weird dyes or chemicals, and it feels like something I don’t want to take off at the end of the day.
Mate the Label is another one I go back to all the time. Their pieces have this beautiful simplicity — super soft, well-made, and thoughtfully designed. I love that they manufacture everything locally in LA and that the whole line is non-toxic and climate-neutral. I’ve worn their thermals, sweats, and lightweight basics for years. My favorite right now is the Fleece Relaxed Sweatshirt. It’s cozy enough for mornings at home but cute enough to wear out if we’re grabbing lunch or running to the farmers market.
I try to be mindful of what comes into our home, especially with clothes. It doesn’t have to be a lot. In fact, I think it’s better when it’s not. A few high-quality things that you love and wear often — that’s the goal, right? And when those things are also made kindly, it just feels right.
So, here are a few of the staples we’ve come to rely on:
- Bear’s Pact long-sleeve shirts and cotton pants
- That classic Pact sweatshirt I love him in
- Everyday socks and boxer briefs from Pact (Bear-approved)
- My go-to Pact sweatpants and scoop neck tees
- Mate the Label thermals, sweats, and softest sweatshirts
I’m always looking for brands that are gentle on our skin, on the planet, and on the people making them — and I feel really good about these. Not perfect, but thoughtful. That matters.
More soon,
Alicia x
