How to Rock Sustainable Sass: The Ultimate Nelson, BC Style Guide
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee on Baker Street, heading to a weekend market at Cottonwood Falls, or gearing up for festival season at Shambhala, one thing is certain: Nelson style is all about being unique, colorful, and conscious. At Butterflies in Ballgowns, we believe your clothes should tell a story—preferably one that’s kind to the planet. Here is our guide to rocking handmade, upcycled fashion in the heart of the West Kootenays.
1. The "Baker Street Stroll" (Whimsical & Cute)
For those sunny Nelson afternoons spent browsing local thrift shops or meeting friends at Oso Negro, you want comfort without sacrificing the sass.
The Look: Pair our signature upcycled dungarees (like the Teal Dreamscape) with a simple thrifted tee.
Why it works: Our adjustable straps mean you can layer up when the Kootenay mountain breeze kicks in, and the one-of-a-kind floral inspired print adds that pop of "Dopamine Dressing" that our Butterflies in Ballgowns customers love.
2. Lakeside Lounging at Lakeside Park
Nelson life revolves around Kootenay Lake. If you’re heading to the beach or a walk at the dog park, you need something breathable and vibrant.
The Look: Our one of a kind short dungarees made from lightweight vintage linens.
Style Tip: Add a matching handmade Butterflies in Ballgowns dog bandana for your furry friend to be the cutest pair in town!
3. Festival Season: From Shambhala to Tiny Lights
We’re lucky to live in a hub for world-class music and art. Festival fashion in the Kootenays is all about self-expression.
The Look: Go full "Butterfly" with a custom-order pair of dungarees. Think rainbow-infused fabrics and bold patterns that stand out in a crowd.
Eco-Signal: Because our pieces are made from thrifted treasures, and are one of a kind, you can dance freely knowing your outfit didn’t contribute to textile waste, and there will never be a “who wore it best” moment on the dance floor!
3. Strolling around the Nelson Farmers Market
Nelson is fortunate enough to have 2 weekly farmers markets throughout the Summer, one at Cottonwood Falls Park on a Saturday and one on Baker Street on a Wednesday. It’s an incredible place to browse the beautiful handmade pieces, made by our talented artisan community - and wear better to wear your handmade, one of a kind Butterflies in Ballgowns dungarees!?
The Look: Whether it’s Spring, Summer or Fall, Butterflies in Ballgowns short dungarees are the perfect Nelson Farmers Market companion. Be sure to choose one of our signature pairs, made from upcycled bed sheets, to ensure you can stay cool and comfortable all day.
Practical tip: Pair with a basket from legendary Eco-Conscious life style store, Still Eagle, to ensure you can carry all your market purchases!
4. Where to Find Us Locally
Can't wait for shipping? We love supporting our local Kootenay business community! You can find a curated selection of Butterflies in Ballgowns pieces at Moonrise Boutique in Castlegar, or come and find me at theNelson Farmers Market and other Artisan Marketsthroughout the year - they’re the perfect place to try on different sizes and feel the quality of Butterflies in Ballgowns hand-stitched pieces in person.
Sustainable fashion isn't just a trend in the Kootenays; it’s a way of life. Ready to find your new favorite pair of "forever overalls"? Click the button below to browse our latest drop of one of a kind dungarees, or contact us for a custom order tailored to your unique Kootenay style!