As the fashion industry continues to grow and evolve, more and more fashion brands are focusing on sustainable and ethical practices. In this article, we will be highlighting the best 20 sustainable fashion brands that not only create beautifully designed clothing and accessories but also prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. We will be exploring a range of brands, from affordable options to high-end luxury, so that everyone can make a conscious effort to support circular fashion. Join us as we discover some of the best and most affordable sustainable fashion brands on the market!
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1. Patagonia
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Patagonia is a top sustainable fashion brand, not only for its functional and stylish outdoor clothing but also for its long-standing commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. For over four decades, the company has been pioneering sustainable fashion practices.
One of the reasons Patagonia is considered a sustainable fashion brand is its commitment to organic, recycled, and environmentally friendly materials. Since the mid-1990s, the sustainability behemoth has been using organic cotton instead of conventional cotton that requires heavy pesticides and fertilizers. Additionally, they use recycled materials such as polyester, nylon, and wool, which help reduce CO2 emissions, energy usage, and water usage required in production. In 2020 alone, Patagonia estimated that it saved over 14,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions by using recycled materials in its products.
In short, Patagonia shows that sustainable fashion is more than just a trend; it's a commitment to the environment and to ethical production practices that can result in beautiful, durable garments that customers can feel good about purchasing.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Patagonia’s “Don't Buy This Jacket” campaign. This campaign featured a full-page ad in The New York Times on Black Friday, one of the busiest shopping days of the year. The ad displayed an image of one of Patagonia's jackets along with the message "Don't Buy This Jacket". The purpose of the campaign was to raise awareness about the environmental impact of consumerism and encourage customers to think twice before making a purchase.
Patagonia’s sustainable practices extend beyond materials and into responsible supply chain management. Patagonia has even gone so far as to create its own ethical certification program, the Fair Trade Certified™, which guarantees that workers are paid a living wage and working under safe conditions.
2. Eileen Fisher
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Eileen Fisher is widely recognized as a sustainable fashion brand due to its long-standing commitment to incorporating sustainable practices into its operations and product offerings.
Here are some key reasons why Eileen Fisher is considered a leader in sustainable fashion.
Eileen Fisher prioritizes environmental sustainability by using organic, natural, and recycled materials in their garments. For instance, the brand has been actively investing in and supporting the use of organic cotton, which contributes to minimizing the environmental impact of conventional cotton production.
In addition, Eileen Fisher strives to maintain transparency throughout its supply chain, ensuring that workers involved in the production process are treated ethically and paid fair wages. Furthermore, Eileen Fisher has been actively engaged in supporting organizations committed to fair trade and workers' rights.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Eileen Fisher understands the importance of supporting circular fashion and reducing textile waste. The company has implemented programs like "Renew," which offers customers the opportunity to return their gently worn Eileen Fisher garments, which are then repaired and resold as part of the brand's circular economy efforts.
3. Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney’s efforts have gained recognition from various organizations and publications for being a sustainable fashion brand, including the Global Fashion Agenda, Business of Fashion, and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
The sustainable fashion brand also produces vegan clothing and accessories that do not use leather, fur, or other animal-derived materials, supporting animal welfare and reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
Stella McCartney has made clear commitments to sustainability and ethical practices, reflected in her brand's mission and production methods. Stella McCartney partners with ethical factories and suppliers.
This brand innovates new ways to advance sustainable fashion, engaging in innovative production techniques and technology that simplify their supply chains, thereby reducing waste.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: The brand has also implemented a take-back program that allows customers to donate or resell their used Stella McCartney products, promoting a more circular fashion system.
4. Everlane
From their best-selling tees and denim, to their clean silk shirts and satin dresses, Everlane offers a range of wardrobe essentials suitable for both men and women. Everlane's style can be described as modern, understated, and classic with a touch of sophistication.
Everlane is considered a sustainable fashion brand for several reasons.
The US-based brand has built a strong reputation for its commitment to transparency in its supply chain. The brand provides detailed information about its factories and suppliers, including photographs, factory locations, and production processes on its website. This transparency ensures accountability throughout the supply chain.
The brand measures its emissions and has set structured goals for emissions reduction. Everlane also focuses on minimizing waste and water usage in its production processes. By actively addressing these environmental challenges, Everlane strives to be an environmentally responsible brand.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: 97% of their clothing made from materials containing polyester and nylon are made from certified recycled fibers.
5. Reformation
The style of the Reformation brand can be described as feminine, romantic, and bohemian with a modern twist. Reformation offers a range of clothing options, including dresses, tops, jeans, and accessories, all sustainably made.
Dresses are a prominent part of Reformation's style, with a variety of silhouettes, patterns, and lengths to choose from. They offer midi dresses, mini dresses, silky dresses, and more. These dresses are designed to be flattering and suitable for different occasions, such as parties, weddings, brunches, or dates.
Reformation is considered a sustainable fashion brand for several reasons.
First, the brand uses eco-friendly materials, including organic cotton, linen, and Tencel, to reduce their environmental impact. The brand also incorporates sustainable textiles into its designs, such as surplus fabric from other manufacturers and deadstock recycled material. By using these eco-friendly materials, Reformation reduces the amount of waste and pollution produced during the production of their clothing.
Next, Reformation strives to ensure ethical labor practices throughout its supply chain, promoting fair wages and safe working conditions.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: The brand also invests in offset projects, such as forest conservation and renewable energy, to balance its carbon emissions. As a result, Reformation has become an industry leader in carbon-neutral operations.
6. People Tree
People Tree's style is characterized by relaxed silhouettes, natural fibers, and handcrafted details. Their clothing often features loose shapes, flowy dresses, and comfortable separates that prioritize comfort and ease of movement.
People Tree, a UK-based apparel brand, is considered a sustainable fashion brand for several reasons. Firstly, they ensure that their products are made to the highest ethical and environmental standards from start to finish. People Tree is a pioneer of fair trade fashion and holds various certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Fair Trade, and Fair Wear, among others. These certifications validate their commitment to sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices.
Moreover, People Tree prioritizes the use of sustainable materials in their clothing. They are dedicated to using organic and natural fibers, reducing the environmental impact of their production processes.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Another aspect that sets People Tree apart as a sustainable brand is their emphasis on supporting traditional craftsmanship and marginalized artisan communities. They collaborate with skilled artisans, promoting their traditional craft techniques. This commitment not only contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage but also ensures the social sustainability of the communities they work with.
7. Amour Vert
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Amour Vert is a sustainable fashion brand that offers clothing with a bold femininity, designed by women and inspired in California. The brand combines European sophistication with laidback, easy-to-wear Californian style, creating an effortlessly Parisian chic aesthetic.
The style of Amour Vert can be described as a blend of sporty and feminine elements, incorporating both casual and sophisticated elements into their designs. Their collections feature sustainable tops, dresses, pants, and more, made from premium fabrics sourced from raw, natural materials or reusable by-products of other manufacturing processes. The brand focuses on creating enduring pieces that are versatile, ensuring their clothing can be used every day and for various occasions.
Amour Vert is committed to sustainability throughout their business operations and product lifecycle. They address sustainability in terms of the fibers and production processes used, worker treatment, distribution, and the potential for recycling or landfill disposal.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: The brand has launched a ReAmour resale platform, where customers can sell the Amour Vert clothing they no longer wear.
8. Veja
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Veja is a French sustainable sneaker brand that focuses on transparency, organic materials, fair trade practices, and producing footwear in a more environmentally responsible way. The style of Veja's shoes combines minimalist and modern elements, creating a sleek and versatile look that can work with various outfits and styles.
Fine-tuned over recent years, the brand's most popular and recognizable sneaker style is the V1013. This design features a simple, classic silhouette with a distinctive "V" logo on the side made from wild rubber harvested by local cooperatives in the Amazon.
Veja is considered a sustainable fashion brand for several reasons. Firstly, the brand prioritizes transparency and has a genuinely sustainable identity. They have a clear focus on using organic and eco-friendly materials in their products. For instance, their sneakers are made with raw materials sourced from organic farming and ecological agriculture, which helps to avoid chemicals and polluting processes.
Veja has successfully managed to combine a minimalist and modern aesthetic with a strong sustainability focus, making their affordable sneakers suitable for wearers who care not just about style and comfort but also about the planet and about supporting ethically produced products.
9. Outerknown
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The style of Outerknown, one of the top US sustainable fashion brands, is characterized as casual and laid-back, drawing inspiration from coastal and surf culture, reflecting a relaxed and effortless aesthetic.
They offer a range of wardrobe staples, such as t-shirts, button-down shirts, trousers, and outerwear, that showcase a minimalist approach. The color palette used by Outerknown tends to be neutral and earthy tones, which further underscores the brand's commitment to sustainability and a natural aesthetic.
Founded by professional surfer, Kelly Slater, and designer John Moore, the brand seeks to challenge traditional production methods and promote radical transparency throughout its supply chain.
Outerknown uses eco-friendly materials throughout its designs, such as recycled and regenerated fabrics, organic cotton, and hemp. According to Ecocult, over 90% of Outerknown's products are made from organic, recycled, or regenerated materials.
Additionally, Outerknown works towards reducing its environmental footprint in other areas, such as shipping and packaging. The company uses only recycled and biodegradable materials throughout its packaging, such as compostable mailers and reusable totes, which helps to reduce waste.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Outerknown's website has an OuterKnown Buy Back Program where customers can trade in old items purchased from the brand for Store Credit. These used items are then resold or repurposed to give them a second life. In addition, they have launched a new peer-to-peer resale platform.
10. Mara Hoffman
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Hoffman's label was founded in 2000 with a goal of producing playful, feminine clothing inspired by nature and color. Often drawing inspiration from cultural influences such as West African textiles, Asian-inspired prints, and Latin American motifs, Mara Hoffman's style is characterized by bohemian and eclectic elements that are combined with modern, streamlined shapes.
The brand offers both ready-to-wear clothing and swimwear, with their swimwear line being highly recognizable for its playful prints and detailing.
Mara Hoffman is considered a sustainable fashion brand due to several key practices and initiatives the brand has implemented. One of the main reasons is their committed focus on using sustainable materials, processes, and improving and extending the lifespan of each garment through responsible practices.
In addition, Mara Hoffman has joined the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC) and has taken steps to measure and evaluate the impact of their sustainability initiatives. By mapping their supply chain and implementing transparency, they strive to enhance their sustainability practices and hold themselves accountable.
This affordable brand also encourages consumers to adopt more sustainable behaviors, such as buying less, washing clothes less frequently, and wearing garments for a longer period. By promoting conscious consumerism, Mara Hoffman aims to reduce waste and promote a more circular approach to fashion.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Mara Hoffman is dedicated to using sustainable fibers in their fabrics, such as linen, modal, hemp, alpaca, and organic cotton. They prioritize the selection of materials that have a lower impact on the climate and the environment.
11. Allbirds
The style of the Allbirds sneaker brand can be described as minimalistic, versatile, and focused on comfort. The brand's shoes have a simple and clean design that emphasizes functionality and can be easily paired with various outfits.
One primary aspect of Allbirds' sustainability efforts is their use of renewable and natural materials in their products.
Allbirds is also committed to responsible and ethical sourcing. They prioritize suppliers who adhere to fair labor practices and environmental regulations.
Overall, Allbirds stands out as a sustainable footwear brand by integrating sustainable practices throughout their supply chain, using renewable and recycled materials, minimizing their carbon footprint, and promoting transparency and ethical sourcing.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Allbirds' shoes are made from materials like merino wool, eucalyptus tree fiber, and sugarcane-based SweetFoam™. These materials have a lower environmental impact compared to traditionally used materials in the footwear industry. Allbirds sustainable fashion brand also uses recycled materials, such as plastic bottles, for their packaging.
12. ABLE
ABLE offers a range of products, including clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories. Their clothing collection includes classic, minimalist pieces such as high-waisted jeans, blouses, and dresses, often made with natural materials like cotton, linen, or silk. The neutral color palette of their clothing line, which typically features muted tones like black, white, beige, and earthy hues, adds to the brand's timeless aesthetic.
ABLE is considered a sustainable fashion brand due to its commitment to several key sustainability practices.
ABLE focuses on reducing their environmental footprint through various initiatives. They prioritize using sustainable materials such as organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and vegetable-tanned leather, which have lower environmental impacts compared to conventional materials.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: In addition to prioritizing sustainability, ABLE is dedicated to empowering women by providing job opportunities and supporting them through initiatives like their "ABLE Women" program, which focuses on workforce development and addressing systemic issues.
13. Nisolo
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Nisolo is a sustainable fashion brand that focuses on creating environmentally conscious products using ethical and responsible manufacturing processes. The brand's style can be characterized as timeless and versatile, with a focus on classic designs and high-quality craftsmanship.
Nisolo offers a range of footwear and accessories designed to be both functional and stylish. Their shoe collection includes classic styles such as loafers, oxfords, and boots, often made with high-quality materials such as full-grain leather. The brand's classic aesthetic is evident in their neutral color palette, with many of their designs featuring muted tones like black, brown, and beige.
Nisolo is considered a sustainable fashion brand and a certified B-corp.
Nisolo is committed to transparency in how they operate their business, ensuring that customers are able to understand how their products are made, and the impact that they have on the environment.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: The brand includes a Nisolo Sustainability Facts Label with each of their products, scoring them across 200 sustainability metrics to clarify their individual social and environmental impact.
14. Thought
Whether it's dresses, tops, knitwear, or accessories, Thought brand aims to provide clothing that is not only fashion-forward but also made with the planet in mind.
Thought is considered a sustainable fashion brand due to its commitment to various sustainable practices throughout its production process.
One of the reasons why Thought is considered sustainable is its emphasis on slow fashion. The brand designs and creates garments that are made to last, promoting durability and longevity in their products. By focusing on quality and timeless designs, Thought encourages customers to invest in clothing that can be worn for an extended period, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Thought prioritizes ethical and sustainable sourcing of materials. The brand uses natural and organic fibers, such as organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo, which have a lower environmental impact. This choice contributes to reducing the use of chemicals and pesticides, as well as promoting biodiversity and soil health.
15. Indigenous
Indigenous is an affordable sustainable fashion brand based in California.
One key aspect of Indigenous's sustainability is its focus on preserving indigenous cultures and traditional craftsmanship. The brand collaborates with artisans from indigenous communities around the world, supporting their traditional craft techniques. This not only promotes cultural preservation but also helps to maintain the intergenerational knowledge and skills associated with these crafts.
Indigenous also prioritizes the use of sustainable and eco-friendly materials. The brand utilizes natural fibers such as organic cotton, alpaca, and Tencel, which are renewable, biodegradable, and have a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic materials.
Furthermore, Indigenous practices transparency and traceability by providing information about the sourcing and production processes of their products. This allows customers to make informed choices and fosters a sense of connection and trust between the brand and its consumers.
Most Indigenous clothing pieces cost less than $100, so this brand maintains the same price level as many fast fashion brands.
16. Organic Basics
Organic Basics is a Danish sustainable fashion brand that places a strong emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and timeless design. Organic Basics believes in creating high-quality basics that will stand the test of time, both in terms of durability and style. Their designs are characterized by simple silhouettes and neutral color palettes, making them versatile and easy to incorporate into any wardrobe.
Firstly, this affordable sustainable fashion brand prioritizes the use of organic and recycled materials, such as organic cotton and TENCEL™ Lyocell, which have less impact on the environment.
Furthermore, Organic Basics emphasizes transparency in their operations. They provide detailed information about their carbon emissions, showcasing their efforts to reduce their environmental impact. The brand also offset their remaining carbon emissions through collaborations with organizations like One Carbon World.
Overall, Organic Basics stands out as a sustainable fashion brand due to their use of sustainable materials, responsible manufacturing practices, and commitment to transparency and reducing their carbon footprint. Their ethical and eco-conscious approach makes them a trusted choice for consumers looking to support sustainable fashion brands.
17. Nudie Jeans Co
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Nudie Jeans is a Swedish denim brand that is known for its sustainable approach to production and commitment to transparency. They prioritize creating great-looking jeans without compromising the environment or the well-being of everyone involved in the production chain.
Nudie Jeans' sustainability efforts are notably comprehensive. They use 100% organic cotton for their denim selection, which reduces the environmental impact compared to conventional cotton production. The brand also emphasizes sustainable production practices, including transparent manufacturing processes. They have been recognized for their work in both environmental and social sustainability, taking a prominent role in the industry's efforts for a more sustainable existence.
Nudie Jeans aims to become the world's most sustainable denim brand and has set sustainable development goals related to areas where they can have a significant impact, such as responsible consumption and production, climate action, and protecting biodiversity.
18. Pact
Pact is a sustainable clothing brand that focuses on creating comfortable and high-quality apparel using organic cotton and environmentally friendly production methods. The style of Pact brand can be described as versatile, contemporary, and timeless, with a range of essential clothing for women, men, kids, and babies.
Pact's commitment to sustainability is evident in various aspects of their operations. They partner with Fair Trade certified factories, ensuring that high social and environmental standards are met.
Pact also prioritizes the use of organic cotton in their products, which helps to reduce the environmental impact of cotton farming. Their clothing is made from sustainably grown organic cotton, which is free from harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. And it's still affordable!
By combining sustainable materials, fair production practices, and a commitment to offsetting carbon emissions, Pact ensures that their clothing is not only environmentally friendly but also socially responsible. Their focus on creating long-lasting apparel contributes to the reduction of fashion waste and promotes a more sustainable, slow-fashion approach.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Pact locally offsets all of their shipping carbon emissions and uses biodegradable packaging.
19. Prana
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Prana is a clothing brand that focuses on creating active lifestyle clothing for positive change, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The brand was founded in 1992 by Beaver and Pam Theodosakis in Carlsbad, California.
The style of the Prana brand can be described as an active lifestyle brand rooted in sustainability. They offer a wide range of clothing for activities such as yoga, outdoor adventures, and daily wear. Prana is best known for their thoughtfully designed active, swim, lifestyle, and cold weather layering pieces.
Prana is a brand that prioritizes sustainability in its operations and products. Sustainability has been a core value of the brand since its founding in 1992. This includes investing in energy-efficient technologies at their headquarters and working towards the elimination of plastic from their customer packaging.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Prana uses sustainable materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, hemp, and bluesign®-approved fabric. By incorporating these materials, Prana aims to minimize the environmental impact of its products and promote responsible consumption.
20. Veerah
Veerah is a mission-driven sustainable luxury shoe brand that focuses on creating designer vegan shoes that are inspired by women and made for warriors. The brand aims to break stereotypes associated with vegan shoes by offering beautiful and comfortable footwear that doesn't compromise on style or sustainability.
The style of Veerah shoes can be described as elegant, timeless, and fashion-forward. The brand offers a range of styles, including heels, flats, sandals, and boots. Veerah's designs feature high-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a focus on creating shoes that can be worn for various occasions and elevate any outfit.
Veerah is committed to sustainability in multiple ways. Firstly, the brand uses vegan materials, eliminating the use of animal products in its shoes. They have also pioneered the use of innovative and eco-friendly materials in their collections.
Additionally, Veerah's commitment to sustainability extends to its packaging. The brand uses eco-friendly packaging materials to minimize waste and reduce their carbon footprint.
By combining style and sustainability, Veerah aims to provide conscious consumers with a fashionable and ethical choice in footwear. Their mission-driven approach demonstrates the brand's commitment to empowering women while creating a positive impact on the environment.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: Veerah has launched the world's first shoe collection made from apple peel leather and has crafted cushioned insoles from algae blooms. These initiatives showcase the brand's dedication to sustainable alternatives and reducing its environmental impact.
21. Girlfriend Collective
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Girlfriend Collective is a sustainable activewear brand for women who care - care about other women, care about how their clothes are made, and care about making an impact through their purchase power.
Girlfriend Collective is considered a sustainable fashion brand for several reasons. Firstly, they prioritize using recycled materials in their products.
Secondly, Girlfriend Collective focuses on ethical production practices. The brand values transparency and provides information about their production process, including details about their factories and certifications.
In addition to using recycled materials and ethical production practices, Girlfriend Collective also prioritizes sustainable packaging. Their packaging is made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials. By considering the environmental impact of their packaging, the brand further demonstrates its commitment to sustainability.
Example of Sustainable Fashion Practice: The brand produces affordable activewear and essentials using recycled materials such as water bottles and fishing nets. For example, their leggings are made from 25 recycled water bottles. This approach helps to reduce waste and minimize the use of virgin resources.
Summary
These were the top brands are committed to sustainable practices, including using organic and recycled materials, ensuring fair labor conditions, and minimizing their environmental impact.
What other sustainable fashion brands do you know?
