As much as we love to look good, we’d be remiss if we didn’t highlight the fact that the fashion industry has been problematic since its origin. There’s the environmentally-damaging practices (toxic dyes; pesticide use), the dangerous working conditions, and the sky-high pricing structures.
It’s safe to say that the fashion industry needs to shape up and act right—for us and for the planet Earth. On the bright side, there are some brands out there that are great examples of ethical and sustainable fashion practices. Their clothing looks pretty good too.
Check out these 4 sustainable clothing brands. Maybe you'll find your new go-to shopping stop!
1. Everlane
Everlane is all about “radical transparency.” By visiting and forming relationships with its factory owners, the brand ensures good working conditions and fair wages.
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The team then factors in the accurate costs of labor, high-quality materials, and transportation, and breaks down the prices of all its items for everyone to see online—all while nixing the traditional high markup of most stores—so consumers understand exactly what their dollars are paying for.
2. ThredUp
ThredUp made a name for itself by becoming the world’s largest fashion resale marketplace, encouraging folks to shop secondhand by offering quality clothing from over 35,000 brands you know and love, including H&M and Prada.
Don’t want to shop used? ThredUp’s new Remade line was designed with a sustainable mission in mind. You choose from several size-inclusive timeless styles (new, like new, or gently used), and then send them back when you’re bored of them for a buyback guarantee of 40% the original price.
3. Outerknown
Pro Surfer, Kelly Slater and design partner John Moore created Outerknown in 2015 to show that sustainability and style are synonymous, not mutually exclusive. Initially only a menswear brand, Outerknown was built around the Fair Labor Association’s strict supply chain processes, becoming the first clothing brand ever to reach accreditation in only two and a half years.
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In Spring 2019, the brand launched its first women’s collection, debuting breezy dresses, gauzy button-downs, linen beach pants, and more coastal staples—all with the same quality materials and environmentally-friendly practices it started with.
4. Pact
For undies and loungewear, turn to Pact. The brand sources only 100% organic cotton (meaning it uses zero pesticides, bleaches, or toxic dyes and up to 95% less water than conventional cotton) to create its buttery-soft basics, which are all produced in fair-trade–certified factories.
Jasmine Browley holds an MA in journalism from Columbia College Chicago, and has contributed to Ebony, Jet and MADE Magazine among others. So, clearly, she knows some stuff. Follow her digital journey @JasmineBrowley.
