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There’s no debate that the fashion industry has a negative impact on the environment. The production of clothing, from sourcing raw materials to shipping finished products, releases harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Not to mention the toxic dyes and finishes used in fabric production, which contaminate waterways and harm local communities.
At the same time, the global demand for fashion is only growing. According to UN estimates, the world’s population will reach 9.8 billion by 2050, and the average person will wear clothes 27 times per year. That’s a lot of clothing and a lot of environmental damage.
So what’s a fashion lover to do?
The good news is that there are now more sustainable clothing brands than ever before. These brands use eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, so they have a minimal impact on the environment.
6 Best Sustainable Clothing Brands
1. ADAY
ADAY is a Los Angeles brand that focuses on sustainable production, safe and fair working conditions, and living wages. The brand was founded in 2014 by a group of women who were disillusioned with the fashion system. Today, ADAY focuses on creating lingerie that is good for the body while remaining cute and comfortable. The eco-friendly cotton is sourced from fair factories, and ADAY doesn’t use any synthetic or petroleum-based dyes. You can feel good about wearing this piece and you’ll be helping women and the environment at the same time!
2. Patagonia
For outdoor enthusiasts, Patagonia is a go-to brand that makes outdoor gear that’s true to the brand’s mission. The company is committed to creating products that are made in the USA, using sustainable practices, and its mission statement itself is grounds for a sustainable lifestyle. Patagonia puts an emphasis on quality and craftsmanship. And we love that the brand has an obsession with sustainability and environmental protection.
3. Boden
Boden has a knack for creating timeless basics that can be worn for years. The brand’s sustainability efforts go beyond its own factory, and they’re proud of its collaborative partnership with Fair Trade USA. Since 2017, Boden has engaged with tens of thousands of farmers in Bolivia, Peru, and Guatemala to find the best sustainable cotton, and it’s a key part of its Everyday Living program. This program helps the brand’s retail partners source and source responsibly and is also an important part of the Boden Foundation, which funds projects in the communities where Boden sources.
4. Outerknown
Outerknown, a sustainable swimwear brand based in San Francisco, is making waves for its innovative and stylish designs. The brand’s cotton is grown in Europe and the United States, using certified BSCI standards to ensure the fabric is free of child and forced labor and meets the highest environmental standards. Each piece is ethically manufactured and comes with a lifetime guarantee. Outerknown’s swimwear is perfect for the active and casual woman, especially when teamed with a cute hat and a pair of comfy sneakers.
5. Levi’s
Levi’s is the world leader in denim, and not just because it owns it. We’re happy about the success of the company, but we also think that Levi’s is very responsive to being a part of the community.
Levi’s is faithful to making a positive difference. They do this by giving the men and women who make Levi’s fabrics access to better healthcare and schools and by supporting Levi’s One For One campaign, which focuses on water. The jeans they make are iconic, but the company’s commitment to the environment and the people who make it possible is what makes it truly special.
6. Reformation
One of the most iconic brands in the world, Reformation has been producing jeans for over 50 years. The New Jersey denim company is in using only the best organic cotton for their Fair Trade Organic cotton tees. The company is also switching to more eco-friendly and recycled packaging. All of their packagings will soon be made from plant materials or recycling materials. The brand also wants to make sure that its employees and their families have a better future.