Fast-fashion is one of the biggest reasons for landfill waste worldwide. Because of this, a lot of consumers demand fashion labels do more to curb their environmental impact. This is often boiled down to offsetting their carbon footprints, which is usually done through using cleaner energy throughout the clothing manufacturing process.
If you’re interested in purchasing from more sustainable fashion brands or are a fashion designer looking for some inspiration, check out these 5 eco-friendly brands that are making huge impacts this year!
1. Everlane
Everlane is a women’s and men’s casual retailer focused on ethical and sustainable manufacturing. They clearly show what the inside of their factories look like, the cost breakdown of materials and markup, and the fair living wages they pay factory workers. Their ultimate goal: net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
What’s cool about Everlane is that you can actually track the history of the clothing you buy on the tags, where you can check out which factory it came from and how workers are treated. If you like timeless designs with a hint of trendy, you’re going to want to check out Everlane apparel.
2. Patagonia
Patagonia has been a trailblazer for environmentally-conscious outdoor clothing for many decades. The company is a certified B-Corporation meaning they have transparent information about their material sourcing and manufacturing practices, as well as accountability when it comes to sustainable practices. Plus, they’re fair trade certified. They pride themselves on their self-imposed “1% Earth Tax” where they donate 1% of profits to the organizations they team up with to further help support their eco-conscious mission.
It’s really cool to see them offer a “worn-wear” program where customers can trade in gently used items that others can buy for a heavily discounted price. This not only helps the planet by creating a more circular economy and also expanding access to consumers of lesser incomes. If you like outdoorsy activewear, you’re definitely going to like Patagonia.
3. Organic Basics
If you’re looking to invest in basics that are sustainable and ethically made, then Organic Basics will soon be your favorite brand. Using only organic and recycled fabrics, Organic Basics provides both men and women some of the most sustainable undergarments available on the market.
Similar to Everlane, you can check out all of Organic Basics’ factories on their website and read their employee wages and benefits as part of their ethical practices. While the brand has been transparent about having unrealistic net-zero carbon emissions by 2025, they are still making strides to lower their energy consumption and waste.
If you’re looking for basics that feel great on your skin and do good for the planet, then Organic Basics is for you.
4. Reformation
If you’re a Gen-Z or Millennial and are even slightly interested in fashion, then it’s very likely you’ve heard of Reformation. This popular women’s clothing brand is centered around trendy fashion while doing good for the planet. At least, doing better for the planet than its competitors.
Reformation is certified climate neutral, meaning they have reduced and offset their carbon emissions to a net zero. Recycled denim and regenerative wool are only two of the many materials Reformation uses to make their clothing more sustainable.
5. H&M – Honorable Mention
If you’ve read about fast fashion and the sustainability movement, then you know H&M is a major contributor of clothing waste. However, the retailer is making strides towards improving their carbon footprint, which is why the company is receiving an honorable mention at spot #5.
The retailer has expanded their conscious choice product line (which includes items that are made from recycled materials) and aims for all items inside and outside the line to be fully recycled by 2035, a huge step from their past processes which have been considered extremely wasteful.
Since 2013, H&M’s Garment Collecting program has made it easy for consumers to return any unwanted articles of clothing in exchange for a discount voucher off their next H&M purchase, no questions asked. This is a great option for budget-conscious consumers who want to participate in trends while not breaking the bank, nor hurting the planet in the process.
Closing
What are some of your favorite sustainable clothing brands? Leave a comment and let Nikki know down below. If you’re interested in reading about more fashion content and fashion industry news, check out our review of the latest Target spring collection.
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