Choosing to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle can feel intimidating. Our modern world is set up in such a way that it can seem near impossible to live your daily routine without having a negative impact on the planet.
One of the most impactful things you, as an individual can do, is to create a sustainable, eco-friendly wardrobe. The fast-fashion industry is responsible for more carbon emissions as a whole than both airplane and maritime industries combined. With the rise of microtrends, clothing that is considered fashionable one day can be deemed unfashionable in a matter of months, leading to huge amounts of clothing waste. These inexpensive garments are often made of polyester or other synthetic fabrics, which are equivalent to plastic. Each time they are washed, they release microplastics into our water system, further polluting the planet.
Choosing to purchase minimal, sustainable options is a great step to take to minimize your footprint on the environment. With so many options out there, we’ve put together a list of sustainable clothing companies to suit every budget and taste.
Groceries Apparel
Based out of LA, Groceries Apparel creates comfortable, cotton basics, in the same vein as American Apparel. They are deeply committed to using non-toxic ingredients. So much so, that they have created their own dye studio when they couldn’t find one that lived up to their standards. All garments are colored using a vegetable-based dye, free of toxic ingredients. All of their clothes are locally made in LA, which cuts down on emissions from shipping. They pride themselves on providing safe working conditions and fair wages for all of their workers.
If you live in California, you can purchase clothes from their first storefront, opening in April. If not, you can view their collection online.
Pact
Pact has made a name for itself as one of the most successful sustainable clothing brands of the past few years. Offering everything from undergarments and socks to cozy knit sweaters, they are a great option if you want to start building your sustainable wardrobe from the ground up. They also offer bed and bath products, such as sheets and towels to give your whole home an eco-conscious refresh. Their clothing is made with 100% organic cotton and chemical-free dyes.
Human Nation
Human Nation stands out as a collection that not only focuses on sustainability, but also on inclusivity. Founded by Ciara (yes, that Ciara), alongside Russell Wilson, and Christine Day of Lululemon, Human Nation creates gender-neutral street and loungewear. They are a B Corporation Certified company, meaning that they have demonstrated measurably high standards in social and environmental performance. They are committed to using 100% organic cotton in all their designs. Not only is their design gender-neutral, but so is their inclusive sizing chart. They offer sizes up to a typical 4XL in women’s and 3XL in mens.
Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective has been gaining popularity over the past few years. And with good reason. They offer high-quality, colorful activewear, in flattering minimalistic designs. The fabric for their hugely popular leggings is actually made out of recycled water bottles, preventing them from ending up in the landfill. They also feature inclusive sizing, offering sizes from XXS-6XL.
A huge feature of their company is their ReGirlfriend Program, where customers can send in old products to be recycled into new ones. In exchange, customers get a $15 voucher that can be used towards purchasing new products.
UpWest
Not all eco-friendly clothing is created equal. There are lots of brands that sometimes compromise style for sustainability. This is not the case for UpWest, a brand that will appeal to fans of J. Crew and Gap. Their preppy, relaxed style is the perfect go to for office to home. You can feel good about what you are wearing, knowing that they are committed to using sustainable fabrics and giving back to community members in need.
Outerknown
With clothing designed to be functional and stylish, Outerknown’s beautifully made collection is perfect for exploring outdoors or staying in. They proudly use 90% organic or recycled fibers, to make a wide range of items, including swim trunks and jeans. In a further commitment to keeping clothing out of the landfill, they offer a lifetime guarantee on their popular S.E.A. jeans and will repair, replace, or recycle old pairs.
Are you looking to build a sustainable wardrobe? Leave us a comment with your biggest wins and challenges!
