You’ve sworn off plastic bags, cut back on buying beverages in single-use bottles and reevaluated your use of plastic straws. Congrats, you’ve begun living green in 2023! The next potential step? Reevaluating your wardrobe and swapping out your fast-fashion shopping habits for something more eco-friendly. In honor of Earth month (April), which leads up to Earth Day (April 22), we’ve done a deep dive into the best sustainable brands to know so we can be prepared to do some shopping for our favorite ethically made, reusable and low emission produced products to reduce our personal carbon footprints.
35 Sustainable Fashion Brands You Should Be Shopping in 2023
Look good, feel good, do good
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Published May 30, 2023
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.
5 of The Best Sustainable Fashion Brands at a Glance:
- For Posh Wardrobe Staples: Reformation
- For Trendy Denim: Boyish Jeans
- For Easy Basics: Pact
- For Colorful Sneakers: Cariuma
- For Everyday Jewelry: Mejuri
What Is Sustainable Fashion?
To be honest, this is a hard question to answer. On a base level, sustainable fashion companies are those that source and produce products in ethically minded ways that reduce harm to the planet as compared to traditional practices. But thanks to “greenwashing,” it can sometimes be hard to tell exactly how eco-friendly a fashion brand actually is. Luckily, there are numerous certifications that companies can earn that help distinguish their sustainability efforts as legitimate. And companies that are truly sincere in their eco-friendly ambitions often have more in-depth explanations of their processes on their websites, sometimes including year-over-year sustainability reports to show their growth as related to their goals. A good way to weed out brands guilty of greenwashing is if you can’t find any real numbers or details on exactly what they mean when they call their products “sustainable.” You can also look up the brand in question the website Good On You, which rates companies on a scale of 1 (We Avoid) to 5 (Great) and breaks down the score to show their impact on the planet, people and animals.
How Do I Shop Sustainably?
When shopping sustainable brands, look for certifications to ensure the credibility of the claims. Here’s a breakdown of some sustainable buzzwords to keep an eye out for while you shop:
- Made Safe Certified: Products are made with non-toxic, safe ingredients.
- OEKO-TEX: Textiles are made with non-harmful substances.
- Global Organic Textile Standard: Textiles are made by organic production.
- Certified B Corporation: Given to companies who score 80+ on an assessment performed by B Corporation that measures accountability on social responsibility and environmental consciousness.
- Bluesign Certified: Ensures the company is following environmentally friendly and safe practices within textile production.
How We Chose the Best Sustainable Fashion Brands
As mentioned above, “sustainable fashion” is a complicated term and sussing out the real deal from brands that are just greenwashing takes some time and research. Luckily, for the retailers on this list we’ve already done all that hard work for you. We did a deep dive into each brand’s sustainability claims to determine just how eco-friendly they really are, reading up on how/where their materials are sourced, what their production methods are like and whether they have any certifications to brag about. Of course, there’s always more to learn, so if you want to get into the nitty gritty details yourself you can explore each of these companies even more deeply. But for those who just want to kick back and add cute new clothes to cart knowing they’re doing their part for the environment, the following brands have all earned PureWow’s eco-friendly stamp of approval.
Now, onto the good stuff: Here are 35 sustainable fashion brands to help you both look and feel fabulous.
1. Reformation
For Posh Wardrobe Staples
- How It’s Sustainable: Bluesign and OEKO-TEX certified, tracks and lists carbon and water footprints for every item, recycles and reuse materials, has been carbon neutral since 2015 (learn more)
- Styles Offered: ready to wear, occasion dresses, denim, shoes, bags
- Pros and Cons: lots of transparency with regards to production, offers both trendy and timeless pieces, styles tend to sell out quickly
It’s time to get to know Reformation and its sustainable initiatives if you haven’t already. A go-to for everyday blouses and bridesmaids dresses alike, the whole brand was built on the notion that sustainability in fashion begins with the fibers and that leftover fabric can definitely be used again and again. Yep, they focus on the nitty-gritty (even going so far as releasing a Sustainability Report Card each year) to make sure that slinky linen dress looks great on you and looks great for the future of our planet. One of Ref’s latest eco-friendly launches is FibreTrace denim, which tracks the brand’s beloved jeans from the original cotton plants (grown on the world’s first carbon positive farm in Australia) through the weaving and dyeing processes all the way to your front door so you know exactly what went into taking them from “farm to butt” as the brand puts it.
2. Boyish Jeans
For Trendy Denim
- How It’s Sustainable: OEKO-TEX and GOTS certified, uses natural plant-based dyes, uses a combination of new organic, recycled and deadstock cotton, has been carbon neutral since launch (learn more)
- Styles Offered: denim and women’s ready to wear
- Pros and Cons: has a resale program, higher price point
Boyish Jeans has a goal to make your daily dose of denim totally zero waste. The brand uses fewer chemicals than its competitors and maintains the smallest carbon footprint possible, which explains why its yarn, fabric and manufacturing facilities are all within 30 miles of one another. But the company also has tons of fits, fades and cuts that will seamlessly work with your wardrobe—like this vintage wide-leg style that we want to wear right now. It also recently branched into making cozy sweatsuits and easy dresses, so you can round out your eco wardrobe.
3. Pact
For Easy Basics
- How It’s Sustainable: GOTS and Fair Trade certified, uses natural plant-based dyes, packaging is biodegradable and/or made from recycled/recyclable paper (learn more)
- Styles Offered: ready to wear including sweaters, leggings, dresses, etc., as well as men’s and kid’s clothing
- Pros and Cons: has a recycling program for old garments, affordable price point, fewer trendy silhouettes
We’ve long been fans of Pact’s easy basics and pocketed leggings, but did you know it also makes menswear, children’s clothes and home goods? And all are things you can feel great about purchasing. The Pact website proudly has “Earth’s Favorite Clothing” stamped right at the top, and indeed, it is doing a lot in terms of helping to leave our planet better than how we found it. The brand uses only organic cotton, one of the most sustainable fabrics we know of, and partners with Fair Trade Certified factories to ensure its employees are working and living in safe, healthy environments. The packaging is also sustainably made and recyclable, and shoppers can choose specific shipping options to offset their carbon footprint if they want (your new goodies will arrive a little later, but we can wait if it means fewer harmful emissions). Pact will also gladly accept old pieces you don’t wear anymore via a donation box to then disperse to a number of nonprofits or to be recycled.
4. Cariuma
For Colorful Sneakers
- How It’s Sustainable: OEKO-TEX, Global Recycled Standard, FSC and OCIA certified, two trees are planted for every pair of shoes sold, uses a combination of organically sourced and recycled materials (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s sneakers, backpacks, T-shirts and sweatshirts
- Pros and Cons: lots of fun colors to choose from, very comfortable fit, limited style options
Cariuma makes some of the absolute best white sneakers we’ve ever worn, but of course there are other fun colors to choose from as well. In fact, there are five women’s styles, all in a range of fun but wearable hues and all made using sustainable practices. The Brazilian duo behind the brand set out with three goals in mind: comfort, style and, most importantly, earth-conscious manufacturing methods, and they’ve successfully achieved all three. The website offers an in depth look at the process of obtaining natural materials—like organic cotton, OEKO-TEX-certified bamboo and rubber that dosn’t harm trees in the tapping process—as well as eco-friendly synthetics like recycled PET and packaging paper.
5. Mejuri
For Everyday Jewelry
- How It’s Sustainable: works with suppliers that are Responsible Jewellery Council certified, uses only Kimberley Process certified diamonds (a commitment to remove conflict diamonds from the global supply chain), uses recycled gold, working toward becoming 100 percent traceable with regard to materials (learn more)
- Styles Offered: both fine and everyday jewelry, including wedding/engagement rings
- Pros and Cons: affordable price point, free 30-day returns, does not currently offer lab-grown gems
Why wait for a special occasion to treat yourself to a little something sparkly? Mejuri is all about making luxury pieces feel more accessible, both in terms of price point and for everyday wear, and it does it all with impressive transparency and a dedication to fair, eco-friendly practices. Sixty percent of the brand’s production partners are larger companies certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council, “the international standard bearer for ensuring supply chain sustainability, labor rights and integrity across the jewelry industry,” while the remaining 40 percent are small, family-owned and run businesses that are aligned with Mejuri’s environmental and social standards. The brand offers a mix of delicate everyday classics (like the lotus-diamond bracelet and the simple gold chain) and more stand-out designs (like chunky pearls or diamond-adorned dome-shaped rings) for much less than what you’d find at a traditional, less transparent jeweler.
6. Outerknown
For the Best Boilersuits
- How It’s Sustainable: Fair Trade certified, donates to and works with a variety of sustainability focused non-profits, works with B Corp certified suppliers, working toward a circular model (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s ready to wear
- Pros and Cons: also sells other eco-friendly brands on its site, fewer womenswear options than menswear
Professional surfer Kelly Slater started Outerknown after becoming frustrated with the lack of information on how the suits from his sponsors were being made, setting out to design his own eco-friendly swim and beachwear. The brand’s sustainability efforts are constantly evolving and, in the name of transparency, are shared with shoppers via the website, including info on how Outerknown plans to achieve its ambitious 2030 goals. Just a few years ago, Slater branched into womenswear, tailoring the best-selling Blanket Shirt for a snugger fit and crafting comfy, flattering jumpsuits and dresses all made from organic natural fibers or recycled materials. Outerknown continues to grow and evolve, but always maintains that easy SoCal aesthetic.
Prana
7. prAna
For Chic Outdoor Clothing
- How it’s Sustainable: Bluesign and Fair Trade certified, uses organic materials, works with various sustainability focused non-profits (learn more)
- Styles Offered: gear and clothing for hiking, climbing, backpacking and other outdoor activities
- Pros and Cons: clothing is both cute and practical, affordable price point, fewer trendy pieces
This outdoor and athletic apparel brand is Bluesign certified, which means every step of the production process has been examined to determine that PrAna is manufacturing its products in the most environmentally-friendly, health-conscious way possible. And while there are plenty of sport-specific pieces we love—like durable climbing pants, supportive yoga bras and hike-ready shorts—there are also a ton of cute everyday options, including comfy cotton tanks, breezy dresses and sustainably-sourced down jackets.
8. Patagonia
For Old-School Outdoor Clothing
- How It’s Sustainable: uses recycled and ethically-sourced materials, offers free repairs to lengthen the life of its goods, has a resale program to recycle old styles, works with various sustainability focused non-profits to give back to communities and protect the environment (learn more)
- Styles Offered: gear and clothing for hiking, climbing, backpacking and other outdoor activities
- Pros and Cons: has a free repair program, very involved in community sustainability efforts, higher price point
We could wax poetic about Patagonia’s phenomenal outdoor gear for days before even getting into the brand’s extensive sustainability efforts and involvement in activism causes like defending Bears Ears National Monument and preserving natural resources across the country. It also offers repairs on any well-worn Patagonia gear, no matter how old, places huge emphasis on using only environmentally-friendly materials and has an extensive recycling program in place to prevent any of its products from winding up in landfills. Even if you don’t plan to go camping or hiking any time soon, Patagonia has lots of activewear for running or yoga, as well as comfy everyday pieces like sleek jumpsuits and trendy bucket hats.
9. Frank & Oak
For Comfy Workwear
- How It’s Sustainable: B Corp certified, uses recycled and organically-grown materials, uses recycled and recyclable packaing (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s ready to wear, shoes and bags
- Pros and Cons: has lots of luxe-looking basics, fewer trendy pieces
This cool Canadian company is a Certified B Corporation, which means Frank & Oak “meet[s] the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose.” Their cute cardis are made from organic cotton and recycled polyester, while their denim is rivet-less (because removing the metal detail makes it easier to recycle). There are also accessories, like shoes, hats and bags, from other sustainably-minded brands that received the Frank & Oak stamp of approval so you can shop your whole wardrobe in one easy place.
Our Top Picks
10. Amur
For Wedding Guest Dresses
- How It’s Sustainable: cruelty and fur free, uses entirely biodegradable packaging (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s ready to wear
- Pros and Cons: super flattering silhouettes, higher price point
The name AMUR stands for “a mindful use of resources,” so you’d better believe this brand’s stunning floral dresses and dreamy summer blouses are made sustainably. That means using hemp and linen because they require less water and fertilizer to produce, in addition to reclaimed and regenerated textiles. If you’re planning to buy just one dress for the five weddings you have on the calendar this summer, go with one from AMUR. They’re built to last (including those delicate summer ruffles) and even the mother of the bride will compliment your look.
Our Top Picks
11. Nisolo
For Minimalist Footwear
- How It’s Sustainable: Climate Neutral, B Corp and Leather Working Group certified, provides a Sustainability Facts card with every item purchased tracking its impact, working toward carbon neutrality (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s shoes and accessories
- Pros and Cons: made from high-quality materials, timeless silhouettes, fewer trendy pieces
There are lots of ways in which Nisolo seeks to be an ethically run company, from supporting local artisans and paying living wages for worker across the globe to sourcing its materials (for both its shoes and packaging) using eco-friendly methods. But our favorite has to be the Sustainability Facts card that comes with every product made. Inspired by the Nutrition Facts labels you see on prepackaged foods, Nisolo’s version aims to provide complete transparency for shoppers so they can understand exactly where their new shoes came from and what impact the production process had on people and the planet.
Our Top Picks
12. Knickey
For Cotton Underwear
- How It’s Sustainable: GOTS and Fair Trade certified, uses only organic cotton, releases a yearly impact report, has a recycling program for old underwear, socks, tights and bras from any brand (learn more)
- Styles Offered: bralettes and underwear
- Pros and Cons: all styles available in the full size range (XXS to XXXL), multiple “nude” color options, styles rarely go on sale
This brand's cute, comfy and sustainable intimates are always at the top of our list when we're in need of some new undies. Knickey is Climate Neutral Certified and joined 1% For The Planet and donated one percent of every sale to environmental causes. Knickey also has an incredible Recycling Program that lets you send your used intimates (for free) to be properly disposed so they don't end up adding to landfills. The products are made of organic cotton to ensure you are getting the best for your health and the planet.
Naadam
13. Naadam
For Cozy Cashmere
- How It’s Sustainable: releases an annual sustainability report, has outlined goals to meet by 2025, works with the Gobi Revival Fund to restore grasslands (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s cashmere, wool and cotton knits
- Pros and Cons: uses luxe-feeling materials, offers both trendy and timeless silhouettes, popular styles tend to sell out quickly
At Naadam, you can find ethically sourced cashmere items that are incredibly luxurious and soft. The brand began releasing an Impact Report in 2019 to reflect on its progress and goals for becoming even more sustainable in the years to come. The products are cruelty-free and the producers Nadaam uses ensure the animals are properly cared for and treated. The company also does a lot to give back to the herding communities by paying fair living wages, providing veterinary care for the goats, checking in (in person) often and even building a local park.
14. Everlane
For Capsule Wardrobe Staples
- How It’s Sustainable: has outlined clear goals for reducing its carbon footprint, only uses recycled plastics and is actively reducing use of plastics altogether, uses organic cotton, outlines the exact carbon footprint and sourcing details on each product page (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s ready to wear, as well as shoes, bags and accessories
- Pros and Cons: lots of on-site reviews, very transparent with regards to production, new styles tend to sell out quickly
In 2019, Everlane replaced 97 percent of its polyester- and nylon-based merchandise with blends of certified recycled fibers. They've also replaced previous packaging with recycled shipping bags and FSC-certified paper to ensure the minimal packaging is still environmentally friendly. The products are crafted with only certified organic cotton, which makes the pieces very durable for long wear. Everlane’s denim and staple items are a great way to stack up your capsule wardrobe with chic, reliable pieces.
15. Cuyana
For Leather Handbags
- How It’s Sustainable: produces products in small batches, ethically sources its materials, on track to have 100 percent of the products offered be made from sustainably-certified materials by August 2023 (learn more)
- Styles offered: leather handbags and ready-to-wear basics
- Pros and Cons: pieces look more expensive than their price tags, great for travel, rarely goes on sale
From the very beginning, Cuyana’s motto has been “fewer, better.” It first launched with a line of timeless leather handbags, and has since expanded into a whole range of gorgeous essentials that, while minimal in style, are anything but boring. The entire production process—from sustainably sourced materials to ethically-run factories—is outlined on the brand’s website, as is a description of the brand’s commitment to durability (both in style and in construction) and the ways it helps to recycle or repurpose its product once it’s no longer needed or usable. Our favorite pieces are still the stunning leather bags, but the luxe silk tops are not to be missed.
16. Linjer
For Trendy Jewelry
- How It’s Sustainable: uses sustainably sourced metals and gem stones including recycled gold and silver, uses recycled and recyclable packaging (learn more)
- Styles Offered: fine and everyday jewelry, bags and watches
- Pros and Cons: offers both trendy and timeless styles, affordable price point, no physical storefronts
PureWow associate fashion commerce editor Stephanie Meraz recommends this chic jewelry brand for anyone looking to invest in gorgeous pieces they can wear everyday. “I love Linjer not only for their really chic designs (hello, pearl drop earrings), but also because they use lab-grown diamonds and recycled materials for both their jewelry and packaging. Plus, they’ve committed to offsetting carbon emissions for every shipment purchased.” Linjer also sells men’s and women’s watches with both metal and leather straps, as well as sleek leather handbags.
17. Boden
For Colorful Staples
- How It’s Sustainable: uses sustainably sourced materials, uses recycled and recyclable packaging, works with various non-profits and charities to elongate the life of every item before properly recycling the materials (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s, men’s and kids’ ready to wear, as well as shoes and accessories
- Pros and Cons: Kate Middleton-approved, flattering silhouettes, new styles tend to sell out quickly
This British brand is all about combining cheery colors with classic silhouettes to build a bright, bold wardrobe with a timeless appeal. They’ve got chic jersey dresses, suiting that’s anything but boring, fun and flattering swimwear, colorful knits and lots of accessories to complete your looks in style. And all are made using thoughtfully procured materials, be it organic cotton denim or recycled nylon, in factories that pay living wages and that specifically aim to improve the lives of the women who work there.
18. Girlfriend Collective
For Workout Clothing
- How It’s Sustainable: OEKO-TEX and Fair Trade certified, uses recycled materials, uses eco-friendly dyes (learn more)
- Styles Offered: workout wear including leggings, sports bras and workout dresses, as well as loungewear and ready-to-wear basics
- Pros and Cons: all styles available in the full size range (XXS to 6X), tons of reviews on-site, returns incur a $7 restocking fee unless you opt for store credit
Wait, these workout sets won’t break the bank, are made out of recycled water bottles and come in a muted rainbow of colors? Yeah, Girlfriend Collective is that good. Oh, BTW, they’re also size-inclusive (up to 6XL) and there is a whole maternity range to accommodate expecting mamas. Plus, each item lists how many discarded bottles it was created from, in addition to the amount of CO2 emissions that were prevented and how much water was saved. That’s so you can educate yourself while working out...or just hanging out looking cute.
19. Common Era
For Heirloom-Inspired Jewelry
- How It’s Sustainable: RJC certified, uses only recycled gold and silver, uses only conflict-free gems (learn more)
- Styles Offered: fine and everyday jewelry
- Pros and Cons: offers a loyalty program for repeat customers, based in NYC, higher price point
Common Era’s designs are meant to evoke the feel of heritage jewelry, but are made using modern standards of sustainability. Every piece of jewelry from this female-owned business features ethically-sourced gems and precious metals, with the brand using only recycled gold and silver to produce its gorgeous range of necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets. That means the earrings won’t turn your earlobes green, and the opals, rubies and pearls are sourced with a clean conscience. It’s also women owned and run, with a commitment to animal welfare as well—three percent of all profits are donated to the Animal Welfare Institute.
20. Behno
For Trendy Handbags
- How It’s Sustainable: uses ethically-sourced leather, partners with the environmental non-profit Canopy to give back, uses recycled packaging (learn more)
- Styles Offered: leather handbags
- Pros and Cons: Kate Middleton-approved, made from real leather, higher price point
Here’s proof that a luxe handbag can be good for the environment. Behno’s sleek crossbody bags and slouchy totes are ethically produced in India, with leather that’s collected as a result of the existing food chain and made with limited fabric waste. The company has also set its own strict set of standards for all its partners with the six guiding principles of health, women’s rights, worker satisfaction and benefits, worker mobility, family planning and eco-consciousness.
21. Another Tomorrow
For Luxury Workwear
- How It’s Sustainable: B Corp and Climate Neutral certified, uses ethically and sustainably sourced materials, uses recycled and recyclable packaging (learn more)
- Styles Offered: high-end ready to wear including blouses, trousers, blazers and dresses, as well as accessories
- Pros and Cons: pieces are a gorgeous combination of timeless and unique, higher price point
Another Tomorrow serves up impeccably tailored workwear with equal thought placed on both the impact of each thread of wool and the fit of the trousers. The brand launched early in 2020 and made a splash in the market with its clear dedication to transparency. In fact, each crisp blouse and classic one-button blazer contains a tag with a QR code so you can scan it to see exactly where each facet of the garment originated. The site also has tons of information on the brand’s environmental, human and animal impact, details on how it sources its materials as well as an explanation on what materials it will not use.
22. Thousand Fell
For Classic White Kicks
- How It’s Sustainable: all styles are fully recyclable, provides a recycling program for worn out sneakers, uses sustainably and ethically-sourced materials that are also vegan, pending B Corp certification (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s everyday comfortable sneakers
- Pros and Cons: has a recycling program, lots of fun color accents, only three styles to choose from
Thousand Fell may have started with just two styles—a slip-on and a lace-up—but it’s since branched out to offer lots of adorable sneaker styles for you to rotate through all year round. Every style is vegan, water-resistant and odor-repellant, so you know you’re really getting your money’s worth. They’re also designed to be taken apart and easily recycled, repurposed or biodegraded once they’ve been worn to bits. Thousand Fell even offers its own recycling program so you can just ship your beloved kicks back and they’ll handle all the rest. Once you’re ready for a new pair, just ship the grungy kicks back and you’ll get a discount to use on your next purchase.
Kotn
23. Kotn
For Cotton Basics
- How It’s Sustainable: B Corp, GOTS and OEKO-Tex certified, uses organic Egyptian cotton, uses non-toxic dyes (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s ready to wear, as well as home linens
- Pros and Cons: super comfortable silhouettes, great for wardrobe staples, fewer trendy pieces
Kotn is another company doing good at every step of its manufacturing process. The basics brand works solely with natural fibers and has committed to transforming the ethically-run farms it currently works with into entirely organic enterprises, meaning all of Kotn’s materials will be 100percent organic over the next five years. The brand has also helped to open and run seven schools in rural Egypt, where it sources most of its cotton, putting an emphasis on educating young women who are all too often left behind. As for the clothes themselves, the easy tees and lounge sets are incredibly soft and surprisingly affordable given the brand’s strict eco-minded requirements. It also makes home goods, like duvet covers and sheet sets, as well as menswear for those looking to green more than just their own wardrobes.
24. Mother Of Pearl
For Luxury Details
- How It’s Sustainable: uses ethically and sustainable sourced materials, has a resale program to reduce landfill waste, will repair garments to extend their lifecycle (learn more)
- Styles Offered: high-end ready to wear
- Pros and Cons: beautiful and intricate detailing, higher price point
This high-end U.K. brand is another that is focused on transparency and places emphasis on animal welfare, social responsibility and, of course, environmental impact. And while you can shop the chic and beautifully tailored pieces at Net-a-Porter, be sure to check out the brand’s website where you can see in depth information about each individual garment’s eco-friend attributes. Mother of Pearl’s designs don’t come cheap, but they are made to last and fit beautifully into the idea of buying fewer, better pieces.
25. Ética
For Vegan Denim
- How It’s Sustainable: Bluesign, Fair Trade, OKEO-TEX and GOTS certified, uses recycled, upcycled and deadstock materials, 100 percent vegan (learn more)
- Styles Offered: denim and ready-to-wear basics
- Pros and Cons: offers both trendy and timeless styles, also available at Nordstrom and Revolve, higher price point
Ética denim counts celebs like Charlize Theron, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Lawrence and Diane Kruger as fans, in addition to this fashion editor, for its commitment to producing eco-friendly denim. Denim is notoriously one of the least sustainable materials to produce (it creates a ton of water waste, is often made with non-organic cotton and frequently uses toxic dyes to get that perfect dark wash we all know and love), but the L.A.-based brand has found ways to drastically reduce its impact without resorting to crazy high price tags. Per the brand’s website, Ética reduces “water usage by 90 percent, energy consumption by 63 percent and chemical usage by 70 percent compared to industry standards.” (P.S. It’s also a best-seller at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Revolve.)
Our Top Picks
26. Tentree
For Comfy Athleisure
- How It’s Sustainable: plants ten trees for every purchase made, has been carbon neutral since 2020, uses sustainably and ethically sourced materials, uses recycled and recyclable packaging, has an outlined climate action plan (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s athleisure, as well as shoes, accessories and kids’ clothing
- Pros and Cons: has a resale program, great everyday basics, fewer trendy pieces
As you may have guessed from the name, Tentree plants ten trees for every purchase made, helping to offset its environmental impacts, which are admittedly already fewer than a traditional retailer. Its colorful basics and super-soft athleisure are all made using sustainable natural fibers and innovative eco-friendly synthetics in ethically-run factories. Plus, each product page gives specific information about that particularly piece and how it was made.
27. Sézane
For French-Inspired Styles
- How It’s Sustainable: B Corp, OEKO-TEX and GOTS certified, uses recycled packaging, has a recycling program for worn out clothing (learn more)
- Styles Offered: ready to wear, shoes, accessories
- Pros and Cons: lots of gorgeous patterns and colors, tends to sell out quickly
Morgane Sézalory started this Parisian brand by tweaking and tailoring vintage pieces for a more modern feel (already a sustainably-minded practice), so when she decided to start producing entirely new designs from scratch, traceability and a knowledge of where her materials were coming from and the methods used to turn them into chic clothing was very important. Today, three-quarters of the materials used throughout the brand are eco-friendly, and all in-house lines are made with 100 percent earth-conscious fabrics. There are also vintage-feeling leather goods and a collection of chic, French woman-approved shoes to add to your wardrobe.
ADAY
28. Aday
For Travel-Ready Staples
- How It’s Sustainable: B Corp, OEKO-TEX and Bluesign certified, uses recycled packaging, has a recycling program for worn out clothing (learn more)
- Styles Offered: ready-to-wear basics as well as some accessories
- Pros and Cons: great for travel and hot weather, offer pre-built capsule collections, don't often have sales
This minimalist brand is phenomenal for anyone looking to build a versatile capsule wardrobe. It features mostly chic separates in simple but never boring silhouettes that can often be worn multiple ways (like the best-selling That’s A Wrap top, which can be styled at least four different ways). And because the original focus was on travel-ready pieces that would make it easier to pack light, the majority of the fabrics used are wrinkle-resistant and offer better sweat- and moisture-wicking abilities than your typical silky blouse.
29. DL1961
For Celeb-Loved Denim
- How It’s Sustainable: uses recycled materials, recycles old denim and other cotton clothing, uses eco-friendly dyes and minimizes water waste (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s, men’s and kids’ denim
- Pros and Cons: offers both trendy and timeless silhouettes, counts Katie Holmes, Reese Witherspoon, Gigi Hadid and other celebrities as fans, higher price point
Denim typically uses a ton of water to produce, with most companies also using toxic dyes and non-organic cotton to exacerbate the negative environmental impact. Not DL1961. Since its launch in 2008, the brand has continued to adapt its manufacturing processes to remain at the forefront of sustainable fashion. It also aims to educate shoppers, offering details on traditional denim production vs. DL1961’s processes, proper care of denim to ensure a long lifecycle and a QR code which outlines how your exact pair of jeans came to be, from raw materials to finished product.
30. Amour Vert
For Basics in Fun Prints
- How It’s Sustainable: GOTS certified, uses sustainbly and ethically sourced materials, produces in small batches (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s and men’s ready-to-wear basics
- Pros and Cons: has a loyalty rewards program for repeat shoppers, limited size range
With a name that literally means “green love,” this brand is unsurprisingly very invested in reducing its environmental impact. It uses a combination of organic cotton, ethically-sourced wool and original sustainable fabrics, like Tencel and Lyocell, to produce small batches of comfy, cool wardrobe basics for women and men. Plus, for every purchase made, Amour Vert plants a tree in an effort to offset its carbon footprint.
31. Threads 4 Thought
For Comfy Wardrobe Staples
- How It’s Sustainable: uses sustainably and ethical sourced materials, recycles 80 percent of water used in production (learn more)
- Styles Offered: women’s, men’s and kids’ ready to wear, as well as shoes and accessories
- Pros and Cons: great activewear and basics, super comfortable materials, fewer trendy pieces
Threads 4 Thought launched in 2006 with a strict set of standards as to how its casual tees, dresses and athleisure-wear should be made, and it has only improved on those methods since. We’re particular fans of the ReActive collection of workout gear made from recycled plastic bottles and nylon fishing nets pulled from the ocean (including some very cozy, chic joggers). In addition to its easy womenswear, which recently extended its size range to go up to a 3X in many styles, T4T also makes men’s and kids’ clothes, so you can outfit the whole family in eco-friendly garb.
32. Parade
For Undergarments and Swimwear
- How It’s Sustainable: OEKO-TEX and Fair trade certified, more than 80 percent of products are made using recycled materials, has an outlined plan with goals to hit by 2025 (learn more)
- Styles Offered: genderless underwear and bralettes, as well as swimwear
- Pros and Cons: very active in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, lots of fun colors and patterns, return shipping costs are covered by the shopper
Parade aims to make the most comfortable undies for anyone who wants them, no matter their gender. It’s also done a great job of living up to its message of diversity and inclusion within the LGBTQIA+ community, and all its designs come in the full size range from XS to 3X. It also recently expanded its offerings to include swimwear which is made from recycled water bottles and other repurposed materials.
33. Christy Dawn
For Prairie-Inspired Dresses
- How It’s Sustainable: uses organic materials and deadstock fabrics, invests in regenerative farming practices, uses only recycled leather and wool (learn more)
- Styles Offered: ready to wear including dresses, blouses and pants, as well as shoes, accessories and kids’ clothing
- Pros and Cons: great vintage vibe, materials feel soft and comfortable, tends to sell out quickly
Christy Dawn’s dreamy, vintage-inspired dresses are comfortable, flattering and made entirely from fabrics that have minimal impact on the environment. The brand originally used only deadstock materials, but has since expanded to include recycled cotton, leather, wool and organic cotton. The clothing is also manufactured in the U.S. and is transparent about the entire supply chain, from the regenerative farms in India it sources the materials from to the livable wages it pages its workers back here in the states.
34. Eileen Fisher
For Sleek Basics
- How It’s Sustainable: B Corp and Fair Trade certified, uses sustainably and ethically sourced materials, has a clear outlined plan on how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions overt the next few years (learn more)
- Styles Offered: ready-to-wear basics including dresses, loungewear, separates and knits
- Pros and Cons: provides lots of information about materials used, great for easy wardrobe staples, most pieces come in only neutral colors
Eileen Fisher’s chic basics may not strike you as exciting at first glance, but the fit and drape of the clothing is oh so flattering and looks every bit as fabulous it feels. Since its founding, the brand has put a major emphasis on using only eco-friendly materials (like organic cotton and linen and wool obtained from combing rather than shearing), and continues to learn and adapt to the ever changing landscape of sustainable fashion. And on the style front, we appreciate that they offer both petite and plus sizes so everyone can enjoy their sleek designs.
Mara Hoffman
35. Mara Hoffman
For Fashion-Forward Stunners
- How It’s Sustainable: GOTS certified, uses sustainably and ethically sourced materials, recycles fabric waste and water from factories (learn more)
- Styles Offered: occasion and ready-to-wear, as well as swimwear
- Pros and Cons: great mix of timeless and trendy, very fun patterns and colors, tends to sell out quickly
Mara Hoffman was one of the first high-end brands to branch into plus sizes and has continued to expand its plus collection season after season. And while it didn’t necessarily place emphasis on environmentally-conscious methods at first launch, it has been slowly but surely implementing more and better processes since 2015, helping to prove that it’s never too late for even well-established brands to pivot, learn and improve. Our favorite pieces are definitely the cheerful printed bikinis and super-flattering one-piece swimsuits, but Mara Hoffman’s stunning dresses are definitely worth the splurge if you’re looking for a stand out piece that won’t feel out of style in just a few years time.
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Why You Should Trust UsWhy You Should Trust Us
Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on the best running apps? She's your gal. From trend explanations to designer gossip, Abby has your back.
PureWow is the best friend you never had when it comes to finding the best, most useful lifestyle products online. Founded in 2010, our company’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series, which sees each and every item we test being ranked on a 100-point scale of awesomeness, to the painstakingly curated lists our fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family editors create as vertical experts, you can trust that our recommendations include some of the greatest items you’ll find on the internet. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on the best running apps? She's your gal. From trend explanations to designer gossip, Abby has your back.
PureWow is the best friend you never had when it comes to finding the best, most useful lifestyle products online. Founded in 2010, our company’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series, which sees each and every item we test being ranked on a 100-point scale of awesomeness, to the painstakingly curated lists our fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family editors create as vertical experts, you can trust that our recommendations include some of the greatest items you’ll find on the internet. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
