Are Your Clothes Contributing to the Climate Crisis?
In a world drowning in fast fashion, where trends fade as quickly as they appear, the environmental cost is skyrocketing. But what if your wardrobe could help reverse that? These 15 forward-thinking clothing brands are not just about style—they’re redefining fashion with sustainability at the core. Imagine owning pieces that are kind to the planet and look amazing. Let’s dive into how they’re transforming the fashion industry—and how you can join the movement.
🌿 Waste Fact Break #1 🌿
Each year, humans dump 8 million tons of plastic into the ocean — the same as discarding a truckload of plastic into the sea every minute.
1. Eco-friendly Clothing Brands: How Patagonia is Leading the Charge for a Greener Future 🌍
When it comes to sustainability, Patagonia doesn’t just talk the talk—they blaze the trail. This iconic brand is on a mission to be carbon neutral by 2025, and they’re pushing boundaries to make sure your next jacket or pair of hiking boots won’t cost the planet. Why did we pick Patagonia? Because they believe that less is more—less waste, less carbon, and less harm to our Earth. They’ve even implemented a self-imposed 1% “Earth tax,” donating millions to environmental nonprofits, proving they truly put their money where their heart is.
Why you’ll love them: Patagonia repairs your gear for free, helping it last a lifetime (say goodbye to fast fashion!). They craft many pieces from recycled materials, so when you invest in Patagonia, you’re not just buying products that look great—you’re choosing to make a positive impact.
This revision uses active verbs like “repairs” and “craft,” making the message more dynamic and engaging.
2. Eco-friendly Clothing Brands: How Everlane is providing transparency you can wear 👗
Everlane is shaking up the fashion industry with their radical approach to transparency. The brand boldly reveals the true cost of their products and shows you exactly where they’re made, a transparency most brands avoid. No secrets, no hidden markups, just ethical production and sustainable practices. We chose Everlane because they believe in a world where your clothes reflect your values, not just your style.
Why you’ll love them: Everlane is committed to eliminating virgin plastic from their supply chain (mission accomplished by 2021!) and using recycled materials in many of their designs. Their ReNew line, made from recycled plastic, is fashion-forward and planet-friendly. Ready to dress with purpose?
3. Eco-friendly Clothing Brands: The clothing brand Reformation: fashion that gives back to the planet 🌿
Looking for a brand that lets you stay stylish while saving the Earth? Reformation is here to make sustainability sexy. With a goal to be climate positive by 2025, they’ve turned eco-conscious fashion into a global movement. We picked Reformation because they’re all about transparency, showing their environmental impact right down to the last stitch.
Why you’ll love them: They create clothes using eco-friendly and upcycled materials while offsetting 100% of their carbon emissions. Even better, Reformation publishes quarterly sustainability reports so you can see the real impact of your choices. Ready to look great while doing good? Reformation has you covered.
4. Eco-friendly Clothing Brands: Eileen Fisher offers timeless fashion, endless impact ♻️
Eileen Fisher is redefining timeless fashion with a sustainable twist. Their commitment to 100% sustainability is more than a goal—it’s their DNA. We chose Eileen Fisher because they’re not just producing beautiful clothes; they’re creating a circular fashion system where nothing goes to waste. Their take-back program recycles old garments into new treasures, reducing textile waste and giving your old favorites a second life.
Why you’ll love them: From organic fibers to recycled fabrics, Eileen Fisher designs each piece with the planet in mind. Plus, they use innovative water-saving techniques that reduce their environmental footprint. When you wear Eileen Fisher, you’re investing in more than just clothes—you’re supporting a brand that cares about the future.
5. Eco-friendly Clothing Brands: The brand, Thought Clothing: thoughtful fashion, thoughtful world 💚
Thought Clothing crafts beautiful clothes that minimize environmental impact. We chose Thought for their commitment to redefining “ethical” and “sustainable” by using only organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp in their designs. They not only source sustainable fabrics but also ensure that every step of their production process upholds ethical standards.
Why you’ll love them: Thought Clothing’s commitment extends beyond the clothes you wear. They utilize recyclable packaging and uphold strict ethical labor practices to ensure fair treatment of their workers. Feel good, look good, and make a real difference when you choose Thought Clothing.
Ready to Shop for Eco-friendly Clothing Brands?
Check out a few of my favorites below!
[Please note, some of these include affiliate links]
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$99Buy Now- Quarter-zip
- Regular fit
- Pullover
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$119Buy Now
- Elastic cuffs
- Knit waistband with external drawcord
- Articulated calves for boosted mobility
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$118Buy Now
Light, airy, and wears like a hug, if happiness was a sweater it would be the Cocoon Crew in Alpaca.
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$55Buy Now
They have llama's on the side!
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🌿 Waste Fact Break #2 🌿
Did you know that the fashion industry generates 92 million tons of textile waste each year? That’s equivalent to 1 garbage truck full of clothes being burned or dumped in landfills every second. Over 35% of all microplastics in the ocean come from synthetic fabrics like polyester, commonly used in fast fashion.
And…So instead of throwing out old clothes – try and sell them on ThredUP, donating to a women shelter, or even selling them on ebay! I have really embraced “slightly used” fashion and I’ve gotten quite a few designer pieces that I wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford!
6. Pact: Organic Comfort, Ethical Roots 🌱
Pact believes that change starts with the basics—and what’s more basic than the clothes you wear every day? Their focus is on organic materials and ethical production, ensuring that their fabrics are as kind to your skin as they are to the planet. We chose Pact because they’re proof that everyday essentials can make an extraordinary difference when made the right way.
Why you’ll love them: Pact uses 100% organic cotton, which drastically reduces water usage compared to conventional cotton. Plus, they’ve partnered with Fair Trade Certified factories, meaning their workers earn fair wages. Even better? They offer a textile recycling program, so you can send in your old clothes to be repurposed instead of sending them to the landfill, can you believe this? What an amazing service to offer!
7. Tentree: Wear it. Plant it. 🌲
What if your clothing purchases could literally change the world? Tentree is on a mission to plant 1 billion trees by 2030, and they’ve already planted over 65 million. We picked Tentree because they are turning fashion into an act of environmental restoration. With every item purchased, they plant ten trees. Imagine the impact your wardrobe could have!
Why you’ll love them: Not only are you helping reforest the planet, but Tentree also uses sustainable materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester. R-E-S-P-E-C-T! I had to sing that. Tentree’s commitment to ethical manufacturing practices ensures that they treat both people and the environment with the respect they deserve.Want to wear your values? Tentree makes it easy.
8. People Tree: Where Tradition Meets Sustainability 👗
People Tree has been a pioneer of ethical fashion for over 25 years, blending traditional craftsmanship with eco-friendly practices. We selected People Tree because they stand by the values of Fair Trade and organic production, ensuring that every purchase supports artisans and the planet.
Why you’ll love them: People Tree partners with Fair Trade artisans and farmers to use organic cotton and low-impact dyes. By supporting traditional artisanal skills, they actively reduce energy consumption. You can feel good knowing that your clothes are crafted with care for both the people who create them and the Earth.
9. Organic Basics: Fashion That’s Built to Last 📦
Organic Basics believes in creating high-quality, long-lasting essentials that tread lightly on the planet. We chose them because they take sustainability seriously at every stage, from materials to packaging. Their commitment to durability means you’re buying fewer, better items that won’t need replacing.
Why you’ll love them: Organic Basics uses certified organic and recycled materials, and they’re big on minimizing waste—both in production and packaging. Plus, they invest in carbon offsetting projects to neutralize their environmental impact. Want to make your wardrobe sustainable from the inside out? Organic Basics has you covered.
🌿 Waste Fact Break #3 🌿
A plastic bottle can take 450 years to decompose, which is why reusable bottles are a simple but effective eco-friendly alternative.
10. Outerknown: Circular Fashion for the Win ♻️
Outerknown is taking fashion full circle with a strong focus on circular design and fair labor practices. We chose Outerknown because they go beyond sustainability to ensure that their products have lifetime value—literally! Their pieces are designed to be reused, repaired, and recycled.
Why you’ll love them: Outerknown uses recycled and organic materials, giving waste a new life. Plus, they offer a lifetime guarantee on their products, ensuring your wardrobe investment will last. Ready to commit to a brand that’s as committed to the planet as they are to quality? Outerknown is your go-to.
11. Kotn: Cotton with a Conscience 🌿
Kotn is more than just soft, high-quality basics. They invest deeply in the cotton farming communities of Egypt, ensuring that the people who grow their materials benefit from their success. We picked Kotn because they take a hands-on approach to supporting sustainable agriculture and education in the communities they work with.
Why you’ll love them: Kotn uses Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) certified cotton, ensuring sustainable and ethical farming practices. They work directly with farmers, cutting out the middleman and creating a positive impact on their communities by supporting education projects. Feel good knowing that each purchase helps fund a brighter future.
12. Seasalt Cornwall: Sustainability Meets Coastal Charm 🐚
Seasalt Cornwall combines classic British coastal style with a commitment to reducing environmental impact. We chose Seasalt Cornwall because they weave sustainability into the very fabric of their business, from materials to the way they power their stores.
Why you’ll love them: Seasalt Cornwall uses organic cotton and sustainable fabrics, making their collections as gentle on the planet as they are stylish. Their energy-saving measures in stores and commitment to supporting local charities and arts organizations demonstrate their strong community roots while actively lowering their carbon footprint. Every purchase from Seasalt helps to create ripples of positive change.
🌿 Waste Fact Break #4 🌿
The average American household produces about 5 pounds of trash per person each day, or 1,642 pounds per person per year. This adds up to about 6,570 pounds of trash per family each year
13. Girlfriend Collective: Fashion that Fights Plastic Waste 💪
Girlfriend Collective takes activewear to the next level, using recycled plastic bottles to craft their iconic leggings. We chose Girlfriend Collective because they transform what was once waste into beautiful, functional clothing, offering an eco-friendly alternative for your workout wardrobe.
Why you’ll love them: Their leggings are made from recycled materials—each pair saves approximately 25 plastic water bottles from entering landfills or oceans. Girlfriend Collective also ensures their manufacturing processes are ethical, and they even offer a recycling program for worn-out items, helping you close the loop on waste. Fitness with a purpose? Count us in!
14. Alternative Apparel: Low-Impact, High-Comfort Fashion 🌱
Alternative Apparel is all about offering stylish clothing made with minimal environmental harm. We selected them because they focus on eco-friendly materials and water-saving techniques while maintaining comfort and style.
Why you’ll love them: From organic and recycled materials to low-impact dyes, Alternative Apparel checks all the sustainability boxes. They also minimize waste with recyclable packaging, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice the environment for great fashion. Ready for a wardrobe that works for you and the planet? Alternative Apparel is the answer.
15. Veja: The Sneaker Revolution 👟
Veja is transforming the sneaker industry with a focus on transparency and fair trade. We chose Veja because they’ve taken every step of their process, from sourcing materials to manufacturing, and made it as eco-friendly as possible without compromising style.
Why you’ll love them: Veja’s sneakers are crafted using organic and recycled materials, including wild rubber sourced from the Amazon. They prioritize fair trade practices in their rubber cultivation and are fully transparent about their supply chain. With Veja, you’re not just buying sneakers—you’re stepping into a movement toward sustainable and ethical footwear.
Additionally, these last five brands continue the trend of transforming fashion into a force for good. Their unique approaches, from supporting farming communities to recycling plastic bottles, show that the future of fashion is not only stylish but sustainable.
🌿 Waste Fact Break #5 🌿
It takes about 2,700 liters of water to produce a single cotton T-shirt—that’s enough water for one person to drink for 2.5 years.
Upgrade Your Wardrobe Sustainable
Here are some great reason’s why your next wardrobe update should come from 1 of these brands 🌍👚
The fashion industry has long been a major contributor to environmental degradation, but these brands are changing the narrative. From Patagonia’s commitment to using 100% renewable and recycled materials by 2025 to Veja’s innovative use of wild rubber in sneakers, each of these companies is taking bold steps toward a sustainable future.
The choice to support ethical, eco-friendly brands isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good knowing your clothes reflect your values. Every piece you buy from these forward-thinking brands contributes to a cleaner planet, fairer labor practices, and less waste in landfills.
Moreover, think about this: the average American throws away 81 pounds of clothing each year, but choosing durable, well-made garments from brands like Eileen Fisher or Tentree reduces your impact dramatically. And when you shop with brands that offer recycling programs, like Girlfriend Collective and Patagonia, you’re actively closing the loop on fashion waste.
Thus, the next time you need to refresh your wardrobe, ask yourself: Where do my clothes come from, and what impact do they have on the world? When you choose one of these sustainable brands, you’re not just buying a shirt or a pair of sneakers—you’re investing in the future of fashion, and by extension, the future of our planet.
It’s time to vote with your wallet. Whether it’s a versatile basic from Kotn, a cozy hoodie from Pact, or standout activewear from Girlfriend Collective, the next piece of clothing you buy should be a statement of support for sustainable, ethical fashion. Together, we can make a real difference—one eco-friendly purchase at a time.
And finally, go ahead, explore these amazing brands, and take the first step toward a more sustainable wardrobe. Every small decision counts, and by making a conscious choice today, you’re contributing to a healthier, more vibrant world for tomorrow.
FAQ’s
Q: Why should I choose sustainable fashion brands?
A: Sustainable fashion brands prioritize eco-friendly practices, from using organic or recycled materials to ethical manufacturing processes. By choosing these brands, you’re supporting the reduction of environmental impact, fair labor practices, and innovative solutions to fashion waste.
Q: How do these brands ensure their products are eco-friendly?
A: Each brand listed here has specific goals and actions that include using renewable or recycled materials, reducing carbon emissions, planting trees, and implementing fair trade practices. They also often offer transparency about their production process, so you can feel confident in your choices.
Q: Are eco-friendly sustainable clothing brands more expensive than regular brands?
A: Ethical production processes and high-quality, eco-friendly materials often result in higher prices for sustainable clothing. However, these pieces tend to last longer, making them a worthwhile investment. Additionally, many brands offer recycling programs or repairs, extending the life of your items.
Q: How can I make my current wardrobe more sustainable without buying new clothes?
A: You can make your wardrobe more sustainable by taking care of the clothes you already own, mending damaged pieces, swapping with friends, or donating what you no longer wear. Opting for brands with recycling programs, like Patagonia and Girlfriend Collective, also helps reduce waste.
Q: Do these brands ship internationally?
A: Most of the brands featured, including Everlane, Reformation, and Veja, offer international shipping. Be sure to check the individual brand’s website for shipping details specific to your region.
Q: Are there any affordable sustainable fashion options?
A: Yes! Brands like Pact and Kotn offer sustainable, eco-friendly options at a lower price point, without sacrificing quality or ethics.
Q: How do I know if a brand is truly sustainable or “greenwashing”?
A: True sustainable brands are transparent about their materials, supply chain, and labor practices. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, organic, or BCI (Better Cotton Initiative) that back their claims. Brands like Patagonia, Tentree, and People Tree are leaders in authentic sustainability.
Want to see exactly what these companies are up to? Check them out!
This is just a small fraction of the brands focusing on eco-friendly and sustainable fashion – AND I expect and hope all of my favorite brands will take notice and implement their own sustainability goals. Now, its the consumer’s turn to take action.
List of the Top Eco-Friendly Brands and Their Website URLs
- Patagonia – https://www.patagonia.com
- Everlane – https://www.everlane.com
- Reformation – https://www.thereformation.com
- Eileen Fisher – https://www.eileenfisher.com
- Thought Clothing – https://www.wearethought.com
- Pact – https://www.wearpact.com
- Tentree – https://www.tentree.com
- People Tree – https://www.peopletree.co.uk
- Organic Basics – https://www.organicbasics.com
- Outerknown – https://www.outerknown.com
- Kotn – https://www.kotn.com
- Seasalt Cornwall – https://www.seasaltcornwall.com
- Girlfriend Collective – https://www.girlfriend.com
- Alternative Apparel – https://www.alternativeapparel.com
- Veja – https://www.veja-store.com
Also, in case you missed it, Check out my other post on Eco-Friendly household products!
