The 10 Sustainable Brands You Need to Know About
It's no secret: the fashion industry has a massive sustainability problem. Between the fast fashion cycles creating an excess of stock which turns into waste, to the harmful chemicals used in the manufacturing process, something needs to be done. Tasha Lewis, Assistant Professor in Department of Fiber Science and Apparel Design at Cornell, tells Teen Vogue that if we don't pivot soon, "we do run the risk of depleting valuable natural resources (water) with the continual use of virgin materials to supply the fashion industry."
As we move towards Earth Day, there are dozens of brands that are making strides to become more environmentally conscious in their production and recycling processes. As customers, especially millenials, begin to care more about how their clothing is created hopefully some of these companies will no longer have a choice.
While we certainly have a long way to go, ahead, shop through some of the best (and most affordable!) items that are putting the earth first but making it fashion.
Everlane
While Everlane is certainly not new to the sustainability game (hi Damn Good Denim!), their latest initiative is already one of our favorites and not because we’re sneaker heads. Their new sneakers, which are launching on 4/25, aren’t just incredibly stylish but they’re also carbon neutral.
Veja
When it comes to sustainable sneakers, Veja wears the crown (literally, even Meghan Markle wears them). But just in case you didn’t know, their sneakers are made from cotton and natural rubber directly sourced from producers in Brazil and their aesthetic is very clean and minimalistic, perfect for everyday wear.
Boyish
Boyish Jeans is committed to using sustainable fabrics through an environmentally-friendly and cruelty-free process. And this year, just in time for Earth Month, they’re partnering with non-profit organization, One Tree Planted where a portion of all proceeds from sales made on Boyish-Jeans.com will be donated to One Tree Planted, ensuring that one tree is planted the communities affected by fires.
Reformation
While Los Angeles based brand Reformation has always made a commitment to sustainability, this year they're taking it a step further. They’re introducing a bunch of programs over the next few months that will make it easier for their customers to reduce their carbon footprints, such as being able to switch to wind energy and getting $100 Ref credit or being able to purchase climate credits via Native Energy.
Back Beat Rags
If you want trendy and cool, sustainable basics, Back Beat Rags is your cup of tea. They incorporate environment-friendly practices in their designs by using low-impact goods like GOTS-certified organic cotton, recycled cotton, hemp, and tencel. Plus, they also use 100% post consumer recycled mailers and clothing bags for the products they ship out.
Outdoor Voices
Who hasn’t seen OV leggings pop up on their instagram feed? Well, their hype is rightfully earned. The brand sources textiles with sustainability top of mind. For example, their pieces include sustainably-sourced merino wool and recycled polyester made from water bottles. How cool is that?
SVNR
SVNR’s jewelry is made from found, re-used, up-cycled and natural materials. By re-purposing vintage and existing jewelry, as well as, working with natural gemstones, the brand has produced less than a Ziploc bagful of waste each season.
Whimsy + Row
Founded in 2014 based in West Los Angeles, this eco-conscious women's lifestyle brand is produced ethically in their DTLA factory from sustainable fabrics. Plus, everything is cute to boot, so you know you’ll be wearing their pieces time and time again.
Kala
If you’re looking for earth-friendly intimates and sleepwear, then look no further. All of Kala’s products are made with materials that are all-natural and biodegradable, like organic cotton to Tencel™ that’s sourced from certified eco-friendly suppliers, mills, and farmers. Plus, in celebration with Earth Day, April 22nd, Kala’s hosting a Bra Drive at their NYC location at Showfields where customers can donate used bras that will be reused or recycled.
Paper London
Paper London's very trendy swimwear is made from a sustainable jersey that's made from fully recycled fishing nets.
