As awareness about the environmental impact of the fashion industry grows, more consumers are turning to sustainable fashion brands that prioritize ethical production, environmental consciousness, and high-quality craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking for eco-friendly materials, fair labour practices, or innovative designs, here are some of the best ethical fashion brands to know in 2024.
1. Patagonia
Why it’s great: Patagonia has long been a pioneer in sustainable fashion, known for its commitment to environmental activism and responsible manufacturing. The brand uses recycled materials, promotes repair and reuse, and donates 1% of its profits to environmental causes.
What makes it ethical:
- Uses recycled and organic materials
- Fair Trade Certified for sewing
- Transparent supply chain with a focus on reducing environmental impact
- Programs that encourage customers to repair and reuse their gear, such as Worn Wear
Product range: Outdoor apparel, sportswear, and accessories
2. Stella McCartney
Why it’s great: As one of the leading designers in luxury fashion, Stella McCartney has made sustainability a core part of her brand since its inception. The brand is committed to cruelty-free fashion, using no leather, fur,
or animal-derived materials, and continually innovates with sustainable alternatives.
What makes it ethical:
- Uses innovative materials like mushroom leather and recycled nylon
- Partnered with The RealReal to encourage circular fashion
- Supports regenerative agriculture to restore ecosystems
- Focuses on waste reduction and environmentally friendly practices
Product range: Ready-to-wear, accessories, and footwear
3. People Tree
Why it’s great: People Tree is one of the first brands to prioritize fair trade and eco-friendly fashion. The brand works directly with artisans and farmers in developing countries, ensuring fair wages and ethical production standards.
What makes it ethical:
- Fair Trade Certified clothing made by artisans and farmers
- Uses organic cotton, TENCEL™, and sustainable wool
- Focuses on slow fashion with timeless, high-quality designs
- Committed to carbon-neutral shipping
Product range: Women’s apparel, loungewear, and accessories
4. Reformation
Why it’s great: Reformation is a trendy brand that combines fashion-forward designs with a commitment to sustainability. Known for its chic, effortless clothing, Reformation uses eco-friendly fabrics and practices transparency in its environmental impact.
What makes it ethical:
- Uses sustainable fabrics like TENCEL™, linen, and deadstock fabric
- Focuses on reducing water, waste, and carbon footprints
- Comprehensive sustainability report tracking its environmental impact
- Transparent production process with a focus on fair wages and safe working conditions
Product range: Women’s clothing, including dresses, tops, jeans, and wedding attire
5. Everlane
Why it’s great: Everlane focuses on creating high-quality basics with radical transparency. The brand emphasizes sustainable sourcing and fair working conditions, all while offering stylish, minimalist clothing at accessible price points.
What makes it ethical:
- Transparent pricing and production costs
- Uses organic cotton, recycled wool, and other eco-friendly materials
- Fair wages and ethical practices at its partner factories
- Minimalist designs that promote a “less is more” approach to consumption
Product range: Clothing for men and women, footwear, and accessories
6. Eileen Fisher
Why it’s great: Eileen Fisher is known for its timeless, minimalist designs and dedication to sustainability. The brand focuses on creating long-lasting clothing, using eco-friendly materials, and promoting circular fashion through its clothing recycling program.
What makes it ethical:
- Uses organic cotton, recycled fibers, and eco-friendly dyes
- Offers a take-back program where customers can return old garments to be resold, donated, or recycled
- Fair trade practices and transparency in its supply chain
- Focuses on creating long-lasting, versatile pieces that reduce waste
Product range: Women’s apparel, shoes, and accessories
7. PACT
Why it’s great: PACT specializes in affordable, sustainable basics made from organic cotton. The brand prioritizes eco-friendly materials and fair labor practices, making it accessible for consumers who want to build a more sustainable wardrobe without breaking the bank.
What makes it ethical:
- Uses GOTS-certified organic cotton
- Fair Trade Certified factories
- Environmentally friendly packaging and shipping practices
- Focuses on comfortable, essential clothing that lasts
Product range: Men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel, underwear, and home goods
8. Veja
Why it’s great: Veja has redefined ethical footwear by combining sustainable materials with stylish designs. The brand is known for its transparency and eco-friendly practices, using organic cotton, recycled materials, and wild rubber from the Amazon for its sneakers.
Veja Women Trainers
What makes it ethical:
- Uses organic cotton, wild rubber, and recycled polyester
- Works directly with rubber tappers in the Amazon, ensuring fair wages
- Transparent production process and commitment to reducing environmental impact
- Focuses on long-lasting, timeless designs
Product range: Footwear for men, women, and children
9. Nudie Jeans
Why it’s great: Nudie Jeans is a leader in sustainable denim, using 100% organic cotton and offering free repairs for life. The brand promotes circular fashion by encouraging customers to recycle or repair their jeans rather than buying new ones.
Nudie Jeans
What makes it ethical:
- Uses organic cotton for all denim products
- Free lifetime repairs on all jeans
- Transparent supply chain with a focus on fair labor practices
- Offers a recycling program for old denim
Product range: Denim, jackets, shirts, and accessories for men and women
10. Amour Vert
Why it’s great: Amour Vert, meaning “green love” in French, is a California-based brand committed to sustainable fashion. The brand creates chic, eco-friendly clothing using sustainable fabrics and low-impact dyes, with a focus on local production and minimal waste.
What makes it ethical:
- Uses sustainable materials like TENCEL™, modal, and organic cotton
- Locally produced in California to reduce carbon emissions
- Plants a tree for every T-shirt sold in partnership with American Forests
- Designs timeless, versatile pieces to reduce consumption
Product range: Women’s apparel, including dresses, tops, and knitwear
Conclusion
Sustainable fashion is no longer just a niche movement; it’s becoming a core principle for many leading brands. From eco-friendly fabrics and fair trade practices to circular fashion initiatives, these ethical brands are paving the way for a more sustainable future in fashion. By supporting these companies, you can make a positive impact on both the environment and the people who create your clothing, all while looking stylish.