10 up-and-coming sustainable fashion brands you need to know about
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In 2020, it’s never been easier to shop sustainably and use your purchasing power to impact the retail landscape.
There are major players like H&M and Zara, whose eco-friendly capsule collections are a step in the right direction, as well as the cult-classic retailers like Everlane, that have built their following based on radical transparency and ethical manufacturing.
ALSO SEE: 10 stylish rain boots that are actually functional, too
While I’m a huge fan of the established brands, I’m always on the lookout for up-and-coming brands that are trying to make the world a little greener every day. Ahead, find ten sustainable brands to look out for to stay ahead of the fashion curve.
Pact Apparel
Made from organic cotton, Pact creates practical and comfortable basics for the whole family. From staples like t-shirts and underwear manufactured in the softest cotton, to travel-friendly layers and laidback athleisure, their affordable pieces all ring in under $100.
SHOP IT: Pact, $65
Christy Dawn
If romantic, bohemian vibes are what you’re after, Christy Dawn is the brand for you. Their dreamy floral prints and feminine silhouettes are reason enough to splurge on one of the brand’s signature dresses, but their sustainably-sourced fabrics and ethical manufacturing practices are the cherry on top.
SHOP IT: Christy Dawn, $238
Boma Jewelry
As a certified B Corporation, Boma Jewelry meets the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability. Their dainty, minimalist pieces are made from conflict- and mine-free metals, and are handmade by local artisans in Thailand, who earn a living wage for their craft.
SHOP IT: Boma Jewelry, $30
Brother Vellies
Toronto native Aurora James’s brand of unique accessories is a celeb favourite, and even Meghan Markle herself is a fan. Created by skilled artisans across the globe (South Africa, Mexico, and Morocco are just a few sources), you’ll find shoes and handbags crafted from vegetable-tanned leather, hand-carved wood, and even recycled tires.
SHOP IT: Shopbop, $815
Fair Harbor
Specializing in men’s swimwear, Fair Harbor is transforming the industry one pair of swim trunks at a time. Each pair is made from 12 plastic bottles, and has an innovative boxer brief liner that not only does good, but feels good too.
SHOP IT: Fair Harbor, $68
Vitamin A Swim
For the ladies looking for sustainable swimwear, Vitamin A combines sexy silhouettes with sustainable design. Made using EcoLux, a technical fabric created from recycled nylon, the brand’s mix-and-match swimsuits are sewn locally in California to further reduce their carbon footprint.
SHOP IT: Vitamin A Swim, $114 (top), $105 (bottom)
DL1961
Each pair of DL1961 jeans is made from ethically-sourced, premium cotton and water-efficient botanic fibres, meaning that their premium jeans don’t compromise on style or sustainability. Available for men, women, and kids, their entire line features the latest silhouettes and washes, minus the toxic chemicals.
SHOP IT: DL1961, $290
Fellow Earthlings
Handmade in Prince Edward Island from recycled plastic, Fellow Earthlings creates custom glasses and sunglasses that are totally customizable. With the option to choose your own frames, lenses and materials, each pair is as unique as you are.
SHOP IT: Fellow Earthlings, $300
People Tree
Proof that style and ethics can go hand-in-hand, People Tree has been a pioneer in Fair Trade fashion since 1991. With playful designs and colourful patterns, their classic, feminine pieces are ideal for creating a more sustainable wardrobe.
SHOP IT: People Tree, $93
KOTN
There’s nothing like a classic t-shirt, and KOTN is redefining the world of the classic wardrobe staple with their Egyptian cotton essentials. Working hand-in-hand with the farmers who grow it, the brand is able to influence every facet of their design process from the farm to your closet.
SHOP IT: KOTN, $85
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