There’s no question about it, there’s something so satisfying about retail therapy—snagging that sweater you’ve been eyeing after a long week of work somehow seems to make it all worthwhile; and when you’re able to get it at a steal, even better. However, that low price tag may be saving you some spare change, but comes at the cost of the workers behind them, their communities, and the environment. Here are some mind-blowing stats:
- One-in-six people work in the global fashion industry
- 250,000 Indian cotton farmers have killed themselves in the last 15 years due to the stress of debt they accumulated through buying genetically modified cotton seeds to keep up with demand
- The wages of workers in garment factories can be as low as US$1-$3 a day
- Compared to 16 years ago (2002), the average person buys 60% more clothing and keeps them for half as long
- Clothes made from polyester can take up to 200 years to break down
The fashion industry is highly taxing to the earth’s natural resources and often uses what equates to slave labor in order to provide inexpensive clothing to more fortunate consumers. So what’s one to do to score their fashion fix? Luckily, there are a slew of brands (and consumers) taking a stand against these practices. Here are 10 brands to shop for ethically produced clothing broken down by price, what they’re good for whether it’s sustainable practices, organic goods, or a feminist spirit. And while you’re at it, take a peek at our story on seven ways to quit fast fashion.
Pricing Guide
$ | Typically under $50
$$ | Typically $50–$100
$$$ | Typically $100–$150
$$$$ | Typically $150 or more
(Courtesy of Everlane)
1. Everlane
Based In | USA
Cares About | Quality, ethical production methods, transparency
Sells | Women’s apparel, shoes and accessories, men’s apparel
What You’ll Spend | $–$$
Shop Here if You Like | Knowing where your money goes
Everlane makes it easy for us to make good choices when it comes to our wardrobe. They take the time to find the best factories, and only partner with those with ethical practices and high-quality standards. All pieces are designed to be classic and minimalist, made of high-quality materials, meaning they won’t go out of style and will last. Best of all, each item page has a breakdown of where your money is going—the “true cost,” which includes materials, labor, and transportation. With one of the lowest price points in the ethical clothing industry, Everlane is well suited for any new-comer who wants to build their wardrobe in a more thoughtful way.
(Courtesy of Eileen Fisher)
2. Eileen Fisher
Based In | USA
Cares About | Human rights, sustainability
Sells | Women’s apparel, accessories
What You’ll Spend | $$$$
Shop Here if You Like | Organic clothing
Eileen Fisher leads the industry in ethical and sustainable fashion. They believe that it is their responsibility to create an industry where human rights and sustainability are not part of a marketing campaign or initiative, but are just the results of a well-run business. Fashion should fight against social injustices by advocating for workers’ rights and protecting the environment. By 2020, the company promises to use sustainable fibers, organic cotton and linen, responsibly raised wool, environmentally friendly dying processes, and carbon-positive factories. Eileen Fisher is a great place to buy clothes if you want to support change in the fashion industry.
(Courtesy of Hackwith Design House)
3. Hackwith Design House
Based In | St. Paul, MN
Cares About | Creating long-lasting, versatile clothing made-to-order in the USA
Sells | Women’s apparel, accessories
What You’ll Spend | $$$–$$$$
Shop Here if You Like | High-quality clothes made in the USA
Based out of Minnesota, Hackwith Design House prides themselves on crafting long-lasting, versatile pieces. They offer basics for every seasons, including extended size options. Many items are made-to-order in-house which cuts down on waste. The neutral color palate and soft fabrics make Hackwith Design a great place to look for investment pieces that will become a staple in your wardrobe.
(Courtesy of ABLE)
3. ABLE
Based In | Nashville, TN
Cares About | Ending generational poverty, providing economic opportunity to women
Sells | Women’s apparel, bags, shoes, accessories
What You’ll Spend | $-$$
Shop Here if You Like | Feminism and supporting women
ABLE seeks to end cycles of poverty that forces women to resort to dangerous and illegal forms of work like prostitution. They provides an alternative to prostitution for young women in Ethiopia by giving them the opportunity to earn a living wage. All items are made by women and foster a safe, healthy working environment for their craftswomen. The beautiful wardrobe staples would make a versatile addition to any closet and any person that loves to support ladies.
(Courtesy of Nisolo)
5. Nisolo
Based In | Nashville, TN
Cares About | Intentional design, fair labor practices, fair pricing
Sells | Women’s and men’s shoes and accessories
What You’ll Spend | $$-$$$
Shop Here if You Like | Handmade leather shoes
Nisolo believes that success is based on more than just making money—their emphasis is on the quality and impact of products sold. They collaborate with Peruvian artists to design and craft their leather shoes, bags, and accessories. All employees are provided with fair wages, full-time work, healthcare, and a healthy working environment. Their shoes are gorgeous, and their wearers have nothing but great things to say about them.
(Courtesy of Outdoor Voices)
6. Outdoor Voices
Based In | Austin, TX
Cares About | Using recycled materials, having a healthy mind and body
Sells | Women’s and men’s athletic wear
What You’ll Spend | $$
Shop Here if You Like | Being active
Outdoor Voices specializes in the clothes you sweat in. They creates interchangeable layers that allow you to customize your workout experience based on weather and activity. The message is clear: moving makes you feel better and happier, and your clothes should support you in your efforts. The brand uses only four core fabrics that are sustainably sourced, like merino wool and recycled polyester. They subdued palette will keep you looking your best, no matter the season.
(Courtesy of LACAUSA)
7. LACAUSA
Based In | Los Angeles, CA
Cares About | Making quality garments in the USA, giving back
Sells | Women’s apparel
What You’ll Spend | $$$
Shop Here if You Like | Jumpsuits and dresses with a cause
LACAUSA translates to “the cause” in Spanish, emphasizing the company’s focus on environmental, human, and civil rights. They partner with a variety of organizations to build awareness, voice support, and donate to the causes it supports. By making their garments in the same building where the company is headquartered, they ensures fair and safe working conditions. So far this year, LACAUSA has partnered with Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA) and Inner City Arts in Los Angeles.
(Courtesy of Mayamiko)
8. Mayamiko
Based In | UK
Cares About | Fair trade, artisan-made clothing, PETA-approved vegan products, empowering women
Sells | Women’s apparel and accessories
What You’ll Spend | $$
Shop Here if You Like | Unique, colorful pieces that look like art
Mayamiko has built relationships with artisans in disadvantaged communities in Malawi, from whom they source their fair trade clothing. Starting off as a charity, the label has moved toward a “trade not aid” model. The stunning prints are eye-catching and on-trend, and are made with vegan and cruelty free practices.
(Courtesy of Elizabeth Suzann)
9. Elizabeth Suzann
Based In | Nashville, TN
Cares About | Made in the USA using natural fibers
Sells | Women’s apparel and ahoes
What You’ll Spend | $$$
Shop Here if You Like | Minimalist wardrobe essentials
Elizabeth Suzann believes in mindful, careful consumption. They focus on reducing waste by creating long-lasting, versatile garments, allowing you to buy fewer of them. Their respect for their partners, the environment, humanity, and natural materials is evident in the quality and beauty of each piece. Their minimalist pieces can be worn and re-worn, styled and restyled, leaving you with endless potential in your wardrobe.
(Courtesy of Only Child Clothing)
10. Only Child
Based In | Oakland, CA
Cares About | Quality and sustainability, using natural fibers
Sells | Women’s apparel
What You’ll Spend | $$$-$$$$
Shop Here if You Like | Chic, timeless staples in breathable fabrics
The brain child of Haley Tucker, Only Child crafts simple, versatile, yet unique pieces. They remind us that it is worthwhile to invest in yourself. Each piece is hand sewn in their studio in Oakland, and is built to be as hardworking as it is beautiful. All items are made-to-order from natural fibers for functionality, ease of wear, and lesser environmental impact. Their goal: that you’ll love your new piece of clothing as much as they did when they were making it.
Feature photo courtesy of Hackwith Design House.
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