The textile and apparel industry is the second largest polluter, next to the oil industry. With an increase of consumer consumption, many people are concerned as to how this is negatively impacting the environment. In addition, majority of our clothes are outsourced to developing countries. Many of these factories are in poor condition and workers are working long hours for under minimum wage. However, there are many slow brands out there trying to make a difference. Listed below are some brands that incorporate ethical or sustainable fashion into their mission:
Reformation
Based in LA, Reformation’s mission is to create silhouettes that enhances the feminine figure while using sustainable fabrics. 15% of their products are made out of “deadstock” fabrics. They buy old, leftover, and over-ordered fabric from other fabric warehouses and designers. These materials are used in their garments to help prevent them from entering landfills. Reformation also launched “RefRecycling” – a way to donate recycle clothes in the easiest form. Any clothes that are not to be worn again, can be simply recycle by Reformation by sticking a “RefRecycling” label on a box with the items to be recycle. Reformation also allows one to track where the items are headed and the positive environmental impact that was made.
Everlane
At Everlane, they make a difference through exceptional quality, ethical factories and radical transparency. Everlane spends months searching for the best factories around the world. Each factory is audit to evaluate factors like fair wages, reasonable hours and the environment. Each factory has to be scored 90 or above in order to be chosen. In addition, they work on building personal relationships with factory owners to ensure ethical production is practice throughout the whole process. At Everlane, they believe in providing exceptional quality. They aren’t big on trends, and want you to be able to wear their clothing for years. Thus, they spend the time to look for the best materials and factories for their timeless products. Everlane also reveals the true costs behind their products – from materials to labor to transportation. At Everlane, customers deserve to know how much it costs to make their clothes.
People Tree
People Tree is known for their environmentally sustainable fashion movement. For over twenty years, the brand has partnered with Fair Trade artisans and farmers in developing countries to produce collections of ethical and eco wear. At People Tree, customers can trust that all their products were made ethically and sustainability. They’ve won multiple awards throughout the years, such as being the world 1st clothing company to receive the World Fair Trade Organization’s fair Trade product mark and the best organic Textile Product at the Natural and Organic Products Europe Awards.
