How To Be A Sustainable Fashion Buyer and Still Remain Stylish
There are plenty of designers trying to make a change to the fashion industry, from world famous brands to fresh new mens graphic t-shirt designers, any business can start to make changes big or small. Here’s a look at sustainable fashion brands that are leading the industry into a new standard.
ASOS
ASOS have their own sustainable sourcing programme. This focuses traceability of raw materials, lowering their environmental impact, investing in suppliers and projects that support local communities, and engaging customers on sustainability. They already collaborate with organisations such as Better Cotton Initiative, Leather Working Group and CanopyStyle, but their main sustainability goals have a deadline of 2020. Currently, 34% of all fibres used in ASOS Brands come from sustainable sources. Moreover, their Eco Edit platform (which is within the main ASOS site) has already sold 700 sustainable products. Their new line of jeans is made from a mix of recycled cotton and they come in five popular styles, from dark blue to light blue. Each pair of jeans includes information detailing how and where the denim was recycled.
TOMS
TOMS are perhaps one of the most recognisable footwear brands in the world. In their bid to come on board the sustainability hype, they’ve recently launched a vegan range, with all materials being sustainably sourced and eco-friendly. They have long been known for their ethical practices, such as donating a pair of shoes to those in need each time a customer makes a purchase. They also help to support local communities by improving access to water and helping to provide safe childbirth. Their latest range features cute grey and humpback whales, a chic way to raise awareness for a worthy cause.
Girlfriend Collective
Not only do Girlfriend Collective make beautiful activewear that’s designed to flatter all body types, but they also give back to the planet. Their bras, bralettes, unitards and tees are all made in a SA8000 certified facility which means it’s safe for the workers and there’s no forced or child labour. Every pair of leggings they make goes through 14 employees, all of whom are taken care of. When it comes to sustainability, they’re extremely passionate. Their leggings are made from recycled water bottles, though with their silky look and feel, you’d never tell! Their dying process is also eco-friendly. Every drop of water that’s used to dye the fabric gets sent to the wastewater treatment plant to then be re-used. The dyes are also certified OEKO safe.
PACT
PACT design simple, affordable, stylish clothing made from eco-friendly materials. They go to extreme lengths to make sure their supply chain is ethical from the design process straight through to the consumer. Their manufacturing process is clean and responsible, and they personally oversee the cotton production. The majority of their garments are also made from 100% recycled cotton, so you know you’re buying quality goods that will last while helping to protect the environment at the same time.
Threads 4 Thoughts
Threads 4 Thought is a truly wonderful sustainable company that everyone should know. They’re passionate about creating comfortable yet stylish, eco-friendly casual wear. They also pioneer sustainable fashion at an affordable price. Their pieces are designed with everyday wear in mind, so you can throw on your recycled hoodie while meeting friends for a coffee or put on a pair of comfortable joggers for lounging at home. Not only this, but they also have a range of sustainable activewear that’s perfect for combining with their loungewear for a fashionable athleisure look.
Lark & Berry
When you think of sustainable fashion, you might not go as far as the jewellery you wear. However, it’s a well-known fact that diamonds are typically far from being sustainably sourced. Lark & Berry want to change this narrative with their precious stones that are ethically sourced – because they’re grown in a lab using technology. They’re also amazing quality – perhaps even as good as mined diamonds.
