Social consciousness is more important than ever. Increasingly, brands are thinking and designing with social and environmental issues in mind, figuring out ways in which they can reduce their carbon footprint and make a difference worldwide, all while creating stylish pieces that are ethically made or crafted from sustainable fabrics. In the spirit of consciousness ahead of Earth Day, we’re highlighting 13 of our favorite clothing brands from around the globe who employ a principled ethos. These labels will do more than make you look good, you’ll feel great knowing you’ve shopped a brand that’s working to make a difference.
Stylish Socially Conscious Brands
Reformation
By this point, you’re likely familiar with this LA-based label know for breezy, feminine dresses and '90s-inspired separates. With sustainability at their core, Reformation’s factories use the most efficient, eco-friendly and pro-social technologies and practices. Plus, the brand invests in green building infrastructure to minimize their waste, water and energy footprints.
What to buy now: Linley Dress
Everlane
Again, you’re probably acquainted with Everlane for clean and effortless basics like sweaters, tees and jeans. The label partners with ethical factories around the world and sources the finest materials like Grade-A cashmere, Italian leather and Peruvian Pima cotton at an incredibly affordable price. Their terminology: radical transparency.
What to buy now: The Kick Crop Jean
TOME
With a sharp sartorial point of view, NY-based brand TOME was founded by Ryan Lobo and Ramon Martin in 2011 on the ethos of #EVERYWOMAN. The design duo offers a range of sleek, practical apparel for “essential dressing” as the brand puts it, and each piece is ethically produced with a view toward inclusivity and diversity. Plus-size women, rejoice!
What to buy now: Godet Top
Where Mountains Meet
Founded in 2015 by female design duo Genevieve Saylak and Corissa Santos, this NY-based line has an eclectic feel to it whilst employing responsible practices. Bespoke textiles, modern silhouettes and sophisticated details are at the crux. The brand sources materials from the USA and collaborates with artisans globally to design and develop hand-crafted pieces that boast a unique and creative flair.
What to buy now: Naia Blouse
Lacausa
Lacausa is LA-based and has long held a sustainable, ethical stance by supporting its local community and keeping production rooted in Los Angeles. The brand has taken their ethical practices a step further by partnering with various organizations and charities focused on environmental, human and civil rights.
What to buy now: Lauryn Dress
Kowtow
Founded in 2007 by Gosia Piatek, Kowtow is a New Zealand-based conscious label made with sustainably and ethically sourced materials. The brand offers minimalist and effortless pieces inspired by art, architecture, culture, craftsmanship and landscapes.
What to buy now: Lines Pinstripe Shirt
AMUR
Created in New York City, AMUR utilizes sustainably sourced materials and designs from the viewpoint that great style does not have to come at the expense of the environment. As a result, vivid prints and feminine shapes are a signature of the brand.
What to buy now: Pippie Skirt
A Peace Treaty
Designed in New York City by Dana Arbib, A PEACE TREATY is a collection of handcrafted clothing and accessories that incorporate exquisite artisanal details from far-flung places such as Pakistan, Turkey, and Peru. Look to this line for lively colors and prints that feel soft and luxurious.
What to buy now: Biche Knit Dress
Zady
Founded by co-creators Maxine Bédat and Soraya Darabi, Zady was created on the ethos of looking stylish while feeling good about wearing well-made clothes. Wardrobe heroes like trench coats, ladylike dresses, trousers, knits and beyond are designed for sustainability with ethical, high-quality materials. According to the designers, “the future of fashion requires us to shift our thinking from wanting quantity, to valuing quality.”
What to buy now: Khaki Trench Coat
Aiayu
Denmark-based Aiayu launched in 2006 with a mission to re-define luxury with an informal approach to elegance. With a simple Scandinavian aesthetic, the line primarily focuses on knitwear which is sustainably produced with certified organic cotton and ethically sourced raw llama and yak wool, Mongolian cashmere and textile scraps so nothing goes to waste. Per the label, “we want to demonstrate that a 100% responsible business practice is the only way to do business. We see ourselves as merely refining what nature has already designed so beautifully.”
What to buy now: Vicander Sweater
ADAY
ADAY is a technical and sustainable clothing brand in which each piece is made from recyclable materials. Co-founded by Meg He and Nina Faulhaber, the athleisure-style label works with engineers around the world to find and create technologically advanced fabrics and uses world-class construction techniques for longer lasting garments and to get the details just right. Their mission: To create clothing of our future.
What to buy now: Off Duty Sweatshirt
Raven + Lily
Raven + Lily is a lifestyle brand founded by Kirsten Dickerson, offering trend-forward fair trade fashion, accessories and home furnishings. With an underlying mission to empower women on a global scale, the brand partners with artisans around the world and employs at-risk women to produce collections.
What to buy now: Chaka Tie Waist Trouser
Miansai
With a focus on detailed-yet-classic pieces, Miansai has made a name for itself as the ultimate creator of littles luxuries. From sleek cuffs to sculptural earrings, the brand is meticulous about every design, making sure all pieces are curated from high-quality and ethically sourced materials.
What to buy now: Screw Cuff
