An article by Nilani Mathur
It has come to my attention that the vast majority of the most popular and well marketed sustainable fashion brands of today happen to be quite bland. And when I browse through that increasingly common category of slow fashion brands I’m thinking, yes, that fabric is probably lovely. But I think it looks more like a smock then a dress…oh but, it will probably last me forever which is great. But is that because I’ll never actually wear it? There is essentially nothing wrong with that style of clothing. They should exist and they are clearly perfectly suitable for lots of people (if there’s so many of them, they must be doing something right—having some kind of success I figure). However, what is wrong is people thinking that sustainable fashion and bland fashion are synonymous, because they truly aren’t. To prove it to you, here are seven sustainable fashion brands that don’t make you feel like you’re wearing scrubs.
Starting off with the most widely recognized one. Their mission statement: “Oh hi, we’re Reformation. Since 2009, we’ve been on a mission to bring sustainable fashion to everyone. And we aren’t stopping there. By 2025, we’ll be Climate Positive and by 2030, everything we make will be part of a circular fashion system. We do it with great people at our Los Angeles factory and at our partner factories around the world, where we make stuff you love while moving the industry forward. Not to brag.” What I like about Reformation is that they represent fashion for various occasions. If you take a look, you’ll be met with plenty of basics, but also some elevated ones, party looks, wedding attire, vacation wear etc. There aren’t any other sustainable brands doing like that right now.
Images via Reformation Instagram.
“Rujuta Sheth lives and works in New York City. She travels often, and draws inspiration from the cultures and landscapes she experiences. Born in India, she grew up surrounded by artisans, weavers, beaders, and embroiderers. When she launched her namesake line in 2015, she naturally returned to tap into the creativity and craftsmanship she knew so well. The Rujuta Sheth collection juxtaposes traditional technique with modern silhouette, expressed through organic and handwoven textiles. Rujuta is committed to sustainability and longevity in all facets of design, production, and wearability.” I think her statement sums it up. Vibrant and stylish south-asian owned sustainable fashion… count us in.
Images via Rujuta Sheth website.
“At Cleobella, sustainability and ethical practices are at the core of all we do. Our designs, which celebrate traditional craftsman techniques, are ethically handmade by independent artisans around the world. By helping preserve traditional heritage techniques through partnerships, we also help create sustainable income for these makers.” I think I would ascribe Cleobella a very earthy chichness, intricate and grounded.
Images via Cleobella Instagram.
“Beklina was founded by Angelina Rennell in 2006 for the candid, evolving, and artistic woman. For over 18 years Beklina has created and curated a tight edit of beautiful and thoughtful fashion, objects, and content. We hope to connect unique perspectives that attracts those of similar passions. More than a shop, Beklina also produces an ongoing collection, from knits, swimsuits, pants, pillows, rugs, art, jewelry, housewares, textiles, to random objects and handmade clogs. The Beklina collection is produced ethically in the USA & Peru.” What’s most interesting are the patterns and pleated fabrics… uniquely stylish.
Images via the Beklina website.
If you know fashion, you know this one. “We are on a conscious luxury mission to create fashion that does not compromise on desirability or sustainability and that holds us accountable to our targets. Our approach to sustainability is still a work in progress –we are not perfect, but we are making every action count. We want to push boundaries, open new opportunities and advance change in the fashion industry. The science is clear and so are we. From how we source materials to how we invest in initiatives, from the way we operate our stores and offices to how we inspire and mobilise our community to make better decisions, we are always guided by our bold values. Discover our commitments to you, our planet and our fellow creatures.”
Images via Stella McCartney Instagram.
“Infused with the energy of LA, NY and Mexico City, our denim tells a story of conscious design. At ÉTICA, we blend innovation with tradition while honoring both the planet and the diverse communities that inspire us. With industry-leading equipment, innovative wash techniques, and a commitment to sustainability, ÉTICA is setting a new standard for eco-friendly denim. We re-imagine classic denim codes by constantly pushing design and wash technology while remaining focused on achieving our zero waste initiative.” For the denim on denim girlies (but not only).
7. sézane
“Founded in 2013 by Morgane Sézalory, Sézane is the first French fashion brand born online. Above all, Sézane is guided by a passion to create beautiful pieces without intermediaries, allowing us to prioritize quality while maintaining fair prices. No overproduction, no sales and no unsold stock. Instead, we release our archives twice a year, ensuring nothing goes unworn.” This brand is beautiful. It feels enchanting just to scroll on their website honestly. Sézane also seems to have many dimensions… parisian, african, southern, hippie, south asian, english… and they are still quite seamlessly cohesive. The photos I offered barely do their color palette any justice but I prioritized representing the productive diversity of the brand.
Images via Sézane Instagram.
That’s all for this issue. Leave us a comment if you want more recommendations like these! Happy shopping.
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