A Graph of 15 Sustainable Clothing Brands

I am a nature lover and striving minimalist, as well as a fashion and clothing enthusiast. These interests clash considering that every part of the clothing production process can be harmful to the environment and people (“fast fashion”). In order to respect all parts of me, I try to consume clothing consciously. This means purchasing clothing from companies that follow initiatives to create sustainable products (“slow fashion”).

Ethical and sustainable initiatives by slow fashion companies include:

  • Use of organic and natural materials

  • Fair wages and labor standards

  • B Corporation certification – create value for stakeholders such as employees, communities, or the environment

  • Others: recyclable packaging, non-toxic dyes, use solar power, donation programs

I recently found The Good Trade and their post of 35 sustainable clothing companies. Based on this post, and my own explorations of each company’s website, I created the graph below plotting 15 companies’ quantity of ethical and sustainable initiatives against approximate product costs.* I thought this was a fun, visual way to introduce some slow fashion brands.

A note about the cost ratings. On this graph price is relative: the less expensive ($) companies here are still higher priced than the usual “fast fashion”. But that’s the part of the point, by owning two high quality sustainable t-shirts versus five low-quality fast fashion tees you are helping us head toward a greener future.

*The research for this graph is informal. There are many more companies that could make this list. I’d love to hear about more in the comments! Also, check these links for greener clothes for children and men.

 

The darker the color of the dot, the more “dressy” the clothing is.

Click here for a graph with links to the brand’s website.

Breanne Hawes