Image: Girlfriend Collective

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. This post is also sponsored in part by Lale Culture. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in!

Sustainable Hoodies & Sweatshirts

Are you on the hunt for the perfect sustainable hoodie or sweatshirt? Look no further! In this ultimate guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing a hoodie that not only elevates your style but also aligns with your values. At Sustainably Chic, we understand the importance of making conscious fashion choices, which is why we've curated this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of sustainable hoodies. We'll introduce you to ethical brands that prioritize fair trade practices, transparency, and eco-friendly initiatives, ensuring your hoodie purchase supports those who care about our planet.

Get ready to level up your wardrobe with a conscious choice in a sustainable hoodie!

What to Look for When Shopping Sustainable Sweatshirts & Hoodies

When shopping for new pieces of clothing you want to experience ultimate comfort with, we always suggest looking for fabrics like organic cotton. You want it to wash well and still maintain its coziness. Dyes are also important and should be non-toxic.

how to tell if the hoodie is ethical

Not only do you want the fabric to be sustainable, but you also want the workers to be paid a fair living wage. Therefore, sustainable brands will be transparent with you about who makes their clothing, which should be easily found on their website.

Why are these hoodies and sweatshirts more expensive?

While we try to find you the best prices within sustainable fashion, it’s impossible to find them near the price points of fast fashion. Creating a garment has many moving parts, and everyone deserves a fair wage along the way. Always sign up for the brand’s newsletters to receive information on sales and possible unique discount codes. Some brands even offer payment plans if that is something you can easily budget. 

Our top picks of sustainable hoodies & Sweatshirts:

1. TreeFleece Banshee Hoodie

Brand | tentree

Material | Organic Cotton, Recycled Polyester & Tencel

Price | $78

This hoodie can be found in five different colors, and plants 10 trees for every purchase! So far, tentree has planted over 43 MILLION trees. You can also buy carbon offsets for your own personal lifestyle right on their site.

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2. The Vida Unisex Sweatshirt

Brand | PAKA

Material | 30% Royal Alpaca, 30% Superfine Merino, 40% Recycled PET

Price | $129

This cozy alpaca hoodie is hand-knit, signed, and designed by their team of artisans in Cusco, Peru.

It's great for hiking or just lounging around the house. This hoodie also has a very flattering slim fit and a beautiful neutral color!

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3. Organic Cotton Pullover Hoodie

Brand | Terra Thread

Material | Regenerative Organic Certified®

Price | $35

Regenerative cotton is one of our favorite fabrics! It’s essentially restoring our soil’s health since top soil is said to have a remainder of 60 years. I have this hoodie - it is unisex - and it is so comfortable! It is also made in a Fair Trade Certified™ Factory in India.

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4. Skylar Pullover

Brand | Ninety Percent

Material | Organic Cotton

Price | $168

A 90s style pullover is forever a staple. Ninety Percent donates part of its profits to charitable organizations that promote social justice and wildlife conservation. You even get to choose which one you want to support with your purchase! 

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5. 50/50 Classic Sweatshirt

Brand | Girlfriend Collective

Material | Recycled/Organic Cotton

Price | $78

A cozy crew sweatshirt designed with 50% Texloop™ RCOT™ Primo Recycled Cotton and 50% organic cotton, the 50/50 Classic Sweatshirt is half recycled, half organic, fully cute, and comfy - it's also biodegradable! It is available in 5 colors and sixes XXS-6XL.

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6. Fleece Oversized Sweatshirt

Brand | Mate the Label

Material | Organic Cotton / Cotton Fleece

Price | $128

If you like your sweatshirts big and snuggly, this one is for you! Mate the Label is known for its sweat sets and beautiful color palettes.

This sweatshirt currently comes in 6 colors and sixes XS-XXL.

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7. Unisex Patchwork Hoodie

Brand | Anchal

Material | Organic Cotton

Price | $120-260

Looking for a hoodie, you can steal from - I mean share - with your partner? We love these gender-neutral hoodies and jackets from Anchal. They are all made fairly by Anchal’s artisan partners out of 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton.

Sizes come in XS to XXL, and you can get them in a cropped to tall version.

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8. Courtside Zip Hoodie

Brand | Pact

Material | Organic Cotton

Price | $30

We are crushing over this pink and exaggerated drop shoulder! If pink isn’t your color, you can find it in 5 other colors.

code: SUSTAINABLYCHIC for 15% off

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9. Weekend Zip-Up Hoodie

Brand | Boody

Material | Bamboo, Organic Cotton

Price | $60

If you want ultra-softness, you will love Boody’s bamboo fabric. While not all bamboo is created equal, Boody uses a closed-loop system that recycles water and solvents. Their clothing is made from sustainably grown bamboo viscose that is easy on the planet and our bodies.

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10. Organic Oversized Hoodie

Brand | Colorful Standard

Material | Organic Cotton

Price | $88

Our favorite ethical alternative to American Apparel, Colorful Standard’s Organic Oversize Hoodie comes in 50 colors. YES - Fifty!! They produce all their clothing ethically in Portugal with Oeko-Tex® certified & PETA-approved dyes.

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WANT MORE sustainable brands? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

Our Brand Directory is home to hundreds of sustainable brands, from makeup to cleaning supplies, from underwear to shoes. We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

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Related Reading You May Enjoy:

Image: Vincent James

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. This post is also sponsored in part by Malaika & Slo Collective. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the fashion industry a better place!

Minimalist Clothing Brands

Like keeping your closet small? These sustainable clothing brands are exactly what you've been missing from your minimalist wardrobe! Their timeless, versatile, minimalistic design will keep your closet to a minimum while feeling like you have a lot to work with.

What is Minimalist Fashion?

It’s about keeping your wardrobe simple! With a small, simple wardrobe, you waste less time picking outfits, and with that time, you can go on to enjoy the other things in your life. I always find less is more, and investing in quality pieces is essential for a conscious closet.

You can learn how to build a capsule wardrobe to make your life even easier.

How are These Minimalist Brands also sustainable?

You can feel confident knowing your purchase from one of these brands is paying the maker a fair wage, and the planet is considered throughout the entire process. They all use eco-friendly fabrics like Organic Cotton and Linen, and many create designs you can wear multiple ways because versatility is key for minimalism. Also, some are more affordable than others, but they would all make a lovely addition to a small closet!

Our Top Picks for Sustainable, Minimalist Clothing Brands:

Use code MALAIKASCHIC for 15% off your first order.

1. Malaika New York

Made in | Izmir, Turkey

Fabrics | GOTS Organic Cotton, Linen, Deadstock, Upcycled Bike Tubes, Recycled PET

Price | $95-$299

Malaika New York’s unique zero waste designs embrace the female body, focusing on comfort, versatility, and timelessness. Their simple yet powerful designs can be styled in a variety of different ways. Malaika is a great choice if you feel like trends are wasteful and are building a high-quality capsule collection.

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2. Slo Collective

Made in | Turkey

Fabrics | Cotton, Linen, Bamboo, Hemp, Repurposed Synthetics

Price | $30-190

A beautifully curated slow fashion online shop, Slo Collective was created to offer a diverse selection of stylish, timeless, and versatile pieces that are kind to our planet.

All the brands they feature adopt a sustainable, slow approach to fashion, and everything is made from natural, biodegradable, or upcycled fabrics.

Slo Collective is also a huge supporter of women's empowerment & female entrepreneurs; therefore, all the brands they carry are women-owned! To take it a step further, they plant a tree for every order and ship your order in 100% eco-friendly packaging. Not to mention, their aesthetic is very refreshing and airy. We love it! 

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Use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC for $20 off your first order of $150+

3. Made Trade

Made In | USA and around the world
Fabrics | Organic cotton, Tencel, Linen, Modal, Wool, Hemp, Banana Fiber
Price | $34 - $439

This sustainable online shop is home to several wonderful brands - and they have things for men, too! We love how the website is so clean and inviting. Not only can you find great pieces for your closet, but you can also find a few staples to decorate your home. They ensure each product covers one {or more} of these values - Sustainable, Fair Trade, Heritage, USA Made & Vegan. Each value has a little symbol that is placed right next to the product, so you know exactly what category it falls under.

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4. Pact

Made In | India

Fabrics | Organic Cotton

Price | $20-95

Probably one of the most affordable organic brands, Pact has you covered on any basic piece you can think of. Everything washes well, & stays nice & soft. All Pact clothing is made from GOTS organic cotton, and everything is Fair Trade USA Factory Certified. So not only are you getting a product made with eco-friendly fibers, but it’s ethically produced, as well!

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5. ABLE

Made In | USA, Ethiopia, Mexico, Brazil, and India

Fabrics | Cotton, Linen, Lyocell

Price | $40-348

I have a few FashionABLE pieces and I love them! This beautiful brand believes in order to end poverty we must provide jobs for those lacking opportunity, particularly for women. “We invest in, train, and educate women so they can earn a living, break the cycle of poverty, and thrive.”

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6. Vincent James

Made In | USA

Fabrics | Alpaca, Wool, Organic Cotton, Tencel, Linen, Hemp, Silk

Price | $120-240

A new clothing brand to enter the sustainable fashion world, Vincent James is a minimalist’s dream.

All of their clothing is ethically made in the US with eco-friendly materials, and I love their v-neck tank that comes with a built-in bra.

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7. Mate the Label

Made In | USA

Fabrics | Organic Cotton, Linen & Tencel

Price | $46-188

Is your lifestyle more slow and relaxed?

Mate the Label is famous for their loungewear, but it looks so good, you can definitely leave the house in it.

From basic tees to jumpsuits, you will be absolutely cozy in anything they carry.

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8. Warp + Weft

Made In | Pakistan

Fabrics | Cotton, Tencel, Recycled Denim

Price | $88-108

If you are looking for a good pair of jeans, this is great place to check out! Their size inclusive denim is more affordable than most sustainable brands, and their quality is awesome. Plus, the makers have been making denim for several decades in a family-owned mill!

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9. Asket

Made In | Italy, Portugal

Fabrics | Merino Wool, Cotton

Price | $45-155

Their journey started with making the perfect t-shirt back in 2015, and now have expanded into button-downs, pants, jackets and undergarments. ASKET believes in full traceability from the very start to the end. They refer to this as ‘From Farm to Finish Line.” For each garment, you can look up its history. It’s pretty amazing how in depth they have gone & I’d love to see more of it!

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10. Wearwell

Fabrics | Organic, Deadstock, Upcycled, Recycled, Tencel, Linen, Apple Leather

Price | $10-$345

Wearwell is a curated marketplace + membership that helps people own their style, love their wardrobe, and feel great in what they're wearing. The wearwell membership is the insider's way to shop for sustainable clothes, accessories, home goods, and more. For $8-10 / month, you can get 10% off every order, free shipping and returns, access to stylists who can help you decide on what looks are best for you, and more perks.

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11. Pareto

Made In | USA

Fabrics | Organic Cotton

Price | $48-198

Pareto was founded in 2020 by Jessica Landzberg and Olivia Putterman who spent time endlessly agonizing over what to wear in their closets. After a decade of frustration and dozens of conversations with other women, Pareto was born. Since its inception, Pareto has made it their mission to make getting dressed the easiest part of the day by offering quality, sustainable wardrobe essentials to fit any person’s style.

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12. Encircled

Made In | Canada

Fabrics | Modal, Tencel, Hemp, Organic Cotton, Linen, Bamboo

Price | $35-328

The functionality & minimalistic design of Encircled garments make this brand one of the best for minimalist closets. Most of their garments can be worn more than one way. Not only are their clothes comfortable to wear, they are great for packing. You don't have to worry about wrinkling, & they don't take up too much space!

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13. Colorful Standard

Made In | Portugal

Fabrics | Organic Cotton, Recycled Wool

Price | $34-108

If you are looking for a sustainable alternative to American Apparel, this will be your stop! Each one of their basic pieces comes in a multitude of colors, so there is no doubt you will find the color you’re looking for! In addition, colorful Standard uses organic cotton to make their entire collection and produces it ethically in Portugal. Their dyes are also Oeko-Tex® certified dyed, and PETA approved, and they create for both & women! 

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14. eleven44

Made In | Bali

Fabrics | OrgCotton, Bamboo, Linen

Price | $46-298

We love eleven44 for their stylish and comfortable daily basics. They only use eco-friendly fibers like organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, and linen. They also manufacture transparently with the cottage industry in Bali, which supports local family businesses. This is an ethical, slow fashion brand with timeless pieces that will live in a minimal capsule wardrobe for many years.

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WANT MORE? VISIT OUR SUSTAINABLE BRAND DIRECTORY!

Our Brand Directory is home to hundreds of sustainable brands, from makeup to cleaning supplies, from underwear to shoes. We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

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Related Reading You May Also Enjoy:

image: Vivaia

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only add brands & products we truly believe in.

Comfortable and Sustainable FLATS, LOAFERS & MULES For 2023

For as long as I can remember, I have always had a good pair of high-quality flats in my shoe collection. These are always very easy to wear with most outfits, whether we want to look more put together or casual. 

Ballet flats, loafers and mules are also effortless to slip on and off, making them the perfect shoes for our daily activities. 

However, it is nowadays difficult to find quality flats that are made to last. Those sold by fast fashion brands often wear down after a couple of months and quickly become yet another wasted pair of shoes that will sit in a landfill. Plus, they are usually produced under unethical conditions and made with unsustainable materials. 

Fortunately, some brands are making things differently. These are brands that care about their workers and how their products impact the environment. 

I have selected 12 of the most eco-friendly, sustainable flats, loafers and mules, so you can finally get your hands, or should I say your feet, on some high-quality shoes that do not harm the planet.  

WHAT MAKES FLATS, LOAFERS AND MULES SUSTAINABLE?

One of the most important factors to take into account when shopping for flats, loafers, or mules is that they should be durable and built to last for many years. 

Of course, make sure to pick shoes that you love, that fit you, and that are comfortable so that you will actually want to wear them. 

The brand should also be transparent about where and how the shoes are produced, and make them using sustainable materials. Workers in the supply chain should be paid a fair, living wage and work in a safe environment. 

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Sustainable flats, loafers and mules are usually made from natural or recycled materials, such as recycled plastic or plant-based fibers. Some brands also use apple leather produced from discarded apple peels, which is a great vegan alternative to leather. 

If used for many years, vegetable-tanned leather sourced from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group can also be a more eco-friendly material compared to many others. Leather is extremely durable and can last for decades if taken care of properly. 

The soles can be made from recycled rubber, recycled plastic, and even from cork, algae, sugarcane, or other plant-based materials. 

OUR TOP PICKS FOR HIGH-QUALITY, SUSTAINABLE FLATS, LOAFERS & MULES

1. Monica Mule

Brand: Able

Materials: Leather

Price: $128

A beautiful luxe mule, these classic shoes feature a pointed toe, gold-chain, and ultimate comfort. They will be sure to dress up any casual outfit!

ABLE believes in ending poverty; we must provide jobs for those lacking opportunity, particularly women. They also work with leather partners who have taken steps to minimize material waste and use a 100% recycled, closed-loop water system. 

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2. Emma d’Orsay Oxfords

Brand: Nisolo

Materials: Leather, Rubber

Price: $170

These Emma oxfords crafted by Nisolo are d’Orsay shoes that will make you look incredibly refined, chic, and put together.

Their timeless and versatile design is made to elevate any outfit! 

Sold in four neutral colors, these are classic, convenient shoes to have as a fashion staple. They are easy to slip on, built to last, and can be worn all year round. 

Nisolo’s oxfords feature waterproof leather uppers with an internal elastic stretch, stacked leather heels, slip-free rubber heel caps, and vegetable-tanned leather soles. They also have cushioned insoles with added shock absorption, as well as breathable leather-lined interiors. 

All the leather used to make the Emma d’Orsay shoes comes from a tannery that is certified by the Leather Working Group. 

Thanks to its numerous initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint, Nisolo has become a top-rated Certified B Corporation and is climate-neutral certified. It also received the highest score in Remake’s 2021 Accountability Report. 

use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC20 for 20% off

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3. The Lug Mule

Brand: Poppy Barley

Materials: LWG Leather

Price: $243

A chunky-soled mule is everything this fall and winter season.

We LOVE the beautiful cinnamon color (also in taupe, black & pearl).

These mules can be styled with many different outfits and look cute with socks!

Poppy Barley is a Canadian brand and B-Corporation founded by two sisters in Edmonton, AB. Their company is committed to rethinking every step to create sustainably made, fairly-priced products designed to be worn on repeat.

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4. Tree Breezers

Brand: Allbirds

Materials: Eucalyptus Tree Fiber, Sugarcane, Castor Bean Oil, Merino Wool

Price: $100

Sustainable footwear brand Allbirds created a lightweight, breathable pair of ballet flats made with natural, renewable materials. You can pick between the various colors available, from classic neutrals to bold, bright colors. The Tree Breezers are flexible and completely machine washable, and they have a ribbed collar to ensure a perfect fit.

They are made from Allbirds’ proprietary silky smooth knit, which is produced from eucalyptus tree fiber sourced from FSC-certified forests. 

Sustainably crafted, the flats’ bouncy outsoles are made of SweetFoam, a carbon-negative EVA obtained from sugarcane. Allbirds also uses ZQ merino wool and castor bean oil to create its insoles, which are designed to minimize odors and have moisture-wicking properties.

We love that the brand is very transparent and discloses how much CO2 is generated for the production of the Tree Breezers. Allbirds also makes sure to offset this footprint, making these flats entirely carbon-neutral! 

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5. Vegan Women’s Slip-On Loafers

Brand: Will’s Vegan Store

Materials: Vegan Suede, Recycled Rubber

Price: $90-108

Will’s Vegan Store creates beautiful loafers that are ideal for everyday wear and special occasions. They have small 0.4-inch heels and grippy outsoles that are designed to last for a long time. 

You can choose between three different models: a classic black one, as well as blue or black jacquard loafers with a lovely floral pattern.  

These slip-on loafers are made from Italian vegan suede that received the Ecolabel certification and meets Oeko Tex Standard 100 and REACH regulations. The inside of the shoes is lined with soft vegan suede, and the insoles are produced from recycled rubber. 

Made in Portugal, the loafers are certified carbon-neutral, and they are shipped to you in paper and cardboard packaging. 

At the end of their life, you can send them back and Will’s Vegan Store will give them a new life by turning them into new outsoles and uppers. 

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6. Taylor Matte Jelly Ballet Flats

Brand: Oka-B

Materials: Soy-Based Materials, Recycled Materials

Price: $42

With its Taylor jelly flats, Oka-B proves that shoes do not have to be expensive to be sustainable and comfortable. Not only are these shoes very affordable, but they are also made with comfort and the planet in mind! They are classic ballet flats with a soft, matte finish, and they are designed for a wide range of foot shapes.

They provide arch support and feature soothing massage beads and a heel cup to improve stability and comfort. 

Oka-B flats are made from a blend of scrap materials, used shoes, and the brand’s proprietary bio-based material produced from 45% US-grown soy. The material is waterproof, flexible, and slip-resistant. 

The Taylor jelly flats are made-to-order in Oka-B’s family-owned factory located in Georgia, USA. When you are done with them, you can send them back and the company will make sure they get recycled. 

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7. Margot 2.0 Square-Toe V-Cut Flats

Brand: Vivaia

Materials: Recycled Plastic, Hemp, Rubber

Price: $97-139

The Margot 2.0 flats sold by Vivaia are the perfect everyday shoes you can wear at work, to run errands, or to walk in the park. Designed in more than ten colors, they are breathable and very practical as you can put them in your washing machine when they get dirty.

They are also extremely flexible, meaning that they can easily fit in your handbag.

Vivaia’s flats are produced from six plastic water bottles that were saved from the ocean, and the slip-resistant outsole is made of natural rubber. 

The flats’ insoles contain Artemisia Argyi, a plant that helps inhibit bacterial growth and keep your feet fresh even in the heat and humidity. 

With its arch support and cushioning, walking with the Margot 2.0 feels like wearing sneakers, and its heel padding prevents you from having blisters! 

We also love that the brand ships them in packaging made of 100% recycled cardboard.

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8. The Point

Brand: Rothy’s 

Materials: Recycled Plastic

Price: $145

The Point flats are slip-ons that you can wear year-round to elevate your outfits. These are versatile pointed-toe flats that are so comfortable that you will not even have to break them in! They feature a soft, flexible knit made from the brand’s signature thread, spun from 11 recycled plastic bottles.

Each shoe also has durable outsoles, comfortable insoles, and a V-shaped vamp. 

Rothy’s offers them in 28 colors, including a few bold colors and several unique patterns that will make them stand out from the other pairs of flats you may have. The back of each shoe also has the brand’s signature blue halo. 

The Point flats are fully machine washable whenever they need a refresh, so you will be able to keep them for a long time.

Rothy’s makes its shoes using an innovative knitting technique that helps avoid the 30% of material waste usually generated in traditional “cut and sew” production! 

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9. Black Apple Leather House Mules

Brand: Dooeys

Materials: Apple Leather, Recycled Plastic, Latex, Cork, Sugarcane 

Price: $142

These house mules, crafted by Dooeys and sold on Made Trade’s website, are comfy slippers that are easy to slip on and off during the day when you are at home. 

Very stylish, they can be dressed up or dressed down, and their cushioned insoles provide the support you need for your daily activities. 

Dooeys’ house mules are made from natural, plant-based, and recycled materials. They feature a vegan apple leather upper, sugarcane soles, a recycled plastic lining, and footbeds made of cork and natural latex. 

The mules are crafted in an ethical workshop based in Portugal, and they are made in small batches to prevent unnecessary waste. 

Buying mules from Dooeys means that you are supporting a woman-owned company that regularly gives back to environmental organizations and offsets its carbon emissions from shipping. 

Made Trade is also climate-neutral certified, so you can feel good about your purchase!

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use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC10 for 10% off

10. The Vicky

Brand: Veerah

Materials: Apple Leather, Organic Cotton, Algae Foam 

Price: $228

These chic flats, crafted by sustainable footwear brand Veerah, have an asymmetric cut and a pointed-toe silhouette, making them very elegant and a staple piece for your wardrobe.

Designed for walking, they provide sneaker-like comfort, so you can easily wear them all day long. 

The Vicky flats are ethically crafted from apple leather, a USDA-certified bio-based leather made from upcycled apple peels. Available in brown, red, black, or metallic gold, they are colored using non-toxic, organic pigments. 

Veerah’s flats also feature an organic cotton sock lining and impact-absorbing insoles made of algae biomass. Since algae blooms can be very harmful to aquatic ecosystems, using them to create these flats helps save 11 gallons of filtered water and keep eight balloons of CO2 out of the atmosphere! 

The Vicky flats are 100% cruelty-free and vegan, and as a public benefit corporation, Veerah regularly donates at least 1% of its revenue to social impact causes. 

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11. Black Ballet Flats With Black Velvet Marie Straps

Brand: Alterre

Materials: Recycled Plastic, Leather, Rubber

Price: $225

With their comfortable low heels, these black ballet flats sold by Alterre will make you look very elegant while keeping your feet happy. If you want a more unique style, you can customize them with the black velvet straps they come with, so you can wear them in two different ways!

Produced in Brazil, Alterre’s flats are made of chrome-free leather and have durable rubber soles and cushioned midsoles that provide all-day comfort. 

The brand reduces its leather and plastic waste by using a laser cutter to make its shoes and by crafting all of its heels from recycled plastic. 

Striving to reduce its environmental footprint as much as possible, Alterre also sources its leathers and other materials locally and works with suppliers certified by the Leather Working Group.  

The company has even been awarded the Butterfly Mark from Positive Luxury for its commitment to sustainability, and it donates 5% of its profits to Restore NYC to help them fight sex trafficking. 

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12). Uchi Flats in Tannat

Brand: ZOU XOU

Materials: Leather, Rubber

Price: $290

Ethical footwear brand ZOU XOU designed brown, square-toe flats that can be worn year-round with multiple outfit combinations. Whether you choose to pair them with a feminine dress or classic trousers with a button-down shirt, you will always look amazing in them!  The Uchi flats are made of deep burgundy glazed leather and feature a faux tortoise shell buckle that adds personality to the whole shoe. 

They have rubber outsoles, leather midsoles and stacked heels, and an interior lining made from vegetable-tanned leather. All these materials are selected for their durability to make sure the Uchi flats are designed to last for many years. 

ZOU XOU’s shoes are handmade in Argentina using old-school techniques, and they are produced on-demand or in small batches to avoid overproduction and waste. Most of the leathers the brand uses are sourced from tanneries specialized in vegetable tanning or certified by the Leather Working Group. 

ZOU XOU also has an incredibly ethical business model in which the artisans establish their own wages and work in healthy, safe environments. 

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About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

Our Brand Directory is home to hundreds of sustainable brands, from makeup to cleaning supplies, from underwear to shoes. We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

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RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the fashion industry a better place!

The Best Organic Cotton Pajamas in 2023

We all spend (hopefully) eight hours a day sleeping in our beds, so being mindful of what we wear when we sleep can benefit our well-being, as investing in pajamas means investing in the quality of your sleep.

What factors should we consider next time we purchase new PJs?

Comfort, wearability, quality, and, of course, sustainability. In terms of materials, organic cotton is better than conventional cotton for the environment and your skin. 

What is Organic Cotton? 

Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and herbicides. Organic cotton crops can be sprayed with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) natural proteins to protect them from insect infestation and crop destruction, but not with the cocktail of toxic chemicals often sprayed over conventional cotton crops. While organic cotton, by definition, is about the use of synthetic chemicals, organic cotton often is significantly less water-intensive than conventional.

Read more about organic cotton here.

What is GOTS Cotton?

Many of these brands use certified cotton from the Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS), the golden seal of approval for sustainably processed fabric made with organic fibers.

Read more about GOTS cotton here.

Why should you purchase organic cotton pajamas? 

Organic cotton pajamas are not only more eco-friendly but also more comfortable. The natural fibers of organic cotton enable greater ventilation and temperature management as you sleep. This characteristic guarantees your year-round comfort by keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Wearability is essential for pajamas and clothing, and organic cotton pieces tend to be made with durability and longevity in mind. The quality construction of these garments ensures that they can withstand regular wear and washing without losing shape or tearing. 

Here, we list a selection of brands that offer organic cotton PJs that fit different needs and budgets. Happy browsing! 

our favorite organic cotton pajama brands:

1) Pact 

Price | $20-88

Pact is an American fashion brand known for its laid-back, well-made, easy-to-wear styles perfect for everyday wear that can be sported daily. 

In addition to comfort, Pact operates with sustainability in mind, working with Fair Trade USA, Global Organic Textile Standard, and SimpliZero. They manufacture clothing from Certified Organic Cotton at Fair Trade Certified™ factories.

In addition to their standard apparel, underwear, and home textiles, Pact manufactures comfortable sleepwear from organic cotton. 

These come in a variety of styles, from classic button-shirts to comfortable long-sleeve tees like their Cool Stretch Fitted Long Sleeve Tee and drawstring waistband pants like their Breezy Light Gauze Sleep Pant. The perfect comfy pieces for a good night of sleep or chill Sunday morning on the sofa.

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2) Coyuchi 

Price | $28-58

At Coyuchi, one can find a variety of premium quality organic cotton home textiles ranging from bed sheets and honeycomb blankets to robes and bath towels. On top of that, they also have a selection of apparel. 

Their comfortable, minimalist pieces made from high-quality GOTS-certified cotton in elegant, timeless colors can be the perfect garments to wear to bed, ideal for those who enjoy understated elegance even past bedtime.

Take their roomy Women's Solstice Organic Nightgown; it's not only GOTS, Made Safe, and Fair Trade Certified, but it's also the perfect elevated version of the basic nightgown for feeling your best as the weather gets chillier thanks to the high-quality organic cotton jersey and smart design. 

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3) Printfresh 

Price | $58-168

Are you someone who can't get enough Dopamine Dressing during your waking hours and wants to take the colorful fun past dusk? The Philadelphia, PA-based apparel brand Printfresh could be the right place to look for your next organic cotton PJs. Textile designers Amy Voloshin and Leo Voloshin founded Printfresh in 2016. Since then, the brand has become known for the bold, colorful prints that make their pieces stand out, like the one on their kaleidoscopic organic cotton Unicorn's Garden Cami Nightgown, which, like many of their cheerful nighties, features deep pockets, a much-needed but unfortunately rare feature in nightwear.

Available from size XS to 6X and made in a Sedex-reviewed factory, Printfresh's nightgowns and PJs are a fantastic option for those who want to wear fun, unique, and bright pieces even to bed without compromising on sustainability and quality. 

Fun fact: If you think Printfresh's prints look like they come straight out of a painting, you are right. The brand's whimsical designs are first painted in gouache and then become digital illustrations.  

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4) Komodo

Price | $40-105

Are you a fan of the classics who is in the market for some new PJs? Then, you should check out Komodo.

Founded all the back in 1988 by Mark Bloom, British fashion label Komodo offers sustainable vintage vibes-filled, eccentric garments that will remind you of the iconic British street styles of the '80s made with a selection of fabrics like GOTS certified organic cotton, linen, and hemp.

In addition to standard daywear, Komodo offers a selection of high-end pajamas made from extra soft GOTS Certified Organic Cotton.

Like their summery JIM JAM Pajama Shorts Set, they sell nightwear suitable for colder and warmer nights.

These pajamas come in various classic prints and cuts that make Komodo's nightwear an excellent option for those who like to sport more classic styles even at night time without compromising on sustainability, comfort, and coziness.

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5) Leena & Lu 

Price | $40-108

Founded by Ofelia and Kathya in 2018, Leena & Lu is an apparel brand offering sustainably made soft and comfortable sleepwear. This woman-owned, Peru-based, small apparel company specializes in sleepwear, and it shows.

Leena & Lu's organic pieces, like their Women's Organic Pima Cotton T-Shirt Dress, check all the sleepwear boxes. They are silky-soft and feel amazing against your skin.

Plus, they allow you a great deal of mobility thanks to their excellent design: they are right in that sweet between roomy and fitted, which makes them cozy enough to wear to bed and nice-looking enough to wear around and out of the house. 

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6) Under the Canopy

Price | $24-42

Known for its high-quality home textiles and essentials, Under the Canopy also offers comfortable organic cotton loungewear that can be worn to bed. 

Their minimalist, premium-quality loungewear is, in fact, a fantastic option for those looking for Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and OEKO-TEX® certified organic cotton nightwear on a budget. 

Thanks to their quality, easy fit, and versatile design, Under the Canopy's pieces, like their slightly cropped Organic Lounge Cami, can be worn for a long time and in a variety of situations, making them perfect for those who want to make the most of their wardrobe, even at night time. 

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7) Thunderpants 

Price | $48-62

Sometimes, the comfiest things to wear to bed weren't even designed to be worn in bed. After all, clothes made with wearability and quality in mind make for the perfect nightwear, and we can find these characteristics even in other types of clothing like underwear or loungewear. 

Thunderpants USA is a brand that makes high-quality, comfortable undergarments manufactured from organic cotton and designed to withstand the test of time, making their pieces excellent options for nightwear.

This Portland-based brand also operates with sustainability in mind, so much so that it even received the highest rating on Good on You. Their garments are GOTS-certified organic cotton and spandex fabric, perfectly balancing comfort and durability. These cotton garments are made in Hillsboro, Oregon, around 7 miles from the Thunderpants office. 

The results are unique, wearable undergarments available from size SM to 3XL. So, if you are looking for fun, sustainable nightwear for the hotter months, a Thurdepants cami and bottoms combo like the Hipster Daisy Days and their Cami Daisy Days could be what you are looking for right now.  

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8) Mightly 

Price |$30-48

When it comes to kid's clothing, durability, safety, and comfort are the most important factors, even when looking for pajamas. If you agree, then try checking out Mightly. 

This US-based, woman-owned company offers apparel for kids and adults, including organic pajamas for children. It is an excellent option for parents looking for cozy and eco-friendly pajamas for the whole family.

Not only the pajamas they offer are made of Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Certified organic cotton in a Fair Trade Certified Factory, but they also come in a variety of cute, fun designs.  

 Mightly's organic cotton pajamas are made with quality and comfort in mind: soft, well-designed, and manufactured from sturdy but breathable organic cotton. Bonus points: They also have a second-hand section, where parents on a budget can purchase organic cotton pajamas for a kinder pierce.    

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9) Hanna Andersson 

Price | $44-134

Hanna Andersson is another option for parents looking for durable organic cotton PJs, especially sets of matching family PJs for their little ones. 

Their OEKO-TEX® and GOTS-certified organic rib knit kids' PJs are an option for parents wanting to get safer nightwear for their kids, especially for those on a budget, as the brand's pieces are available at a more accessible price in the brand's pre-loved section. 

In addition to their other designs, the brand also offers licensed designs featuring characters from Star Wars™, Miffy®, Marvel®, and other fictional universes, making them a safer alternative to synthetic nightwear for parents whose kids might want PJs featuring their favorite characters. 

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About the Author

Roberta Fabbrocino is a journalist specialized in climate change and sustainability-related topics. Her articles have been published in several international eco-publications. Roberta also works as a content writer for sustainable companies.

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The Best Vegan Leather Handbags (that are also sustainable)

As we become more mindful of the impact our choices have on our planet and its inhabitants, our fashion priorities are evolving. Gone are the days when we simply chased the trendiest accessories without considering their origins. Today, we're all about making informed decisions that harmonize with our values.

In this blog post, we're diving deep into the world of vegan leather handbags – a chic and compassionate choice that lets us strut our stuff with a clear conscience. If you have ever wondered about the different materials used in crafting vegan handbags, this post will help to break it down for you and will serve as a helpful guide when you come to choosing your next handbag. 

Join us as we explore the spectrum of vegan leather alternatives, dissecting which ones align best with sustainability goals. Durability is often a concern on many people's minds when choosing their next handbag, so we'll be taking a look at how you can tell if a bag will stand the test of time. 

Why should you shop vegan handbags?

There are a number of reasons why more people are choosing a vegan alternative when shopping for handbags now. The main reason is usually surrounding ethics and how people feel about using animals for fashion. More people are becoming aware of the realities of animal agriculture, and the fact that those same animals are suffering for fashion too. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian or simply an animal lover, you may feel that using an animal's skin, wool or fur doesn't align with your ethics and so you'll be opting for animal-free materials when you shop. There is also an ethical factor in regards to the humans who have to work with animal leather. The chemicals used in tanning animal leather are extremely toxic and tannery workers suffer cancer at high rates due to exposure to tanning chemicals, which are known carcinogens.

Another big reason people are increasingly switching to vegan leather handbags is for environmental reasons. While not all vegan leather alternatives are 100% sustainable themselves, we do know more about the true impact of using animal leather and how they compare against synthetic alternatives. A recent study by Collective Fashion Justice found that making cow skin leather is nearly seven times more climate impactful than synthetic leather by the square meter. The damage caused by animal leather on the environment includes toxic chemicals used for the tanning process, polluting waterways with factory wastewater, carbon emissions, plus excessive land and water use. We must factor in all the environmental impact of animal agriculture before the material is even produced, as this cannot be ignored from the process. 

By choosing vegan handbags, we can actively reduce our environmental impact and reduce the number of animals killed for fashion. 

What types of materials are used for vegan handbags?

There are more sustainable vegan alternatives to leather than ever before. Some are still in development and not widely available, but here are some that you can find on the market today:

• Mirum - made of a blend of FSC certified natural rubber, natural colorants like charcoal, natural fillers like clays, plant-based oils and waxes. 

• Cork - made from the bark of cork trees (without the trees being cut down) and is completely biodegradable. 

• Mycelium - bio-based and produced from mycelium - the branching, root-like vegetation part of fungi.

• Fruit leather (including orange, mango, pineapple, apple and grape) - 45% of all fruits and vegetables grown globally are discarded between the field and the plate. Fruit leather makes use of the waste of these different fruits and creates partly bio-based materials. 

• Cactus leather - made up of dried cactus powder backed on woven material.

• Treekind - made from sustainably sourced wood, Treekind is completely free from plastic and recyclable, and estimated to use less than 1% of the water cow skin leather production does.

• Washable paper - FSC trees can be used to create washable paper, a recyclable and biodegradable alternative to leather. 

The most commonly used (and less sustainable) alternatives to leather include PVC and PU. These are not ideal as, although they still have a far reduced impact compared to animal-derived materials, they require fossil fuel extraction and do not biodegrade. However, you can get recycled PU leather which doesn't require extracting new fossil fuels, hugely reducing its environmental impact. 

Brand Rating Guide:

❤︎ = we like ❤︎❤︎ = we really like ❤︎❤︎❤︎ = we LOVE

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Are vegan leather handbags durable?

Durability is the main issue people seem to have with vegan leather goods, they often worry they won't last as long or will 'peel' as it's believed that vegan leather is often thinner than animal leather. However, if you've ever been into a vintage shop or thrift store and found an animal leather jacket or bag, you'll usually see it has peeled or cracked. This is because animal leather requires a high level of maintenance to keep it supple, and not many people will commit to this. 

So a lot of the time durability comes down to how well you can look after a product, and when it comes to handbags we can often control the wear and tear of it by making sure it's stored properly and not exposed to too much damage. Not all materials are created equally, so it really depends on the vegan alternative used to make the bag, but you can find care instructions with handbags to help you preserve and protect your vegan handbag so it can last for many years. 

our top picks for vegan leather handbag brands

1. Sans Beast

❤︎❤︎

Materials: AppleSkin™, MIRUM®, recycled PU

Price: $50 - 285

Discover the avant-garde world of Sans Beast.

Crafting bold and unique bags from vegan leather, they champion cruelty-free fashion while promoting transparent and ethical sourcing, setting a high standard for animal-friendly accessories.

This crossbody shown (the Bandolier) has a front pocket big enough for your iPhone 14 Pro Max!

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2. Svala

❤︎❤︎❤︎

Materials: Piñatex® (Pineapple leather), MIRUM®, cork, PU, BioVeg 

Price: $220 - 298

Svala handbags are crafted in LA with materials sourced from Europe. They use a wide range of vegan leather alternatives for their handbags, including Piñatex®, MIRUM®, cork, and BioVeg (made from recycled polyester from plastic bottles and bio polyols). Svala donates 10% of profits to various charities and organizations, including Wild Aid, whose mission is to end the illegal wildlife trade. 

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3. Mashu

❤︎❤︎

Materials: Piñatex®, Frumat (apple leather), VEGEA, BioVeg

Price: $259 - 596

Founded in 2017 by Greek designer Ioanna Topouzoglou, Mashu combines style and consciousness to create luxury pieces from eco-friendly materials.

Their handbags are designed with Art Deco and Cycladic architecture serving as inspiration, with incredible use of different materials and asymmetric silhouettes.

The gold plated hardware and organic shapes of the handles really make these bags stand out in a crowd and proves you don’t need animal leather to achieve high-quality, fashion-forward products. 

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4. Will’s Vegan Store

❤︎❤︎

Materials: Bio-based vegan leather

Price: $52 - 170

Find satchels, briefcases, duffel bags and backpacks at Will’s Vegan Store.

Classic designs and high-quality craftsmanship give these bags such a timeless feel.

Their bags are handmade with Italian vegan leather made with plants created with bio oil sourced from organic cereal crops grown in Northern Europe in a carbon neutral process.

Will’s Vegan Store produces their bags in Portugal under European Union employment, discrimination and health & safety law.

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5. Pixie Mood

❤︎

Materials: Recycled vegan leather, cork

Price: $26 - 118

Pixie Mood specializes in crafting sustainable handbags using recycled vegan leather, cork and recycled rPET for the lining material.

With a wide range of different bag styles including weekender, bucket, waist, shoulder, tote and crossbody, you’ll have no problem finding something to suit your style.

They also offset their carbon emissions and use biodegradable packaging.

Pixie Mood is a member of 1% for the Planet and Terrapass and partners with One Tree Planted and Humane Society to drive positive change for our planet. 

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6. Stella McCartney

❤︎❤︎

Materials: VEGEA, Mylo™, MIRUM®, Alter Nappa (PU leather)

Price: $425 - 2,650

British designer brand, Stella McCartney, is renowned for its luxurious vegan handbags made from innovative leather alternatives such as VEGEA (grape-based leather), Mylo™ (mushroom leather) and MIRUM. The brand is committed to sustainability and ethical practices throughout its supply chain and is constantly exploring new technologies and processes to improve environmental practices and make sustainable vegan alternatives more accessible.

Stella McCartney’s most famous handbag is the Falabella, but they make crossbody bags, totes, shoulder bags and backpacks. 

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7. LaBante London

❤︎❤︎

Materials: PU, recycled polyester

Price: $125 - 540

LaBante London specializes in vegan leather handbags crafted from ethically sourced materials, including recycled plastic bottles and vegetable-derived PU. They create fashionable totes, crossbody bags, and backpacks.

Labante is committed to ethical production practices and only works with factories with SEDEX Certification, which guarantees transparency in business practices and respectful treatment of workers.

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8. Von Holzhausen

❤︎❤︎

Materials: Technik-Leather

Price: $295 - 495

Von Holzhausen creates minimalist bags known for their timeless appeal and sustainable construction.

Find shoppers, totes, crossbodies and more in their collection.

These bags are made from animal-friendly Technik-Leather, a material free of PVC and other harmful substances, embodying their dedication to luxury with an eco-friendly approach.

You can even send your bag back if it’s reached the end of its lifespan and Von Holzhausen will recycle it for you. 

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9. Elvis & Kresse *

❤︎❤︎

Materials: upcycled fire hose material, reclaimed leather offcuts

Price: $208 - 488

Founded in 2005, Elvis & Kresse specializes in upcycling materials like decommissioned fire hoses into unique handbags. For over a decade none of London’s fire-hose has gone to landfill and over 300 tonnes of material has been reclaimed. You can find totes, post bags, reporter bags, laptop bags and crossbody bags in deep reds, mustards and black.

Elvis & Kresse are B-Corp certified and a living wage employer and 50% of profits from their fire-hose range are donated to The Fire Fighters Charity.

*Elvis & Kresse also use reclaimed animal leather from discarded offcuts from Burberry. 

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10. Melie Bianco

❤︎

Materials: Recycled PU

Price: $60 - 165

Melie Bianco designs vegan leather handbags that are eco-friendly and stylish. Their collection includes a wide range of trendy and classic handbags, including top handle bags, crossbody bags, shoulder bags, totes and backpacks.

Melie Bianco uses recycled PU to make their bags and ensure the factories they work with uphold high safety & well-being standards as well as fair pay. 

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11. Gunas

❤︎❤︎

Materials: PU coated canvas, recycled rPET

Price: $156 - 299

Founded in 2009, Gunas promotes conscious consumerism and offers cruelty-free, PETA-approved vegan leather handbags made from recycled materials. Gunas is a Sanskrit word which translates as “quality, peculiarity, attribute, or tendency.”

Their collection includes clutches, totes, crossbody bags, and backpacks.

They are also women and minority-owned.

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12. Matt & Nat

Materials: AppleSkin™, recycled vegan leather, canvas

Price: $40 - 275

Possibly the most well-known vegan cruelty-free brand, Matt & Nat have been creating high-quality vegan products since 1995.

They are PETA-approved and committed to using vegan alternatives to leather and are constantly developing their sustainability practices to make their products more sustainable.

They create sleek, minimalist handbags in various designs such as crossbody, shoulder bags, weekenders and totes. Matt & Nat tend to mostly use creams, greens, browns and blacks across their collection, making them perfect for building capsule collections around as they can complement a range of different outfits. They use recycled plastic bottles to create the lining of their bags and use 21 bottles for each bag. 

*while this isn’t one of our favorite brands, we wanted to mention them because of their long commitment to cruelty-free and vegan fashion

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About the Author

Sarah King is a freelance writer with a focus on vegan fashion, sustainability and ethically made clothes. She campaigns for change in the fashion industry through her blog and on her Instagram page.

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