Every woman should have a little black dress in her wardrobe. It's a classic piece that's super versatile and chic. You can easily dress it down with sandals for a relaxed day out, whether you're heading to a picnic, shopping, or just taking a leisurely walk in the city. If you add heels and some accessories, it transforms into the perfect outfit for date nights, parties, or more formal occasions. It really is a must-have!

But while the little black dress has always been a classic, it’s often made by fast fashion brands using cheap, synthetic materials. The good news? Today, we can choose a sustainable little black dress that’s just as beautiful, without compromising people or the planet.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better world. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us! I

A Quick History of the Little Black Dress

The LBD made its debut in 1926 when Vogue published a drawing of Coco Chanel’s simple black design. Before then, black was reserved for mourning, but Chanel turned it into a symbol of elegance and modernity. By the 1930s, during the Great Depression, the dress became a favorite because of its simplicity and affordability, an accessible uniform of elegance for women of all classes.

In the post-war years, Christian Dior updated the silhouette with a more glamorous edge, and Hollywood stars quickly embraced it. Audrey Hepburn’s iconic Breakfast at Tiffany’s look in 1961 cemented the LBD as one of the most influential garments in fashion history. Since then, it has never gone out of style.

What Makes a Little Black Dress Sustainable?

A sustainable LBD should be:

• Made to last with high-quality, eco-friendly fabrics.
• Ethically produced, ensuring workers receive fair wages and safe working conditions.
• Certified by trusted labels like Fair Trade, GOTS, OEKO-TEX, or Bluesign® (not always necessary, but good to have)

Look for fabrics such as:

• Organic cotton
• Linen
• TENCEL™ Lyocell
• Hemp
• Recycled or reclaimed fibers (like deadstock fabrics)

Avoid virgin synthetics whenever possible, and prioritize biodegradable or recycled materials. Even better, choose dresses dyed with low-impact, non-toxic dyes to reduce chemical runoff and protect skin health.

Why Choose a Sustainable Little Black Dress?

Because you deserve a piece that looks good, feels good, and does good. Instead of buying a cheaply made dress that falls apart after a few washes, a sustainable LBD will stay in your wardrobe for years. It’s an investment in timeless style and a step away from wasteful, exploitative fashion cycles.

Our Favorite Sustainable Little Black Dresses:

1. Maisie Dress

Brand: Omnes

Price: $78

Crafted from 100% recycled polyester, this sleek LBD is made in a fully audited factory. OMNES prioritizes low‑impact fabrics like recycled polyester, cotton, linen, and ECOVERO™ alongside responsible packaging and minimal-waste practices. The Maisie Dress is a smart choice for a night‑out staple that'll stay in your rotation and leave a light footprint on the planet.

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2. Nataly Knit Dress

Brand: Reformation

Price: $148

Made from a soft lightweight jersey blend (about 88% cotton, 12% spandex), the Nataly Knit dress has a chic boat neckline and a tight fit. Reformation’s commitment shines through: carbon-neutral production, the use of low-impact materials, and a circularity program to extend garment life. 

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3. Lainey Dress

Brand: Whimsy & Row

Price: $168

The Lainey Dress brings breezy summer vibes (and sustainability) to your wardrobe. Made locally in Los Angeles, Whimsy & Row designs are crafted using eco-friendly practices and often feature organic, deadstock, or upcycled fibers. The black Lainey Dress is a versatile mini with a square neckline, adjustable straps, and a chic silhouette that transitions from day to night.

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4. Cotton Pleated Dress

Brand: SeamsFriendly

Price: $66

Made from Cotton Flax, this chic LBD comes with convenient pockets, and is made for your body. SeamsFriendly’s philosophy centers on custom‑made, eco-conscious fashion. Everything is handmade to order from natural fabrics, reducing waste and ensuring each garment is truly yours. The pleated square‑neck silhouette and long sleeves offers a sophisiticated look that is great for the winter months ahead.

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5. Tara Mini Dress

Brand: Nobody's Child

Price: $144

The Tara Mini Dress from Nobody’s Child is a sleek A-line with short sleeves and covered buttons, a minimalist dream in 100% organic cotton. It also comes in petite sizes! This sustainable brand uses audited factories and recycled packaging for shipping.

When it comes to curating a sustainable home, pots and pans might not be the first items that come to mind. But sustainability in the kitchen is important too, since many pots, pans, and utensils contain toxic materials like teflon, heavy metals, flame retardants, and other chemicals—all of which can leach into food when heated. 

Fortunately, an increased emphasis on eco-friendly kitchens has sparked the emergence of more sustainable, non-toxic cookware available for your home. Whether you’re roasting a chicken, braising veggies, or baking a batch of cookies, here’s what to look for when browsing cookware—plus a list of sustainable brands you can feel safe using.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better world. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us! Image Cover: Kana

How to Choose Sustainable Cookware

Opting for eco-friendly, healthy cookware isn’t difficult when you know what to look for. The first thing to stay away from is Teflon, a core ingredient in traditional, non-stick cookware. Teflon, a brand name, refers to a waterproof chemical known as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). During its manufacture, producers create perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which is a known carcinogen.

In fact, ovarian, prostate, bladder, and testicular cancers have all been linked to PFOAs (also known as PFAs). Although manufacturers have mostly phased out Teflon in new cookware, some non-stick coatings might still contain PFOAs unless they specify that they do not. Plus, PFOAs have endured in environments for many years. Since the FDA allows certain PFOAs in cookware and other consumer products, it’s important to steer clear of any cookware brands that don’t consider themselves PFOA-free.

Non-Toxic Materials to Look For in Cookware

Opting for certain cookware materials can reduce the chance of exposure to PFOAs and other toxins. The best options for cookware include:

• Cast iron. As long as your iron levels aren’t high, cast iron pans are a durable, long-lasting solution for any kitchen. Plus, they’ll season over time, allowing the flavor to get richer while requiring minimal cleanup.
• Enameled cast iron. A step up from standard cast iron pans, non-toxic enamel surfaces help prevent sticking and rusting, so this kind of cookware may last longer than unenameled counterparts. 
• Stainless steel. Using stainless steel cookware is a smart choice, since it’s extremely durable and distributes heat well. They also wont tarnish or affect the flavor of your food—just make sure to prepare the pan properly to prevent sticking.
• Carbon Steel. Highly durable, recyclable, and has the ability to last a lifetime with proper care—reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing kitchen waste.
• Ceramic. Today, ceramic is one of the best options for cookware, as it’s nontoxic and easy to use. Plus, it tends to be more eco-friendly (and comes in a range of colors and styles).

Looking for bakeware? Check out this post here. Need a new non-toxic air fryer? We have you covered!

We also have a ton of great kitchen and cooking brands in our directory.

Our top picks for non-toxic, sustainable cookware brands:

1. Caraway

Frying Pan Price: $115

use code sustainablychic for 10% off

Caraway is a newer company that cares just as much about consumer health as it does about design. This ceramic-coated cookware looks sleek and fresh, but operates at maximum non-stick capacity (without the chemicals). In fact, their ceramic coating is made from minerals and requires less oil or butter for easier cooking prep and cleanup. You can choose from items like sauce pans, dutch ovens, and sauté and fry pans. If that’s not enough to love, their cookware comes in a range of gorgeous color options like sage, marigold, and perracotta.

Shop Caraway Sustainable Cookware

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2. Our Place

Frying Pan Price: $129

Our Place has been advertised everywhere as of late, and for good reason. Their sell-out product, The Always Pan, is eight pieces of cookware in one, making it great for minimalists. It's made of non-toxic, non-stick ceramic and is free of harmful materials like PFOAs, lead, heavy metals, and more. Plus, it comes in a range of earth tones that look sharp in a modern kitchen. They also have knives, plates, and mugs that can accompany your new eco-friendly setup.

Shop Our Place Sustainable Cookware

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3. Xtrema

Frying Pan Price: $180

Versatile, non-toxic, and purely ceramic, Xtrema makes some of the best sustainable cookware options on the market today. Their cookware is known for retaining heat evenly across every pot and pan, offering a clean, regulated bake or sautée from start to finish. You can also use their pans anywhere, from the microwave, to the stovetop, to the barbeque, offering more creativity to bring all your imaginative cooking creations to life. The best part? They’re made to last forever—and then some.

Shop Xtrema Sustainable Cookware

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4. Alva

Frying Pan Price: $89

Alva Cookware makes non-toxic pans for healthier cooking and a cleaner planet. Unlike traditional nonstick options, their pans are free from harmful chemicals like PFAS and lead. With a ceramic coating for easy food release and a durable design, they ensure great performance in the kitchen. Plus, Alva focuses on sustainability, using recycled materials and eco-friendly methods. Whether you're searing or simmering, these pans help you cook confidently while keeping toxins at bay!

Shop Alva Sustainable Cookware

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5. Kana

Frying Pan Price: $68

Kana's Milo cookware is responsible kitchenware that's made to be shared for generations. They are ethically made with 40% recycled cast iron, dishwasher safe, have enameled cast iron, and come in 10 different beautiful colors. You can also find non-toxic bakeware! Kana is among the few e-commerce brands to offset 100% of shipping-related carbon emissions, and they are also a proud member of 1% for the Planet.

Shop Kana Sustainable Cookware

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6. Great Jones

Frying Pan Price: $105

use code CHIC15 for 15% off (not applicable to Pantry Pals products or Collaborations)

Great Jones makes trendy, functional cookware that empowers your greatest creations in the kitchen. Their non-toxic, enameled cast iron is non-stick and easy to clean. Additionally, these products are dishwasher-friendly and multifunctional, so they don’t cause a fuss to use. Great Jones is also known for its bakeware, including non-stick baking sheets that are PFOA-free and require minimal oil (and no parchment paper) for perfect baked goods. Another reason to love them: they’ve been known to take a stance against injustice and support equality initiatives both in-house and throughout society.

Shop Great Jones Sustainable Cookware

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7. Lodge Cast Iron

Skillet Price: $10-60

Since 1896, Lodge Cast Iron has been making high-quality cast iron cookware. Today, they sell a range of items spanning seasoned cast iron, enameled cookware, bakeware, and more. In addition to the fact that cast iron is a durable, long-lasting material that doesn’t contain toxins, Lodge is a company committed to sustainable practices. For example, they use biodegradable packaging, enforce company-wide recycling, and leverage equipment that minimizes energy usage.

Shop Lodge Cast Iron Sustainable Cookware

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8. Made In

Frying Pan Price: $119-159

Made In offers premium, non-toxic cookware crafted with professional performance and home kitchens in mind. Their stainless steel, carbon steel, and ceramic collections are thoughtfully designed without harmful coatings like PFAS, PFOA, or PTFE, making them a safer choice for everyday cooking. Made In collaborates with family-owned factories in the U.S. and Europe for ethical production and high quality. Their durable pieces promote sustainability by reducing the need for replacements. With a commitment to clean materials, transparency, and top-tier craftsmanship, Made In is a trusted brand for those looking to cook consciously without compromising performance.

Shop Made In Sustainable Cookware

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Crafting a safe kitchen with non-toxic cookware.

From baking pans, to dutch ovens, to spoons and spatulas, the average kitchen is filled with opportunities for toxins and other unclean materials to seep into our food. Fortunately, opting for sustainable cookware is a healthy investment that protects both your family and the environment for years to come

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About the Author
Michelle Polizzi is an independent writer and storyteller with 7 years of experience creating content online. Her writing has appeared in leading publications like Bitch, WELL+GOOD, Insider, and Healthline, and she covers topics like sustainable living, mental health, and intersectional feminism. Currently, she's pursuing an MFA in creative writing.

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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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SHEIN has exploded in popularity over the last few years thanks to VERY low prices and an endless stream of trendy clothes. But that speed and scale come at a cost: labor exploitation, toxic fabrics, and massive amounts of textile waste. SHEIN represents the extreme of fast fashion (what we now call ULTRA fast fashion) producing thousands of new styles every day, designed to be worn a handful of times before being tossed aside.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better world. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

Fashion should not exist like this. Here are 10 SHEIN alternatives that let you enjoy style without the environmental and ethical baggage.

Why We Don’t Shop at SHEIN

SHEIN is built on overproduction. Their business model relies on churning out clothing at extreme speed, with little transparency around who makes their garments or how they’re paid. Investigations have found evidence of unsafe working conditions & poverty wages, while independent testing has uncovered toxic chemicals in some of their products. Add in their reliance on cheap synthetics like polyester and nylon, and you get clothing that not only harms the people making it but also pollutes our planet.

That’s why I choose to support brands and platforms that slow things down and prioritize people, the planet, and true style longevity.

Our Top Picks for Sustainable Alternatives to SHEIN

1. Secondhand Apps

If you love SHEIN for variety, secondhand apps like Depop and ThredUp give you that same endless scroll, but with pre-loved pieces. Buying secondhand extends the life of clothing already in circulation, keeping items out of landfills (more than 80% of what you donate will end up in a landfill). Depop is great for unique, trend-driven finds, while ThredUp makes it easy to filter for affordable everyday basics. Both options are budget-friendly, fun to browse, and let you change up your style without contributing to the waste of fast fashion.

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2. SeamsFriendly

For shoppers who love finding feminine & unique pieces, SeamsFriendly is a beautiful alternative. Their clothing is made-to-order in India by skilled artisans, meaning every piece is created ethically & with care. They focus on natural fabrics like cotton and linen, with timeless silhouettes that feel as wearable as SHEIN’s styles, just built to last! Their size-inclusive, customizable designs mean you can order pieces made exactly for you, something fast fashion can never deliver.

use code: SF-SUSTAINABLYCHIC-GY15 for 15% off

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3. Parade

If you shop SHEIN for trendy intimates or loungewear, Parade has you covered in a sustainable way. Known for its colorful, size-inclusive designs, Parade creates underwear and basics from recycled and certified eco-friendly fabrics. Their bold styles feel as playful as what you’d find on SHEIN, but with transparency around materials and ethical production. They also focus heavily on inclusivity, with campaigns and products that celebrate all bodies.

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4. No Nasties

If you’re drawn to SHEIN’s affordable cotton basics, No Nasties is a planet-friendly swap. Everything is made from 100% organic, Fairtrade-certified cotton (or recycled fabrics), sewn in a fully transparent supply chain. Their designs are colorful, comfortable, and versatile, similar to SHEIN’s casual pieces but without the environmental harm. Plus, No Nasties invests in reforestation, offsetting more carbon than they emit. It’s affordable fashion with a conscience.

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5. Yes Friends

Yes Friends proves you can make an affordable t-shirt without exploiting workers. Their tees start at just $11, made from organic cotton in Fair Trade-certified factories where workers earn living wages. They've expanped into hoodies, dresses, and other basics too. If you shop SHEIN for low-cost wardrobe staples, Yes Friends shows that fair pricing and fair labor can go hand in hand.

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6. Honest Basics

Honest Basics is a great ethical alternative to SHEIN for you everyday basics. Their products include t-shirts, leggings, and underwear, all made ethically from GOTS-certified organic cotton. They keep prices low to make sustainability accessible, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune on a good piece of clothing. It’s simple, minimal clothing done right.

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7. Pact

Pact is another excellent alternative, if you shop basics at SHEIN. Their clothing is made from organic cotton in Fair Trade-certified factories, with a wide range of affordable pieces for both men & women. From leggings and tanks to cozy dresses and pajamas, Pact delivers comfort, style, and responsibility. They also prioritize carbon-neutral shipping, making them a great option for eco-conscious shoppers.

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8. Nobody's Child

For trendy-like clothing, Nobody’s Child offers a more sustainable option. Based in the UK, they create dresses, jumpsuits, sweaters & more using responsibly sourced fabrics like organic cotton & LENZING™ ECOVERO™. Their playful designs are perfect for shoppers who want the same “new outfit” excitement as SHEIN but without the fast fashion fallout.

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9. Happy Earth

This wonderful brand, Happy Earth, combines casual comfort with climate action. Their collection of tees, sweatshirts, & activewear is made from organic and recycled fabrics, and each purchase contributes to environmental initiatives like planting trees or removing trash from ecosystems. If you shop SHEIN for casual, comfy styles, Happy Earth gives you the same vibe but with a meaningful impact attached to every item.

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10. Clothing Rentals

If you love the constant newness of SHEIN, clothing rental is an awesome sustainable alternative. Platforms like Nuuly let you borrow trendy, stylish pieces for a monthly fee, wear them as much as you like, then return them. This keeps your wardrobe feeling fresh while not having to spend the same amount of money on something new. Instead of piling up cheap, disposable clothes, you get variety without the long-term impact.

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The Takeaway: Why SHEIN Should be Avoided

SHEIN operates on the premise that we need new clothes every day, and the brand would not exist without the culture of overconsumption. It wasn’t created to provide clothing for those with limited budgets; rather, its purpose is to encourage customers to buy large quantities of clothing each month. Reportedly, the average SHEIN customer spends about $100 monthly on new clothes.

Fortunately, there are better ways to refresh your wardrobe without negatively impacting people & the planet. Options like secondhand shopping, clothing rentals, and supporting sustainable brands can provide the style and variety you desire…just without the guilt associated with fast fashion.

You’ve probably seen the OEKO-TEX® label before; it’s commonly found on things like towels, bedsheets, and clothing. I’ve been seeing the label more often at big box stores like Target, which is really exciting. This means third-party verified eco-friendly products are becoming more accessible to all consumers.

In this article, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about OEKO-TEX®. We will explain what it means, and will detail how their various labels differ. We will identify which brands are using OEKO-TEX® certified products. Lastly, we will explore how their MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX® label is a step toward sustainability.

Let’s get to it.

This post is sponsored by OEKO-TEX®. We are excited to work with OEKO-TEX® because of their commitment to making non-toxic and eco-friendly consumer products more accessible with their various certifications and labeling systems. As always, we only recommend brands we truly believe in.

What is OEKO-TEX®?

OEKO-TEX® consists of several third-party certifications that ensure products undergo testing for potentially harmful chemicals that could affect humans and the wider ecosystem. OEKO-TEX® doesn’t manufacture any products itself; rather, it verifies other companies’ products.

Started in 1992, OEKO-TEX® has since expanded to include 18 independent represented around the world and six separate sets of standards that serve different purposes. (We’re going to break those down for you in a minute.)

Their overall mission is to “create trust in textiles and leather and in their production: through increased product safety, improving sustainable production and a sustainable, transparent value-creation chain.”

Third-party certifications are super important because they help to prevent greenwashing. This is becoming more and more important as sustainability becomes trendier. It’s easy for companies to jump on the eco bandwagon with their marketing jargon, but as conscious consumers, we want companies to prove that they’re putting their money where their mouth is. Having an outside body come in and check their operations and products according to a specific set of standards can help make this happen.

What materials can be OEKO-TEX® certified?

The majority of materials and end products that are OEKO-TEX® certified are in the textile category. But within that, there is actually a pretty wide variety of goods that can potentially earn an OEKO-TEX® certification label. These include:

• Any kind of textile in any stage of processing, starting from the threads to the finished goods. This includes natural fibers like cotton and wool as well as synthetics like polyester and semi-synthetics like rayon.

• Other components of a finished product undergo testing, such as threads, buttons, zippers, linings, dyes, and coatings.

• Metals and glass

• Foams and plastics

• Leather

Breaking Down the OEKO-TEX® Labels

There are six different labels that a material or end product can potentially earn from OEKO-TEX®. 

STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®

This is the most popular label that you’re likely to see most often. The STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification means that every component of the end product (including buttons, zippers, etc.) has been tested for harmful substances.

The substances tested for include both regulated and non-regulated ones, and in many cases, the limit values for these substances go beyond national and international requirements. The team updates the criteria catalog at least once a year and expands it with new scientific knowledge or statutory requirements. This not only helps to give confidence to consumers that what they’re buying is safe, but it also helps brands and manufacturers to stay up to date with the latest data on substance safety and toxicity (which can be a lot of work when you’re also trying to run a company!)

MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX®

The MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX® label is similar to the STANDARD 100, but takes it even further. Manufacturers test not only materials and end products for harmful substances but also evaluate the processes used to create those products.

The MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX® label ensures that manufacturers produce products in environmentally friendly ways. This includes responsible management of chemicals, wastewater handling, and other sustainable practices. Not only that, but this label also accounts for the working conditions of the workers involved in making the product as well.

This more holistic label is becoming more popular, and we’re happy to see it!

How is OEKO-TEX® different from other certifications?

Different types of certifications test, audit, and verify materials and products at different production stages. STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®, for example, mostly looks at the safety of end products. Other certifications such as Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Organic, on the other hand, look at things like how a certain product (or ingredient/material used to make a product) was grown and harvested. 

Additionally, some labels may be inapplicable for certain products or materials. Rayon, for example, cannot be certified organic (since it’s not considered a “natural product” by the time it gets to its end-stage). However, it can be certified by OEKO-TEX® to ensure it’s tested for toxic substances. (As a side note, the OEKO-TEX® certification is actually really important for materials like rayon. This is because of the harsh chemicals used to turn bamboo and eucalyptus from a plant into a silky rayon fabric. This is why it’s important to buy TENCEL™ branded rayon textiles because they all carry the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification.)

Other labels include the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which certifies that wood, paper, and rubber-based products are sourced sustainably. Additionally, Fair Trade International considers the wages and working conditions of the people who make the products. 

As you can see, all of these different labels test and verify different things. This is why you will often see multiple labels on one product. Under the Canopy, for example, carries the MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX® label as well as the GOTS Organic and FSC certifications. This indicates that their bedding and towels have been verified by third parties across the entire life of the product, from sourcing (FSC) to growing and harvesting (GOTS), to the supply chain and end product (MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX®).

How OEKO-TEX® is increasing product transparency with their label check tool:

I think OEKO-TEX’s Label Check tool is really cool. It’s just one more step they’re taking to help empower consumers to take steps toward sustainability and prevent greenwashing.

Basically, this tool allows you to look up a specific OEKO-TEX® certified product using a number and/or QR code to verify whether or not the product is carrying a valid OEKO-TEX® label.

It’s super easy, too. All you have to do is:

1. Enter the label ID at madeingreen.com or scan the QR code.
2. On the page that comes up, you can view the supply chain, click on various icons to learn more about the process details, the factories where the product was made, etc.
3. That’s it!

Some of our favorite OEKO-TEX® Certified Brands and Products

A LOT of the brands and products we’ve been featuring on Sustainably Chic for years carry an OEKO-TEX® label.

Check out our post - HERE - for 14 clothing brands who use the OEKO-TEX® label

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Conclusion

So there you have it! Hopefully, the next time you see a MADE IN GREEN or STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® label on an article of clothing or set of bedsheets, you feel educated and empowered, knowing that it’s been third-party tested and certified to be traceable and safer for people and the planet. And if you’re ever in doubt, just use the OEKO-TEX® label to verify and find out more information about the life of your product.

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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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If you’ve ever walked into H&M “just to browse” and somehow walked out with three bags of clothes, you know exactly how tempting fast fashion can be. Trendy styles, low prices, and a steady stream of new arrivals keep us hooked and coming back for more. But that’s also the problem. H&M is one of the largest fast fashion brands in the world, producing at a scale that’s simply not sustainable.

The good news? You don’t have to give up great style to shop your values. These 10 sustainable H&M alternatives bring you the same wearable, everyday fashion, but with far less environmental and ethical cost.

Why We Don’t Shop at H&M

While H&M has marketed “Conscious” collections and recycling initiatives, the core of their business model is still overproduction. Thousands of new styles hit their racks each year, many made from synthetic, fossil-fuel-based fabrics like polyester that shed microplastics with every wash.

There’s also the issue of labor rights, while H&M publishes some supply chain details, garment workers are still widely reported to receive poverty wages and work in unsafe conditions. Add to that the sheer scale of their output, and it’s clear that small “green” collections can’t offset the harm caused by fast fashion’s churn-and-burn approach.

That’s why we choose to support brands that value transparency, quality, and people just as much as style.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better world. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

Here are 10 of our Favorite Sustainable H&M Alternatives:

1. Nazeerah

Shirt Price: $29+

Nazeerah's clothing is made-to-order, which means nothing is produced unless someone actually wants it, eliminating overproduction before it starts. Each piece is crafted from natural and upcycled fabrics, often featuring timeless silhouettes with modern details. This gives you the same easy wearability you might find at H&M, but with the quality and longevity that fast fashion can’t match.

Shopping Nazeerah also supports skilled garment makers directly, ensuring fair wages and ethical working conditions.

Shop Nazeerah

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2. No Nasties

Shirt Price: $10+

If you head to H&M for casual, everyday cotton clothing, No Nasties offers a planet-friendly alternative. Everything they make is 100% organic and Fairtrade-certified, grown without pesticides and produced in a fully transparent supply chain. Their designs have a playful, easy-going feel, with simple silhouettes and bright colors that make getting dressed fun. Instead of supporting fast fashion's waste cycle,

No Nasties focuses on quality and ethical manufacturing. It’s clothing you feel good wearing, both for comfort and because it’s making a positive impact on farming communities and the environment.

Shop No Nasties

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3. Kotn

Shirt Price: $25+

Kotn is the go-to brand for elevated basics. They work directly with smallholder farmers in Egypt to grow the highest quality cotton while ensuring fair wages and investing in community projects like building schools. If you like H&M for its clean, versatile staples, Kotn offers the same aesthetic but in far better fabrics and construction.

Their minimalist designs, like soft tees and cozy sweaters, are made to last season after season, and every purchase supports a more transparent & equitable supply chain, making Kotn a true investment in better fashion.

Shop Kotn

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4. OMNES

Shirt Price: $21+

OMNES delivers the trendy vibe that H&M shoppers love without the overproduction. This UK-based brand creates limited runs of pieces from responsibly sourced fabrics like organic cotton, TENCEL™, and recycled polyester. They design with versatility in mind, so their dresses, tailoring, and separates can be styled multiple ways and worn across seasons.

With their transparent supply chain information & strict sustainability guidelines, OMNES shows you can stay on trend while buying clothing that’s kinder to the planet. It’s a fashion fix that feels as fresh as fast fashion, without the waste.

Shop OMNES

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5. Afends

Shirt Price: $31+

Afends is a great H&M swap if you are looking for relaxed, everyday streetwear. This Australian brand uses low-impact fabrics like hemp, organic cotton, and recycled fibers to create clothing that’s comfortable and looks good. Their aesthetic is laid-back but with a hint of edge, perfect for weekend wear or casual workdays.

While H&M relies on synthetic-based (polyester, gross) styles, Afends is investing in regenerative agriculture and ethical production. They show that casual fashion can be both fun and future-focused, without relying on mass production or cheap materials.

use code AFENDSCHIC15 for 15% off

Shop Afends

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6. Yes Friends

Shirt Price: $11+

Yes Friends is ideal for those who shop H&M for comfortable, go-anywhere clothing. Their pieces are made from certified organic cotton, dyed with low-impact processes, and produced in Fair Trade-certified factories.

From soft tees and linen trousers to easy dresses, these designs are versatile so you can wear them at home, out with friends, or while traveling. Yes Friends proves that sustainable fashion doesn’t have to be expensive.

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7. Honest Basics

Shirt Price: $10+

Honest Basics is exactly what the name promises: affordable, sustainable wardrobe staples. If you usually stock up on H&M’s basics section, this is the ethical version.

Their collection includes everything from classic tees and tanks to leggings and underwear, all made from GOTS-certified organic cotton in transparent factories. Prices are intentionally kept accessible so more people can choose sustainable options.

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8. Known Supply

Shirt Price: $18+

Known Supply goes beyond making ethical clothing, they make the process personal. Each garment comes with the name of the person who made it, connecting you directly to the maker.

Their clothing is casual, comfortable, and perfect for everyday wear, similar to the pieces you might grab from H&M. The big difference? Everything is made from organic and recycled fabrics, with fair wages and safe conditions as non-negotiables. Known Supply puts a human face to your wardrobe, reminding us that fashion is always made by people, not machines.

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9. Toad&Co

Shirt Price: $48+

Toad & Co is for the H&M shopper who loves variety, they offer dresses, sweaters, pants, and outerwear that transition easily from work to weekend. Their fabrics include organic cotton, hemp, and TENCEL™, and they’re committed to reducing waste through initiatives like their clothing resale platform.

The designs are casual yet refined, giving you pieces you can wear year after year. Unlike H&M’s trend-driven turnover, Toad & Co’s styles are timeless, and their quality means you’ll replace them far less often, saving money and reducing your environmental footprint.

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10. CHNGE

Shirt Price: $19+

CHNGE gives you the bold graphics and casual streetwear that H&M often carries, but with a genuine commitment to ethics. All of their clothing is made from 100% organic cotton in Fair Trade-certified factories, and they’re fully carbon neutral.

CHNGE also uses their platform to highlight social and environmental justice issues, so you can wear your values on your sleeve, literally. Their hoodies, tees, and sweatshirts are built to last, meaning you won’t be replacing them after just a few washes.

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