Image: Poppy Barley

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 Sustainable Shoes

Welcome to the ultimate guide to stepping towards a greener future with the best sustainable shoes for style and sustainability. In a world where conscious consumerism is gaining traction, more and more fashion-conscious individuals are turning to sustainable alternatives without compromising on style.

This article is your go-to resource for discovering brands that prioritize not only fashion-forward designs but also ethical practices, eco-friendly materials, and fair working conditions. Say goodbye to sacrificing your fashion sense for the environment! With the growing availability of sustainable shoe options, you can embrace both style and sustainability.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best sustainable shoe options currently available, from eco-friendly sneakers made from recycled materials to vegan footwear using non-animal-derived materials. Each brand showcased here is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, embracing innovative manufacturing techniques, and promoting social responsibility.

So, whether you're a trendsetter looking to make a fashion statement or an eco-warrior striving to protect the planet, this article will help you make informed choices and take a stylish step toward a greener future. Let's dive in and explore the world of sustainable shoes together.

If you are looking for men’s shoes, check out this post here. We also have a post dedicated to Rain Boots, Winter Boots, Heels, Sandals, Sneakers & Slippers. 

The Environmental Impact of Traditional Shoe Manufacturing

Traditional shoe manufacturing processes have a significant environmental impact. The fashion industry has long been associated with pollution and waste, from the use of harmful chemicals to the mass production of non-biodegradable materials. The production of conventional shoes often involves the extraction of fossil fuels for synthetic materials, excessive water usage, and the emission of greenhouse gases.

Furthermore, the disposal of worn-out shoes adds to the global waste problem. Most traditional shoes end up in landfills, where decomposing takes hundreds of years. The harmful substances used in their production can also leach into the soil and water, further polluting the environment.

What is a Sustainable Shoe?

When it comes to sustainable shoes, we look for many things: Who makes them? What are they made from? Can we wear them for years to come? Seeing transparency within the supply chain is very important at Sustainably Chic. We want to ensure the person making the shoes is treated well and makes a fair wage.

Factors to Consider When Buying Sustainable Shoes

When purchasing sustainable shoes, several factors must be considered to ensure you're making an informed and ethical choice. Here are some key considerations:

1. Materials: Look for shoes made from eco-friendly and sustainable materials, such as recycled or organic materials. Avoid shoes made from synthetic materials that contribute to pollution and waste.

2. Certifications: Check if the brand has certifications or accreditations validating their sustainable practices. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), or Bluesign.

3. Supply Chain Transparency: Transparency ensures ethical practices throughout the supply chain. Research the brand's commitment to fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmental responsibility.

4. Durability: Sustainable shoes should be designed to last. Look for high-quality craftsmanship and materials that can withstand everyday wear and tear.

5. End-of-Life Options: Consider what options are available for recycling or repurposing the shoes once they reach the end of their lifecycle. Brands that offer recycling programs or take-back initiatives contribute to a circular economy.

By considering these factors, you can make a more conscious and sustainable choice when buying shoes.

What Types of Eco-Friendly Materials Should You Look For?

The perfect biodegradable shoe is yet to be a reality. Shoes are tricky because you want them to last - materials aren’t always ideal. Still, we prefer to find veggie-tanned leathers and recycled rubbers/polyesters, so at least we aren’t creating new virgin threads for a pair of shoes. Many of these brands also use natural fibers like organic cotton & hemp - and some of these brands are even doing amazing things like using apple peels or algae!

How Sustainable Shoes Contribute to a Greener Future

Choosing sustainable shoes is more than just a fashion statement; it is a step towards a greener future. By supporting brands prioritizing sustainability, you encourage the fashion industry to adopt more eco-friendly practices. Here are some ways sustainable shoes contribute to a greener future:

1. Reduced Carbon Footprint: Sustainable shoe brands prioritize reducing carbon emissions by using renewable materials, energy-efficient production processes, and carbon offset initiatives.

2. Waste Reduction: Using recycled materials, sustainable shoe brands help divert waste from landfills and reduce the need for new resource extraction.

3. Ethical Practices: Sustainable shoe brands often prioritize fair trade practices, ensuring that workers are paid fair wages and work in safe conditions. By supporting these brands, you contribute to the fight against labor exploitation and promote social responsibility.

4. Innovation and Education: Sustainable shoe brands drive innovation in the industry by exploring new materials and manufacturing techniques. They also educate consumers about the environmental impact of traditional shoe production, encouraging more conscious buying decisions.

By choosing sustainable shoes, you are making a positive impact on the environment and supporting a shift towards a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.

Our Top Picks for Sustainable Shoe Brands:

1. Poppy Barley

Price: $120 - 485

Materials: LWG Veggie-Tanned Leather

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. They make insanely comfortable footwear and well-designed accessories with inclusive sizing 5-12 and in medium and wide widths.

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code: FREESHIPSC for free shipping

2. Nisolo

Price: $50 - 250

Materials: LWG Veggie-Tanned Leather

All shoes are made of leather that originates from Leather Working Group certified tanneries, which meet the highest standards of environmental responsibility in the industry. Some models even have vegetable-tanned leather outsoles. Nisolo is a certified B corporation. Entirely carbon neutral, it offsets its carbon footprint by investing in forest conservation projects in the Peruvian Amazon. 

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3. Made Trade

Price: $89 - 280

Made Trade houses a bunch of different sustainable shoe brands. It’s nice to shop from several different designers at once, & they have everything from sandals to boots.

Some of our favorite brands can be found there, too! Made Trade also has an extensive collection of shoes for men - from slippers to dress shoes, you’ll be able to find something to add to their closet.

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4. Able

Price: $44-120

Materials: LWG Veggie-Tanned Leather

FashionABLE believes in order to end poverty we must provide jobs for those lacking opportunity, particularly for women. 

Their collection of veggie-tanned leather shoes is absolutely beautiful. They have heels, flats, boots & sandals.

Their leather comes in all different colors and even a few prints!

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5. Okabashi

Price: $25-35

Materials: Vegan Recycled & Recyclable Plastic

Looking for shoes made right here in the US? Okabashi’s shoes are handcrafted in Buford, GA, and they are proud to be in the remaining 1% of US footwear manufacturers. The material they use is vegan, cruelty-free, and 100% recyclable. Plus, all the scraps and non-saleable returns are turned into new product.They are also incredibly easy to clean and very comfortable!

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6. Will’s Vegan Store

Materials: Bio-based vegan leather

Price: $58 - 124

The online vegan department store that makes shopping vegan shoes as easy as anything! Find classic brogues and sleek loafers, perfect for office wear or special occasions. Will’s Vegan Store uses a vegan leather made from bio oil sourced from organic cereal crops grown in Northern Europe in a carbon-neutral process.

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code: SUSTAINABLYCHIC for 10% off

7. Biankina

Materials: Recycled Microfiber, Cork, Jute, Rubber

Price range: $70 - 140

Biankina is a sustainable footwear brand based in Barcelona that sells vegan shoes, including a variety of sandals for women. If you are looking for the perfect Birkenstock alternative, this brand is your best bet! They also have beautiful Espadrilles and Canvas Wedges.

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8. Oka-B

Materials: Bio-based Material

Price: $38 - 78

For the cutest sandals and ballet flats, look no further than Oka-B. Originally made as a spa shoe, they feature arch support and massage beads to keep your feet pampered 24/7. All Oka-B shoes are made with a bio-based material that contains 45% soy by weight and is BPA, latex, rubber, and phthalate-free. Oka-B shoes are made in the USA & when you return your well-loved & worn shoes, they recycle them & send a 15% off coupon toward your next purchase. 

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use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC10 for 10% off

9. Veerah

Price: $109 - 448

Materials: Vegan Apple Leather, Algae, Renewed Plastics, Bamboo Leather

Some of the most beautiful heels you can find, Veerah has been one of our favorites for years. This brand’s shoes are inspired by women and made for warriors - and I know that they indeed make a very comfortable heel! Another plus, Veerah focuses on giving to causes that support women and girls.

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10. Thesus

Price: $80-198

Materials: Recycled Rubber, Post-Industrial Car Seat Leather, Recycle Nylon & Foam

I own a pair of their rain boots, and I haven’t bought a new pair for several years now.

They also have winter boots that are vegan & will keep you dry all year long. Plus, their vegan sneakers are made from recycled car seat leather! How interesting is that?

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11. Nae Vegan Shoes

Price: $39 - 248

Materials: Piñatex, AppleSkin, Cork

Portuguese vegan footwear brand Nae Vegan Shoes (standing for No Animal Exploitation) was founded in 2008 and is well known for their beautiful animal-free footwear. Their sandals, sneakers, boots and heels, all with European-inspired designs, are made with Piñatex, AppleSkin, cork, rPET, and On Steam Bioeco, the first ecological microfiber obtained partially from corn and recycled polyester. 

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12. Etiko

Price: $20 - 95

Materials: Natural Rubber, Organic Cotton

Australian brand Etiko specializes in organic, vegan, feel-good fashion and has a range of footwear, including sneakers, flip-flops and flats. Using natural rubber and 100% organic cotton, they create Fairtrade footwear that you can feel good knowing your footprints are that much lighter on the planet!

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13. Veja

Price: $135 - 225

Materials: LWG Leather, Recycled Water Bottles, Sugarcane, Organic Cotton

Veja is a footwear brand for the whole family. Its mission is to design shoes that will stand the test of time. If you’re looking for sneakers, the brand has different styles and colors to choose from. The lining of Veja shoes is made of organic cotton and recycled polyester. We love that Veja is very transparent about its carbon footprint and even discloses the individual carbon footprint of its shoe models. It also follows fair trade principles and works directly with small producers.

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14. Cariuma

Price: $79-169

Materials: Cotton Canvas, Cork Vegan Insoles, Recycled Plastic Laces, Bamboo, Sugarcane

For a classic look that will last for many years, Cariuma uses only ethical manufacturing, recycled packaging, and carbon-neutral shipping. They are a Certified B-Corp Brand, & every shoe is made in an ethical factory in China. These factories have strict codes of conduct & fair wages. Plus, each pair purchased, plants 2 trees!

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15. Noah Italian Vegan Shoes

Price: $70 - 200

Materials: Corn Leather, Cork

Noah Italian Vegan Shoes protect animals by excluding leather from each step of production and are 100% vegan PETA certified. All their shoes are made from sustainable and environmentally friendly materials, with a high percentage of recycled fibers. They are also toxin-free and hypoallergenic.

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Sustainable Shoe Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of your sustainable shoes. Here are some tips to keep your shoes in top condition:

1. Cleaning: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning your sustainable shoes. Use eco-friendly shoe cleaners or gentle soap to avoid harsh chemicals that could harm the environment.

2. Protection: Apply a waterproof or protective spray to shield your shoes from dirt, stains, and water damage. Look for eco-friendly options that do not contain harmful chemicals.

3. Storage: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew. Use shoe trees or stuffing to maintain their shape and to avoid creasing.

4. Repair and Reuse: If your sustainable shoes need repairs, consider getting them fixed instead of replacing them. Many brands offer repair services to extend the lifespan of your footwear. Reusing or donating your shoes when you no longer need them is also a sustainable option.

Taking proper care of your sustainable shoes ensures they last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.

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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:

Image: ABLE

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 sustainable Birkenstock alternatives

With their chunky buckled straps, anatomically shaped footbeds, and cork and rubber soles, Birkenstock sandals are some of the most popular shoes ever created in modern history. 

The brand was founded in 1774 by a German shoemaker called Johann Adam Birkenstock. It gained traction at the beginning of the 20th century after one of its descendants invented flexible insoles designed to support and conform to the shape of the wearer’s foot. At the time, the sandals were considered a fashion faux pas but were highly recommended by physicians. 

The shoes were introduced in the United States in the late 1960s where they became a wardrobe staple in hippy circles. But it was not until the 1990s that they really began to take off among Americans. Nowadays, Birkenstock sandals are still extremely popular and are seen by many all around the world as a must-have fashion accessory. 

However, these iconic shoes are far from being sustainably and ethically made. If you are trying to build a conscious wardrobe and only buy eco-friendly shoes, read on! 

In this article, we have selected the 9 best sustainable alternatives to Birkenstocks so that your feet can step into comfort and style without harming the planet! 

ARE BIRKENSTOCKS SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL?

The brand is far from being sustainable and ethical for different reasons. 

While Birkenstock uses some eco-friendly materials like jute or cork for its footbeds, most of its shoes are made with unsustainable ones, such as conventional leather and suede or synthetic materials. 

Even though its shoes are quite durable and well made, these materials are some of the worst when it comes to their impact on the planet. 

Birkenstock also does not seem to be doing much to reduce its environmental footprint apart from using almost exclusively solvent-free, water-based glues in its production process. It is far from enough! 

Moreover, while Birkenstock sandals are made in Germany, where the company has to comply with the European Union’s strict labor laws, we do not know whether it prioritizes ethical practices throughout its entire supply chain. Are all its workers paid fair wages and working in safe conditions? Who knows? 

The brand also does not seem to disclose anything about who its suppliers are and where it sources its materials from.

For all those reasons, we are all better off opting for a more ethical and sustainable alternative to Birkenstocks! 

WHAT MAKES A PAIR OF SANDALS SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL?

A sustainable sandal is one made with quality and longevity in mind. It should last you many seasons, and you should be able to wear it over and over again without seeing any significant signs of wear. Once it starts to wear out, see if you can repair or resole it. 

It is also made with eco-friendly materials and produced using sustainable practices. For instance, the brand should have taken steps to reduce its material waste, save energy and water, and minimize its use of harmful chemicals.

Sustainable sandals are also crafted in an ethical environment. Workers in the supply chain should receive fair wages, allowing them to live decently in their country and work in a non-toxic, safe workplace. 

Avoid buying from fast fashion brands because they do not prioritize the planet and their employees. Instead, choose a transparent brand that discloses how its products are made and where. Ideally, look for companies that received third-party certifications such as Climate-Neutral, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, or B Corporation. 

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Sustainable sandals and shoes can be made from a variety of eco-friendly materials. One of the most sustainable is faux leather made from food waste, such as apple leather or piñatex. 

Other great options are models made from recycled plastic or any other type of recycled material like recycled rubber or recycled car tires. 

If you prefer leather shoes, opt for high-quality leather that is vegetable-tanned and certified by the Leather Working Group. 

Sustainable brands also use natural materials such as cork, jute, or responsibly sourced natural rubber to make their soles and footbeds. 

NOW, OUR TOP PICKS FOR COMFY, SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES TO BIRKENSTOCKS

1. ABLE

Materials: Leather, Rubber

Price: on sale $48

ABLE is a sustainable clothing brand on a mission to create better opportunities for women working in the fashion industry.  

It has a gorgeous pair of classic slip-on sandals that look like Birkenstocks. Combining style, fit, and function, these white slides have a very simple, yet stylish and chic look, and can be worn with practically anything from jeans to shorts to a cute little summer dress.  

They feature an adjustable double strap with oversized gold-tone buckles, which you can adjust so that they fit perfectly even if you have wider feet. Their padded footbed is designed to maximize comfort when walking. 

ABLE makes these sandals in Brazil using full-grain, Napa leather for both the uppers and lining and rubber for the outsoles. 

The brand sources its leather as a product of the meat industry and uses semi-vegetable tanning to process it. The material ages beautifully over time, giving it more of a vintage look. It is also made to stand the test of time and crafted with quality and longevity in mind.

ABLE also makes sure all workers in its supply chain are paid living wages and are provided with dignified, safe working conditions. 

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2. Nisolo

Materials: LWG Leather

Price: $138

Nisolo launched the Ella Platform Slide just in time for the warmer months ahead, and we LOVE the new style. 

These comfy slides (which come in 3 colors) will be your next everyday go-to!

Nisolo is a certified B Corp and carbon-neutral company known for making ethical shoes. 

They have been leading the way when it comes to paying living wages and creating an ethical work environment. They publish their wages and are very transparent about who makes their products and where. 

code: FREESHIPSC for free shipping

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3. Poppy Barley

Materials: LWG Veggie-Tanned Leather, Rubber, Memory Foam Insoles

Price: $218

Want the perfect fit? The Wanderlust Sandals from Poppy Barley have adjustable velcro straps (around the toes and back!) in order for you to customize your fit.

They also have additional arch support, so you can feel comfortable wearing them all day. Poppy Barley uses earth-conscious, water-based glues, and their shoeboxes are Forest Stewardship Council-certified and made with 67% recycled paper, water-based inks, and organic pigments!

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. Will's Vegan Store

Materials: Bio-Based Vegan Leather, Cork, Vegan Suede, Recycled Rubber, Recycled Polyurethane 

Price: $106

Will’s Vegan Store creates all kinds of shoes and clothes for women and men using vegan and cruelty-free materials. It offers multiple styles of sandals and two pairs of clogs that are quite similar to Birkenstocks. The uppers, which come with adjustable metal buckles to get the perfect fit, are either made from vegan suede or Italian vegan leather made with 69% bio-based content.

Its faux leather is produced in part from cereal crops with a viscose backing fabric derived from eucalyptus trees. 

The brand’s sandals and clogs feature shock-absorbing cork footbeds providing arch support, insoles made of recycled polyurethane, a heel cup, and durable, grippy outsoles made with recycled rubber. They are also lined with soft vegan suede, making them very comfortable to wear, even without socks. 

Will’s Vegan Store crafts them in Portugal and ships them using plastic-free packaging. It is also Climate-Neutral Certified, meaning that it measures and offsets its entire carbon footprint. 

You can even use the brand’s “return to recycle” service to send back your shoes at the end of their lives so that they can get turned into new outsoles and uppers!

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5. Biankina

Materials: Recycled Microfiber, Cork, Jute, Rubber

Price range: $80-90

Biankina is a sustainable footwear brand based in Barcelona that sells vegan shoes, including a variety of sandals for women. 

From its classic double-strap slides to one-strap models, most of its sandals are very similar to Birkenstocks. It even has double-strap slip-ons with a platform sole as well as a flip-flop type of sandal that looks like Birkenstock’s Gizeh model.

All of Biankina’s sandals have a timeless, modern, and elegant design, and they can be dressed up or down. You can choose from different colors, including some metallic ones. Both light and easy to wear, they will keep your feet comfortable and supported all day long! 

The brand makes the uppers using Global Recycled Standard-certified recycled microfiber. It also uses soles made from 100% natural rubber and memory foam insoles. The cork midsoles provide natural shock absorption as you walk. 

Since they also contain jute fiber, these sandals are designed to reduce heat conductivity, making them the perfect shoes for summer. 

Biankina’s slides are handcrafted by skilled artisans in an ethical workshop in Spain. All its products are vegan and no harmful chemicals or glues are used during the production process. 

And if you buy the one-strap style, the brand will plant two trees for your purchase. 

use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC for 10% off

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6. Nae Vegan Shoes

Materials: Piñatex, Cork, Recycled PET, Microfiber, Recycled Car Tires, EVA, Rubber

Price: $96

Nae Vegan Shoes is a Portuguese vegan footwear brand that sells sustainable shoes for women and men. Everything it creates is 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and crafted ethically in certified factories in Portugal. 

The company offers a beautiful alternative to Birkenstock sandals with its DARCO collection.

Its four unisex slides are available in black, off-white, dark brown, and dark green. 

They feature two adjustable straps with gold nickel-free buckles that you can adjust for the perfect fit. They are either made from GRS-certified recycled PET, locally sourced FSC-certified natural cork, or piñatex made from pineapple leaf fibers.

These sandals are lined with OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified microfiber produced in a CO2-free environment. So they do not contain any harmful substances and are 100% safe to wear! The lining is also hypoallergenic and has antibacterial properties to prevent odors. 

The sandals’ ergonomic footbeds provide arch support and are crafted from cork and natural rubber, and their slip-resistant soles are produced from recycled car tires. 

Nae Vegan Shoes also has a pair of vegan mule slippers that are incredibly similar to Birkenstock’s Boston clogs! 

To top it all off, the brand ships its products using 100% recyclable, recycled packaging. 

use code NAECHIC15 for 15% off

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7. Thesus

Materials: Recycled Plastic, Cork

Price: $138

Thesus is a Canadian BIPOC- and woman-owned brand that creates sustainable footwear and accessories. Its Terrus clogs, available in white, beige, and sage green, are a great alternative to Birkenstock’s clogs!  

Unlike most clogs, these feature an adjustable back strap that helps keep them securely attached to your feet as you go about your day.

They are also very versatile since you can wear them with any outfit throughout the year (if you add a pair of socks in the colder months). 

The Terrus clogs are 100% vegan, easy to clean, and made of 98% recycled plastic produced from repurposed marine waste collected by fishermen all around the globe.

They have a footbed crafted from natural cork with a soft lining, making them very lightweight and breathable. It provides arch support and perfectly molds to your feet so you can stay comfortable all day long. You will also love the wide-toe box, designed to fit all foot shapes and sizes! 

Thesus uses water-based vegan glue to bind the upper and soles together, and it produces everything by hand in a family-owned factory in Portugal. 

The brand pays its workers fair wages and prioritizes transparency, quality craftsmanship, and sustainable manufacturing practices throughout its entire supply chain. 

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8. Good Guys

Materials: Apple Leather, Microfiber, Cork, EVA,  

Price range: $128-133

Good Guys is a French vegan footwear brand with a great collection of unisex two-strap slide-on sandals. It offers four models, which are all comfortable and lightweight and feature a wide, anatomically shaped footbed. 

Sold in the colors silver, gold, white, or brown, its sandals are either made from eco-friendly, long-lasting microfiber or apple leather.

The apple leather is produced using 30% to 40% apple waste sourced from the juice industry in Italy. 

Both uppers look like real leather and are certified OEKO-TEX Standard 100, so they are completely free of harmful chemicals. 

Good Guys also crafts the lining using plant-based microfiber made from corn glucose. It is very breathable, fast-drying, anti-bacterial, and OEKO-TEX certified as well. 

Moreover, the sandals have non-slip EVA soles and a cork footbed that provides arch support and molds to your feet over time. As a PETA-approved brand, the company ensures all the components down to the glues are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. 

The sandals are produced in a small family-owned factory in Spain that has been making shoes for over a century. We also appreciate that Good Guys uses recycled paper boxes for shipping and provides a reusable cotton bag with each shoe purchase. 

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9. ELK

Materials: Sheep Leather, Rubber, TPR Rubber

Price: $239

ELK is an Australian family-owned business that sells contemporary fashion pieces made ethically and with the planet in mind. 

Its Uma slip-on slides are not as similar to Birkenstocks as the other models on this list, but they are still worth mentioning in this article! 

Sold in a gorgeous, eye-catching metallic fuchsia or gold, these sandals will brighten any outfit and enhance your everyday style. They feature a crossover strap design and a comfortable molded footbed. 

ELK’s Uma sandals have a rubber sole and a heel made of TPR rubber, while the uppers, footbeds, and lining are all crafted from sheep leather. The leather is chromium VI-free and sourced from a Leather Working Group audited and rated tannery, and it will get better with age as it develops a beautiful patina over time. 

The brand is very transparent about the suppliers and factories it works with, and it only chooses partners with safe, fair, and inclusive workplaces. 

ELK also uses sustainable packaging, its direct operations are 100% powered by green energy, and its products are free of harmful chemicals such as heavy metals, flame retardants, PFCs, and azo dyes. 

Plus, it is a member of 1% For The Planet and Sedex, and it regularly supports and makes donations to different nonprofits. It even received the inaugural award for Sustainable Innovation at the 2019 Australian Fashion Laureate! 

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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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Image: Rent The Runway

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!

A Guide to Renting Designer Dresses

When there is a special event on the calendar, it’s common to go shopping for something new for the occasion. While this isn’t sustainable for the Earth or your wallet, the good news is there are plenty of options to help you look and feel your best without contributing to the disposable fashion cycle. Whether shopping for a special event or just a special date night, renting designer dresses online is an easy way to save money and reduce pollution and your carbon footprint while feeling good in the clothes you wear. 

Why rent designer dresses?

For the planet.

By renting your clothes, especially when you don’t plan to wear the outfit again, it helps to minimize the environmental footprint associated with manufacturing, shipping, and disposing of clothing items. By encouraging the reuse of garments and extending their lifespan, dress rental services contribute to the reduction of textile waste and the conservation of resources. On average, renting one piece of clothing can save up to 24% water, 6% energy, and 3% CO2 emissions compared to buying a new item according to an LCA research study. This helps to combat the growing problem of fashion waste and encourages a more circular fashion cycle.

For your style.

Enjoy feeling more carefree with your closet by renting clothing that allows you to experiment with your personal style with no buyers remorse. You will have access to a wider variety for different occasions without having to invest in a large wardrobe of pieces you rarely wear. If you tend to avoid trying new trends or are wanting to be more creative with your wardrobe without the risk, clothing rental services are a great option for this. You don’t have to worry about feeling wasteful when the dress is longer in style, if you change your mind or if you only need the dress for a single special event because it will still have use after you are finished with it.

For your budget.

Renting dresses typically means spending a fraction of the cost compared to the cost of purchasing new items. Instead of spending money on a dress you may only wear once, renting it allows access to designer dresses for a fraction of the price. Rental services also eliminate impulse spending and more conscious consumption. With sales and promotions removed from the equation of purchases, there are no impulse buys you regret just because it was a good deal. When you rent clothes, you also don't have to worry about any costs the garment requires such as dry cleaning or repairs. Rental services typically handle these tasks as part of their service, which will save you money and time. 

The rise of rented fashion

If you are noticing a surge in clothing rental options, its because the business model is on the rise. The clothing rental market is estimated to reach 1.77 billion this year with continuous and consistent rise expected through 2029, Mordor Intelligence reports. As many people are realizing the impact of fast fashion but not wanting to sacrifice their wardrobe, rented fashion is becoming more popular. Constantly changing your wardrobe has been fueled by social media and the constant bombardment of trendy shopping hauls. However, it has also increased the appeal for clothing rental services because they provide an easy solution for evolving your style without the commitment.

Our Favorite Online Dress Rental Shops:

1. Armoire

Armoire offers monthly subscription plans that allow you to keep items for 30 days before returning.

The company offers free shipping, free dry cleaning, and free monthly personal styling with a stylist.

If you are an unlimited member, you can send back any items that aren’t a good fit for new options right away. Size availability ranges from sizes 0R through 24W and also include maternity.

The clothing options vary from semi-formal style to everyday casual clothing so you can rent more than just designer dresses.

Designers in their inventory include Adrianna Papell, Diane Von Furstenberg, Lilly Pulitzer, and more!  

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2. Rent The Runway

Rent The Runway offers flexible designer dress rental options with both monthly subscription plans and one-time dress rentals.

With a large inventory of sizes, styles, and designers, you are likely to find something perfect and ready to wear for every occasion.

Rent the Runway offers sizes 00US through 22US along with maternity sizes. Dry cleaning services are included in the rental fee and there are also a variety of accessories, bags, and sunglasses available to complete the look. Designers in the Rent The Runway repertoire include Herve Leger, Rebecca Minkoff, Gucci, and Badgley Mischka.

One of the major perks of Rent The Runway is the company offers one free backup size with every one-time rental so if you are unsure of sizing or between sizes, you are more likely to have the perfect fit, with no extra charge. Rent The Runway also provides a lot of information and reporting about their efforts to increase sustainability within their own business and through their rental service, you can read more about it on their sustainability page.

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3. Nuuly

Nuuly offers a monthly subscription plan for six items.

The monthly fee includes free shipping and free dry cleaning for all items. Size availability includes XS through XL, with some brands offering petite and plus sizes depending on the style.

Designers featured in the Nuuly “closet” include Anna Sui, Halston, and Ronny Kobo along with many other small labels. Nuuly does not currently have high-end or couture designers in their inventory but there are a lot of options for wedding guest dresses, brunch or luncheon events, and dresses perfect for your next vacation.

Nuuly is a popular choice if you are looking for a unique piece as they have specific collaborations with designers that are only available through Nuuly.

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4. Haverdash

Haverdash offers more casual dress styles for a no commitment monthly subscription.

While the designers are smaller labels and boutique brands, there is a lot of variety and size options are often available in all dress styles.

Haverdash offers the option to switch out your three styles all month long so while you can only have three at a time, you have unlimited rotations.

If you only need a dress for a special event, you can return it and select another item to enjoy the rest of the month with your other two selections.

Size availability includes XS through XL and availability varies between brands and styles. Brands available in the Haverdash closet include Nicole Miller, Rebecca Minkoff, Vince, and Line and Dot.

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5. Nova Octo

Nova Octoo offers trendy and fashion-forward designer dresses that will suit any occasion you have coming up. Their website is a breeze to shop with filters that let you sort by designer, occasion, body shape, and dress style. If you’re unsure what you are looking for or want to experiment with something new, virtual styling appointments with their staff stylist are available. 

Size availability ranges from sizes 0US through 16US and the company is hoping to expand size ranges as the company grows.

Novo Octo also offers accessory rental, which you can pick to complement your dress rental. Designers featured in their inventory include Oscar de la Renta, Monique Lhuillier, Dolce and Gabbana, Marchesa, and many more!

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6. Janet Mandell

Janet Mandell offers four-day rentals for high fashion and unique dresses. If you are looking for dresses along the style of what you see on the red carpet, Janet Mandell usually has a similar look or dress by the same designer. Styles by designers like Alexander McQueen, Balmain, Carolina Herrera, Celine, Christian Dior, and Elie Saab are just a few of the large design house names. Due to the quality of designer dresses in their inventory, the selection is more limited because not all dress styles are available in all sizes.

Usually, just one size is available per dress. However, you can shop by size and easily see all the options that might work and further narrow your search by designer, occasion, and color. Janet Mandell also has a variety of casual clothing, accessories, handbags, and shoes if you want to rent a complete look.

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7. Borrow by The Ensemble

Borrow by The Ensemble has designer dresses for every event and occasion. With styles from brands like BCBGMAXAZRIA, Aiden Mattox, Dress the Population and Adrianna Papell. Dresses are available to rent per item for 14 days with an optional extension period. Initial shipping and return shipping are both free along with free dry cleaning and there are no additional fees for garment wear and tear. Size availability ranges from XXS through XL or 0 through 14 depending on the designer and style.

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Additional options for renting designer dresses

Le Ora, Tulerie and By Rotation are community-based rental services where you can borrow dresses and other items from people’s personal closets. All lenders and renters go through an application process to verify their information before being allowed to lend or rent items. This makes the process much more intimate and personal but allows you to find one-of-a-kind or vintage items that most larger companies wouldn’t have in their inventory.

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About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based, sustainable, intentional living on her blog, Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram @karmencollective and at www.karmencollective.com

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SUSTAINABLE AMERICAN-MADE CLOTHING

Many consumers in the United States regularly make the conscious choice of buying USA-made clothes. They want to support the local economy and help create more jobs for American workers. 

Buying American-made clothing can also be a lot more sustainable. Indeed, the items usually travel far shorter distances than if they were imported from the other side of the world, which reduces their carbon footprint. American companies are also held to higher labor and environmental standards than if they were to produce in most other countries abroad.

However, not all USA-made products are made with the environment in mind! In this article, we have rounded up 17 sustainable brands selling American-made clothing, so you can support both your country and the planet at the same time.  

WHAT MAKES AMERICAN-MADE CLOTHING SUSTAINABLE?

Sustainable American-made clothing is crafted from eco-friendly fabrics and dyed with non-toxic, low-impact dyes. It is produced prioritizing quality and durability. 

The brand should also implement different sustainable practices throughout its supply chain. For instance, it should try to reduce its textile waste and find ways to upcycle or recycle its fabric scraps. Or it should reduce its chemical use and water and energy consumption. 

Finally, the company should also treat its workers well and pay them fair wages. So many brands are still involved in unfair labor practices! 

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY FABRICS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Some of the most sustainable fabrics you should look for are organic cotton, linen, Tencel, hemp, and all kinds of recycled materials including recycled wool, recycled cotton, or recycled polyester. 

You can also find great American-made clothing crafted using deadstock fabrics! 

NOW, OUR TOP PICKS FOR SUSTAINABLE AMERICAN-MADE CLOTHING BRANDS

1. Harvest & Mill 

Made In: California 

Price Range: $11-195

Size Range: S-XL

Harvest & Mill sells sustainably made basics, loungewear, and socks made from organic cotton for both women and men. 

From the cotton farms to the mills to the family-owned factories, 100% of the brand’s supply chain is fully traceable and based in the USA. The final products are sewn in California within a 20-mile radius of its Berkeley studio. 

All of its styles are available in an undyed and unbleached fabric. You can also get clothing that is hand-dyed naturally using low-impact dyes or plants like indigo. 

Harvest & Mill prioritizes ethical and sustainable practices throughout its manufacturing process. Plus, it offsets its entire carbon footprint and ships its products with plastic-free packaging. 

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2. MATE The Label 

Made In: California, Peru

Price Range: $28-238

Size Range: XS-3X

MATE The Label is a women-founded fashion brand offering wardrobe staples for everyone in the family.

All of its clothing is made from sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton, linen, and Tencel, and colored using GOTS-certified dyes.  

While it has a sweater collection produced in a Fair Trade Certified factory in Peru, all its other pieces are made in Los Angeles, California. Its main factory is only four miles away from its headquarters, which minimizes its carbon footprint! 

MATE The Label uses recyclable, recycled shipping materials and is a member of 1% For The Planet. It is also a certified B Corp and Climate-Neutral company. 

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3. The Classic T-Shirt Company

Made In: California

Price Range: $64-122

Size Range: XXS-XXXL

The name says it all. The Classic T-shirt Company creates sustainable classic t-shirts and long-sleeve shirts for women and men. It also has a couple of vintage-inspired sweatshirts, shorts, and joggers.

Everything is made of 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, and you can choose from several V-neck and crewneck styles available in a variety of colors.

They are all garment-dyed using non-toxic dyes that are certified by GOTS and Cradle-To-Cradle.

The brand makes its pieces in a local factory in Los Angeles following Fair Trade principles. It also sends out its t-shirts in plastic-free, recycled packaging and donates 1% of its profits to charities supporting causes such as ocean cleanup, water conservation, and tree planting.

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4. Pareto

Made In: USA 

Price Range: $48-198

Size Range: XS-XL

If you are looking for high-quality basics for your minimalist wardrobe, Pareto is the perfect brand for you! Its small collection of womenswear features timeless essentials that are versatile, flattering, and made to last. 

Each piece is crafted from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, and the production process takes place in different states all across the USA.

For instance, the cotton is grown in Texas and is then spun into yarn in North Carolina. 

The yarn is woven into fabric at century-old mills in Massachusetts and South Carolina. The fabrics are then colored using low-impact dyes and water-saving processes in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. Finally, the garments are cut and sewn in family-owned factories in Illinois and California. 

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5. LA Relaxed

Made In: California

Price Range: $38-168

Size Range: XS-XXL

LA Relaxed makes everything you may need for your wardrobe, from dresses and camisoles to cardigans and skirts.

All of these pieces are made from natural, sustainable fabrics such as linen, Tencel, GOTS-certified organic cotton, and viscose derived from sustainably harvested wood pulp and processed in a closed-loop system.

The brand also sources some deadstock fabrics that would have otherwise ended up in the landfill.

The fabrics are also dyed using non-toxic, low-impact dyes carrying the Bluesign certification. It means the dye houses recycle their water and solvents and dispose of waste responsibly.

LA Relaxed makes its clothing in small batches in its factory in Los Angeles. It also sources its fabrics locally within ten miles of its warehouse.

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6. JJ Winks 

Made In: California 

Price Range: $42-265

Size Range: XS-XL

JJ Winks was created for busy women who hate wearing bras. The brand sells loungewear and everyday clothes that make you feel attractive and put together while being comfortable and braless. 

There are many gorgeous styles to choose from, including elegant dresses, off-the-shoulder tops, leggings, and shorts.

The tops feature a soft, built-in shelf providing breathable, gentle coverage so you can stay modest without a bra. They do not have any uncomfortable foam pads or bulky inserts inside.

All the pieces are produced in Los Angeles with a locally sourced modal fabric. JJ Winks also uses sustainable packaging and offsets its carbon footprint by supporting different environmental projects. 

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7. GRAMMAR

Made In: New York

Price Range: $100-1,270

Size Range: 0-16

GRAMMAR sells women’s shirts and dresses featuring timeless designs and impeccable quality. It also has several jackets, pants, and skirts to complete your wardrobe. 

All its pieces are both comfortable and elegant and crafted from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton.

All the buttons are also plastic-free and derived from natural shells and horns that are ethically sourced as byproducts of the food industry. 

GRAMMAR’s clothes are made locally in a woman- and BIPOC-owned factory in New York City. The brand makes sure everything is produced in small batches so that none of the products are overproduced or wasted.   

It also recycles all its fabric scraps, uses packaging made of recycled materials, and regularly makes donations to Color of Change and Dress For Success!

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8. Amour Vert 

Made In: California

Price Range: $10-440

Size Range: XXS-XL

Amour Vert is a sustainable fashion brand offering all kinds of clothes, shoes, and accessories for women.

It has a wide variety of styles, colors, and designs to choose from, and many of them feature one-of-a-kind prints created in collaboration with artists. 

The company makes all its pieces in San Francisco, California, and uses sustainable fabrics such as recycled cashmere, linen, Tencel, organic cotton, Bluesign-approved silk, regenerated wool, and GRS-certified recycled polyester. 

It even has several leather jackets made from rescued deadstock skins, repurposed vintage clothing, and upcycled post-production waste!  

Amour Vert plants a tree with every purchase of a tee, only uses compostable and recycled packaging, and has a resale marketplace where you can buy and sell pre-loved pieces.

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9. Sandmaiden 

Made In: Washington 

Price Range: $33-216

Size Range: XS-XXL

Sandmaiden is a small business selling sustainable sleepwear, lingerie, and loungewear made with natural fabrics. All the pieces are cut and sewn by hand by the brand’s founder or her assistant in Bellingham, Washington. 

Its collections feature gorgeous pieces that all look very elegant and cozy.

It offers comfy pajama sets, beautiful nightgowns with lace detailing, robes, hoodies, and joggers, as well as cozy sweaters. 

You can choose from a large selection of fabrics including linen, merino wool, Tencel, organic cotton, silk, and bamboo. 

The clothing is either crafted in limited batches or made to order, which helps minimize waste and overproduction. 

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10. Fite Fashion

Made In: Pennsylvania

Price Range: $125-3,500

Size Range: 0-12

Fite Fashion creates elegant formalwear including gowns, cocktail dresses, skirts, shorts, and bustiers. These luxury pieces are stylish but also sustainable and ethically produced.

Each one of them is handmade to order in Philadelphia using couture techniques and is designed to last for years. The brand crafts them mostly from silk and a silk-wool blend, but some also feature a cotton or Tencel fabric.

What’s more, Fite Fashion incorporates reclaimed materials in some of its unique pieces. For instance, it sources designer laser-cut leather remnants from Fabscrap that would have otherwise been thrown away.

The brand also offsets part of its carbon footprint, uses packaging made of recycled materials, and reuses or recycles its fabric scraps!

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11. Proclaim

Made In: California

Price Range: $24-118

Size Range: S-3XL

Proclaim is a sustainable brand selling underwear, bralettes, slip dresses, bodysuits, and tank tops. With a focus on neutral colors, most of the pieces are sold in black and three different shades of nude.

The brand makes its clothing and underwear using natural, sustainable fabrics such as Tencel, an organic cotton-hemp blend, and cupro produced from recycled cotton linter.

It also uses low-impact, low-energy, and AZO-free dyes.

The pieces are made locally in a family-owned factory in Los Angeles. Proclaim also works with a local mill and dye house, which means that its supply chain is hyper-localized to a 30-mile radius.

Plus, the brand ships its orders using 100% home compostable mailers and upcycles its fabric scraps into building materials!

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12. Vincent James

Made In: South Carolina, Illinois, New York

Price Range: $89-808

Size Range: XS-XL

Vincent James is on a mission to create the foundational pieces for a timeless, chic, and minimal capsule wardrobe. From cardigans and tank tops to dresses and pants, its clothes are staples you will want to wear every day!

It has many styles to choose from, and all of them are designed with quality in mind.

They are made from natural fabrics using a regenerative approach, meaning that the fibers are grown and sourced to positively impact the land and its inhabitants.

The fabrics include linen, merino wool, regenerative organic cotton, hemp, alpaca wool, and regenerative domestic wool. Vincent James’ clothing is made in small batches in Chicago, New York, and Charleston, South Carolina.

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13. Groceries Apparel 

Made In: California

Price Range: $39-118

Size Range: XS-2XL

Groceries Apparel crafts 100% non-toxic wardrobe essentials, workout clothes, and loungewear for women. It also offers a couple of pieces for men. 

The brand has eliminated all toxic chemicals and heavy metals from its supply chain by dyeing its clothing using natural, plant-based dyestuff, including food waste!

Some of the pieces are colored with indigo, flowers, leaves, or madder root, but the majority of them are dyed with upcycled fruit and vegetable dyes such as discarded avocado pits, carrot tops, onion skins, pomegranate peels, and used coffee grounds. These food scraps are gathered and sourced from local grocers. 

Most of Groceries Apparel’s clothing is made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, but you can also find several styles produced from hemp or Tencel. The brand’s entire manufacturing process happens in its own factory and dye house in Los Angeles. 

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14. Vitamin A 

Made In: California

Price Range: $25-215

Size Range: XXS-XXL

Vitamin A is a sustainable brand offering responsibly made swimwear, cover-ups, and beach accessories. It has an impressive collection of one-piece swimsuits, bikinis, and everything in between. 

You will be able to choose from a wide range of support and coverage options, cup sizes, and styles. The brand also has a large spectrum of colors and prints, including florals, animal-inspired patterns, and stripes.

Its beachwear line consists of cover-ups, overalls, sarongs, dresses, tops, and bottoms. You can style them with Vitamin A’s accessories, which include beach bags and bucket hats made of hand-woven recycled straw. 

The brand makes its swimwear and clothing using recycled nylon, organic cotton, linen, Tencel, and recycled cotton, and all the materials are certified by OEKO-TEX. 

Vitamin A is a member of 1% For The Planet and produces its swimwear in the USA, primarily in California. 

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15. Minimalist

Made In: New York

Price Range: $198-995

Size Range: 0-14

Minimalist has a thoughtfully curated collection of women’s clothing designed to maximize purpose in your wardrobe while minimizing the impact on the planet. It sells different tops, bottoms, jumpsuits, dresses, and jackets, all of which are crafted in New York City.

The brand uses sustainable fabrics such as Tencel jersey, velour crafted from organic cotton and recycled fibers, and sustainable Ecovero viscose satin.

Even details like elastics, shoulder pads, and zippers are made with non-toxic, eco-friendly materials!

Minimalist’s materials also received different third-party certifications including OEKO-TEX, Bluesign, GRS, GOTS, and FSC. Plus, the company uses recycled packaging and garment bags that are compostable or water-soluble.

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16. Miakoda 

Made In: New York

Price Range: $12-188

Size Range: XS-4XL

Miakoda sells comfortable, sustainable clothing that is ethically made in New York City. From tops to bottoms, all the garments are crafted from eco-friendly, plant-based materials. 

The fabrics used include organic cotton, organic and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified bamboo, modal made in a closed loop system, and organic soy fabric.

The soy fabric is produced using soy fibers sourced as a byproduct of the soybean oil industry and that would have otherwise been disposed of. 

Miakoda dyes all its pieces with low-impact, non-toxic dyes, and all the fabrics are certified by GOTS or Control Union. It also offsets its carbon footprint and upcycles its fabric scraps into new products such as scarves, scrunchies, and pet bows! 

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17. Lovanie 

Made In: Washington

Price Range: $78-158

Size Range: XS-XL Petite

Lovanie is a slow fashion brand created for petite women. It has gorgeous dresses, tops, skirts, and pants, all of which are designed to fit the proportions of women who are 5’4” or under. 

The designs and beautiful prints available are inspired by bohemian romantic styles, travel destinations, and vintage pieces.

Made to never go out of style, they are timeless, yet feature feminine silhouettes and details. The styles are handmade from linen and deadstock cotton that would have otherwise been discarded. 

The company also makes its pieces in small batches based on a made-to-order model. This means that it only begins producing them after you have placed your order, which minimizes waste and excess inventory. 

Everything is crafted in Seattle, Washington, and shipped by a carbon-neutral, B Corp-certified company! 

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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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Animal Protection in the Fashion Industry

When we talk about ethical fashion, not only should we consider the people who make our clothes, but also the non-human animals who are impacted by the fashion industry – whether they are farmed, killed, or endangered by clothing production. If you’re new to these considerations, let’s go through some of the issues facing animals in the fashion industry.

Non-human animals (as opposed to humans, because we’re animals too!), share this planet with us, but sometimes we can forget that, and consider this just ‘our’ planet. Too, when we talk about ethics in fashion, sometimes our thoughts are – while critical to creating a fairer fashion industry – human-centric. Total ethics fashion prioritizes the wellbeing of all animals, both human and non-human, before profit. But what issues do other animals face in the fashion industry? First, let’s talk about animals who are slaughtered specifically and primarily for fashion.

Killing for Fashion

A number of animals are killed solely or primarily for the sake of fashion industry products and profit. These include fur-bearing animals like raccoon dogs, minks, muskrats, chinchillas, foxes, coyotes and so on, who are both confined to factory-farm cages, and trapped and shot in their natural habitat. 

Many reptiles with supposedly ‘exotic’ skin are also killed for fashion, such as alligators, crocodiles, snakes and lizards. The skins of these animals are usually sold to some of the wealthiest people around the world, at an shockingly steep price. For example, Australia’s native saltwater crocodiles have lived on their indigenous land for at least 100 million years, alongside the Larrakia people who consider crocodiles their totem, ‘Dungalaba’. Despite this, more of these reptiles live in cages and concrete pits owned by and supplying Hermès and Louis Vuitton, among others, than in their natural habitat. Killed at a tiny fraction of their lifespan, bags made from their skin sell for tens, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Other animals killed primarily for fashion include ostriches, and kangaroos – with their skins most commonly used for bags and boots, especially football boots, in the case of kangaroos. If you’re seeking to protect animals through your fashion choices, avoiding wearing any of these animals is a simple way to do that. Luckily, there are innovative alternatives to all of these materials! 

Killed in Fashion Supply Chains as ‘Co-Products’

It’s increasingly mainstream to believe animals should not be killed specifically for fashion – as we’ve seen through the number of brands, local governments and even countries banning fur, as well as some ‘exotic skins’. But what about animals who are killed in fashion supply chains, but who are a part of other supply chains, too? 

Take cattle skins for example, which are the most commonly used in leather production. These skins are co-products of the meat and dairy industries. This means that these skins are valuable, sold for profit to the fashion industry. However, in many instances the flesh of these animals, sold as beef burgers, mince and steaks are more profitable.

The fact that leather is a co-product of the meat industry – as non live-plucked down, sheep skins and a lot of wool are too – is often used as an argument to continue to wear these materials, without concern for these animals. The reasoning here is that ‘so long as meat is being eaten, there will be skins and feathers to wear, so we may as well not waste them’. 

The problem with this argument though, is that it fails to consider the economic value of these industries. The leather industry is valued at around $128 billion USD. When individual slaughterhouses are unable to sell skins – sometimes due to the popularity of leather alternatives – multi-million dollar losses are recorded. By buying leather we help to fund the meat industry, allowing for it to thrive. If everyone stopped buying leather, the meat industry would suffer financially, likely forcing it to reduce in size – in turn resulting in less animals being killed (and less greenhouse gasses being emitted). 

Supporting animal protection means avoiding the needless slaughter of thinking, feeling animals – this is the logic behind bans on fur. It’s worth considering that this same support ought to be given to animals who are killed in a system which brings in profits for both the fashion and food industries alike. We can show this support by opting for more totally ethical materials like those that are vintage, bio-based leather alternatives, plant-based wool alternatives, and recycled down alternatives. 

Farmed Animals Facing Cruelty

If we look further back into fashion’s supply chains, past slaughterhouses, we find ourselves at farms – whether that looks like a green field or a dank factory-farm. In both of these settings, animals are routinely and legally exploited and mutilated. 

For example, cattle in leather supply chains often have their horns cut off, or burned from their skull, without pain relief. Many sheep in the wool industry face mulesing – where the skin around the backside is sliced off – and almost all sheep have their tails cut off or otherwise severed. Cashmere goats have been known to cry out as sharp-toothed metal combs rip through their hair, and alpacas have even been documented vomiting in stress as they are tied down for shearing. Ducks exploited for feather down – even if they are protected from live-plucking – are often denied water to float and bathe in, resulting in debilitating disability. Some are even caged and force-fed, tied up in the foie gras industry. 

The reason this is all possible is a confronting one: around the world, laws which genuinely protect farmed animals are near non-existent. Even in countries with supposedly ‘high animal welfare laws’, farmed animals are often specifically exempt from protection. In America, Australia and the United Kingdom for example, cruelty to animals exploited in the fashion (and food) industry is legalized if it is deemed ‘necessary’ or ‘standard’. 

Animals, like us, not only deserve to live their lives, but to live them happily and healthily. Unfortunately, most animal supply chains are lacking in transparency, and even certifications which claim to ensure higher standards of welfare and reduced cruelty to animals often fall far short of their promise. So long as cruelty to animals is legal and standard to the production of animal-derived materials, these materials won’t align with efforts for total animal protection.

While this might be distressing, it’s worth keeping in mind that people all around the world are working to change laws and gain protections for animals, so that they can be recognised as sentient, and be kept safe, and able to enjoy their freedom.

Wildlife and fashion

While some wild animals are slaughtered and transformed into fashion objects – like snakes made into wallets and coyotes into fur-trimmed jackets – other free-living, native animals are impacted by fashion too. Let’s talk about biodiversity loss. 

The more land-intensive a material is, the higher the risk of biodiversity destruction associated with its production. Basically, this means that the making of some materials requires much more land than others, and because of this, more native and unique vegetation needs to be cleared for the sake of production. The problem with this, is that animals living in that vegetation – in bushlands, grasslands, forests and other ecosystems – then lose their homes. And when animals lose their habitats, they generally don’t just move, they die. Habitat destruction is the primary cause of species extinction around the world.  

So, which materials are most land-intensive, and which protect native animals better? Interestingly, it’s normally materials made from farmed animals that require the most land, in turn also harming wild animals. For example, far more cotton and hemp can be grown on the same amount of land as wool ever could be – did you know that producing one bale of Australian wool (where most wool is from) instead of cotton requires 367 times more land? What’s more, when we look to leather-like materials, we can produce far more pineapples to feed people and create leather alternative materials than we can leather from cow skins on the same land. The same is true of cacti, cork and other building blocks of leather alternatives.

How We Can Help to Protect Animals Through What We Wear

The first, most obvious and impactful way that we can protect animals is to not wear them. When we do this, we avoid all potential suffering, exploitation and slaughter of animals that is so often wrapped up in the production of animal-derived materials. But there are other ways we can help, too!

• Buy less clothes. Even if you are buying animal-free clothing, all clothing has an impact on native, free-living animals because all clothing production has an environmental impact. Our current fast fashion system relentlessly takes from the Earth without replenishing it, resulting in the destruction of ecosystems, the warming of our climate, and other environmental impacts which harm all animals – humans and non-humans. Slowing down fashion is the solution for so many of fashion’s problems.

• Choose pre-loved clothes first. Even if you want to buy new clothes, you don’t necessarily need to be taking more from the planet, and in turn, animals living here with us. Buying existing clothes is a great way to keep fashion circular, and less harmful.

• Get involved in education and impact campaigns which help people learn more about the use of animals in the fashion industry, and which seek to reduce the amount of harm the fashion industry causes to them. We won’t buy our way to a more ethical fashion system, but we can use our voices to get involved!

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About the Author
Emma Håkansson is the founder and director of Collective Fashion Justice which seeks to create a total ethics fashion system that prioritizes the life and wellbeing of non-human & human animals, as well as the planet, before profit & production. She has written countless articles on ethics, sustainability, and fashion, and has two books due out over the next two years.

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