10 Sustainable Robes for the Eco-Friendly Bathroom (2024)
 

Image: April Notes

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 & Organic Bath robes

After a relaxing bath, it’s nice to grab a cozy bathrobe to change into and finish the rest of your self-care routine. However, not all robes are created equal. Most robes are made from cotton treated with toxic chemicals and made in factories with few working regulations. If you are looking for a bathrobe that is comfortable and kind to the planet and the makers, this list is for you!

Our Top Picks for Sustainable & Organic BathRobes:

1. Staycation Short Robe

Brand: Pact

Material: GOTS Organic Cotton

Price: $48

The Staycation Short Robe is designed to provide both comfort and style, even before you've had your morning coffee. This floral robe is made from a super soft, premium jersey knit, featuring dropped shoulders and loose sleeves for a relaxed fit. It comes with a removable belt and waist loops for a customizable look. The robe is crafted from 100% organic cotton and is produced in a Fair Trade Certified™ Factory, where 37 gallons of water are saved during the manufacturing process. The use of certified organic cotton significantly reduces water consumption compared to conventional cotton production, as it does not involve the use of harmful inorganic pesticides and fertilizers, thereby minimizing water pollution. Additionally, the robe is GOTS Certified and produced in a Fair Trade Factory based in India, empowering 985 people in the process.


2. Organic Short Lounge Robe

Brand: Under the Canopy

Material: GOTS Organic Cotton

Price: $58

This robe is made from 100% organic cotton that is grown and knitted in Turkey. It is certified to the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) to ensure its organic integrity. The dyes used are OEKO-TEX® certified, guaranteeing that they are free from harmful toxins or chemicals. The robe features a relaxed silhouette, with a 1" hemline that hits slightly above the knee. Additionally, it includes a self-tie belt that is sewn in at the back. The fabric is made of soft, breathable fine-ribbed mélange cotton-knit, providing both comfort and style. Under the Canopy bathrobes are responsibly made in Turkey, adhering to ethical and sustainable production practices.


3. Organic French Terry Robe

Brand: Avocado

Material: GOTS Organic Cotton

Price: $109

Introducing Avocado’s latest addition - the all-new gender-neutral robes! These robes are not only incredibly comfortable but also sustainable. You can feel great about wrapping yourself in their ultra-plush French Terry Robe, which is meticulously crafted using renewable, GOTS-certified organic cotton ethically sourced from India. This luxurious spa-quality robe is not only wrinkle-resistant and temperature-regulating but also impeccably cozy, making it the perfect choice for slipping into after a bath or shower. Additionally, the robe is equipped with side pockets to conveniently store your valuables as you go about your daily activities at home.


4. Linen Bathrobes

Brand: April Notes

Material: Linen & Cotton

Price: $105-145

Prefer linen to cotton? We have the robe for you! This bathrobe is not only incredibly soft, light, and breathable, but it's also handmade from high-quality European flax and certified linen fabric that's free from harmful chemicals. With its relaxed fit, waistband, and front outer pockets, this robe is as practical as it is luxurious. The French seam finish and pre-washed fabric ensure exceptional softness and durability. Plus, its natural breathability, hypoallergenic properties, thermoregulation, and high absorbency make it perfect for all seasons. And another great part? It's shipped in sustainable packaging. April Notes takes pride in creating timeless home textiles from natural materials while prioritizing sustainability every step of the way.


5. Unisex Organic Waffle Robe

Brand: Coyuchi

Material: GOTS Organic Cotton

Price: $98

Wrap yourself in the luxurious comfort of premium organic cotton with Coyuchi’s airy waffle weave spa robe! Crafted from 100% organic cotton sourced and woven in Turkey, this robe is GOTS certified and pre-tumbled for a soft, breathable feel from the very first wear. Its unisex design features double belt loops and a self-tie for a customizable fit, along with spacious patch pockets at the hip. As a brand with over 30 years of experience in sustainable design and organic fiber sourcing, each Coyuchi piece represents their dedication to providing the highest quality, toxin-free home textiles while minimizing their impact on the planet!


6. Paisley Cotton Robe

Brand: Ten Thousand Villages

Material: Block-Printed Cotton

Price: $70

The Paisley Cotton Robe is a stunning piece of wearable art that has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Crafted using a highly skilled and labor-intensive hand-printing technique, this robe is a testament to the artisans' dedication and expertise. Produced by Aravali, a for-profit company that supports approximately 150 artisans in the Jaipur area, each robe is block-printed with meticulous care and precision. The process begins with the artisans carving wooden blocks, creating a separate block for each color in the intricate pattern. These dyes are often made from foraged plants, adding an organic and sustainable element to the production process. Once the design is sketched onto the fabric, the artisans carefully imprint it with the wooden blocks, moving methodically from left to right to ensure an even application of the dye. This meticulous process is repeated until the entire cloth is adorned with the vibrant colors and intricate designs. After the printing process is complete, the robes are laid out in the sun to dry, allowing the colors to set and the fabric to achieve its full vibrancy.


7. Pima Short Robe

Brand: Leena & Lu

Material: Peruvian Pima Cotton

Price: $98

Unwind in supreme comfort with this lovely Pima Short Robe crafted from the finest Peruvian Pima Cotton. Leena & Lu was founded by Ofelia and Kathya who are not just sisters but also mothers who share a common dream - to combine their Peruvian heritage with their passion for creating ethically made, superior products. In 2018, they brought this dream to life by founding Leena & Lu, a brand dedicated to offering incredibly soft, comfortable, and modern sleepwear for women and children. Every product by Leena & Lu is crafted responsibly, with a focus on promoting health and wellness.


8. CleanBamboo® Waffle Bathrobe

Brand: ettitude

Material: 100% CleanBamboo® Lyocell

Price: $129

Give yourself the ultimate spa experience with ettitude’s unisex waffle weave robe, crafted from their exclusive, sustainable CleanBamboo® waffle fabric! Made from bamboo lyocell, CleanBamboo® never uses caustic soda or other harmful chemicals, making it a truly groundbreaking and eco-friendly choice. Ettitude exclusively uses regenerative plants, making CleanBamboo® the first fully traceable and closed loop system for bamboo. Their bamboo is grown using 100% rainwater and processed in a closed loop system that recycles water up to 200 times, resulting in a remarkable 98% reduction in water usage compared to cotton bath products. In addition, their home & bath goods save 46% CO2 versus standard cotton products, and all of their textiles are 100% biodegradable. To ensure that their commitment to sustainability extends beyond production, they have implemented a take-back program for all ettitude products, guaranteeing that their bath wear never goes to the landfill!


9. Everyday Robe

Brand: Minna

Material: 100% Cotton

Price: $265

Introducing MINNA’s gender-neutral robe, a versatile garment designed to suit people of all genders and body types. This oversized, loose-fitting robe is meticulously handwoven with precision and care, featuring an adjustable sash for a customized fit. Crafted from OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified 100% cotton, this robe is not only comfortable but also non-toxic & eco-friendly. MINNA robes are handwoven by skilled artisans using pedal looms in the picturesque town of Larrainzar, Mexico. Situated amidst breathtaking mountain views, the two family-run workshops they collaborate with specialize in producing fine, consistent weaves, resulting in a lightweight yet durable fabric. By choosing a MINNA robe, you are not only embracing comfort and style but also supporting traditional craftsmanship and sustainable practices!


10. Printed Organic Cotton Robe

Brand: Printfresh

Material: 100% Organic Cotton

Price: $158

Printfresh is a delightful luxury sleepwear brand that could easily become your new favorite if you are a fan of lively patterns and vibrant colors! This woman-owned brand specializes in offering whimsical prints on 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton. With inclusivity at the forefront of their designs, Printfresh provides sizes ranging from XS petite to 6X, catering to a diverse range of body types. Their robes are made from high-quality organic cotton, they become softer with every cycle. Each piece is lovingly designed in Philadelphia and hand screen-printed by skilled artisans in India, adding a touch of craftsmanship to every garment. In addition to their charming designs, these robes are also practical, featuring pockets for storing essentials.


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


WANT to find 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.


RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:

 
5 Simple Tips for a Successful Thrift Shopping Trip
 

Tips for Thrifting

Thrifting is one of the most sustainable ways to shop for clothes. It gives unwanted garments a new life and prevents us from buying new pieces, which saves natural resources and reduces our environmental footprint. 

However, thrifting, and especially finding good-quality pieces, can be challenging when we are not used to it. Sorting through racks of clothes of various styles and sizes is time-consuming, and we often need to do a lot of digging to find things that we love and that fit well.

We can also easily fall into the trap of overconsumption and end up with a ton of clothes we won’t wear. 

To avoid that, here are five simple tips that will make your next trip to the thrift store easier and more successful! 

Why Should You Thrift?

In the last 20 years, there has been a significant increase in clothing consumption, with humans now consuming 400% more clothing than before. This surge in consumption has led to the average American generating 82 pounds of textile waste each year. Despite buying more clothes than ever, people are wearing them less frequently. This trend can be attributed to the rapid expansion of the fast fashion industry over the past two decades.

There is more clothing than ever and according to the British Fashion Council, the current volume of clothing is enough to dress six generations of people! However, this abundance has resulted in a concerning disposal issue, with a substantial amount of donated clothing ending up in landfills. This has led to significant environmental and health problems for both individuals and ecosystems.

By avoiding purchasing something ‘new’, we can help combat these issues!

1. Shop with a list

Before going thrifting, make a list of the things you need and want to buy at the thrift store. Spend a few minutes looking at your wardrobe and identify missing pieces. 

Try to be as specific as possible when writing everything down. What pieces would you like to get exactly? What styles? What colors? What fabrics? 

Going to the thrift store with a list will make it easier for you to remember what you went there for and will prevent you from buying things you don’t need. 

2. Visit your thrift store on specific days

Thrift stores typically have specific days when they are restocking. So the key to a successful thrift shopping trip is to visit them on those days. 

It will usually be before or after the weekend, but it’s worth asking to be sure! 

You’ll also be more likely to find great items if you go there in the morning. 

3. Know where to look

Going through every single piece of clothing in a thrift store can be exhausting. If you are short on time or simply want to make things easier, first check the ends of the aisles. 

Employees will often put “new” items there, so that’s where you should find more interesting pieces. 

Also, have a look at the rolling racks. You’ll find things people have tried on but didn’t end up buying or pieces that haven’t been put out yet. You might find treasures on these! 

If you like clothes with an oversized fit, don’t forget to go to the men’s section as well. 

4. If you don’t absolutely love it, don’t buy it

If you don’t like something 100% or are unsure about the style or the fit, don’t buy it. You don’t want to get items that will end up sitting in your closet, unused. 

So try things on and only buy what fits your current body. Think about different ways you can style them with pieces you already have in your wardrobe. 

Make sure to also thoroughly inspect the clothes before buying them. Check that they’re not damaged and that they’re not pilly or stained. 

5. Don’t be afraid of DIYs

If you find pieces that you absolutely love but for some reason, they’re not perfect or something is bothering you, consider DIYing them. 

You can easily turn jeans into shorts, hem bottoms, crop a t-shirt, and replace or add buttons on jackets and shirts. If you don’t know how to do it, watch several tutorials on YouTube or ask a loved one who’s good at sewing. For some pieces, taking that extra step might be worth it! 

But be realistic and commit to making the alterations in the coming days. Otherwise, you probably won’t wear the clothes, which is not what you want.


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.


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


Searching for SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.


RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:

 
FashionEva AstoulComment
The Dark Side of Luxury: An Inside Look into Italian Sweatshops
 

Italian Sweatshops and Luxury Goods

Italy makes up 50-55% of the luxury fashion production. Behind all the glitz and glamor lies a darker secret. Recent investigations have uncovered that prestigious luxury brands, including Dior and Armani, have been implicated in labor exploitation practices. Several other high-end labels have similarly been brought under the microscope, with many eyes keeping a close watch on their supply chains and labor practices. With the luxury fashion economy already in a shaky position, this has come at a precarious time for the sector. 

Image: BOF

“Police images of a factory raided in the course of an Italian investigation into labour exploitation in luxury supply chains. (Alamy)”

Luxury Brands Turning a Blind Eye to Worker Exploitation

While this may not come as a shock, the exposé has shed into light the brands’ (and these two names are definitely not alone in the industry) prioritization of profits over labor welfare. Luxury brands very often turn a blind eye when it comes to worker exploitation, focusing instead on cutting costs, boosting revenue, and maximizing profits. These brands manufacture their products at low “Made in China” costs, but market and sell them at a “Made in Italy” price. For example, one of Dior’s suppliers was able to produce a handbag for $57, which the luxury label then sold for $2800. (Note: Of course, this problem isn’t limited to just high end fashion - fast fashion brands like Shein and Temu are also notorious for labor exploitation).

As a result of this recent probe, LVMH’s Christian Dior was placed under judicial administration for a year by a Milan court. The investigation found that two of the brand’s subcontractors that were based outside Milan exploited their workers. These contractors operated Chinese-owned factories outside Milan, with workers that were brought in from China. 

The investigation found some workers were required to sleep in the factories, so that the suppliers would have 24/7 access to manpower. They looked at data mapping of electricity consumption, which showed “seamless day-night production cycles, including during holidays”. The probe also discovered that certain equipment safety devices had been removed to give workers the ability to operate and produce faster - showing a lack of concern for worker safety. A lot of these workers had all been illegally immigrated into Italy, and didn’t have regular contracts. 

Since it was the subcontractors engaging in unethical practices and not Dior itself, the brand was not held at fault criminally. However, Dior was found to be negligent by failing to take “appropriate measures to check actual working conditions or technical capabilities of contracting companies”, according to the Dior ruling. 

This seems to be a systemic problem in the fashion industry in Italy, and not isolated to these two brands.

As reported by Reuters, the supply chains of close to 15 companies were being looked into.  According to the court, “it is not something sporadic that concerns single product lots, but a generalized and consolidated manufacturing method”. 

“Recent investigations in luxury fashion supply chains of both Armani and LVMH fashion brand Dior highlight the urgent need for industry leaders to address meaningful change. It can no longer be acceptable to have luxury fashion business models based on human rights violations,” said Scott Newton, managing partner of Thinking Dimensions Global Consulting, based in Italy. This ruling has called into question luxury brands’ ESG (environmental, social, and governance) policies, which are too often used as a scapegoat and are a sign of greenwashing.


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


Searching for SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.


RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:

 
7 Brands Selling Sustainable & Organic Flannel Shirts (2024)
 

Image: Outerknown

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!

The Best organic Flannel Shirts for Men and Women

The fashion industry is currently experiencing a significant transformation, with sustainability becoming a central focus. Nowadays, there are sustainable options available for almost every piece of clothing, including flannel shirts! These flannels are made from organic cotton or recycled materials, making them a responsible choice for any consumer looking to build a more sustainable wardrobe. Sustainable flannels are not only better for the planet, but they also offer style and versatility. Whether you want to dress up for a night out or go for a casual look, sustainable flannels provide a trendy and timeless option. They have a soft and comfortable feel, perfect for layering or wearing on their own.

Why Choose an Organic Cotton Flannel Shirt?

Organic cotton is a superior alternative to conventional cotton due to its adherence to organic agricultural standards. Its production method revolves around natural processes, thereby promoting the health of soils, ecosystems, and people. Also, Organic cotton farming prohibits the use of toxic chemicals or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Making the switch to organic cotton can result in significant water savings of up to 91% during the crop growth phase, as well as a reduction of 46% in greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, it grants farmers greater autonomy by eliminating the need to purchase expensive genetically modified seeds from a limited number of large corporations. Presently, only approximately 1% of all cotton produced is organic, underscoring the need for more individuals to abandon traditional cotton in favor of the more sustainable choice of organic cotton. To ensure the authenticity of organic cotton products, consumers should seek out certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and the Organic Content Standard Certification (OCS).

Read more about Organic Cotton & GOTS Cotton.

Brand Rating Guide:

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

Click here to learn how we rate brands on Sustainably Chic

Our Top Picks for Organic & Sustainable Flannel Shirts:

1. Pact

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Men & Women

Price: $78 - 88

Made In: India

Pact has a fantastic selection of sustainable organic cotton flannels.

They offer three options: one for men and two for women, including an oversized style and a regular style.

Each style is available in five different color combinations, giving customers plenty of choices.

What sets Pact apart is their commitment to sustainability and ethical production while having more affordable prices than other similar brands.

Their flannels are made in Fair Trade Certified Factories using GOTS organic cotton and are shipped in plastic-free responsible packaging.

Pact is also carbon neutral and has saved over 800 million gallons of water during production.

Their dedication to environmental and social responsibility makes them a standout choice for conscious consumers!


2. tentree

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Men & Women

Price: $53 - 98

Made In: India

tentree is an environmentally conscious brand that focuses on providing sustainable clothing for those who embrace a laid-back lifestyle.

They prioritize using fabric blends such as organic cotton and Kapok to create flannels that are not only comfortable but also naturally insulating.

One of Tentree's notable initiatives is their commitment to planting trees with a goal of reaching one billion trees planted by 2030. This ambitious undertaking is aimed at making a significant impact on reducing climate change.

To date, Tentree has successfully planted over 30 million trees and has also been involved in land restoration projects in more than eight countries.


3. Outerknown

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Men & Women

Price: $55 - 188

Made In: Peru

The Blanket shirts from Outerknown have gained widespread popularity for their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness.

These cozy flannel shirts are crafted from 100% organic cotton, ensuring both comfort and environmental responsibility.

What sets these shirts apart is the thoughtful use of corozo buttons, which are derived from tagua palm nuts collected from the forest floor, serving as a natural and sustainable alternative to plastic.

It's worth noting that Outerknown, a brand co-founded by pro surfer Kelly Slater, is accredited by the Fair Labor Association, underscoring its dedication to ethical production practices.

Furthermore, the brand stands out for its extensive use of recycled, organic, and 'regenerative' materials in 90% of its garments.

In a commendable move towards social responsibility, Outerknown collaborates with three partners certified by Fair Trade USA, further exemplifying the brand's commitment to ethical and sustainable fashion.


4. Patagonia

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Men & Women

Price: $50 - 139

Made In: Fair Trade Certified™ factory in Vietnam

Patagonia is a renowned sustainable brand known for its commitment to providing ethically made outdoor clothing.

The brand offers a diverse range of colors, styles, and fabric weights, all crafted from 100% organic cotton.

What sets Patagonia apart is its dedication to minimizing environmental impact. A significant 64% of the materials they use are recycled, and they exclusively use organically grown virgin cotton.

Patagonia also maintains transparency by openly sharing information about their owned facilities and suppliers across the entire supply chain, allowing customers to make informed decisions about their purchases.


5. Toad&Co.

❤︎❤︎

For: Men & Women

Price: $70 - 100

Made In: Turkey

Toad & Co is a reputable brand known for its environmentally conscious approach to fashion.

Their collection of flannel shirts, crafted from 100% organic cotton, not only promises high quality but also aligns with sustainable practices.

Toad & Co's commitment to sustainability is evident in their certifications from Bluesign and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, with some products holding both certifications. This demonstrates their dedication to producing clothing that meets stringent environmental and human safety standards.

In addition to their environmental initiatives, Toad & Co is deeply committed to inclusivity. They operate a warehouse that provides training and employment opportunities for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, reflecting their values of empowerment and diversity.

The brand's dedication to environmental conservation is evident through their membership in the Conservation Alliance and 1% For The Planet. Their support has contributed to the funding of 120 environmental protection organizations over the last two decades, showcasing their long-standing commitment to making a positive impact on the planet.


6. CARPASUS

❤︎❤︎

For: Men

Price: $109 - 185

Made In: Portugal

CARPASUS is a Swiss-based clothing brand dedicated to providing high-quality, sustainable clothing.

Their signature line features organic cotton flannel shirts, which are specifically designed to offer warmth and comfort in colder climates.

What sets CARPASUS apart is their commitment to using only certified organic cotton, sourced from one of the top flannel fabric weavers in Portugal. The shirts are meticulously crafted by a Portuguese manufacturer located just a short distance from the weaving mill, ensuring a close-knit production process.

CARPASUS prioritizes sustainability by opting for natural corozo buttons over plastic, further enhancing the eco-friendly appeal of their products.


7. Taylor Stitch

❤︎

For: Men

Price: $69 - 138

Made In: China

Taylor Stitch is an exceptional menswear brand renowned for its commitment to producing a diverse array of clothing items crafted from premium materials such as organic cottons, wools, and reclaimed fibers.

Their collection includes striking plaid flannel prints and a wide range of solid colors.

What truly distinguishes Taylor Stitch is their unwavering dedication to creating products that not only endure wear but also improve with time, which is a refreshing departure from the conventional approach to clothing design.

Taylor Stitch stands out as a remarkable brand that merits your attention and consideration!


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

Our Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands across various categories. Enjoy browsing and shopping with our exclusive discount codes for Sustainably Chic viewers…


Related Reading You May Also Enjoy:

 
eBay’s Secondhand Fashion Show at NYFW 2024: A Winning Step Toward Circular Fashion
 

Image: eBay

eBay’s Secondhand Fashion Show at NYFW

In a major win for the sustainable fashion movement, eBay made history at this year’s New York Fashion Week (NYFW) by debuting its first-ever secondhand runway show in partnership with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). The show was part of eBay’s campaign to bring circular fashion into the mainstream. Styled by TikTok star Wisdom Kaye and hosted by fashion writer Liana Satenstein, the show featured a live, shoppable “Endless Runway”, showcasing pre-loved pieces from American designers like Ralph Lauren, Brandon Maxwell, Off-White, and Simone Rocha. The concept of circularity was reinforced with an O-shaped runway, symbolizing the renewed life cycle of pre-loved garments. In addition to NYFW, eBay also debuted a secondhand runway show at London Fashion Week (LFW). Curated by eBay's Pre-Loved Style Director Amy Bannerman and co-hosted by model Leomie Anderson, this show highlighted British designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen, and Craig Green. Pieces showcased on both runways were available for purchase on eBay, with daily drops of runway pieces designed to make secondhand luxury fashion more accessible to consumers.

Image: eBay

A Shift in Consumer Mindset

eBay’s shows come at a time when more consumers are shifting away from fast fashion. The global resale market has grown significantly, with eBay reporting that in 2023 alone, nearly $50 billion worth of secondhand luxury items were sold. Searches for “vintage” on eBay averaged over 1,000 times per minute in June, highlighting the growing demand for unique, high-quality items not found in traditional retail. Kristy Keoghan, eBay’s Global General Manager of Fashion, pointed out in an interview with Vogue that the goal of these runway shows is to make preloved fashion more accessible, adding that this could inspire designers to re-release archive pieces in future collections. With younger consumers driving demand for sustainable fashion, preloved clothing is no longer just a trend—it’s becoming integral to personal style evolution.

Why It Matters

eBay’s presence at NYFW and LFW underscores a broader shift in the fashion industry towards circularity. By bringing secondhand luxury fashion to such high-profile events, eBay is pushing the message that secondhand clothing isn’t just environmentally responsible—it’s stylish, unique, and worth coveting. While eBay’s secondhand runway shows represent a huge step forward for the sustainable fashion movement, experts caution that the growth of the resale market needs to be moderated. Francois Souchet, a sustainability consultant, noted that while secondhand shopping is a more sustainable option, it’s only truly impactful if it replaces new purchases. Platforms like eBay need to ensure that they don’t inadvertently fuel overconsumption under the guise of reform. To address these concerns, eBay UK launched the Circular Fashion Innovation Fund in 2022, in partnership with the British Fashion Council. The fund aims to support social enterprises, small businesses, and charities working toward a sustainable fashion economy. The success of these initiatives, however, will depend on broader systemic changes that prioritize the path forward—one that honors the past, while reimagining the future as circular.

Watch eBay’s entire Secondhand Fashion Show here.

What is Circular Fashion?

Circular fashion is an innovative approach that seeks to address the fundamental issues of the fashion industry by transforming the entire life cycle of our clothing. It aims to combat the problem of clothing waste by implementing sustainable practices such as recycling, reusing, and reducing the environmental impact of apparel production. This approach strives to create a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry for the benefit of both people and the planet.

You can read more about Circular Fashion here.


About the Author:

Sushmitha Gururaj is an independent writer and content creator with over 10 years of experience educating audiences online about slow fashion, sustainable living and travel. A former neuroscientist turned science communicator by trade, she is a writer at heart! You can follow her on Instagram and find her writing on her blog


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


Searching for sustainable brands?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.


RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: