Overproduction of inexpensive materials and designs in sometimes less than ideal conditions contributes to a culture of “throwaway fashion.” This disposable mentality creates consumers that are constantly on the lookout for the next new trend and are willing to literally trash last year’s styles in favor of the next new big thing. Most of us have been guilty of this, unfortunately, buying that on-trend item that was only in vogue for a short time. But many fashionistas and regular consumers are now moving toward the opposite idea: slow fashion. Instead of creating poor-quality garments that cannot be recycled or reused, many eco-friendly companies are slowing down the production cycle, producing clothes that stand the test of time rather than trends, and contributing less to the pollution problem that fast fashion creates. Slow fashion companies and the clothing they produce are ultimately more sustainable for the planet as a result. Let’s take a look at some eco-friendly online brands to try along with some of our favorite pieces they make to help you look amazing while saving the planet at the same time.
Haas
Haas’s beautiful apparel like this snuggly alpaca long cardigan is a timeless and beautiful addition to anyone’s wardrobe.
Patagonia
Snag this stunning Beech Brown Cashmere Scarf from Patagonia that is perfect to keep or to gift featuring 95% recycled cashmere.
Quince
We love Quince’s silky natural fabric options that make this slow fashion retailer one of our favorites. This Washable Silk Skirt is just as perfect for a night out with the girls as it is being part of your workday staple collection.
In Common
Finding sustainable basics that feel good and really fit well isn’t always easy. But we love In Common’s comfy briefs called The Better Bikini because they are made with modal, a fabric 2x softer than cotton and they fit like a dream.
Sezane
Gorgeous fabrics and muted color palates are the backbone of Sezane’s timeless styles. We are loving the Joanie Bodysuit, perfect to wear year after year from this eco-conscious Parisian design house.
Girlfriend Collective
Providing sustainable fashion for all bodies, the Girlfriend Collective is quickly earning cult-like status with those in the know. We love these Lava FLOAT Ultralight leggings made with recycled plastic, diverting 17 water bottles from landfills for each pair made.
Whimsy + Row
Utilizing the use of low-impact products to small-run batches of fashion, Whimsy + Row is a relative newcomer to the sustainable fashion industry. Their pieces speak to the moment, like this houndstooth Eden Crop Top, but the piece’s origin using excess or leftover fabric is a victory for slow fashionistas everywhere.
Reformation
This brand really lives out their commitment to sustainability and fair-trade practices, but they produce amazing pieces that you will love, too. One of our favorites is the Juliette Dress in emerald that fits like a glove.
Summersalt
You will hardly even notice that these gorgeous Wide Leg trousers from Summersalt are a slow fashion piece. But when you don’t have to replace them in years to come, you will appreciate their timelessness and classic look that endures well past other fast fashion pieces.
Mate
This “seed to skin,” women-centered company out of LA is committed to sustainable practices that improve the world. We love their buttery-soft pieces in classic colors like this sage Organic Terry Raglan Sweatshirt (or buy the matching joggers for a complete set).
Fair Indigo
This smaller business uses artisans and farms in Peru to manufacture their organically grown cotton clothing. Fair Indigo delivers beautifully colored, Earth-friendly dyed pieces like this flattering French Terry Jumpsuit that will be worn for years to come.
Thought Clothing
This UK brand is well known for its philosophy that every change made matters, and we love the “thoughtful way” they approach sustainable fashion from all angles. But we also fancy Thought’s gorgeous designs like this velvet stunner, the Veronica Recycled Polyester Velvet Tie Back Blazer.
Eileen Fisher
For dreamy-soft pieces, Eileen Fisher’s fabrics and lux feel are a great online find for sustainably-minded shoppers. One of our top picks here is the versatile Peruvian Organic Cotton Boucle Cardigan in chalk.
