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Photographed by Juergen Teller
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Sustainability and fashion have a tricky relationship. The global fashion industry produces enormous amounts of waste every year, and many brands have embraced sustainability as more of a marketing tool than as a central part of their production plan. Of course, the best way to lower the carbon footprint of your closet is to shop less, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop shopping all together. Along with the huge rise in resale sites, and the “thrift-flips” proliferating on TikTok, it’s exciting to see emerging and heritage companies alike who are placing slow production, ethical working conditions, and recycled materials at the center of their process. Here, some of our favorite pieces from sustainable brands to put on your radar (and in your shopping carts).
Gabriela Hearst has been a pillar in the sustainability movement since the brand was launched in 2015. Most recently, Hearst participated in the Global Energy Forum at the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference, where an agreement was reached for the “beginning of the end” of the fossil fuel era.
Queen of Rap Nicki Minaj has partnered with the British sneaker brand LØCI to unveil her latest fashion venture. The collection, along with the the line’s classic styles, are handcrafted in eco-conscious factories in Portugal, and each pair is made from responsibly sourced, 100% vegan materials.
This Latina-owned brand based in New York City takes pride in its handcrafted pieces that are ethically sourced and locally manufactured with hopes to make a greener and brighter future. The incorporation of catcus biomaterials makes for an even greener, cleaner product.
CFCL, a.k.a. Clothing For Contemporary Life, is a brand that focuses on comfortable pieces that stand the test of time. Most of their knitwear is 3D-computer- developed, which produces almost no waste—a huge win for the push towards a more sustainable future.
Everlane is a brand that puts its principles into practice by sourcing premium, low impact materials to create timeless pieces can be passed down to future generations. Also, by incorporating recyclable materials in their designs, they minimize overall waste and pollution.
Founded in 2013 by Aurora James, Brother Vellies is a brand that highlights the beauty of vibrant cultures and unique perspectives. Many of their accessories are made from vegetable-tanned leathers, hand carved wood and floral dyed feathers with recycled tire soles!
Since its inception in 2005, House of Dagmar has always favored materials that have little to no impact on humans, animals, and the environment. A majority of their collections use recycled, re-engineered, and organic materials that do not compromise form and style.
The progressive luxury brand has always been futuristic when it comes to design and garment production. Lately, they’ve been incorporating materials like Savian, which a 100% plant- based, plastic- free and GMO-free alternative to animal fur. And through a partnership with Veuve Clicquot, they’re pioneering a grape-based alternative to animal leather using a byproduct from the Champagne harvest.
The tights and socks from Swedish Stockings are created from pre- and post-consumer nylon waste, and they encourage their customers to participate in their recycling program once each piece has reached the end of its life cycle.
Veja is a sneaker brand that keeps fair wages, sustainable practices, and sustainable materials at its forefront. They also use upcyled materials like plastic bottles, cotton from industry cuttings, and recycled polyester to create their classic sneakers.
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