Looking to embrace sustainable fashion without emptying your wallet? You’re in luck! The rise of ethical and eco-friendly clothing has made conscious shopping more accessible than ever. In this blog post, we’re delving into affordable sustainable clothing options that are all about style with a conscience.
Gone are the days when sustainable fashion came with a hefty price tag or was hard to come by. In fact, the surge in budget-friendly sustainable options means that you can look fabulous while making a positive impact. As awareness grows about the environmental and social repercussions of fast fashion, the demand for ethical clothing is spurring a transformation in the market.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: cheap clothing often equals low quality. It’s a vicious cycle – those inexpensive pieces are hastily made and fall apart quickly, leading to more frequent replacements. This, in turn, drives up production rates and strains resources. Worse yet, these cut-rate clothes are often produced in developing nations with exploitative labour practices and hazardous environments.
Shopping Sustainable Affordable Fashion
Enter sustainable fashion – a game-changer that’s becoming increasingly wallet-friendly, thanks to innovative materials, upcycling, thrifting, and economies of scale. With a palette of eco-friendly fabrics like bamboo, organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester, production demands fewer resources, making these options more affordable.
Upcycling is another star player when it comes to affordable sustainable clothing. Brands that upcycle reimagine existing garments and fabrics into fresh designs, slashing waste heading for landfills while trimming the costs of new materials. It’s a win-win for both sustainability and your budget.
And let’s not forget about thrifting – an absolute treasure trove for distinctive and affordable sustainable clothes. Thrift stores offer a sustainable affordable fashion spree that’s light on the wallet and heavy on unique finds.
Affordable Sustainable Clothes are Becoming the Norm
Last but certainly not least, the power of demand and economies of scale is at play. As the call for sustainable fashion grows louder, brands are able to produce more for less, making ethical choices more affordable. The reduced production costs trickle down to consumers like you, ensuring your commitment to sustainability doesn’t break the bank.
So, if you’re ready to weave sustainability into your style without sacrificing your budget, you’re in for a treat. With a touch of exploration, you can uncover the perfect sustainable ensemble that suits your taste and financial comfort.
Affordable Sustainable Clothing Brands: Fair on the Planet and Your Wallet
If you prefer new clothes, check out our list of purse-friendly sustainable clothing brands. Happy shopping, conscious fashionista!
BackBeat Co.
United States
BackBeat Co. knows that comfort doesn’t mean sacrificing style. With their collection of comfy knits and lounge clothing, they’ve got lazy Sunday afternoons covered. Whether it’s shorts and T-shirts or slacks and skirts, their relaxed, at-ease style is perfect for those laid-back moments or even dressing up a bit for a beachside lunch date.
What sets BackBeat Co. apart is their commitment to sustainability, and it’s not just lip service. They’ve earned the prestigious Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification, putting them in a league of their own among affordable sustainable clothing brands.
Sustainability
One thing that really stands out is their support for local businesses. They’ve woven ethics into the fabric of their brand. Plus, they’re all about using sustainable materials like Tencel, Hemp, and Viscose, which not only feel good against your skin but also help protect our planet.
And kudos to them for making the eco-friendly choice of using recycled Cotton packaging instead of non-biodegradable plastics. It’s these little steps that can make a big difference in our collective efforts to preserve our environment.
So, what’s in your cart from BackBeat Co.? These are our favourite picks!
Images Source: backbeat.co
MayaMiko
United Kingdom
MayaMiko is all about making a statement with its bold, vibrant prints and comfortable Cotton casual wear. Looking at this brand, you can practically hear the beat of an African drum on the beach in Malawi. It’s uncomplicated and oh-so-comfortable, with knotted tops paired with skirts that come together seamlessly with matching bucket hats. And don’t miss those denim shirts and shorts with rolled hems that add a stylish twist to their colour-rich collection. Absolutely awesome, indeed!
But what truly sets MayaMiko apart is their dedication to making a positive impact. Their charity trust is a testament to their commitment to providing opportunities for disadvantaged women. They nurture creative talent, transfer valuable skills, and offer access to sustainable practices through their fashion lab. MayaMiko has shown us that creating affordable sustainable clothes can be done beautifully, and that’s worth applauding.
Sustainability
Their choice of materials is both eco-friendly and locally sourced. They use Chitenge fabric made on demand, and they’re all about sustainability with Flax, up-cycled Silk, and Cotton jerseys sourced from dead stock. Even their dyes are eco-conscious, based on food waste. Plus, they proudly hold the GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification, ensuring that their entire trading process, including the supply chain, is above board.
MayaMiko’s commitment to both style and substance is truly commendable. It’s clear that they deserve every bit of success for the A1 products they produce.
Which designs from MayaMiko would you add to your collection? These are our favourites.
Images Source:
Etiko
Australia
Etiko is all about organic cotton that wraps you in comfort and warmth. Their unisex hoodies, tees, and underwear are designed to be worn close to the skin, and they offer a wide range of options. You can choose between a round neck or v-neck, long sleeve or short sleeve—so many choices to match your style. And don’t forget their branded “wear no evil” tee, a statement in itself. Check out Etiko’s collection.
But what truly sets Etiko apart is their commitment to ethics and transparency. They’re not just a brand; they’re a certified B Corp, which means they measure and prove their social and environmental impact. Their legal commitment to transparency and trust extends to their suppliers and employees, creating a socio-economic and sustainable environment for everyone involved.
Their Fairtrade certificate ensures that their workforce is protected with fair wages and employee benefits, proving that they take care of the people behind their products. Etiko also advocates for ALL businesses to submit to the Modern Slavery Statement, not just the ones with high revenues. They’re setting an example of accountability.
Sustainability
When it comes to materials, Etiko is all about being ethically and environmentally responsible. They choose Vegan sustainable products that are plant-based. Their Cotton supplier, Rajlakshmi Cotton Mills, holds the prestigious GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification, demonstrating their noble compliance with ethical standards. With materials like 100% Chetna Cotton and 100% biodegradable Rubber, Etiko is leading the way in eco-friendly choices. The Cotton Mill also confirms that the quality of the fibres supplied is on average 95% organic.
And here’s the kicker—they’re actively working towards reducing their carbon emissions footprint. Combined with their ongoing recycling efforts, Etiko is making commendable strides toward a greener future.
What Etiko pieces will find their way into your wardrobe? These are our favourites!
Images Source: etiko.com.au
Happy Earth
United States
Happy Earth takes casual wear to a whole new level with stylish matching pieces that give their essential wear a clear purpose. Their lineup of branded clothing is simply amazing, offering everything from Tees and hoodies to activewear, shorts, and dresses. And when it comes to colours, you have a wide range to choose from, whether you prefer lovely pastel shades or explore darker hues.
But what truly sets Happy Earth apart is their commitment to making a positive impact. Their motto, “The brand that actually gives a damn,” says it all. They hold the prestigious B Corp Certification, which means they meet rigorous environmental, socio-economic, and sustainability standards. They’re all about balancing purpose with profit, ensuring that their workers enjoy a positive impact and thrive. Their values include reducing inequality, alleviating poverty, creating high-quality jobs, and strengthening communities.
Sustainability
When it comes to materials, Happy Earth have put a lot of thought into their choices and their impact on the environment. They’re part of the 1% for the Planet movement, a global organisation that supports both people and the planet across various industries, including fashion. By using Carbon-neutral and 92% Organic Cotton with only 8% Elastine, they significantly reduce their environmental footprint. Their use of recycled Nylon Spandex, Acrylic Cotton, and Polyester is truly commendable, showcasing their dedication to sustainability.
Have you added any Happy Earth pieces to your wardrobe yet? Here are our favourites.
Images Source: happyearthapparel.com
Known Supply
USA
Known Supply offers a relaxed, unisex selection of comfortable clothing that’s perfect for those informal days. From Tees and hoodies to flannel shirts and jumpsuits, they have a range of casual wear that suits everyone. What sets Known Supply apart is its unique approach to connecting customers with the makers behind their chosen item of clothing. It’s a fascinating concept because it adds a personal touch to your purchase, creating a sense of understanding about the materials, design, and mission statement behind each piece.
“Fair wages always” is more than just a motto for Known Supply; it’s how they pay their staff. They proudly hold the Fair Trade Certification, ensuring that the farmers and suppliers receive a fair price for their goods. This commitment extends to workers’ wages and rights, all while adhering to rigorous environmental standards. Known Supply exclusively uses GOTS Certified (Global Organic Textile Standard) Cotton suppliers, guaranteeing that all textile inspections and compliance are in order. They also prioritise their workers’ well-being by tracing the supply chain all the way back to the earliest threads, ensuring that every worker’s needs are met.
Sustainability
Known Supply is a global entity with a profound impact on the communities it touches. They provide life-changing sustainability through scholarships, computer equipment, clinic and health check-ups, home appliance distribution, financial support, and access to healthy food. It’s not just about clothing; it’s about creating a positive change in people’s lives.
When it comes to materials, Known Supply uses Organic Cotton for their tees and hoodies, and they incorporate Hemp, bamboo, and recycled water bottles into the rest of their range. They’re committed to using only non-toxic, water-based inks. As a Certified B Corp, they uphold high standards of socioeconomic and environmental transparency, building trust with their suppliers and employees alike.
Check out our favourites and connect with a maker through your Known Supply purchase.
Images Source: knownsupply.com
Mata Traders
United States
Mata Traders takes you on a journey through a world of vibrant, colourful prints, offering a timeless selection of women’s cotton clothing. Whether you’re seeking a dress, top, or skirt, there’s a piece of clothing to suit every woman’s style within this range. What sets Mata Traders apart is their commitment to infusing hand-made woven and printed artistry into each piece, adding that extra touch of uniqueness.
Sustainability
This fair trade clothing brand places a high priority on workers’ well-being, recognizing that a happy workspace is essential. Their workforce mainly consists of women, and their fair trade ethics encompass fairness, safety, gender equality, and accountable relationships. By providing skills, training, and investing in their communities, they’ve cultivated a capable and motivated workforce. Mata Traders produces artistry responsibly, avoiding toxic dyes and instead relying on traditional hand-made block printing, screen printing, and embroidery techniques. The hand-weaving process passed down through generations, is a cherished skill set that enriches their clothing brand.
When it comes to materials, Mata Traders incorporates Organic and plain weave Cotton into their clothing range. They also embrace Ikat, a weaving technique that combines hand-dyed wool or silk into a specific repeating design, originating in South Eastern Asia. This intricate design finds its place in Mata Traders’ clothing, alongside materials like Tencel and Modal. They’re not just creating clothing; they’re preserving and celebrating old, traditional skills.
These timeless prints captured our hearts!
Images Source: matatraders.com
Me&B
South Africa
If you’re a woman who revels in vibrant, bold, and exotic prints, then Me&B is your affordable sustainable clothing destination. They bring an exciting range of stripes, sequins, and checks in a kaleidoscope of colours – no holding back. This collection is all about embracing your unique style, offering an array of dresses, skirts, blouses, and pantsuits in countless combinations for you to mix and match.
Sustainability
But what truly sets Me&B apart is their commitment to making everyone in their fair trade clothing company feel like family. Each member of their staff is counted, cared for, and appreciated, fostering a sense of community within their workspace. During slower trading times, Me&B repurposes unsold stock to keep their factories thriving, demonstrating their dedication to both their employees and responsible production practices.
Me&B’s approach to producing clothing aligns with their eco-conscious ethos. They utilise environmentally friendly materials like 100% Viscose and Linen, leaving no leftover scrap. Their locally-made clothing not only promotes fair trade but also supports the community by providing jobs. While they’ve made a good start, we share your hope for even more progress from Me&B in the future.
Explore Me&B’s collection of bold, exotic prints and embrace their unique style. Here are our favourite fashion finds.
Images Source: meandb.shop
The Good Tee
Canada
T-shirts never looked this good! The Good Tee offers a splendid array of tees in a kaleidoscope of colours, styles, and lengths. Among their remarkable selection, the batwing tee caught my eye – an unusual bell shape with a rounded hemline at the back. They also feature baseball tees with striking black contrast colours and a unique reversible Kimono-style cardigan.
Sustainability
What truly sets The Good Tee apart is its impressive roster of certifications that underscore its unwavering commitment to fairness. The B Corp Certificate stands for socioeconomic responsibility, transparency, supplier compliance, and employee protection, setting a high standard for workers, suppliers, and transparency throughout the production process. The GOT’s (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification provides a rule of thumb for all textile manufacturers, ensuring sustainable and ethical practices. Flocert, the Social Auditing Fair Trade global certificate, assures fairness in business practices, trading relationships, and workers’ rights. Meanwhile, the Fairtrade Certificate ensures that farmers receive a fair price for their goods, prioritise their workers’ well-being, and uphold fair wages along with environmental standards.
But The Good Tee goes even further, giving its staff a say in where surplus funds are allocated to benefit their communities. When it comes to materials, they use 100% organic cotton for all their tees, while Lycra is employed for activewear and cotton fleece for hoodies. With this comprehensive approach and a wealth of certifications, it’s clear that The Good Tee has crossed its t’s and dotted its i’s, ensuring the protection and fairness of all parties involved in their business dealings.
Embrace their commitment to fairness and sustainability and explore the unique styles and ethical practices of The Good Tee. These are our favourites.
Images Source: thegoodtee.com
Tamga Designs
Canada
Tamga Designs has brought a delightful range of summer dresses, kimonos, and tops to the sustainable affordable fashion scene, adorned with floral patterns, lightweight fabrics, and a feminine touch. Splashes of vibrant colours enhance their appeal, while the flowing lines provide a sense of freedom in every outfit. If you can’t find something delightful to wear from this collection, you’ll be in for a surprise!
Sustainability
What truly sets Tamga Designs apart is its remarkable set of certifications, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to ethical and sustainable fashion. With five notable credentials, including GOT’s (Global Organic Textile Standard), Non-GMO (No Genetically Modified Organisms), FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), OEKO-TEX (Safety Against Toxins and Chemicals), and 1% for the Planet (Accelerating Environmental Giving), Tamga Designs shows that they adhere to all the industry’s rules and regulations for textile production. This includes their use of eco-dyes and traceable botanic fibres.
Tamga Designs also embraces materials like Ecovero Viscose and Modal made from wood pulp, sourced from sustainably managed forests, and Flax Linen, a sustainable, low-impact fibre free of pesticides and absorbs carbon. Their recycling efforts are equally commendable, with the Tencel closed-loop process recycling a remarkable 99.8% of water and solvents, while Lensing Ecovero and Eco dyes use 88% less water in their production process. Even their packaging aligns with their commitment to sustainability, with 100% recyclable materials, including organic cotton bags and recycled paper shipping envelopes.
Tamga Designs’ dedication and forthright attitude toward sustainability are truly inspiring. We’re eagerly anticipating more equally gorgeous designs from this brand.
We’d add these stunning Tamga Designs outfits to our collection for that perfect blend of style and sustainability.
Images Source: tamgadesigns.com
For more sustainable clothing brands, check out our blog: Non-Fast Fashion Brands Combining Quality and Conscience
What’s your favourite affordable sustainable clothing brand? Let us know in the comments below.
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