We’re shining fresh new light on some of the industry’s leading sustainable fashion brands.
But what is sustainable fashion (versus, say, ethical fashion)?
Sustainable fashion advocates for the planet’s finite resources, using primarily sustainable materials and low-impact manufacturing processes, which thereby minimises any negative environmental effects. Many of our labels also count as ethical fashion brands – that is, they concern themselves with the fair treatment of workers, as well as other factors like being cruelty-free or using organic materials.
Stella McCartney
Since graduating from Central Saint Martins in 1995, British designer Stella McCartney has established her namesake label as one of the best sustainable fashion designers around. Rife with exaggerated proportions, animal prints and larger-than-life accessories. In 2017, the designer veered into new territory with her line of menswear, marrying sportswear and tailoring influences, to great success.
Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective is sure to be your new eco-conscious best friend, with on-trend, recycled fashion activewear pieces designed to make positive social and ecological impacts. Founded by Seattle-based husband and wife Ellie and Quang Dinh, the pair create sustainable activewear for those who want to work out guilt-free. Ethical manufacturing, recycled materials and celebrating all forms and types of bodies remain the labels strong ethos. Their impressive Compressive leggings are made from 25 recycled water bottles, saving 3.11 gallons of water per pair, so you really can do your part whilst looking good.
Nanushka
Nanushka is a Budapest-based womenswear, menswear and accessories brand founded in 2006 by Sandra Sandor. Focusing on craftsmanship, detail, and fabric, Nanushka builds an elegant, modern wardrobe creatively through Sandor’s dedication to responsible production. Collections explore a deep appreciation and respect for nature, community and the world around us. The brand’s materials are chosen for their low-impact credentials, while craft and hand technique are informed by a unique mix of traditional and contemporary culture. Celebrating the beauty in imperfection, Nanushka brings pure design and conscious creativity together in a Bohemian Modernist outlook informed by travel, innovation and heritage.
Collina Strada
Although Founder Hillary Taymour has stated that she doesn’t personally label her brand as sustainable, Collina Strada is certainly setting the pace for others to follow. Keeping integrity and transparency at the heart of everything she does, Taymour has found ever-increasingly innovative ways to embrace an eco-friendlier way of production, from creating fabrics out of rose petals to recycling deadstock destined for landfill. Collina Strada also uses its position as a platform for social issues. Translating its message through a free-spirited attitude and provocative detailing, the brand’s Fashion Week presentations are intended not just for visual aesthetics, but for personal reflection, too.
Eileen Fisher
For over 35 years, EILEEN FISHER has been united in our efforts to support the environment and humans rights – and we believe that this work is becoming more important. The label pledges to expand its activism and outreach, to lend voices, to help empower and protect. Being a B Corp means EILEEN FISHER voluntarily meets high criteria for social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency. A quadruple bottom line company, the brand values the environment, employee well-being and financial interests as part of doing business.
GANNI
Based in Copenhagen and owned and run by husband-and-wife team Creative Director Ditte Reffstrup and Founder Nicolaj Reffstrup, GANNI has developed exponentially over recent years with its Scandi 2.0 sense of style, full of personality and contrast. In 2020, the brand launched its Responsibility Game Plan, which comprises 44 goals across people, planet, product and prosperity to reach by 2023. This helps GANNI in taking a holistic and results-driven approach to responsibility.
Discover sustainable styles hand-picked by our experts below.