In a world increasingly aware of the fashion industry's environmental impact, sustainable fashion is more than a trend; it's a conscious choice for those who care about the planet. Sustainable fashion goes beyond eco-friendly materials; it involves ethical practices, conscious consumption, and reimagining the fashion lifecycle.

In this post, we’re highlighting sustainable fashion brands that make a difference, from luxury labels to more affordable options. So whether you need everydayware or something special you can rest assured that you’ll be doing good for the planet.

What is Sustainable Fashion and Why Is It Important?

Sustainable fashion is an ethos that transcends seasonal trends. It's about producing, buying, and wearing clothing that minimizes harm to the environment, respects the rights and well-being of workers, and promotes longevity and quality. At its core, sustainable fashion strives to balance style with conscience, ensuring that every garment has a meaningful and positive impact.

The priorities of sustainable fashion brands include…

Environmental Stewardship: The conventional fashion industry is one of the most polluting in the world, contributing to water contamination, deforestation, and excessive waste. Sustainable fashion seeks to reduce these harmful effects by using eco-friendly materials, adopting responsible production methods, and embracing circular fashion principles.

Ethical Practices: Behind every piece of clothing is a network of workers, often in vulnerable conditions. Sustainable fashion brands prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and workers' rights, promoting social equity and justice within the industry.

Animal Welfare: Many fashion items involve the use of animal-derived materials like fur, leather, and feathers. Sustainable fashion brands commit to cruelty-free alternatives, demonstrating compassion towards animals.

Longevity and Quality: Fast fashion has normalized disposable clothing, resulting in a culture of constant consumption. Sustainable fashion encourages consumers to invest in timeless, durable pieces that stand the test of time, reducing the overall volume of clothing production and waste.

Transparency and Accountability: Sustainable fashion brands are often committed to transparency. They share information about their supply chains, sourcing, and environmental impact, fostering trust and accountability.

How to Shop Sustainably and What Brands to Support

Now, let's delve into the world of sustainable fashion, exploring both luxury and midrange brands that are leading the charge toward a more responsible and beautiful future.

Vintage Fashion

When we talk about sustainability in fashion, the most timeless and eco-conscious option is to buy vintage. Rather than supporting the fast fashion industry and buying something new, buying a unique vintage piece gives something old new life. You’re also helping reduce carbon emissions while preserving energy, water, and other resources.

When it comes to shopping for vintage clothing you can browse local boutiques or online, here are our recommendations below.

Local Boutiques

Before you set foot in a store, shop your closet! You never know what you’ll find. Maybe something you haven’t worn in years can be styled in a new way. Fashion trends are cyclical, so something that may seem dated now may come back around.

Thrifting at local vintage shops can unearth treasures that not only add a unique touch to your wardrobe but also reduce the burden on our planet. Shopping local is always a more sustainable option because you’re reducing CO2 emissions and supporting your local economy.

Below we’re covering our favorite online vintage resources.

The RealReal

The RealReal stands as a beacon of sustainable luxury fashion. This secondhand marketplace offers a constantly changing inventory of luxury clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories at reasonable prices.

What sets it apart is the rigorous authenticity checks performed by experts, ensuring that your vintage finds are genuine. By choosing to shop here, you not only enjoy luxury items but also contribute to reducing fashion waste.

Though they started online they now have brick-and-mortar locations throughout the country.

Farfetch

Farfetch, established in 2008, is reshaping luxury fashion with its ambitious sustainability goals outlined in the 2030 Positively FARFETCH initiative. They aim to become 'Climate Positive' by reducing carbon emissions and supporting carbon offset projects. Farfetch also strives to sell 100% 'Conscious' products, promoting items that benefit people, the planet, and animals. They focus on circular, low-waste products and services and champion diversity and inclusion within their workforce and the fashion community. Farfetch's sustainability approach showcases how luxury fashion can align with ethical and environmental values.

Shop their pre-owned products to source one-of-a-kind vintage treasures.

Luxury Sustainable Brands

Whether you regularly shop luxury brands or you’re looking for a special event, these are our top eco-friendly luxury picks.

Stella McCartney

Stella McCartney has been at the forefront of sustainable luxury fashion, committing to fur, feather, and leather-free products from the start. They prioritize eco-friendly fabrics and materials, continually work toward circularity, and promote transparency through their Eco Impact report. Stella McCartney also adheres to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, making conscientious choices from sourcing to production.

Vivienne Westwood

Dame Vivienne Westwood's eponymous brand has a punk aesthetic with a sustainable heart. They emphasize reusing materials and producing fewer pieces. Over 90% of their recent ready-to-wear collections use lower-impact materials, and they actively research sustainable production methods. Vivienne Westwood also supports local industries, reducing wasteful production methods.

Mara Hoffman

Mara Hoffman's collections are a vibrant fusion of color and sustainability. They use sustainable fabrics like regenerated nylon fiber and recycled polyester. Additionally, they employ ethical sourcing, uphold environmental and human rights standards, and even operate a secondhand shop called "Full Circle" to minimize fashion's impact on landfills.

Midrange Sustainable Brands: Affordable Luxury

For your everyday looks without the high price tag, these are our favorite sustainable midrange brands.

Jenni Kayne

Jenni Kayne is on a journey to sustainability. They encourage consumers to build versatile, long-lasting wardrobes with quality pieces. Recently, they launched an eco-friendly collection made from 100% recycled fabric, emphasizing reduced water, energy, and resource usage.

Reformation

Reformation is synonymous with sustainability, offering carbon-neutral, water-neutral clothing since 2015. They advocate for water conservation and upcycling, all while creating stylish and eco-friendly clothing.

Citizens of Humanity

Citizens of Humanity leads in denim technology, using innovative wash and dye techniques to significantly reduce water consumption. Their commitment to efficiency and waste reduction is evident in their production methods.

Sustainable fashion isn't just a fleeting trend; it's a movement towards a more responsible and ethical future in fashion. Whether you opt for luxury brands with a conscience or affordable midrange options, your choices can make a positive impact on the environment and the fashion industry as a whole. Choose wisely, dress sustainably, and contribute to a more eco-friendly world.

Beyond Fashion: A Sustainable Home

Sustainability shouldn't stop at your wardrobe; it should extend to your living space.

At AHG Interiors, we're committed to helping you create a home that aligns with eco-conscious principles. Our interior design services prioritize environmentally friendly choices, such as using non-toxic materials, maximizing energy efficiency, and repurposing furniture and decor. We pay special attention to indoor air quality, optimize space usage, and support local artisans to reduce carbon footprints. With our guidance, your home can become a sustainable sanctuary where style meets ethics, making a positive impact on both your well-being and the planet.

Contact us today to discuss your project!

All About Sustainable Fashion: The AHG Guide to Eco-Friendly Luxury Brands