Cheap apparel can be tempting for deal hunters, but the truth about fast fashion is far from appealing.
The mix of unsafe factory conditions, manufacturing methods that harm the planet and flimsy garments that don’t last has many mindful shoppers turning to ethical fashion labels for their wardrobes.
Anyone who’s browsed ethical fashion knows these labels often price their pieces at levels that can be out of reach for budget-conscious style lovers.
That’s why we compiled a list of wallet-friendly ethical clothing brands. The companies featured here claim ethical and sustainable practices, fair treatment of workers (or a blend of those principles), and you won’t need to empty your savings to buy their pieces.
Pact
This Colorado-based brand uses organic cotton that’s fair-trade certified — and the fabric feels luxuriously soft and cozy. It offers apparel for men, women and kids, and most pieces come in solid hues.
We saw organic footie sleepers for $20 (on sale for $14), women’s leggings priced at $35 (marked down to $19) and organic towels beginning around $20.
Shop:WearPact.com
Threads 4 Thought
If you want comfy sweats, relaxed everyday wear and workout gear, this is a great spot to look.
The company says it partners only with factories certified for excellent labor standards and top-tier sustainable manufacturing practices. Fabrics include sustainable options such as recycled polyester, organic cotton and Lenzing Modal.
Regular prices can be a bit above our target, but the sale section delivers standout bargains. We found a pullover for $22, a fleece jacket for $32 and a men’s hoodie for $28.
Shop:Threads4Thought.com
Alternative Apparel
Items sold here are made from materials like upcycled cotton, 100% organic cotton, hemp blends and fully recycled polyester. The company uses oxo-biodegradable packaging — meaning the plastic can be broken down and consumed by microbes — and it reuses and recycles materials from its suppliers.
Right now the best sellers are pandemic-proof loungewear: eco-fleece joggers (starting at $22), the eco-fleece hoodie (on sale for $27) and heavy-knit pullover sweatshirts (starting at $17).
Nobody’s Child
This UK label tries to eliminate fabric waste in its production. Nobody’s Child relies on certified sustainable textiles, organic cotton, eco-friendly fabrics and upcycled materials when possible. It also employs in-house designers who reinvent the garments.
Dresses begin around $25 and tend to be floral, frilly and playful. Sweatshirts and joggers hover near $30 and lean toward simpler styles.
Shop:NobodysChild.com
Thought Clothing
This British brand could easily be mistaken for a more sustainable cousin of a popular lifestyle retailer. When prices aren’t reduced it can feel comparable to that higher-end store — but on sale, dresses drop to about $50. You’ll also find tops around $30 and skirts reminiscent of Boden for roughly $40.
Shop:WearThought.com
People Tree
This UK label has strong eco-credentials: it meets the Global Organic Textile Standard and carries the World Fair Trade Organization product mark. The company also focuses on creating jobs in rural regions where opportunities are limited. Clothing is dyed with low-impact processes and made from natural materials whenever feasible.
Despite all that, their items remain surprisingly affordable. 100% wool hats are $45, tops start at $34, and discounted dresses begin around $50.
Shop:PeopleTree.co.uk
Boody
Crafted from organic bamboo and manufactured with rigorous labor standards, this brand sells wardrobe basics for men, women and children. Many items have plentiful five-star reviews and sizes typically run from XS to XL.
Bras start near $17, leggings are about $24 and muslin baby wraps are $35 for a two-pack.
Shop:BoodyWear.com
Happy Earth
Using sustainable textiles and recyclable packaging, this brand reports it has prevented nearly 3 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions. Its cotton is 100% organic, the company asserts it is fully carbon neutral, and products are certified by the World Fair Trade Organization. The apparel is playful and often unisex, featuring graphics of trees and the planet.
Long-sleeve tees begin at $29, or you can get a two-pack for $40. Their leggings, made from plant-based fibers rather than virgin plastics, retail for $65.
Looking for ways to give your wardrobe new life without spending much? Consider a clothing swap to refresh your closet sustainably and affordably.
Emma Reynolds is a contributor to Savinly.
