What is Sustainable Clothing?

The fashion industry has always been under the microscope regarding ethical practices. But this isn’t something that can continue when we consider the future of the planet and people. Sustainable clothing is garments that can be made consistently with less or no adverse impacts on both the environment and the labour involved. There are different ways that brands can make their trade sustainable, and a few are being standard practice for prominent designers. Here’s a look at the different sustainable options that brands are implementing into their overall process.

 

Recycling

It’s not something everyone is aware of, but it isn’t just fabrics that can be recycled to create new clothing. Horizon Athletic is a gym brand that uses Econyl, a material that is produced by recycling plastic. The brand isn’t using just any plastic either, it’s plastic found in the ocean and has been damaging the sea gradually, and Horizon Athletic is doing their part to stop this issue from reoccurring. The more the products that are purchased from the brand, the more plastic will be taken out of the ocean, which is how this brand is sustainable. 

 

Good Practice

The majority of fashion labels outsource their manufacturing to other countries where the cost of materials and staff is much cheaper, which from a business perspective, makes sense. Sadly, some brands can be oblivious to the staff being underpaid, and their methods would be either illegal or frowned upon in the USA and UK. But some brand like Everlane prioritise the staff and make their methods of practice enjoyable for all everyone. The clothing is of high quality and does cost slightly more, but you can but their garment knowing that everyone in the process has been treated fairly. The brand offers their staff a safe working environment, reasonable working hours and fair wages. Everything in their operation has, and they’re providing a sustainable future for their workforce.

 

Protecting the Environment

When textiles and materials are sources, it can have some real negative impact on the environment which a lot of brands neglect. Patagonia uses their profits to rebuild affects areas and restore them to their original state. Patagonia is an outdoor living brand which focuses on forests, rivers, mountain range and animals. Forests that are torn down for resources needs to be replaced, and brands like Patagonia are making our need for these resources sustainable.

 

Whether it’s a womens activewear brand or a luxury designer label, any manufacturer can change their process to help the environment. So, it’s worth looking into the brand further and seeing what their ethos is and how they want to help the world.

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