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We’ve lived in sustainable and environmentally conscious clothing for over a decade — these are our favorite brands that use clean, natural materials.
When we think of pollution, we think of big oil companies and smog from coal mines — but the truth is, fast fashion is one of the central polluting industries in the world. Not only is excessive clothing production harmful to our planet, but garment production harms farmers and producers due to chemicals and waste.
Thankfully, there are many eco-friendly clothing brands utilizing sustainable production methods. These brands use low-impact dyes, upcycled natural materials, and organic cotton to create the very best sustainable and organic apparel.
Why should you choose environmentally friendly clothing?
Opting to invest in environmentally friendly clothing means we’re reducing the detrimental health and environmental impacts of fast fashion. Conventional fabrics are often treated with pesticides, synthetic dyes, and chemicals, which can linger in the fabric and cause skin irritation, allergies, or even more serious health problems when absorbed into the skin. In contrast, eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, bamboo, or hemp are generally free from these toxic substances and can help reduce any harmful exposure to farmers, garment workers — and in turn, us.
From an environmental perspective, sustainable clothing choices help conserve resources and reduce pollution. The production of eco-friendly fabrics often requires less water, energy, and pesticides compared to conventional textiles. By choosing sustainably produced clothing, you’ll support practices that reduce carbon emissions, limit waste, and protect ecosystems. Environmentally conscious fashion also encourages recycling and upcycling, contributing to a circular economy that minimizes landfill waste and promotes a more sustainable future for our planet.
What is slow fashion?
Slow fashion is a movement that invites us to rethink our relationship with clothing, encouraging us to buy less, choose well, and truly cherish each piece for years — if not decades — to come. Unlike fast fashion, which churns out cheap, trend-driven styles meant to be worn a handful of times and tossed, slow fashion focuses on quality over quantity. It champions thoughtful design, high-quality natural or recycled materials, and meticulous craftsmanship, often through small-batch production or made-to-order pieces that reduce excess inventory and waste. Brands committed to slow fashion also prioritize ethical practices, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for garment workers. By investing in timeless styles and well-made staples, we not only reduce our environmental footprint but also cultivate a deeper connection to our clothes — transforming them from disposable items into meaningful, long-lasting pieces that reflect our personal values and style.
What are the most eco-friendly clothing materials?
When it comes to building a wardrobe that’s kind to both people and the planet, choosing the right materials makes all the difference. The most eco-friendly clothing fabrics are those that are renewable, low-impact, and biodegradable, like organic cotton, which is grown without harmful pesticides and uses far less water than conventional cotton. Linen and hemp are standout choices — both require minimal water and chemicals, grow quickly, and naturally enrich the soil. Innovative options like TENCEL™ lyocell, made from sustainably sourced wood pulp in a closed-loop process, offer a silky-soft alternative with a much smaller footprint than traditional synthetics. Recycled fibers, such as recycled cotton or polyester made from plastic bottles (rPET), give new life to existing materials and help reduce waste. By choosing these thoughtfully sourced and produced fabrics, you’re not just investing in beautiful clothes — you’re supporting a more sustainable, circular fashion system that puts the environment first.
What are the relevant certifications?
When shopping for sustainable and eco-friendly clothing, it can be hard to know which claims to trust — that’s where third-party certifications come in. These labels help you cut through greenwashing and ensure that the fabrics and production processes truly meet high environmental and ethical standards.
Some key certifications to look for include:
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): This certification that the clothing textiles are made from at least 70% organic fibers and produced in an environmentally and socially responsible way.
- OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: Ensures that every component of the garment, from threads to buttons, has been tested for harmful substances and is safe for human health.
- Fair Trade Certified™: Guarantees that the people making your clothes are paid fair wages and work under safe, ethical conditions.
- Bluesign®: Focuses on reducing harmful chemicals and resource use throughout the entire textile supply chain.
Our criteria:
Our editors have personally worn and researched sustainable fashion for years. We’ve tested all the brands on this list based on their quality and certifications so you can be sure they’re environmentally friendly, nontoxic, and ethically made. We add new favorites to this list regularly when they meet the following criteria.
- ECO-FRIENDLY | These brands use garment production practices that minimize environmental impact, including the use of recycled materials. You won’t find any harmful chemicals, excessive waste, or microplastic shedding here.
- NATURAL & NONTOXIC | All of these options are safe for daily wear and wash since they use natural and organic fabrics that are not treated with harsh chemicals. We’ve noted relevant certifications like GOTS so you can be sure we’ve got your back.
- SUSTAINABLE | The brands on this list are mindful of labor conditions of the farmers and garment workers who made these pieces — and many are fair trade certified.
It can feel overwhelming to try to break a fast fashion habit, but making the switch to eco-friendly clothing doesn’t have to happen over night. Start small, keeping these environmentally friendly clothing brands in mind for the next time you get the itch to update your closet.
For even more eco-friendly fashion brands, check out our guides for sustainable shoes, ethical handbags, and organic cotton basics.
Table of contents
1. MATE the Label
Best For | Loungewear
Sustainable Practices | Uses organic materials & nontoxic dyes, fair working environments, plastic-free, recycling program
Size Range | XS – 3XL
Price Range | $$ – $$$
For clean, conscious fashion that prioritizes comfort and sustainability, we’re looking to MATE the Label. The women-founded brand creates cozy essentials from natural fibers using circular, ethical manufacturing that is good for the planet, the people who make the garments, and the people who wear them. (Check out The Mate Eight to get a better sense of their ethos!) From joggers to leggings to sweatshirts and more, elevate your daily favorites with these gorgeous, cozy basics. Read our Mate the Label review here.
Our Editor’s Review | “As someone who lives in her “cozies” year-round, MATE the Label’s organic basics are my cozy garments of choice — for lounging at home or running errands around the city. The quality and mission justify the hefty price tag, and even after years of wear, these sweats and tees look as good as new. ” – Kayti Christian, Senior Content Strategist [Read our full review.]
2. Patagonia
Best For | Outdoor clothing
Sustainable Practices | Working towards eliminating virgin petroleum fibers by the end of 2025, helps suppliers cut emissions, regenerative agricultural practices, invests in renewable energy in local communities, secondhand clothing options available
Size Range | XXS – 3XL
Price Range | $$ – $$$
For durable outdoor clothing and gear that won’t harm the environment, Patagonia is number one. From moisture-wicking tees to water-repellant hiking shorts that won’t chafe (not to mention their famous fleeces and insulated jackets!), the brand is our go-to for high performing and high quality clothing for all our favorite things to do outside. With 98% of their clothing line boasting recycled materials, plus the brand’s environmental impact transparency and sustainability initiatives, you can feel good about supporting a company that truly values the planet.
Customer Review | “I have had this item for 2 years and LOVE it! When my daughter borrowed it one day, she HAD to have it, so I bought her one and now she lives in it almost daily. It’s perfect for everything! Soft, warm, comfortable… all the things you want.” – Darla (Read all reviews.)
3. Boody
Best For | Bamboo underwear & basics
Sustainable Practices | Clothing made from organically grown, pesticide-free bamboo, consumes less water
Size Range | XXS – 4XL
Price Range | $ – $$
Boody — which touts itself as the first underwear brand in the US to be named a certified B Corp — is all about easy-to-wear essentials you’ll love lounging in. Using sustainable bamboo (transformed into bamboo viscose and manufactured in China, Vietnam, and India), this fast-growing and natural material is comfortable, breathable, and silky soft. (And it’s moisture-wicking too!) Whether you’re grabbing undies for your…well, booty, men’s athleisure, or a wrap for your littlest one, enjoy soft, safe, and sustainable clothing.
Customer Review | “I bought these to go underneath dresses or loose shorts so my legs don’t rub and I can feel comfortable. Tried these on and they fit so well and smooth out my lumps and bumps! Haven’t worn with a dress yet but definitely excited to” – Gemma A. (Read all reviews.)
4. EILEEN FISHER
Best For | Timeless staples & size inclusivity
Sustainable Practices | Regenerative farming practices, secondhand pieces available, repurposes & upcycles excess textiles, solar-powered warehouses, fair wages
Size Range | PP – 3X
Price Range | $$$ – $$$$
EILEEN FISHER clothing is designed for simplicity with an emphasis on quality. The New York-based, employee-owned brand makes elevated wardrobe staples — like cropped cardigans and tank dresses, box tops and tapered pants — in stunning silhouettes, and from materials like organic linen, organic pima cotton, and responsible merino wool. The Certified B Corp also monitors its factories to ensure fair treatment while implementing initiatives for water and energy conservation too. Plus, its Renew program accepts the brand’s used clothes back to be resold, donated, or remade into new designs.
Our Editor’s Review | “So, is Eileen Fisher still the best place for minimal wardrobe staples after all these years? I say absolutely! There’s no need to look for brands reintroducing 90s minimalism when Eileen is still producing hits like these. I don’t know why I waited so long to find this perfect match.” – Ashley D’Arcy, Senior Editor [Read our full review.]
5. Pact
Best For | Affordable fair trade basics
Sustainable Practices | Supports organic farming, offsets carbon, Fair Trade certified working conditions, responsible packaging
Size Range | XS – XXL
Price Range | $ – $$
Loved for its line of basics, Pact knows that going organic has benefits for consumers, farmers, and the planet. The brand’s organic cotton clothing uses up to 81 percent less water than traditional cotton, avoids the use of chemicals, and is supremely softer than the alternative — a true win-win for everyone involved. Our personal favorites are the loungewear and sleepwear, engineered for all-day (and night!) comfort, leaving you feeling comfortable and confident.
Customer Review | “Love this dress! The fabric, the fit, and the shelf bra is great. I original bought it in three colors to return the ones that I didn’t want but I ended up keeping them all.” – Anne D. (Read all reviews.)
6. Organic Basics
Best For | Organic & eco-friendly intimates
Sustainable Practices | Offsets carbon emissions, uses low-impact textiles, fair & environmentally-friendly factory partners
Size Range | XXXS – XXXL
Price Range | $ – $$$
Organic Basics takes your run-of-the-mill basics and elevates them to be more comfy, more durable, and more sustainable! The brand uses eco-friendly fabrics like regenerative organic cotton, recycled nylon, and TENCEL™ Lyocell sustainable to craft their collections of undies, tanks and loungewear. They are also transparent about the ethical production practices in their factories. The undies and lounge sets are a popular choice, and everything is PETA-approved vegan with the exception of their wool and cashmere lines.
Customer Review | “The color is so natural and the material comfortable and easy to clean. Will buy again!” – Jazmin L. (Read all reviews.)
7. Kotn
Best For | Casual & unisex styles
Sustainable Practices | Uses biodegradable fibers, eco-friendly packaging, ethical, fair & environmentally transparent supply chain
Size Range | XXS – XXL
Price Range | $$ – $$$
Kotn began with a clear, singular mission: To create the perfect t-shirt. The certified B Corp has since been voted Best for the World™, with the fourth-highest B Impact Score of apparel brands in North America. Inspired by one of the co-founders’ experience living in his familial cotton-farming community in the Nile Delta, Kotn aims to create high quality goods that honor the earth and the people who made them. We love their easy, gender-fluid styles that can be worn year-round.
Our Editor’s Review | “I tried four pieces from Kotn to wear in elevated summer looks. Kotn is a sustainable fashion well-kept secret, offering high-quality, chic pieces made at an affordable price point. I recommend their breathable, easy-to-wear garments for anyone looking for sleek yet comfortable silhouettes.” – Ashley D’Arcy, Senior Editor [Read our full review.]
8. Outerknown
Best For | Elevated outdoor wear
Sustainable Practices | Secondhand clothing options, ethical working environments through The Fairtrade Premium & the Fair Labor Association, regenerative farming practices, responsible fiber usage
Size Range | XS – XXXL
Price Range | $$ – $$$
Outerknown is known for their classic Californian aesthetic and premium all-season wear. This sustainable brand prioritizes the wellbeing of workers and the environment all throughout their production process, having both fair labor and Fair Trade certifications in place. They’ve even begun to implement regenerative organic cotton practices, already switching over 28 acres of farmland to this system. And it’s only just the beginning. Progress and positive impact continues to grow each and every day as outlined in the brand’s comprehensive long-term sustainability plan.
Customer Review | “Love this shirt. I have many blanket shirts and this is my second Chroma. The fit on this one is fantastic. It’s very soft and comfy, and I previously felt I was in between sizes. I will buy more. Would love the plum color in the chroma. 5ft 5 and 135lb, bought a medium, I love it slightly loose so I can layer.” – Lisa C. (Read all reviews.)
9. tentree
Best For | Joggers & outerwear
Sustainable Practices | Ethical manufacturing, secondhand clothing options, net zero emissions by 2030, nature restoration efforts
Size Range | XS – XXL
Price Range | $ – $$
As a certified B Corp, tentree upholds the highest standards for people and the planet in its manufacturing process. As the name suggests, the company plants 10 trees for each item purchased and has a goal of planting one billion trees by 2030. (The company has planted over 100 million trees to date!) The clothing is perfect for the activewear & loungewear lover (we love the men’s joggers!), and everything is made from sustainable fabrics like organic cotton and Tencel.
Customer Review | “So incredibly comfy I live in these can’t wait to purchase every colour” – Jennifer P. (Read all reviews.)
10. Reformation
Best For | Night-out outfits
Sustainable Practices | 100% of fabrics to be recycled, regenerative, or renewable materials by the end of 2025, limited-edition collections, clean chemistry
Size Range | XSP – 3X
Price Range | $$ – $$$$
Reformation takes sustainability seriously at every step — from using low-impact materials like organic cotton, TENCEL™, and deadstock fabrics to investing in renewable energy and water-saving practices throughout their supply chain. They’ve even made their own factories in Los Angeles eco-friendly and fair, prioritizing safe, healthy working conditions for every team member. Reformation tracks and shares each product’s environmental footprint (including water, carbon, and waste savings), so you know exactly what impact your outfit has. Plus, they’re officially Climate Neutral Certified and committed to becoming Climate Positive by 2025. So you can feel as good as you look, knowing your clothes are made with style and sustainability in every seam!
Featured image is from Outerknown