Sustainable streetwear is more than just a trend; it's a movement reshaping the fashion landscape with a focus on environmentally conscious practices and ethical production. By prioritizing the use of materials like organic cotton and recycled fabrics, these brands are not only making a statement but also challenging the fast fashion narrative that often neglects our planet and its people.
Brands like Kotn, with its commitment to ethical sourcing, and Tentree, known for planting trees for each item sold, exemplify how streetwear can be both stylish and responsible. Another standout is Noah, which blends quality with purpose by promoting social awareness through its collections. Check out the full list of brands that champion sustainability without skimping on style below.
If you'd like to learn more about Sustainable Streetwear, check out our comprehensive FAQ here.
Kotn started with a simple goal to create the perfect t-shirt, with quality, price, and integrity of the people who made it. Today, they’re a certified B Corporation voted Best for the World™, with the fourth-highest B Impact Score of apparel brands in North America. With each order, they invest in creating jobs, infrastructure, systems, and education to alleviate poverty and create shared, sustainable growth for their communities.
Brendon Babenzien founded the environmentally friendly streetwear brand Noah in 2015 after leaving his post as the creative director of Supreme. As a homage to his NYC skate roots, the brand combines urban and active lifestyle aesthetics with a wide range of traditional design references. Noah is inspired by both defiance and elegance, and he employs a conscious balance of rebellion and sophistication.
Founded in 1973, Patagonia is an American clothing company that markets and sells outdoor clothing. The first store opened in Ventura, California selling bespoke mountain climbing gear before expanding its product line to include apparel created for other outdoor sports such as surfing. In addition to sportswear, Patagonia today also offers outdoor products such as camping food, sleeping bags, and backpacks. Discover more brands like Patagonia here.
Comfortable and eco-friendly basics and loungewear.
Everlane is an American fashion brand known as a leader in the Direct to Consumer space by offering stylish line of clothing at affordable prices. The style is characterized by a minimalist aesthetic with clean lines and neutral colors. Discover more brands like Everlane here.
Sustainable and affordable basics and activewear
Sustainable streetwear refers to clothing within the streetwear fashion genre that prioritizes environmentally friendly practices in its production. This includes using organic or recycled materials, employing ethical labor practices, and reducing waste throughout the supply chain. The focus is on creating stylish, trendy pieces while minimizing the ecological footprint and promoting social responsibility.
Sustainable streetwear is important because the fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to pollution and waste. By adopting sustainable practices, brands can help reduce their impact on the environment, promote ethical labor conditions, and encourage consumers to make more conscious choices. This shift not only enhances the longevity of the streetwear culture but also fosters awareness of broader environmental and social issues within the fashion community.
To identify sustainable streetwear brands, look for certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Fair Trade, or OEKO-TEX. Additionally, check a brand's transparency regarding their supply chain, materials used, and labor practices. Brands that openly share their sustainability goals and initiatives and utilize eco-friendly materials (e.g., organic cotton, recycled polyester) are typically a good choice. Reading customer reviews for information on durability and ethical practices can also be helpful.
Yes, sustainable streetwear often comes with a higher price tag compared to conventional streetwear. This is primarily due to the higher costs associated with ethical sourcing, premium sustainable materials, and fair labor practices. However, many consumers see the investment as worthwhile due to the enhanced quality, durability, and ethical implications of their purchase. Additionally, sustainable clothing tends to outlast fast fashion items, offering better long-term value.
To make your streetwear wardrobe more sustainable, start by decluttering and donating or recycling items you no longer wear. Invest in high-quality, sustainable pieces that you genuinely love rather than following fast fashion trends. Opt for brands that prioritize sustainability, and consider shopping second-hand to reduce waste. Additionally, practice proper care for your clothes to extend their lifespan, and embrace upcycling or customizing older pieces to give them a new life. These answers can serve as a solid foundation for anyone looking to explore or understand sustainable streetwear better.
