In recent years, sustainable fashion has gained significant traction as consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental and social impact of their clothing choices. The United States, being a major player in the global fashion industry, has witnessed a surge in sustainable clothing brands that prioritize eco-friendly materials, ethical production processes, and transparent supply chains. As we step into 2024, it’s crucial to spotlight the top 10 sustainable clothing brands in the USA that are leading the way in transforming the fashion landscape.
These trailblazing brands have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to sustainability, crafting high-quality garments that not only look great but also minimize their ecological footprint. By embracing innovative technologies, utilizing organic and recycled materials, and ensuring fair labor practices, these brands are setting a new standard for the industry.
In this article, we will delve into the stories behind these top 10 sustainable clothing brands, exploring their unique approaches to sustainability, their standout collections, and the impact they are making on both the environment and the lives of the people involved in their supply chains. From Patagonia’s long-standing dedication to environmental activism to Everlane’s radical transparency, each brand has its own compelling narrative.
As conscious consumers, supporting these sustainable clothing brands not only allows us to make a positive impact with our purchases but also sends a powerful message to the fashion industry as a whole. By voting with our wallets, we can drive change and encourage more brands to adopt sustainable practices.
So, let’s embark on a journey to discover the top 10 sustainable clothing brands in the USA for 2024. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, an eco-warrior, or simply someone who wants to make more responsible choices, this article will provide you with valuable insights and inspiration. Get ready to revamp your wardrobe with stylish, sustainable pieces that you can feel good about wearing.
Patagonia
Patagonia, a brand synonymous with outdoor adventure and environmental stewardship, has been at the forefront of sustainable fashion since its inception in 1973. Founded by Yvon Chouinard, a rock climber and environmentalist, Patagonia has consistently prioritized the planet over profit, setting a remarkable example for the industry.
One of Patagonia’s core values is its commitment to using eco-friendly materials. The brand heavily relies on organic cotton, recycled polyester, and regenerative organic certification pilot cotton, ensuring that its fabrics are sourced responsibly and have a minimal environmental impact. Patagonia also pioneered the use of recycled materials in outdoor clothing, transforming plastic bottles into high-quality fleece and polyester.
In addition to its sustainable materials, Patagonia is known for its durable and long-lasting products. The brand encourages customers to “buy less, buy used, and repair what you have,” promoting a culture of conscious consumption. Patagonia’s Worn Wear program allows customers to trade in their used gear for store credit, which is then repaired and resold, keeping clothing in use and out of landfills.
Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its products. The company is a vocal advocate for environmental causes, regularly contributing a portion of its sales to grassroots environmental organizations. In 2002, Yvon Chouinard and Craig Mathews, founder of Blue Ribbon Flies, created 1% for the Planet, an alliance of businesses pledging to donate 1% of their sales to environmental groups. To date, Patagonia has donated over $140 million to environmental causes.
Furthermore, Patagonia has been instrumental in pushing for fair labor practices and transparency in its supply chain. The brand was one of the first to join the Fair Labor Association and has consistently earned high scores in the Fashion Transparency Index.
From its iconic fleeces and durable outerwear to its activist roots and unwavering commitment to the environment, Patagonia continues to set the bar high for sustainable fashion. As we move into 2024, Patagonia remains a beacon of hope, proving that clothing brands can prioritize the planet without sacrificing style or quality.
Everlane
Everlane, a San Francisco-based clothing brand founded in 2010, has quickly become a leader in sustainable and ethical fashion. With its motto of “Radical Transparency,” Everlane has disrupted the industry by openly sharing the costs, materials, and processes behind each of its products.
Central to Everlane’s sustainable approach is its commitment to using eco-friendly materials. The brand uses a wide range of sustainable fabrics, including organic cotton, regenerated nylon, recycled polyester, and Tencel lyocell. Everlane also partnered with Bluesign, a system that ensures the safety and sustainability of textile manufacturing, to source materials that meet the highest environmental and safety standards.
Transparency is at the heart of Everlane’s business model. The brand discloses the true cost of each product, breaking down the expenses for materials, labor, duties, and transport. By sharing this information, Everlane empowers consumers to make informed decisions and understand the true value of their clothing.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability and transparency, Everlane is dedicated to ethical labor practices. The brand partners with factories around the world that prioritize fair wages, reasonable hours, and safe working conditions. Everlane regularly audits its factories to ensure compliance with its ethical standards and shares detailed information about each factory on its website.
Everlane’s collections are known for their timeless, minimalist aesthetic and versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched. From its perfect-fitting tees and elegant silk blouses to its comfortable denim and practical outerwear, Everlane offers a range of wardrobe essentials that are both stylish and sustainable.
One of Everlane’s standout initiatives is its “Choose What You Pay” program, which allows customers to select from three different price points for certain products. This innovative approach not only makes sustainable fashion more accessible but also highlights the brand’s commitment to transparency and ethical pricing.
As Everlane continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion. With its unwavering commitment to transparency, ethical production, and eco-friendly materials, Everlane is setting a new standard for the industry and inspiring consumers to make more conscious choices in 2024 and beyond.
Reformation
Reformation, a Los Angeles-based clothing brand founded in 2009, has made waves in the sustainable fashion industry with its chic, vintage-inspired designs and commitment to environmental sustainability. The brand has become a favorite among celebrities and fashion influencers, proving that sustainable fashion can be both stylish and accessible.
At the core of Reformation’s sustainable approach is its use of eco-friendly materials. The brand prioritizes fabrics like Tencel, recycled cotton, and REPREVE polyester, which is made from recycled plastic bottles. Reformation also uses deadstock and vintage fabrics, giving new life to materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Reformation’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its materials. The brand operates its own factory in Los Angeles, which is powered by renewable energy and employs a variety of water and energy-saving techniques. By keeping production local, Reformation reduces its carbon footprint and ensures greater oversight of its manufacturing processes.
Transparency is another key aspect of Reformation’s sustainable ethos. The brand shares detailed information about its environmental impact, including its carbon footprint, water usage, and waste production. Reformation also provides customers with a “RefScale” for each product, which breaks down the garment’s environmental footprint in terms of water, carbon dioxide, and waste saved compared to conventional clothing.
Reformation’s designs are known for their feminine, retro-inspired aesthetic, with a focus on flattering silhouettes and playful prints. From flirty dresses and chic jumpsuits to cozy sweaters and trendy denim, Reformation offers a range of pieces that seamlessly blend style and sustainability.
In addition to its commitment to environmental sustainability, Reformation is dedicated to promoting social responsibility. The brand partners with fair labor organizations to ensure that its workers receive fair wages and safe working conditions. Reformation also collaborates with various non-profit organizations to support causes like women’s empowerment and environmental conservation.
As Reformation continues to grow, it remains at the forefront of sustainable fashion innovation. In 2024, the brand is poised to make an even greater impact, with plans to expand its size range, introduce more sustainable materials, and further reduce its environmental footprint. With its unique blend of style, sustainability, and social responsibility, Reformation is a brand to watch in the years to come.
- Eileen Fisher
Eileen Fisher, a brand that has been pioneering sustainable fashion since 1984, is renowned for its timeless, minimalist designs and unwavering commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Founded by its namesake designer, Eileen Fisher has become a go-to for women seeking comfortable, high-quality clothing that is both stylish and sustainable.
Central to Eileen Fisher’s sustainable approach is its use of eco-friendly materials. The brand prioritizes organic cotton, Tencel lyocell, and recycled polyester, ensuring that its fabrics are sourced responsibly and have a minimal environmental impact. Eileen Fisher also uses bluesign-certified dyes, which adhere to strict safety and sustainability standards.
One of Eileen Fisher’s most notable initiatives is its Renew program, which takes back gently worn Eileen Fisher clothing and gives it new life. Customers can bring their old Eileen Fisher garments to any store or mail them in, and the brand will either resell, repair, or recycle them. This circular approach to fashion reduces waste and keeps clothing in use for as long as possible.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability, Eileen Fisher is dedicated to ethical labor practices and women’s empowerment. The brand partners with fair trade organizations and ensures that its workers receive fair wages and safe working conditions. Eileen Fisher also supports various women’s initiatives, including leadership programs and grants for women-owned businesses.
Eileen Fisher’s designs are known for their simple, versatile elegance. With a focus on natural fibers and relaxed silhouettes, the brand offers a range of wardrobe staples that are both comfortable and stylish. From flowy dresses and cozy knits to tailored jackets and wide-leg pants, Eileen Fisher creates timeless pieces that can be worn season after season.
As Eileen Fisher looks to the future, the brand remains committed to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion. In 2024, the brand aims to expand its Renew program, increase its use of sustainable materials, and further reduce its environmental impact. With its long-standing dedication to sustainability, ethical production, and women’s empowerment, Eileen Fisher continues to inspire consumers to make more conscious choices in their wardrobes.
Eileen Fisher
Eileen Fisher, a brand that has been pioneering sustainable fashion since 1984, is renowned for its timeless, minimalist designs and unwavering commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Founded by its namesake designer, Eileen Fisher has become a go-to for women seeking comfortable, high-quality clothing that is both stylish and sustainable.
Central to Eileen Fisher’s sustainable approach is its use of eco-friendly materials. The brand prioritizes organic cotton, Tencel lyocell, and recycled polyester, ensuring that its fabrics are sourced responsibly and have a minimal environmental impact. Eileen Fisher also uses bluesign-certified dyes, which adhere to strict safety and sustainability standards.
One of Eileen Fisher’s most notable initiatives is its Renew program, which takes back gently worn Eileen Fisher clothing and gives it new life. Customers can bring their old Eileen Fisher garments to any store or mail them in, and the brand will either resell, repair, or recycle them. This circular approach to fashion reduces waste and keeps clothing in use for as long as possible.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability, Eileen Fisher is dedicated to ethical labor practices and women’s empowerment. The brand partners with fair trade organizations and ensures that its workers receive fair wages and safe working conditions. Eileen Fisher also supports various women’s initiatives, including leadership programs and grants for women-owned businesses.
Eileen Fisher’s designs are known for their simple, versatile elegance. With a focus on natural fibers and relaxed silhouettes, the brand offers a range of wardrobe staples that are both comfortable and stylish. From flowy dresses and cozy knits to tailored jackets and wide-leg pants, Eileen Fisher creates timeless pieces that can be worn season after season.
As Eileen Fisher looks to the future, the brand remains committed to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion. In 2024, the brand aims to expand its Renew program, increase its use of sustainable materials, and further reduce its environmental impact. With its long-standing dedication to sustainability, ethical production, and women’s empowerment, Eileen Fisher continues to inspire consumers to make more conscious choices in their wardrobes.
Pact
Pact, a Boulder-based clothing brand founded in 2009, has quickly become a leader in sustainable fashion, with a focus on organic cotton and fair trade practices. The brand’s mission is to create comfortable, stylish clothing that is good for both people and the planet.
At the heart of Pact’s sustainable approach is its commitment to using organic cotton. Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, which can damage the environment and pose health risks to farmers. Pact sources its organic cotton from fair trade certified farms, ensuring that farmers receive fair wages and safe working conditions.
In addition to its use of organic cotton, Pact is committed to ethical manufacturing practices. The brand partners with factories that prioritize fair labor practices and safe working conditions. Pact also ensures that its factories meet strict environmental standards, using renewable energy and minimizing waste and water usage.
Transparency is another key aspect of Pact’s sustainable ethos. The brand shares detailed information about its supply chain, including the farms and factories where its products are made. Pact also provides customers with information about the environmental impact of its products, including the amount of water and carbon emissions saved by choosing organic cotton.
Pact’s collections are known for their comfort, durability, and simple, timeless designs. The brand offers a range of wardrobe essentials, including soft t-shirts, cozy socks, and comfortable underwear, all made from organic cotton. Pact also offers a range of bedding and bath products, ensuring that customers can make sustainable choices throughout their homes.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability and ethical production, Pact is dedicated to giving back to the community. The brand donates a portion of its sales to various non-profit organizations, supporting causes like environmental conservation and social justice.
As Pact continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion. In 2024, the brand aims to increase its use of sustainable materials, expand its fair trade partnerships, and further reduce its environmental impact. With its commitment to organic cotton, ethical production, and community engagement, Pact is a brand that is making a real difference in the world of sustainable fashion.
Athleta
Athleta, a subsidiary of Gap Inc., has become a leading force in sustainable athletic wear since its founding in 1998. The brand’s mission is to empower women to lead active, healthy lifestyles while minimizing its environmental impact and promoting social responsibility.
Central to Athleta’s sustainable approach is its use of eco-friendly materials. The brand uses a variety of sustainable fabrics, including recycled polyester, Tencel lyocell, and organic cotton. Athleta also partners with bluesign, a system that ensures the safety and sustainability of textile manufacturing, to source materials that meet the highest environmental and safety standards.
In addition to its use of sustainable materials, Athleta is committed to reducing waste and minimizing its environmental footprint. The brand has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce waste in its supply chain, including using recycled packaging materials and reducing the use of single-use plastics in its stores.
Athleta is also dedicated to promoting fair labor practices and empowering women throughout its supply chain. The brand partners with factories that prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and women’s empowerment initiatives. Athleta also collaborates with organizations like the Fair Trade USA and the Ethical Trading Initiative to ensure that its products are made responsibly.
Athleta’s collections are designed to support women in all aspects of their active lives, from yoga and running to hiking and travel. The brand offers a range of high-performance, stylish activewear, including leggings, sports bras, and outerwear, all designed with both performance and sustainability in mind.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability and ethical production, Athleta is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity. The brand offers a wide range of sizes, from XXS to 3X, and features diverse models in its advertising campaigns. Athleta also partners with organizations like the National Park Foundation to promote outdoor accessibility and inclusivity.
As Athleta looks to the future, the brand remains committed to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion. In 2024, Athleta aims to increase its use of sustainable materials, expand its fair trade partnerships, and further reduce its environmental impact. With its dedication to sustainability, ethical production, and empowering women, Athleta is a brand that is making a real difference in the world of athletic wear.
Tentree
Tentree, a Canadian clothing brand founded in 2012, has taken the world of sustainable fashion by storm with its innovative approach to reforestation and eco-friendly clothing production. For every item purchased, Tentree plants ten trees, making it one of the most environmentally progressive brands in the industry.
At the core of Tentree’s sustainable ethos is its commitment to using eco-friendly materials. The brand uses a variety of sustainable fabrics, including organic cotton, recycled polyester, and Tencel lyocell. Tentree also ensures that its materials are sourced from responsible suppliers who prioritize environmental sustainability and ethical labor practices.
Tentree’s most notable initiative is its tree-planting program. The brand partners with non-profit organizations around the world to plant trees in areas affected by deforestation and environmental degradation. To date, Tentree has planted over 50 million trees, with a goal of planting 1 billion trees by 2030. Customers can even track the trees they’ve helped plant through a unique code provided with each purchase.
In addition to its tree-planting efforts, Tentree is committed to reducing its environmental impact throughout its supply chain. The brand uses renewable energy in its factories, reduces water usage in its manufacturing processes, and minimizes waste by using recycled packaging materials.
Tentree’s collections are designed with both style and sustainability in mind. The brand offers a range of casual, outdoor-inspired clothing for men and women, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and outerwear. Each piece is crafted with care, using high-quality, sustainable materials that are built to last.
Transparency is another key aspect of Tentree’s sustainable approach. The brand shares detailed information about its supply chain, including the suppliers and factories it works with, as well as the environmental impact of each product. Tentree also provides customers with tips and resources for living a more sustainable lifestyle, encouraging them to make eco-friendly choices in all aspects of their lives.
As Tentree continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion. In 2024, the brand aims to expand its tree-planting efforts, increase its use of sustainable materials, and further reduce its environmental impact. With its innovative approach to reforestation and commitment to eco-friendly clothing production, Tentree is a brand that is truly making a difference in the world.
Outerknown
Outerknown, a sustainable clothing brand co-founded by professional surfer Kelly Slater in 2015, has quickly become a leader in the world of eco-friendly fashion. With a mission to create stylish, high-quality clothing that is good for both people and the planet, Outerknown is setting a new standard for sustainability in the fashion industry.
At the heart of Outerknown’s sustainable approach is its commitment to using eco-friendly materials. The brand uses a variety of sustainable fabrics, including organic cotton, recycled polyester, and Econyl, a regenerated nylon made from fishing nets and other ocean waste. Outerknown also ensures that its materials are sourced from responsible suppliers who prioritize environmental sustainability and ethical labor practices.
One of Outerknown’s most notable initiatives is its partnership with the Fair Labor Association (FLA). The brand works closely with the FLA to ensure that its suppliers meet strict standards for fair labor practices, including safe working conditions, fair wages, and the right to unionize. Outerknown also publishes detailed information about its suppliers and their labor practices, providing customers with unprecedented transparency into its supply chain.
In addition to its commitment to ethical labor practices, Outerknown is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact throughout its supply chain. The brand uses renewable energy in its factories, reduces water usage in its manufacturing processes, and minimizes waste by using recycled packaging materials. Outerknown also partners with organizations like the Ocean Conservancy to support ocean conservation efforts.
Outerknown’s collections are designed with both style and sustainability in mind. The brand offers a range of casual, beach-inspired clothing for men and women, including t-shirts, shorts, and outerwear. Each piece is crafted with care, using high-quality, sustainable materials that are built to last.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability and ethical production, Outerknown is dedicated to promoting transparency and education in the fashion industry. The brand shares detailed information about its supply chain and environmental impact, and provides customers with resources and tips for living a more sustainable lifestyle.
As Outerknown looks to the future, it remains committed to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion. In 2024, the brand aims to increase its use of sustainable materials, expand its partnerships with organizations like the FLA and the Ocean Conservancy, and further reduce its environmental impact. With its dedication to sustainability, transparency, and ethical production, Outerknown is a brand that is truly making waves in the fashion industry.
Allbirds
Allbirds, a San Francisco-based footwear brand founded in 2016, has revolutionized the world of sustainable fashion with its innovative approach to eco-friendly shoe production. With a mission to create the world’s most comfortable and sustainable shoes, Allbirds has quickly become a favorite among eco-conscious consumers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
At the core of Allbirds’ sustainable ethos is its use of natural, renewable materials. The brand’s signature wool runners are made from merino wool, a soft, breathable material that is naturally moisture-wicking and odor-resistant. Allbirds also uses other sustainable materials like Tencel lyocell, recycled polyester, and sugarcane-based EVA foam in its shoes, ensuring that each pair has a minimal environmental impact.
One of Allbirds’ most notable innovations is its use of SweetFoam, a sugarcane-based EVA foam that is used in the soles of its shoes. Unlike traditional EVA foam, which is made from petroleum, SweetFoam is made from renewable sugarcane and has a much lower carbon footprint. Allbirds has also open-sourced its SweetFoam technology, allowing other brands to use it in their own products and further reducing the environmental impact of the footwear industry.
In addition to its use of sustainable materials, Allbirds is committed to ethical manufacturing practices. The brand partners with manufacturers who prioritize fair labor practices and safe working conditions, and ensures that its supply chain is transparent and traceable. Allbirds also donates a portion of its profits to environmental organizations, supporting initiatives like reforestation and climate change mitigation.
Allbirds’ collections are designed with both comfort and sustainability in mind. The brand offers a range of shoes for men and women, including runners, loungers, and skippers, all made from sustainable materials and designed for maximum comfort. Allbirds also offers a range of apparel, including socks and underwear, made from sustainable materials like Tencel lyocell and recycled nylon.
Transparency is another key aspect of Allbirds’ sustainable approach. The brand shares detailed information about its materials, manufacturing processes, and environmental impact, empowering customers to make informed choices about their footwear. Allbirds also offers a carbon footprint calculator on its website, allowing customers to see the environmental impact of their purchases and offset their carbon emissions.
As Allbirds continues to grow and innovate, it remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion. In 2024, the brand aims to further reduce its environmental impact, expand its use of sustainable materials, and continue to lead the way in eco-friendly footwear production. With its commitment to sustainability, transparency, and ethical manufacturing, Allbirds is a brand that is truly changing the game in the world of fashion.
The Future of Sustainable Fashion
As we look to the future of sustainable fashion in 2024 and beyond, it’s clear that the industry is undergoing a significant transformation. With consumers becoming increasingly aware of the environmental and social impact of their clothing choices, brands are being forced to adapt and innovate in order to stay relevant and competitive.
One of the key trends we can expect to see in the coming years is a continued focus on circular fashion. Brands will increasingly prioritize the use of recycled and regenerated materials, as well as the development of closed-loop production systems that minimize waste and keep materials in use for as long as possible. We can also expect to see more brands offering repair and recycling services, as well as rental and resale options, in order to extend the life of their products and reduce their environmental impact.
Another important trend will be the continued rise of technology in sustainable fashion. From the use of 3D printing and digital sampling to the development of new, bio-based materials, technology will play an increasingly important role in enabling brands to create more sustainable and efficient production processes. We can also expect to see the use of blockchain technology to improve supply chain transparency and traceability, allowing consumers to make more informed choices about the products they buy.
In addition to these technological innovations, we can also expect to see a continued focus on social responsibility and ethical labor practices in the fashion industry. Brands will face increasing pressure to ensure that their supply chains are transparent, traceable, and free from human rights abuses, and to prioritize the well-being of the workers who make their products. We can also expect to see more brands partnering with non-profit organizations and community groups to support social and environmental causes, and to use their platforms to advocate for positive change.
Finally, we can expect to see a continued shift towards more localized and small-scale production in the fashion industry. With consumers increasingly interested in supporting local businesses and reducing their carbon footprint, brands will need to find ways to bring production closer to home and to work with smaller, more specialized suppliers. This shift towards localized production will not only reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry, but also create new opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Overall, the future of sustainable fashion looks bright, with brands and consumers alike recognizing the urgent need for change. By prioritizing circularity, technology, social responsibility, and localized production, the fashion industry can continue to evolve and innovate in ways that benefit both people and the planet. As we move forward into 2024 and beyond, it will be exciting to see how these trends continue to shape the industry and to support the brands that are leading the way in sustainable fashion.