With millions of tons of fabric scraps ending up in landfills each year, it’s easy to say that the effects of fast fashion have now tremendously outweighed what seemed like an advantage to many, when the concept first sprung up in the fashion scene back in the ‘90s.
Fast fashion brands like Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo quickly hopped on the trend, infiltrating the already-saturated market with ever-changing trends that keep churning.
Today, it has become more rampant than ever, so much so that Bloomberg has reported the fashion industry as responsible for up to 10% of the total carbon dioxide output in the world.
Thankfully, many smaller sustainable brands have already taken a step to cut down their carbon footprint and move towards a more environment-friendly way of producing clothing.
Good news is, you don’t have to look far! If you’re new to the slow fashion movement and have little to no clue about the brands that should already be on your radar, here are six sustainable fashion labels that are worthy to be on your list right now.
#1. Maison Wu (Singapore)
image credit: Maison Wu
A proudly homegrown label based in Singapore, Maison Wu embraces an ethos of sustainability from design down to production. Their tailored and contemporary pieces are made from high-quality end-of-roll fabrics or textile remains from large quantities of factory orders, which they then transform into versatile sustainable clothing that are fit for both modern and timeless tastes.
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Price range |
$90 to $300 |
|
Size |
XS-L |
|
Types of clothing available |
Skirts, shirts, t-shirts, dresses, pants |
#2. OliveAnkara (Singapore)
image credit: OliveAnkara
When it comes to the Singaporean slow fashion scene, sustainable fashion brands like OliveAnkara are not to be missed. With a simple yet disruptive mission of creating African-inspired clothes that can be worn by women of all races, the Singapore-based label puts quality and uniqueness above anything while creating distinct pieces of clothing out of ankara or traditional African wax prints. Fun fact: some pieces are only available in one print per size, so you’re sure that you’re wearing something that no one else has!
| Price range |
$100 to $300 |
| Size |
XS-XL |
| Types of clothing available |
Dresses, swimwear, shorts, skirts, tops, accessories, jewelery |
#3. Sans Faff (Singapore)
image credit: Sans Faff
The brainchild of former Tiffany & Co. Marketing Manager Brandy Dallas, Sans Faff is a new player in the realm of sustainable clothing brands in Singapore. With a sustainability-first mindset, the minimalist womenswear label stands for conscious consumption, simplicity in design and doing more with less. Their simple yet well-constructed designs are made to last and outgrow trends and fads, with every batch of clothing made in limited quantities to avoid excess textile waste.
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Price range |
$60 to $250 |
|
Size |
XS-L |
|
Types of clothing available |
Skirts, shirts, t-shirts, dresses, jumpsuits, pants, maternity wear |
#4. Sejauh Mata Memandang (Indonesia)
image credit: Sejauh Mata Memandang
Sejauh mata memandang, an Indonesian phrase which means “as far as the eyes can see”, perfectly describes how this slow fashion brand gets its style inspiration from different parts of its home archipelago. The sustainable clothing label uses batiks, kebayas, and other traditional Indonesian elements to produce one-of-a-kind pieces that are ethical and locally sourced.
| Price range | $50 to $250 |
|---|---|
| Size | Free size, XS-XL |
| Types of clothing available | Skirts, shirts, t-shirts, dresses, jumpsuits, pants, bags, accessories, jewelry |
#5. IMAJI Studio (Indonesia)
image credit: Imaji Studio
While some slow fashion brands champion environmentally friendly fabrics in production, some brands like IMAJI Studio involve local craftsmen to consciously manufacture their garments. Embodying the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi or the beauty in imperfect objects, IMAJI Studio works alongside fabric and dye artisans across Indonesia to produce unique motifs handmade by local designers to showcase the unique heritage of its motherland. From vibrant tie-dye patterns to detailed abstract prints, every piece is a collective effort that celebrates the heart of its partner communities.
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Price range |
$20 to $100 |
|---|---|
|
Size |
Free size, S-XL |
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Types of clothing available |
Skirts, shirts, t-shirts, dresses, jumpsuits, pants, outerwear, accessories |
#6. KIND Denim (Indonesia)
image credit: Kind Denim
If you’re looking for sustainable jeans that won’t hurt the environment or your pocket, look no further than Indonesian homegrown brand, KIND Denim. With a mission to commit to fair labor practices and adapt a fully sustainable production approach, the brand partners with local suppliers who manufacture eco-friendly denim fabrics. From structured jackets dyed with natural indigo to versatile pants made with organic cotton, you’ll never fall short of options for your next casual day out.
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Price range |
$25 to $90 |
|---|---|
|
Size |
S-XXL |
|
Types of clothing available |
Shirts, t-shirts, dresses, jeans, outerwear, accessories |
What is the most sustainable fast fashion brand?
According to Brightly, Uniqlo ranks as the most sustainable fast fashion brand from a consumer’s perspective.
Does Zara have sustainable fashion?
Zara is taking a step towards a more sustainable production approach, starting with their commitment to use 100% sustainable fabrics by 2025.
What is a sustainable fashion brand?
A sustainable fashion brand is a brand that puts environment-friendly production methods and ethical labor practices at the center of its operations to minimize its detrimental effects on nature and the communities involved in manufacturing the goods.
What popular clothing stores are sustainable?
Popular sustainable clothing brands include Reformation, Everlane, Girlfriend Collective, Stella McCartney, and Parade.
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