7 INNOVATIVE ECO-FRIENDLY PRACTICES BY FASHION DESIGNERS THIS YEAR

By: Madison Vessie

The pressure for businesses to be mindful of sustainability is increasing as consumer awareness of environmental and social impacts from the fashion industry heightens. Fortunately, there are a growing number of fashion brands who are committed to Eco-friendly practices in order to produce clothing and accessories in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. These brands are pushing boundaries to be creative with ways to reduce their impact on the planet without compromising their ability to produce stylish products that are both fashionable and ethical. This article highlights eight fashion designers from around the world who are at the forefront of sustainable fashion. These designers are known for their innovative and forward-thinking approaches to sustainability in the fashion industry.

 1. Mary Young (Canada)

Based in Toronto, Canada, Mary Young is a small business that was founded in 2014 to provide high-quality and environmentally conscious intimate wear. While prioritizing comfort, they strive to maintain stylish and empowering looks.To minimize fabric waste, Mary Young employs innovative low-waste cutting techniques and uses end-of-roll fabric in limited collections.

2. Molby The Label (UK)

Molby The Label is a British, slow-fashion brand that handmakes each garment. Their goal is to eliminate fabric waste and offer customers the ability to customize their pieces. By allowing slight variations in hem lengths, colours, and fabric types, Molby the Label’s innovative process creates timeless, one-of-a-kind clothing that meets the individual needs of each shopper.

3. Taylor Stitch (US)

Taylor Stitch is a men’s clothing brand that prioritizes sustainability and the well-being of its employees. The company is committed to protecting the environment by using recycled and regenerative fibers wherever possible in its production processes. In addition to being environmentally-conscious, Taylor Stitch also ensures that its supply chain workers are paid prevailing wages and have access to necessities such as healthcare and clean water.

 4. Trash Planet (Portugal)

Trash Planet was founded in 2020 with the mission of reducing plastic pollution in the oceans. To achieve this goal, the company partners with local suppliers and manufacturers who uphold ethical working practices. In addition to using recycled materials to create new products, Trash Planet also recycles used footwear through a process in which sneakers are manually disassembled and each material is separated for recycling. As a result of these efforts, Trash Planet’s products are not only stylish and functional, but also contribute to a healthier planet for all. 

5. Silva Minted (Canada)

Silva Minted is a Toronto-based contemporary lifestyle brand that prioritizes sustainability and inclusivity in its core values. The company’s collections feature eye-catching and versatile pieces that convey creativity and luxury while also being environmentally conscious, as they are only made with responsibly sourced materials. Silva Minted celebrates all sizes, shapes, and colours, and offers stylish and versatile pieces that can be easily incorporated into any wardrobe.

6. JYOTI - FAIR WORKS (Germany)

JYOTI - FAIR WORKS is a German-Indian fair fashion label that prides itself on sustainability in all aspects of its operations, including the production of clothing. The company promotes social and environmental responsibility by implementing fair labor practices in their manufacturing processes and providing training, employment, and ongoing support to disadvantaged women. In addition to creating high-quality products, JYOTI - FAIR WORKS aims to transform the textile industry and promote a more fair global economic system.

7. Londre (Canada)

Londre is a fashion brand that is dedicated to designing stylish and high-quality swimwear while also being mindful of their impact on people and the planet. As part of their commitment to sustainability, Londre has recycled 750,000 plastic bottles from beaches and streets and repurposes them into high-quality, durable fabric for their swimsuits. This not only helps to reduce waste and pollution, but it also gives their swimsuits a unique and innovative quality that sets them apart in the market. Commitment to sustainability doesn't stop at their products and operations - Londre also supports and raises awareness for women's health and environmental initiatives through partnerships with various organizations.

In conclusion, sustainable fashion is an important and growing movement that is gaining traction among consumers and fashion brands alike. With the help of these innovative designers and brands, we can continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in terms of sustainability in the fashion industry and work towards a future where all clothing and accessories are produced in a responsible and ethical manner.