10 Sustainable Brands Making Beautiful Ethical Formal Dresses You Can Wear to Weddings and Special Events (2025)
Do you have a special event or a wedding to attend soon? We’ve brought together the best sustainable brands making stunning dresses and gowns for you on your evening out!
Image: Reformation
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Why choose a sustainable dress for an event?
Many formal evening dresses you find today are made from synthetics to give an appearance of silk or look more expensive than they actually are. They also use a lot of sequins and beadings made from plastic, which makes them even more challenging to decompose over time. Finding a sustainable and ethical formal gown is definitely harder to do, but a few brands are working to change this - and of course, you can always purchase second-hand!
Understanding the Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment
Fast fashion has revolutionized the way we consume clothing. With its low prices and rapid turnover, it's tempting to constantly update our wardrobes. However, this fast-paced industry comes at a high cost to the environment. The production of fast fashion garments contributes to pollution, deforestation, and the depletion of natural resources. Additionally, the disposal of these cheaply made clothes leads to overflowing landfills and further damage to our planet. As consumers, we have the power to break this cycle by choosing sustainable alternatives.
The Importance of Sustainable Formal Dresses
Formal attire is often associated with special occasions and milestones in our lives. It is a reflection of our personal style and can make a lasting impression. By choosing ethically made formal dresses, we not only look good but also support brands that prioritize sustainability. Formal dresses crafted with care have a smaller environmental footprint compared to mass-produced alternatives. They are made to last, reducing the need for constant replacements, and are often created using eco-friendly materials and processes. Investing in a sustainable formal dress means making a statement that transcends fashion trends and aligns with our values.
Benefits of Choosing a Sustainable Formal Dress or Gown
Opting for sustainably made formal dresses offers numerous benefits. Firstly, these dresses are typically made from high-quality materials that ensure longevity. They are designed to withstand the test of time and maintain their elegance, so you can wear them for multiple occasions without worrying about wear and tear. Secondly, by supporting ethical fashion brands, you are contributing to the well-being of garment workers. These brands prioritize fair wages and safe working conditions, ensuring that the people behind your dress are treated with dignity. Lastly, choosing ethically made formal dresses allows you to showcase your personal style while being a responsible consumer. You can hold your head high, knowing that your outfit represents your commitment to sustainability and positively impacts the fashion industry.
How to Identify a Sustainable Dress
Identifying sustainably made formal dresses can be a daunting task, but there are key indicators to look out for. Firstly, check if the brand is transparent about its supply chain. Ethical brands often provide information about the materials used, the production process, and the working conditions of their employees. Look for certifications such as Fair Trade or GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) as they indicate a commitment to ethical practices. Additionally, consider the durability of the dress. Sustainably & ethically made formal dresses are designed to last, with attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. Finally, research the brand's values and mission. If they prioritize sustainability and social responsibility, chances are their formal dresses align with those principles.
Typically, for a garment to be considered ‘sustainable,’ it should be eco-friendly, ethically made, lasting, and accessible. Of course, we could make a long list of what a sustainable garment should be, but these are the key characteristics I look for when deciding on my purchase. To better break it down, here is a simple checklist at the end of this post. Also, look for eco-friendly fabrics like organic and recycled fibers - these brands listed below use conscious materials to create stunning designs. We understand no brand is perfect, but we are thankful to find several that are considering the planet and people when creating sustainable formal dresses and gowns!
Our Top Picks for Sustainable Dresses for Formal Events & Cocktail Parties:
1. Omnes
Price: $36-269
If you're on the lookout for stylish yet sustainable clothing, OMNES has you covered! Their range of dresses combines fashion-forward designs with eco-friendly materials like deadstock fabrics and organic cotton. Whether you need a casual brunch dress or something elegant for a night out, they've got versatile options for every occasion - all produced in ethical factories.
What I love is that OMNES prioritizes affordability without sacrificing quality, making it easy for anyone to embrace sustainable fashion. Their commitment to responsible production and timeless styles means you can feel good about your choices while looking great.
2. Daughters of India
Price: $165-349
Daughters of India is a meticulously crafted fashion label that emphasizes slow and sustainable practices in the world of handmade garments. With a deep commitment to supporting local Indian artisans, the brand plays a crucial role in fostering a direct connection between these skilled creators and consumers.
By bridging this gap, Daughters of India not only helps to preserve traditional artisan techniques passed down through generations but also champions the empowerment of women in the workplace. The label takes pride in its dedication to sustainability, ensuring that each piece is thoughtfully designed to embody the principles of comfort, femininity, and versatility.
Every garment reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary style and cultural heritage, allowing wearers to express their individuality while making a responsible choice for the environment. Through their work, Daughters of India is not just a fashion brand; it is a movement towards ethical consumption and the celebration of artisan craftsmanship.
3. Reformation
Price: $98-940
Reformation is a forward-thinking brand that focuses on providing women with stylish, sustainably-made clothing and footwear. Their offerings include a diverse range of dresses tailored for various special occasions, such as weddings, proms, and other significant events, ensuring that every woman can find the perfect outfit for her memorable moments. The brand takes pride in using high-quality, eco-friendly materials in the production of their garments. Fabrics such as luxurious silk, soft Tencel, breathable viscose, and organic cotton are carefully selected to create elegant and comfortable pieces.
For many of their items, Reformation transparently shares the environmental impact of the production process, allowing customers to see exactly how much water has been conserved and how many carbon emissions have been averted through their choices. In addition to their commitment to environmentally responsible practices, Reformation has achieved climate-neutral certification, and is also an active member of various organizations dedicated to sustainability and ethical labor practices, including the Textile Exchange, the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, and the Fair Labor Association.
4. Whimsy & Row
Price: $62-282
Founded in 2014, Whimsy & Row is a distinctive lifestyle brand dedicated to creating a range of clothing, accessories, and home goods specifically for eco-conscious women. The brand prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices.
Whimsy & Row features several elegant, long dresses designed to be ideal for formal events, effortlessly blending style and sophistication. These luxurious dresses are crafted from a unique blend of Tencel and cupro, two materials known for their silk-like appearance and feel. Tencel is derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp, while cupro is made from recycled cotton fibers that are typically discarded during the manufacturing process. This innovative fabric is not only hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin, but also thermo-regulating, providing comfort in varying temperatures.
Whimsy & Row goes beyond just fabric selection; the brand is committed to a holistic approach to sustainability.
5. Cleobella
Price: $48-378
At Cleobella, sustainability and ethical practices form the cornerstone of their brand philosophy. The brand is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships with local artisans and small-scale factories, thereby creating jobs and promoting sustainable incomes in communities around the world.
Each product is meticulously handmade by skilled artisans, ensuring that traditional craftsmanship and heritage techniques are preserved for future generations. Cleobella takes pride in their commitment to environmental responsibility by utilizing eco-friendly materials. They exclusively source fabrics such as GOTS certified organic cotton, Ecovero, linen, and hemp, which not only reduce their environmental footprint but also promote sustainable farming practices.
6. Eileen Fisher
Price: $75-388
EILEEN FISHER's collection of dresses and skirts embodies simplicity and elegance, showcasing timeless designs made from sustainable materials.
The range features stylish shirtdresses crafted from organic cotton, versatile silk pieces, and essential little black dresses made from responsibly harvested Tencel™ Lyocell. The brand focuses on flattering fits and sleek silhouettes that are suitable for a variety of occasions.
Committed to environmental responsibility, EILEEN FISHER uses organic cotton, organic linen, and other sustainably sourced fibers in their garments. This commitment reflects their mission to create clothing that not only looks good but also makes a positive impact on society and the environment.
7. Christy Dawn
Price: $140-498
If you’re in search of a more casual yet stylish bohemian dress, Christy Dawn is definitely the place to explore. Their collection features an impressive array of designs, each crafted with a distinctive flair that sets them apart from typical fashion retailers. The variety is truly remarkable, ranging from flowing maxi dresses to breezy midi styles, all adorned with unique prints and silhouettes that embody a laid-back, artistic vibe.
One of the aspects we appreciate most about Christy Dawn is their commitment to transparency. They openly share information about their pricing and the manufacturing processes behind their garments, which reflects their dedication to ethical practices and sustainability. This transparency adds an extra layer of trust for consumers who are increasingly aware of the importance of responsible fashion.
They also offer an inclusive range of sizing options, extending up to 3X and also providing petite sizes. This ensures that individuals of many body types can find something beautiful and comfortable to wear.
8. Transcend
Price: $75-320
Drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors and rich textures found in the bustling shopping bazaars of India, Transcend offers a stunning collection of dresses and separates. Each piece is meticulously handmade and beautifully embroidered by skilled artisans who pour their expertise and passion into every stitch. The brand prioritizes sustainability, utilizing eco-conscious fabrics such as organic cotton and linen.
The vision of Founder and Designer Nazia Siddiqui is to democratize access to high-quality embroidery and striking prints, making them available to women of all backgrounds. She carefully crafts timeless silhouettes that transcend fleeting fashion trends, creating versatile pieces designed to enhance the wearer’s wardrobe for years to come.
What truly sets Transcend apart is the remarkable attention to detail in each garment. The intricate embroidery work and thoughtful design necessitate a significant investment of time and skill; in fact, it can take up to 70 hours to complete a single dress! This dedication to craftsmanship ensures that each piece stands as a testament to the artistry involved, offering customers not just clothing, but a cherished addition to their personal style.
9. Stella McCartney
Price: $890-7,300
We can’t help but admire these stunning dresses from Stella McCartney. Each piece is a true work of art, combining sophistication with innovative design. What we find particularly impressive about Stella McCartney is their unwavering commitment to sustainability. Unlike many luxury brands, they prioritize ethical practices and are dedicated to sourcing the finest fabrics that have minimal environmental impact. Their emphasis on using sustainable materials, such as organic cotton and recycled polyester, reflects a dedication to both style and responsibility. They also maintain a high standard of ethics throughout their manufacturing processes, ensuring fair labor practices and environmentally-friendly production methods. This conscientious approach is something we deeply appreciate and hope to see more of in the luxury fashion industry. It's a refreshing shift toward a more responsible future in fashion that truly resonates with conscious consumers like ourselves!
10. Rent the Runway
Only need to wear the dress once? Instead of purchasing at retail price, why not rent?!
Rent the Runway's party collection features an extensive selection of designer dresses and accessories suitable for a variety of occasions, including formal events, family gatherings, birthday celebrations, cocktail parties, and dinner parties.
The collection includes over 500 styles, ranging from elegant gowns to chic mini dresses, catering to diverse fashion preferences.
Users can rent items individually or choose subscription plans, offering flexibility to fit their event schedules. Rent the Runway emphasizes convenience with free shipping and returns, ensuring a seamless rental experience.
WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!
Our Brand Directory is home to hundreds of sustainable brands, from makeup to cleaning supplies, from underwear to shoes. We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.
