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10 Stunningly Sustainable Heels For Night & Day (2024)

Image: Nisolo
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The Best Sustainable Heels For Dressing Up & Down

Let’s talk shoes! Even a few years ago, if you heard the words ‘sustainable shoes’, images of clunky, bland, unattractive shoes probably popped in your mind. Now you might think of sneakers or hiking boots as the shoe market is expanding.

What if we told you fun, fabulous shoes that you can feel good about actually exist? You might think it is like finding a unicorn, but it is not that hard anymore. How lucky are we to live in a time when more and more makers are pairing beauty with being thoughtful about the planet and environment? We would say very lucky!

The impact of the fashion industry on the environment

The fashion industry is notorious for its detrimental environmental impact. The industry has contributed significantly to climate change and pollution, from the excessive use of water and chemicals in textile production to the carbon emissions generated by transportation and manufacturing processes. Fast fashion, in particular, has exacerbated these problems by emphasizing quick turnover and disposable clothing.

However, sustainable fashion challenges the status quo and offers a more responsible alternative. By prioritizing environmentally friendly practices, sustainable fashion brands reduce their carbon footprint and minimize waste. One area where significant progress has been made is in the production of sustainable heels.

What are sustainable heels?

Sustainable heels are footwear designed and produced with the environment in mind. They are made using materials and processes that have a minimal impact on the planet. From sourcing raw materials to manufacturing and packaging, every aspect of the production is carefully considered to ensure sustainability.

One key feature of sustainable heels is the use of eco-friendly materials. Brands are turning to innovative alternatives such as recycled plastic bottles and upcycled apple peels to create fashionable and sustainable footwear. These materials reduce the demand for virgin resources and divert waste from landfills. We also want our heels to be made by people who are working in safe conditions and receiving fair wages.

Benefits of sustainable heels

Sustainable heels offer numerous benefits, both for the environment and for the wearer. By choosing sustainable footwear, consumers can actively contribute to reducing carbon emissions and conserving natural resources. Additionally, sustainable heels are often made to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements and further reducing waste.

In terms of style, sustainable heels do not compromise fashion. They come in various designs, from classic pumps to trendy block heels, ensuring something for everyone. Many of these heels are versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them a stylish choice for any occasion.

What Types of Eco-Friendly Materials Should We Look For?

For each pair of shoes, we made sure to include the material so you can learn a little bit more about why this shoe would be considered sustainable. For example, you can find veggie-tanned leather, vegan apple leather, recycled plastic, recycled cork, recycled rubber, and organic cotton. Also, each brand is known for its ethical production and quality making it a fully sustainable and worthwhile product!

Check out these brands for heels or wedges that can satisfy your need for both head-turning shoes and shopping choices you can feel great about.

Our Top Picks for Sustainable Heels & Wedges:

1. Laurel Braided Heel

Brand: Able

Price: on sale $68

Materials: Glove Nappa Leather

We love the look of these Laurel leather block-heel sandals! They will elevate any outfit while being comfortable to wear all day long. The braided double-strap is made with high-quality soft Napa leather perfect for comfort and paired with a low 2" heel for the right amount of lift. Able invests in women and is one of the most transparent brands in sustainable fashion today.

Shop Laurel Braided Heel

use code **FREESHIPSC** for free shipping

2. Fiorela Go-To Mid Heel

Brand: Nisolo

Price: on sale $135

Materials: LWG Leather

This gorgeous heel features a high-quality, breathable leather upper, functional 2” heel, and comfortable, soft leather. It’s a timeless design you can keep in your closet for many years! Find them in 3 different colors: Black, Caramel and Taupe Suede. Nisolo’s workers are paid beyond fair wages in safe working environments. It’s another sustainable fashion brand with excellent transparency!

Shop Fiorela Go-To Mid Heel

3. The Buckle-Up Mary Jane

Brand: Poppy Barley

Price: $246

Materials: LWG Leather

We love a classic Mary Jane, and these ones by Poppy Barley feature an exaggerated buckle and gold metallic grommets! The super-soft leather and high-density memory foam insole make for a very comfortable heel. Poppy Barley is a Canadian brand and B-Corporation founded by two sisters in Edmonton, AB. They are committed to rethinking every step to create sustainably made products designed to be worn on repeat.

Shop the Buckle-Up Mary Jane

Sustainably Chic | Sustainable Fashion Blog | Vegan Heels | Will's Vegan Store..jpg

4. Ruffle Sandals

Brand: Will’s Vegan Store

Price: $82

Materials: Vegan leather from cereal crops, recycled rubber insoles, and rubber outsoles

The Ruffle Sandals are feminine & flirty for anything from wine tasting with friends to a date night. The ankle strap is adjustable for a great fit. The comfort insoles and block heel provide support for long wear. Will’s sets fair prices instead of using sales, as they don’t want to contribute to fast fashion or over consumption.

Shop Ruffle Sandals

use code **SUSTAINABLYCHIC10** for 10% off your entire purchase

5. Frida Heels

Brand: Veerah

Price: $328

Materials: Vegan neo-patent leather or apple peel, memory foam cushion, and repurposed algae insole

The Frida, which pays homage to the incredible artist Frida Kahlo, is a classic pump with flair thanks to its V-cut design. This classic comes in many colors, and you can add numerous accessories, too, such as changing up your shoes without buying a whole pair. Another plus, Veerah focuses on supporting causes that empower women and girls.

Shop Frida Heels

6. Lino Vegan Heels

Brand: Matt & Nat

Price: $95

Materials: Recycled PU

Another vegan heel option with a slightly easier price tag, Matt & Nat is a Canadian-based vegan brand that has specialized in footwear, bags, and accessories since it was founded in 1995.

These sweet heels come in three colors: Black, Off White, & Light Pink.

Shop Lino Vegan Heels

7. Pointed-Toe Chunky Heels

Brand: Vivaia

Price: $139

Materials: Recycled Plastic Bottles

These heels are antimicrobial & breathable and have an added back counter patch to help avoid blisters. The heel counter and toe box have been specially designed for ultimate comfort. Vivaia carefully picked its partner factory in China and is regularly audited for fair working conditions.

Shop Pointed-Toe Chunky Heels

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8. V Mule (or build your own)

Brand: Alterre

Price: $111-250

Materials: Recycled plastic heels, leather uppers, rubber soles, and cushioned foam

Alterre designs interchangeable shoes - change the strap or base and get a new shoe for less money and less waste. The V comes in classic and bold colors, with many chic strap choices. Alterre’s leather is sourced from a LWG certified supplier and laser cut to reduce waste.

Shop V Mule

9. Nerad Vegan Sandals

Brand: NAE

Price: $136

Materials: Apple Leather

A great pair of nude heels to go with any outfit! NAE's mission is to propose an animal-friendly and ecological alternative against human exploitation, making them a sustainable and ethical choice.

Shop Nerad Vegan Sandals

10. Yonce Glass Pumps

Brand: Cult of Coquette

Price: $240

Materials: PU Plastic

Want to feel like Cinderella? We found the perfect cruelty-free glass slipper! While these are made from plastic, they are made with PU rather than PVC. It’s a great heel for someone who wants a Vegan dress-up shoe!

Shop Yonce Glass Pumps

The future of sustainable fashion

The future of sustainable fashion looks promising. As consumer demand for eco-friendly products grows, more brands embrace sustainability as a core value.

Technological advancements are also driving innovation in sustainable fashion. From developing new materials to implementing more efficient manufacturing processes, there is a constant effort to minimize the environmental impact of fashion. Collaboration between brands, scientists, and researchers is key to achieving these goals.

Supporting the sustainable fashion movement

There are several ways to support the sustainable fashion movement and contribute to a more sustainable future. Start by educating yourself about the fashion industry's environmental and social impact. By understanding the issues, you can make more informed choices as a consumer.

Support sustainable fashion brands by purchasing their products and spreading the word about their mission. Share your sustainable fashion journey on social media and inspire others to make conscious choices. Additionally, consider participating in clothing swaps or second-hand shopping to reduce waste and extend the lifespan of garments.

Day, night, leather, vegan, high heel, low heel, colorful, classic, whatever your style, you now have 10 great brands to choose from. Which is your favorite? Do you have other heel and wedge brands you love? Share in the comments. Let’s continue to support the growth of the stunningly sustainable shoe market.

By choosing eco-friendly footwear, we can positively impact the environment and support brands that prioritize sustainability. With a wide range of styles and materials, sustainable heels offer a stylish and conscious choice for fashion-forward individuals. Join the revolution and step towards a better future for our planet, one sustainable heel at a time.

And as always - love what you have!! The most sustainable heels are the ones you already own ;)

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What is the SANE Standard Certification & How Is It Creating a Sustainable Fashion Future?

Creating a Sustainable Fashion Future: The Role of Certifications

In the ever-evolving landscape of the fashion industry, the importance of sustainability has become increasingly evident. As the demand for ethical and environmentally friendly practices grows, certifications play a pivotal role in guiding both consumers and brands toward a more sustainable and responsible future. In this extensive exploration, we delve into the challenges consumers and brands face in navigating the complex world of certifications, highlighting the significance of certifications such as SANE and their role in shaping the fashion industry's path toward a greener tomorrow.

Understanding the Dilemma: Consumers and Brands in the Maze of Certifications

The fashion certification sphere resembles a complex mosaic, with numerous pieces representing different standards and aspects. Consumers and brands alike find themselves overwhelmed by the plethora of choices available. The challenge for consumers lies in deciphering the meaning behind each certification, as the lack of in-depth knowledge often prevents them from making informed purchasing decisions. On the other hand, brands grapple with initiating a sustainable transition, deciding on the proper certifications for a comprehensive approach, and effectively communicating their achievements without confusing consumers.

A common criticism the certification landscape faces is the perception that many certifications do not go far enough or lack precision. While painting ideal and concise impact scenarios is crucial, an equally pressing concern is encouraging more brands to embark on their sustainable journey.

Over the past seven years, industry professionals spanning textile manufacturing, compliance management, and environmental protection have collaborated to address these challenges. The collective goal has been to develop an international fashion standard that not only supports brands in initiating their sustainable transition but also follows a holistic approach, covering environmental, social, and consumer health aspects. The result of this collaborative effort is SANE Standard.

SANE: A Holistic Fashion Certification

SANE emerges as a comprehensive fashion standard, standing proudly as a member of the United Nations Conscious Fashion and Lifestyle Network. This network serves as a platform showcasing initiatives that accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. SANE certification covers textiles, accessories, footwear, and home textiles, offering a comprehensive approach that scrutinizes various life cycle phases of a product.

What distinguishes SANE from other certifications is its extensive scope. Unlike certifications that concentrate on specific aspects, such as sustainable textile processing or minimum natural fibers, SANE extends its focus beyond the typical boundaries. The standard places particular emphasis on the choice of low-impact materials covering all material types, the chemical content of final products, the environmental footprint of processing stages, and the working conditions, including fair remuneration for workers.

Ensuring compliance with SANE's criteria requires production facilities to undergo certification by an accredited third-party audit. However, the industry acknowledges the growing audit fatigue, and SANE takes a pragmatic approach by accepting existing credible sustainability standards to avoid unnecessary duplication.

Making Sustainability Achievable and Affordable

SANE's multifaceted approach ensures that crucial aspects are covered as practically as possible. While maintaining high standards, SANE remains achievable for brands, allowing them to kickstart their sustainable transition with a single product or capsule collection before tackling their entire product range. Significantly, the standard aligns with the EU Green Claims Directive, reflecting its forward-thinking approach towards the future of fashion certifications in Europe.

What makes SANE particularly appealing for small and medium-sized companies is its cost structure. Brands pay based on production volume, eliminating the need for a substantial upfront investment. This approach enables brands to gradually expand their sustainable product range and increase their certifications without imposing financial burdens.

Consumer Empowerment through SANE

The impact of SANE extends beyond the industry to the end consumers. By having one certification covering a more extensive scope, SANE simplifies the communication of brands' sustainable transitions. But what does this certification mean for consumers themselves?

Consumers gain the ability to make more confident and informed purchasing decisions. A simple scan of the QR code associated with SANE provides a glimpse into where and how their preferred brand sources and produces its products. The standard empowers consumers to align their choices with their values, enabling them to choose products actively developed by brands working towards a sustainable transition.

Whether displayed on hang tags or stitched onto products, SANE's characteristic logo serves as a symbol of assurance. It signifies products produced with equal consideration for the environment, workers' rights, and consumers' health, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in the textile and fashion industry.

A Comprehensive Vision for a Sustainable Future

In a world where sustainability is not just a buzzword but a necessity, certifications like SANE emerge as beacons of hope. They address the challenges faced by both consumers and brands, offering a roadmap towards a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry.

The intricate web of certifications can be daunting, but the presence of standards like SANE makes the journey more navigable. By focusing on a holistic approach that considers environmental, social, and consumer health aspects, SANE sets itself apart. Its acceptance of existing credible sustainability standards reflects a collaborative spirit, acknowledging the collective efforts needed to drive change.

SANE's commitment to making sustainability achievable and affordable underscores its pragmatic approach. By allowing brands to gradually integrate sustainable practices into their operations without imposing financial constraints, SANE paves the way for a more inclusive and accessible sustainable fashion landscape.

As consumers become increasingly conscious of their purchasing decisions, the power of certifications in guiding choices cannot be underestimated. SANE's role in empowering consumers to make informed decisions by providing transparency into sourcing and production practices signifies a transformative shift towards a more mindful and ethical consumer culture.

In conclusion, certifications like SANE Standard embody the transformative potential of the fashion industry. They are not merely stamps of approval but a commitment to a sustainable future. As more brands embrace such certifications and consumers actively support these initiatives, the fashion industry is taking significant strides toward a future where style and sustainability coexist harmoniously.

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The Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying & Eating Organic Food

Everywhere around the world, there is an increasing awareness regarding healthy habits about not only the food we eat but also about the impact it has on our planet. About 30 years ago, it was very rare to meet someone who is vegan, while veganism hit an all-time high in 2020.

Up to now, industrialized production methods have clearly shown severe limitations such as a worldwide contamination of the food and water by persistent pesticide residues and reduced nutrient and flavor contents through low-cost intensive food production and/or processing.

Because of this, we become more and more aware of the impact our food has on our bodies, and we continue to optimize this by switching more and more to organic food alternatives. This has some great advantages, not only for your body but also the world around you. However, did you know that there are also some disadvantages of organic food that you might not have heard of? In this article, I share the advantages and disadvantages of organic food.

Advantages of Buying and Eating Organic Food

Organic produce is great, not only for your body, but also because of the reduced carbon footprint. Read here exactly why.

Pesticides

One of the biggest differences between organic and non-organic food is that the amount of pesticide residues in organic food is 94–100% less compared to non-organic food. This also means that regular food can contain a lot of pesticide residues and, as not all food available is organic, wash all your food before consumption to avoid the intake of pesticides and the possible impact this might have on your body.

Minerals

Food produced that is certified organic has a higher mineral content. Both magnesium and iron are significantly higher in organic food. Organic produce also contains more anti-oxidant micronutrients such as phenols and salicylic acid compared to non-organic food, which means organic food is better for your body as it has a higher nutrient content.

Animal products

Next to animal products containing a higher level of polyunsaturated fatty acids, the circumstances in which the animals are much friendlier. They need to be able to range freely outdoors (‘zero-grazing’, where cows are kept indoors and fed cut grass or other feeds like soya, is banned under organic standards). They need to have space to express their natural behaviors, which reduces stress and disease. They can only graze and forage on natural, organic grasses and other crops. These can only be treated with natural fertilizers, and synthetic pesticides are severely restricted. This ensures that the animals produce healthier products. And organically grown animals obviously don’t receive any antibiotics.

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Disadvantages of Buying and Eating Organic Food

As we just read, organic food is great for our environment and our bodies, but unfortunately, there are also a few disadvantages of organic food.

Costs

We have all seen the organic apples in our local grocery store that are sometimes over twice as expensive as regular apples. The same goes for all other produce that is organically available. But, why are these products so much more expensive?

Certification

The first cause for higher price of organic produce is because of the certification process all farmers need to go through to be accredited as an organic farmer. Organic farming has very high standards, and farmers need to undergo a lengthy certification process in order to be certified as organic. These costs can be up to $1500- initially, and there are even annual costs involved which is based on the total organic production value of the farm. All increasing the costs the consumer has to pay for organic produce.

Labor

In organic farming much more manual labor is involved. In organic farming weeding is often done by hand and pests are controlled by introducing natural predators of those pests into the crop. This is much more labor intensive which again raises the price for organic food.

Shelf life

The shelf life of organically produced crops is often much shorter compared to regular produce. This is because conventional produce is treated with waxes and preservatives to maintain its freshness during the shipping of the products. Sometimes also cling film is used to extend the shelf life of your fruits and veggies even further. Organic food does not receive these treatments and therefore spoil faster. This has another downside that part of (or even the entire) shipment of an organic crop might be lost if the crop was delayed or mistreated during transport. In this case, everything the farmer has produced might never reach the consumer.

Farming Systems

Because pests and diseases are controlled in a less hard manner, the crop is much more susceptible to crop loss due to these circumstances. When a part of the farmer's crop is lost, he has to increase the prices of his/her produce to ensure the continuation of his/her business.

Synthetic pesticides

Synthetic pesticides might still be used in organic farming, but this is only in special cases. Farmers who can show proof that the natural pesticides used have not worked sufficiently to control the pest in their crops are allowed to use synthetic alternatives. These farmers need to prove that their organic farming practices and other organic practices have failed multiple times. Only then may they switch to synthetic alternatives in order to avoid the loss of the entire crop. This then also means that some organic foods that are sold as organic might have been exposed to the same chemicals and processes as conventional crops (so always wash your fruits and veggies before consumption, even if they are organic). While the consumer still has to pay the price like it is an organic crop.

So, even though there certainly are some great benefits of organic produce, there is no doubt that these disadvantages will make you think. So what is the best alternative? Purchase your organic produce from your local organic farmer. I am lucky enough that I live rather rural and have multiple organic farms nearby so I can purchase my produce directly from the farmer, but if this is not an option for you, your local farmers market might have all the fruits and veggies you need.

About the Author

Valinda is the founder of the GreenandHappyMom blog as well as the GreenandHappyShop. She has always lived very sustainably, but after the birth of her baby girl, her desire to do so became much stronger. She exchanged her passion for academics (she went to University to study Plant Sciences and has a BSc in Plant Breeding and an MSc in Greenhouse Horticulture) and started her zero waste journey where she helps others become more aware of the impact they have on the planet for future generations.

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Where to Rent Clothes For Temporary or one-time Wears

Clothing rentals have been around for the last decade but have swept the field in the fashion industry over the last couple of years. Conscious consumers are looking for innovative rental services to support their shopping sustainably. We have highlighted the full spectrum of clothing rentals, from plus-size to children’s clothing and everything in between. Clothing rentals are a great option for when you are going to a wedding or special event and need a dress to wear only once. Choosing rental clothes grants the garment a longer life cycle, keeping it out of landfill for as long as possible. Many of these services offer not only clothes but designer bags, shoes, and jewelry galore! Renting clothes is a fun way to shop, allowing you to browse someone else’s closet instead of buying new. Have some fun experimenting with the rental services that best suit you and your style needs. Whether shopping in person tires you out, or you just don’t love wasting so much money on an expensive garment that you know you’ll only wear once, you can rest assured that there is a rental service that will solve all your fashion struggles!

HOW DO RENTAL SERVICES WORK?

Clothing rental services allow you to borrow seasonal and special occasion attire for a short period of time, rather than dropping a lot of money to buy something that you might only wear once. Some rental services allow you to rent from other people’s real closets, and some you rent directly from the service that stocks a variety of brands. While online shopping for your temporary purchase, you can easily find the perfect style by filtering your choice of style, color, occasion, and price. Some rental services offer a subscription, while others offer a one-time price for the rental garment. The prices vary greatly based on designer, label, and original price range, but you will get a discounted price while renting no matter what.

WHAT IS THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF RENTING VERSUS BUYING?

As many of us know by now, the fashion industry has a very negative impact on the environment. Most articles of clothing in our wardrobe serve one or two life cycles, then end up in the landfill, despite donating to charity shops. This is where the clothing rental industry drastically challenges that fact. The clothing rental service market is expected to reach a value of US$ 2.08 billion by 2025. Clothing rental services offer the most usage in the special occasion market, which serves as a great solution to buying fancy outfits that you will only wear once and at an expensive price tag. With clothing rentals, you are contributing to one of the many life cycles the item will have, keeping it out of the landfill for as long as possible.

We would also like you to be mindful of your carbon impact when shipping items back and forth. We believe clothing rental is excellent for temporary, one-time wear pieces, but we don't think this is something you should do for your everyday wardrobe. Instead, invest in quality, ethically-made pieces you intend to love for many years. And, of course, shopping secondhand and taking care of what you already have is a wonderful way to have a sustainable wardrobe!

Our Top Picks for Clothing Rental Services:

1) Rent the Runway

Founded in 2009, Rent The Runway changed the way women get dressed forever by pioneering the "closet in the cloud", giving women a dream closet full of an infinite selection of designer staples to rent. RTR became a starting point for the circular economy and made designer apparel accessible to women everywhere.

A membership gives you access to thousands of styles for a flat monthly price. RTR also offers one-time rentals if you're not ready to commit to a subscription. They allow fashion freedom, discounted price tags, and total flexibility, all with a sustainable footprint.

Shop Rent the Runway

2) Tulerie

Tulerie is a peer-to-peer luxury closet-sharing app with sustainability in mind. The community is made up of like-minded women who are fashion focused and eager to expand their wardrobes in an eco-friendly way. Tulerie’s mission is to let sustainability and luxury coexist.

They strive to change the way you think about how you shop. So you can achieve that desire for newness and variety in your wardrobe in a modern, eco-friendly way.

Shop Tulerie

3) Nuuly

Nuuly is an URBN brand, offering gently used styles from Free People, Urban Outfitters, Anthropology, BHLDN, and Terrain.

Nuuly wants to create a new shopping experience that inspires and connects its customers on an emotional level.

Nuuly adapted its ethos to meet the modern need for sustainable-minded experiences and services.

They reimagine what it means to shop, sell, own, share, and express individuality.

Shop Nuuly

4) Fashion to Figure Closet

Fashion To Figure is a fashion subscription service that lets you rent clothing and accessories for a flat monthly membership fee. Just wear, return, and repeat! The company carries plus-size clothing, offering accessibility to even more women who want to reduce their fashion footprint while looking super stylish. Browse styles and choose the items you wish to rent. Once you wear your clothing and accessories out and about as many times as you like, you have the option to keep the pieces you love for up to 50% off and return the rest. Fashion To Figure uses an apparel cleaning process that uses biodegradable detergents, less electricity, less gas, and less water than doing the laundry yourself.

Shop Fashion to Figure

5) Gwynnie Bee

Gwynnie Bee is a service that offers unlimited styles for women. It was created by the founder, Christine, more than ten years ago. She was inspired by her childhood when her grandmother made her clothes that she would receive each week. The excitement of receiving a package of clothes made her feel confident, even as she was changing clothing sizes, a feeling she wanted to share with other women. With a subscription, you can explore top brands and curated collections. Get clothing delivered to your door and rock them as many times as you like.

Shop Gwynnie Bee

6) Vince Unfold

Vince is based in Los Angeles and creates elevated yet understated pieces. The collections are inspired by the brand's California origins and embody a feeling of warmth and effortless style. They approach dressing with a sense of ease. Known for their range of luxury products, they offer women's and men's ready-to-wear shoes, home, and handbags for a global lifestyle. Rent and receive four items at a time to wear as often as you like. When you're ready, send back all the items in a prepaid bag. Exchange at your pace all month. Always enjoy free shipping and returns, or keep your favorite styles for a discounted price.

Shop Vince Unfold

7) Borobabi

A rental service just for the littles ones (ages 0-6)!

The worst part about buying kids' clothing is how fast they grow out of them! That's why we love Borobabi's model. They curate several (sustainable) clothing pieces for your little one, & you get to decide which you want to buy, rent, or return. Borobabi's curation services come with a special touch because it's done by a team of real mom stylists across the U.S!

You can read more about Borobabi here.

Shop Borobabi

8) Armoire

Armoire uses a fun style quiz to determine your unique style! Then, they will use real professional stylists to choose a selection of styles for you. With a promise of no more endless scrolling or dressing room frustrations, select your favorite styles and have them delivered to your door. They offer high-end styles in sizes 0-24 to satisfy every occasion and season. For each package you rent, the advanced carbon emissions are roughly equal to the effect of planting three trees. The process of Armoire’s clothes has a repeated average of 16 times before being retired! At the end of the garment’s cycle in Armoire’s closet, the operations team gets the clothing ready for its next life, taking care to attend to any repairs. Some items are creatively upcycled for a second act at Armoire!

Shop Armoire

9) Rainey's Closet

Rainey's Closet grew from the founder's personal experience when trying to coordinate outfits for her annual family photos session. After much time and money spent on an outfit that would only be worn once, she was inspired to create Rainey's Closet. They offer special occasion rental clothes and coordinating accessories for children. Consider it your child's dream closet! You get access to limited-run designer clothing, hard-to-find styles, and made-to-match accessories that are perfect for photo sessions, birthdays, flower girl outfits, and more. How it works: choose from thousands of styles and filter by a category, size, brand, reservation date, or color. Once you pick your dates and items, you will receive the clothes, attend the event, then return! You can reserve the outfits for 5 or 10 days. When finished, place everything unwashed in the original packaging and mail it back using the return label they provided. No subscriptions, no hassle!

Shop Rainey's Closet

10) Vivrelle

With Vivrelle, you can access a closet of hundreds of luxury accessories monthly. So if you love to switch up your bags and accessories, this luxury rental service is the one for you. Vivrelle is derived from two French words: "vivre," meaning "to live," and "elle," meaning "she." With Paris being the epicenter of fashion, they have infused that legacy into the brand by creating a name and a community that focuses on making women feel alive. Choose between four different subscription levels starting at $39. There are no return dates for items, allowing you to wear them over and over again as much as you want. Free and insured shipping both ways, always. You have the option to buy an item if you fall in love with it!

Shop Vivrelle

11) Nova Octo

Nova Octo is the choice go-to rental platform for luxury evening wear. They offer high fashion from the current season to archival pieces by the most coveted designers worldwide. They allow you to dress up for a special occasion without one-wear guilt. Their two-part name refers to astronomy and the circular fashion model: A nova is a star that expands in size and shines for a period of time before returning to its original state, and “octo” signifies infinity. The idea is about transforming for a night through their shared rental model. Their stylists advise you as you select your dream garment, whether in person at their showroom or online. They offer alterations, too, allowing for a customized fit.

Shop Nova Octo

12) Le Tote

Le Tote is a simplistic fashion subscription service that lets you rent clothing and accessories for a flat monthly membership fee. Once you choose your items, they will send you them within 2-3 days with free shipping.

Wear them as many times as you like! Keep the pieces you love for up to 50% off the retail price, and return the rest. Membership plans start at $59 a month.

With an optional $5 monthly insurance fee, you can rest assured that stains or tears are covered.

Shop Le Tote

13) Haverdash

Haverdash offers a fun and easy way to get dressed! No more pressure to wear something multiple times and multiple ways. No more compromises between the practical and the fabulous! Return the clothes you borrowed for something new, or keep them forever for a discounted price. They offer a range of women’s clothing, including tops, skirts, pants, and more. Complete your personal closet with styles you covet but may not want to own forever. They always offer free shipping and dry cleaning, so you don’t have to! Subscription prices range from $20-$75.

Shop Haverdash

About the Author

Emily Henry is a sustainably focused fashion designer, writer, and activist. She specializes in upcycled garments and spreads the importance of sustainability through her art and work.