Image: Wild Nutrition

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The Best Sustainable & Organic Vitamins and Supplements

When it comes to your health, of course, you want the very best. Not just for you, but also for the planet. Looking for vitamins and health supplements can be daunting and difficult as most companies lack ingredient traceability and full transparency on their sustainability efforts. Don’t worry though, this list of 11 sustainable vitamin and supplement companies will make your shopping that much easier! Of course, always consult with your doctor before starting or making any adjustments to your health regimen.

What to look for when shopping for vitamins and supplements

Sustainable Packaging- Many companies package vitamins in plastic bottles which are usually recyclable but not always. You must remove all labels and since some are unable to be removed, they’re often not recyclable. Additionally, small plastic bottles cannot always be recycled due to falling between sorting facility equipment. Always check your community recycling guidelines to ensure any recycling materials are the correct size and material so it doesn’t contaminate the load. If you can opt for companies that use glass, post-consumer recyclable plastic, or compostable pouches.

Ingredient Traceability- Where your vitamin ingredients come from matters just as much as your food. Look for USDA organic or non-GMO certifications along with vitamins that don’t use fillers, synthetic ingredients, additives, colorants, and additional sweeteners.

Comprehensive Testing- You don’t want to waste money on products that haven’t been tested for purity or potency. Reputable vitamin companies stand behind their products with third-party testing that ensures their efficacy and quality.

Our Favorite Sustainable & Organic Vitamin Brands:

1. Wild Nutrition

Wild Nutrition is a B Corp Certified vitamin company that strives to create products with purpose. The vitamins available range from everyday essentials to kids and men, and you can even shop by your specific health goals.
Also, as part of their nutrition-forward approach, you can book a consultation call with one of their verified nutritionists to talk about your specific health concerns. Wild Nutrition's packaging is made with the Earth in mind as they use plastic-free refill pouches, recyclable glass jars, and biodegradable materials.

The company also tried to source its materials and ingredients locally whenever possible. Wild Nutrition works with non-profits like One Tree Planted and Oceans Generation to further the community impact.

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2. Form Nutrition

Form Nutrition is built on the principle that you can be your best self while being mindful of others. The products range from supplements and nootropics to protein powders. All of their products are vegan and free from gluten, GMOs, and soy. Take the Form quiz to determine the best vitamins and supplements for your goals that work together to help you feel your best.

If it all sounds too good to be true, you can also research the claims for each product with the provided published medical journals with scientific data on each product page.

Form Nutrition provides lots of information and frequently asked questions so you can feel confident in your purchase. Additionally, every purchase helps support the Form Feeding Fund which provides food, pharmaceuticals, and transportation for patients at Bansang Hospital in The Gambia. Not only is Form Nutrition B Corp Certified, but all packaging used is compostable and recyclable. The vitamins are packaged in glass bottles, and the protein powders use compostable pouches and no wasteful plastic scoop required, just a tablespoon you already use.

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3. New Chapter

New Chapter has been committed to social and environmental responsibility for decades.

As a certified zero waste to landfill company, more than 80% of the waste produced is composted, recycled, or reused.

You can shop the diverse selection of vitamins and supplements by key ingredient or health need.

Since New Chapter believes in the science of quality ingredients working together, all products are free from binders, fillers, artificial colors, and flavors with zero added sugars or sweeteners.

New Chapter is a Certified B Corporation and takes the time to select product suppliers carefully to ensure the most socially responsible and environmentally conscious supply chain possible. They have also started to embrace regenerative agriculture to help restore the land needed for growing crops. As a company that is devoted to wellness, New Chapter recognized the need for active diversity, equity, and inclusion. Their team features an employee-led DEI committee that helps ensure the company accurately represents the world they serve with their products.  

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4. Mind Body Green

Mind Body Green believes in science-based holistic well-being and recognizes that we need help to optimize our health in a modern world. The product line goes beyond your average supplements, and all their products are organic where possible.

If you want to get more greens into your system or support your body with more everyday nutrients, Mind Body Green has everything from immunity boosters to focus supplements. All the products undergo four rounds of comprehensive testing to ensure quality and potency.

Mind Body Green is also dedicated to sustainability in its packaging with recycled packing materials and the use of recyclable glass jars and bottles. 

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5. Plant People

Plant People creates doctor-formulated, regenerative-organic, plant and mushroom supplements that unlock the potential in people. Their products are non-GMO, cGMP, vegan, and junk-free (parabens, sulfates, fragrances, etc.).

They are also B Corp Certified and Climate Neutral Certified, and they plant a tree for every product sold! Their WonderCalm is a daily super mushroom and herbal gummy to ease stress and anxiety, promote a good mood, and provide a sense of relaxation when you need it most.

It includes ingredients like L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, Reishi, and Rhodiola in a gummy with the delicious flavor of ripe peach. 

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6. HUM Nutrition

HUM Nutrition is on a mission to be the leader in beauty nutrition. HUM Nutrition products are vitamins created to help you glow from the inside out for skin, nails, gut health, prenatal, or immunity. The products are triple tested for purity, made in the USA and Canada, and verified by independent labs for potency with clinical testing and studies. All packing materials are sustainable by using ocean-bound plastic bottles that are fully recyclable and shipped in boxes made from SFI and FSC certified materials using wind energy. HUM is also safe for many dietary needs as they contain no artificial sweeteners, gluten, or GMOs.

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7. The Nue Co.

The Nue Co brings together science-backed health and natural innovation for their vitamins and supplement products. You start with a consultation to determine a personalized plan created by Nue Co’s health experts to target your specific health concerns. There are monthly subscription options to keep the vitamins flowing, or you can make a one-time purchase. All vitamins are organic, vegan, and gluten-free where possible and always cruelty-free. The Nue Co only uses clinically-proven ingredients and blends practices from Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.

The formulas used are sustainably sourced, organic when possible, and don’t use additives, artificial flavorings, or sweeteners but instead focus on results. All packaging is recyclable, the primary American lab uses solar energy, and 1% of online revenue is donated to Charity: Water. The Nue Co wants human health and the Earth’s health to thrive and prosper because they believe it is all intrinsically connected.

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8. Garden of Life

Garden of Life is a Certified B Corp, LEED-certified, Carbon Neutral, and all product ingredients are traceable via a third-party for USDA organic certification and Non-GMO project verified.

Garden of Life also prioritizes packaging sustainability with 100% recyclable packaging with vegetable ink and uses post-consumer recycled plastic. In addition, their supplements and vitamins focus on whole foods and use only the ingredients your body really needs without additional fillers.

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9. Herbaland

Herbaland specializes in gummies that are sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan, and non-gmo.

In addition, there are multiple vitamin lines to cover your essential vitamins, specialized supplements, active health, and even a collection specially made for kids!

Herbaland Gummies are made in Canada and committed to creating products that are good for the Earth’s health and yours. With 100% compostable pouches, Herbaland is on track to have fully sustainable packaging by 2023.

Ingredients are sustainable and locally sourced raw materials tested by independent third-party companies.

Herbaland is also 100% carbon neutral and is partnered with Veritree to plant one tree for every vitamin pouch purchased

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10. Further Food

Further Food is a women-owned company that is taking steps to be a leader in the health industry by combining ancient medicine with modern nutrition.

On staff are naturopathic doctors, herbalists, holistic nutritionists, and health coaches to create well-rounded nourishing products.

Specializing in collagen powders with superfood blends and health supplements, all Further Food products are made with whole food ingredients.

Target your health concerns and shop by health goals from stress support to sugar detox or immunity-boosting supporting elderberry syrup; you will find a blend of Eastern medicine and Ayurveda, as well as modern science. In addition, Further Food is the first company to offer collagen packaged in post-consumer recycled jars and shipped in recyclable envelopes.

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11. Vital Plan

Vital Plan aims to recreate the supplement industry and do so responsibly and consciously.

From preventative health to restorative health, Vital Plan offers a lot of choices for health supplements.

Using comprehensive testing and inspections by reputable third-party companies, creating quality products while upholding the highest social and environmental performance standards, accountability, and transparency is a family business for Vital Plans.

A father-daughter duo created Vital Plans and recognized that good health is only as good as the planet we have to enjoy it on.

As a result, vital Plans is B Corp Certified, supports 1% For the Planet, and EWG certified.

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About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram @karmencollective and at www.karmencollective.com

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Image: LA Relaxed

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SUSTAINABLE AMERICAN-MADE CLOTHING

Many consumers in the United States regularly make the conscious choice of buying USA-made clothes. They want to support the local economy and help create more jobs for American workers. 

Buying American-made clothing can also be a lot more sustainable. Indeed, the items usually travel far shorter distances than if they were imported from the other side of the world, which reduces their carbon footprint. American companies are also held to higher labor and environmental standards than if they were to produce in most other countries abroad.

However, not all USA-made products are made with the environment in mind! In this article, we have rounded up 17 sustainable brands selling American-made clothing, so you can support both your country and the planet at the same time.  

WHAT MAKES AMERICAN-MADE CLOTHING SUSTAINABLE?

Sustainable American-made clothing is crafted from eco-friendly fabrics and dyed with non-toxic, low-impact dyes. It is produced prioritizing quality and durability. 

The brand should also implement different sustainable practices throughout its supply chain. For instance, it should try to reduce its textile waste and find ways to upcycle or recycle its fabric scraps. Or it should reduce its chemical use and water and energy consumption. 

Finally, the company should also treat its workers well and pay them fair wages. So many brands are still involved in unfair labor practices! 

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY FABRICS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Some of the most sustainable fabrics you should look for are organic cotton, linen, Tencel, hemp, and all kinds of recycled materials including recycled wool, recycled cotton, or recycled polyester. 

You can also find great American-made clothing crafted using deadstock fabrics! 

NOW, OUR TOP PICKS FOR SUSTAINABLE AMERICAN-MADE CLOTHING BRANDS

1. Harvest & Mill 

Made In: California 

Price Range: $11-195

Size Range: S-XL

Harvest & Mill sells sustainably made basics, loungewear, and socks made from organic cotton for both women and men. 

From the cotton farms to the mills to the family-owned factories, 100% of the brand’s supply chain is fully traceable and based in the USA. The final products are sewn in California within a 20-mile radius of its Berkeley studio. 

All of its styles are available in an undyed and unbleached fabric. You can also get clothing that is hand-dyed naturally using low-impact dyes or plants like indigo. 

Harvest & Mill prioritizes ethical and sustainable practices throughout its manufacturing process. Plus, it offsets its entire carbon footprint and ships its products with plastic-free packaging. 

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2. MATE The Label 

Made In: California, Peru

Price Range: $28-238

Size Range: XS-3X

MATE The Label is a women-founded fashion brand offering wardrobe staples for everyone in the family.

All of its clothing is made from sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton, linen, and Tencel, and colored using GOTS-certified dyes.  

While it has a sweater collection produced in a Fair Trade Certified factory in Peru, all its other pieces are made in Los Angeles, California. Its main factory is only four miles away from its headquarters, which minimizes its carbon footprint! 

MATE The Label uses recyclable, recycled shipping materials and is a member of 1% For The Planet. It is also a certified B Corp and Climate-Neutral company. 

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3. The Classic T-Shirt Company

Made In: California

Price Range: $64-122

Size Range: XXS-XXXL

The name says it all. The Classic T-shirt Company creates sustainable classic t-shirts and long-sleeve shirts for women and men. It also has a couple of vintage-inspired sweatshirts, shorts, and joggers.

Everything is made of 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, and you can choose from several V-neck and crewneck styles available in a variety of colors.

They are all garment-dyed using non-toxic dyes that are certified by GOTS and Cradle-To-Cradle.

The brand makes its pieces in a local factory in Los Angeles following Fair Trade principles. It also sends out its t-shirts in plastic-free, recycled packaging and donates 1% of its profits to charities supporting causes such as ocean cleanup, water conservation, and tree planting.

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4. Pareto

Made In: USA 

Price Range: $48-198

Size Range: XS-XL

If you are looking for high-quality basics for your minimalist wardrobe, Pareto is the perfect brand for you! Its small collection of womenswear features timeless essentials that are versatile, flattering, and made to last. 

Each piece is crafted from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, and the production process takes place in different states all across the USA.

For instance, the cotton is grown in Texas and is then spun into yarn in North Carolina. 

The yarn is woven into fabric at century-old mills in Massachusetts and South Carolina. The fabrics are then colored using low-impact dyes and water-saving processes in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. Finally, the garments are cut and sewn in family-owned factories in Illinois and California. 

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5. LA Relaxed

Made In: California

Price Range: $38-168

Size Range: XS-XXL

LA Relaxed makes everything you may need for your wardrobe, from dresses and camisoles to cardigans and skirts.

All of these pieces are made from natural, sustainable fabrics such as linen, Tencel, GOTS-certified organic cotton, and viscose derived from sustainably harvested wood pulp and processed in a closed-loop system.

The brand also sources some deadstock fabrics that would have otherwise ended up in the landfill.

The fabrics are also dyed using non-toxic, low-impact dyes carrying the Bluesign certification. It means the dye houses recycle their water and solvents and dispose of waste responsibly.

LA Relaxed makes its clothing in small batches in its factory in Los Angeles. It also sources its fabrics locally within ten miles of its warehouse.

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6. JJ Winks 

Made In: California 

Price Range: $42-265

Size Range: XS-XL

JJ Winks was created for busy women who hate wearing bras. The brand sells loungewear and everyday clothes that make you feel attractive and put together while being comfortable and braless. 

There are many gorgeous styles to choose from, including elegant dresses, off-the-shoulder tops, leggings, and shorts.

The tops feature a soft, built-in shelf providing breathable, gentle coverage so you can stay modest without a bra. They do not have any uncomfortable foam pads or bulky inserts inside.

All the pieces are produced in Los Angeles with a locally sourced modal fabric. JJ Winks also uses sustainable packaging and offsets its carbon footprint by supporting different environmental projects. 

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7. GRAMMAR

Made In: New York

Price Range: $100-1,270

Size Range: 0-16

GRAMMAR sells women’s shirts and dresses featuring timeless designs and impeccable quality. It also has several jackets, pants, and skirts to complete your wardrobe. 

All its pieces are both comfortable and elegant and crafted from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton.

All the buttons are also plastic-free and derived from natural shells and horns that are ethically sourced as byproducts of the food industry. 

GRAMMAR’s clothes are made locally in a woman- and BIPOC-owned factory in New York City. The brand makes sure everything is produced in small batches so that none of the products are overproduced or wasted.   

It also recycles all its fabric scraps, uses packaging made of recycled materials, and regularly makes donations to Color of Change and Dress For Success!

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8. Amour Vert 

Made In: California

Price Range: $10-440

Size Range: XXS-XL

Amour Vert is a sustainable fashion brand offering all kinds of clothes, shoes, and accessories for women.

It has a wide variety of styles, colors, and designs to choose from, and many of them feature one-of-a-kind prints created in collaboration with artists. 

The company makes all its pieces in San Francisco, California, and uses sustainable fabrics such as recycled cashmere, linen, Tencel, organic cotton, Bluesign-approved silk, regenerated wool, and GRS-certified recycled polyester. 

It even has several leather jackets made from rescued deadstock skins, repurposed vintage clothing, and upcycled post-production waste!  

Amour Vert plants a tree with every purchase of a tee, only uses compostable and recycled packaging, and has a resale marketplace where you can buy and sell pre-loved pieces.

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9. Sandmaiden 

Made In: Washington 

Price Range: $33-216

Size Range: XS-XXL

Sandmaiden is a small business selling sustainable sleepwear, lingerie, and loungewear made with natural fabrics. All the pieces are cut and sewn by hand by the brand’s founder or her assistant in Bellingham, Washington. 

Its collections feature gorgeous pieces that all look very elegant and cozy.

It offers comfy pajama sets, beautiful nightgowns with lace detailing, robes, hoodies, and joggers, as well as cozy sweaters. 

You can choose from a large selection of fabrics including linen, merino wool, Tencel, organic cotton, silk, and bamboo. 

The clothing is either crafted in limited batches or made to order, which helps minimize waste and overproduction. 

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10. Fite Fashion

Made In: Pennsylvania

Price Range: $125-3,500

Size Range: 0-12

Fite Fashion creates elegant formalwear including gowns, cocktail dresses, skirts, shorts, and bustiers. These luxury pieces are stylish but also sustainable and ethically produced.

Each one of them is handmade to order in Philadelphia using couture techniques and is designed to last for years. The brand crafts them mostly from silk and a silk-wool blend, but some also feature a cotton or Tencel fabric.

What’s more, Fite Fashion incorporates reclaimed materials in some of its unique pieces. For instance, it sources designer laser-cut leather remnants from Fabscrap that would have otherwise been thrown away.

The brand also offsets part of its carbon footprint, uses packaging made of recycled materials, and reuses or recycles its fabric scraps!

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11. Proclaim

Made In: California

Price Range: $24-118

Size Range: S-3XL

Proclaim is a sustainable brand selling underwear, bralettes, slip dresses, bodysuits, and tank tops. With a focus on neutral colors, most of the pieces are sold in black and three different shades of nude.

The brand makes its clothing and underwear using natural, sustainable fabrics such as Tencel, an organic cotton-hemp blend, and cupro produced from recycled cotton linter.

It also uses low-impact, low-energy, and AZO-free dyes.

The pieces are made locally in a family-owned factory in Los Angeles. Proclaim also works with a local mill and dye house, which means that its supply chain is hyper-localized to a 30-mile radius.

Plus, the brand ships its orders using 100% home compostable mailers and upcycles its fabric scraps into building materials!

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12. Vincent James

Made In: South Carolina, Illinois, New York

Price Range: $89-808

Size Range: XS-XL

Vincent James is on a mission to create the foundational pieces for a timeless, chic, and minimal capsule wardrobe. From cardigans and tank tops to dresses and pants, its clothes are staples you will want to wear every day!

It has many styles to choose from, and all of them are designed with quality in mind.

They are made from natural fabrics using a regenerative approach, meaning that the fibers are grown and sourced to positively impact the land and its inhabitants.

The fabrics include linen, merino wool, regenerative organic cotton, hemp, alpaca wool, and regenerative domestic wool. Vincent James’ clothing is made in small batches in Chicago, New York, and Charleston, South Carolina.

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13. Groceries Apparel 

Made In: California

Price Range: $39-118

Size Range: XS-2XL

Groceries Apparel crafts 100% non-toxic wardrobe essentials, workout clothes, and loungewear for women. It also offers a couple of pieces for men. 

The brand has eliminated all toxic chemicals and heavy metals from its supply chain by dyeing its clothing using natural, plant-based dyestuff, including food waste!

Some of the pieces are colored with indigo, flowers, leaves, or madder root, but the majority of them are dyed with upcycled fruit and vegetable dyes such as discarded avocado pits, carrot tops, onion skins, pomegranate peels, and used coffee grounds. These food scraps are gathered and sourced from local grocers. 

Most of Groceries Apparel’s clothing is made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, but you can also find several styles produced from hemp or Tencel. The brand’s entire manufacturing process happens in its own factory and dye house in Los Angeles. 

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14. Vitamin A 

Made In: California

Price Range: $25-215

Size Range: XXS-XXL

Vitamin A is a sustainable brand offering responsibly made swimwear, cover-ups, and beach accessories. It has an impressive collection of one-piece swimsuits, bikinis, and everything in between. 

You will be able to choose from a wide range of support and coverage options, cup sizes, and styles. The brand also has a large spectrum of colors and prints, including florals, animal-inspired patterns, and stripes.

Its beachwear line consists of cover-ups, overalls, sarongs, dresses, tops, and bottoms. You can style them with Vitamin A’s accessories, which include beach bags and bucket hats made of hand-woven recycled straw. 

The brand makes its swimwear and clothing using recycled nylon, organic cotton, linen, Tencel, and recycled cotton, and all the materials are certified by OEKO-TEX. 

Vitamin A is a member of 1% For The Planet and produces its swimwear in the USA, primarily in California. 

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15. Minimalist

Made In: New York

Price Range: $198-995

Size Range: 0-14

Minimalist has a thoughtfully curated collection of women’s clothing designed to maximize purpose in your wardrobe while minimizing the impact on the planet. It sells different tops, bottoms, jumpsuits, dresses, and jackets, all of which are crafted in New York City.

The brand uses sustainable fabrics such as Tencel jersey, velour crafted from organic cotton and recycled fibers, and sustainable Ecovero viscose satin.

Even details like elastics, shoulder pads, and zippers are made with non-toxic, eco-friendly materials!

Minimalist’s materials also received different third-party certifications including OEKO-TEX, Bluesign, GRS, GOTS, and FSC. Plus, the company uses recycled packaging and garment bags that are compostable or water-soluble.

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16. Miakoda 

Made In: New York

Price Range: $12-188

Size Range: XS-4XL

Miakoda sells comfortable, sustainable clothing that is ethically made in New York City. From tops to bottoms, all the garments are crafted from eco-friendly, plant-based materials. 

The fabrics used include organic cotton, organic and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified bamboo, modal made in a closed loop system, and organic soy fabric.

The soy fabric is produced using soy fibers sourced as a byproduct of the soybean oil industry and that would have otherwise been disposed of. 

Miakoda dyes all its pieces with low-impact, non-toxic dyes, and all the fabrics are certified by GOTS or Control Union. It also offsets its carbon footprint and upcycles its fabric scraps into new products such as scarves, scrunchies, and pet bows! 

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17. Lovanie 

Made In: Washington

Price Range: $78-158

Size Range: XS-XL Petite

Lovanie is a slow fashion brand created for petite women. It has gorgeous dresses, tops, skirts, and pants, all of which are designed to fit the proportions of women who are 5’4” or under. 

The designs and beautiful prints available are inspired by bohemian romantic styles, travel destinations, and vintage pieces.

Made to never go out of style, they are timeless, yet feature feminine silhouettes and details. The styles are handmade from linen and deadstock cotton that would have otherwise been discarded. 

The company also makes its pieces in small batches based on a made-to-order model. This means that it only begins producing them after you have placed your order, which minimizes waste and excess inventory. 

Everything is crafted in Seattle, Washington, and shipped by a carbon-neutral, B Corp-certified company! 

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About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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Animal Protection in the Fashion Industry

When we talk about ethical fashion, not only should we consider the people who make our clothes, but also the non-human animals who are impacted by the fashion industry – whether they are farmed, killed, or endangered by clothing production. If you’re new to these considerations, let’s go through some of the issues facing animals in the fashion industry.

Non-human animals (as opposed to humans, because we’re animals too!), share this planet with us, but sometimes we can forget that, and consider this just ‘our’ planet. Too, when we talk about ethics in fashion, sometimes our thoughts are – while critical to creating a fairer fashion industry – human-centric. Total ethics fashion prioritizes the wellbeing of all animals, both human and non-human, before profit. But what issues do other animals face in the fashion industry? First, let’s talk about animals who are slaughtered specifically and primarily for fashion.

Killing for Fashion

A number of animals are killed solely or primarily for the sake of fashion industry products and profit. These include fur-bearing animals like raccoon dogs, minks, muskrats, chinchillas, foxes, coyotes and so on, who are both confined to factory-farm cages, and trapped and shot in their natural habitat. 

Many reptiles with supposedly ‘exotic’ skin are also killed for fashion, such as alligators, crocodiles, snakes and lizards. The skins of these animals are usually sold to some of the wealthiest people around the world, at an shockingly steep price. For example, Australia’s native saltwater crocodiles have lived on their indigenous land for at least 100 million years, alongside the Larrakia people who consider crocodiles their totem, ‘Dungalaba’. Despite this, more of these reptiles live in cages and concrete pits owned by and supplying Hermès and Louis Vuitton, among others, than in their natural habitat. Killed at a tiny fraction of their lifespan, bags made from their skin sell for tens, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Other animals killed primarily for fashion include ostriches, and kangaroos – with their skins most commonly used for bags and boots, especially football boots, in the case of kangaroos. If you’re seeking to protect animals through your fashion choices, avoiding wearing any of these animals is a simple way to do that. Luckily, there are innovative alternatives to all of these materials! 

Killed in Fashion Supply Chains as ‘Co-Products’

It’s increasingly mainstream to believe animals should not be killed specifically for fashion – as we’ve seen through the number of brands, local governments and even countries banning fur, as well as some ‘exotic skins’. But what about animals who are killed in fashion supply chains, but who are a part of other supply chains, too? 

Take cattle skins for example, which are the most commonly used in leather production. These skins are co-products of the meat and dairy industries. This means that these skins are valuable, sold for profit to the fashion industry. However, in many instances the flesh of these animals, sold as beef burgers, mince and steaks are more profitable.

The fact that leather is a co-product of the meat industry – as non live-plucked down, sheep skins and a lot of wool are too – is often used as an argument to continue to wear these materials, without concern for these animals. The reasoning here is that ‘so long as meat is being eaten, there will be skins and feathers to wear, so we may as well not waste them’. 

The problem with this argument though, is that it fails to consider the economic value of these industries. The leather industry is valued at around $128 billion USD. When individual slaughterhouses are unable to sell skins – sometimes due to the popularity of leather alternatives – multi-million dollar losses are recorded. By buying leather we help to fund the meat industry, allowing for it to thrive. If everyone stopped buying leather, the meat industry would suffer financially, likely forcing it to reduce in size – in turn resulting in less animals being killed (and less greenhouse gasses being emitted). 

Supporting animal protection means avoiding the needless slaughter of thinking, feeling animals – this is the logic behind bans on fur. It’s worth considering that this same support ought to be given to animals who are killed in a system which brings in profits for both the fashion and food industries alike. We can show this support by opting for more totally ethical materials like those that are vintage, bio-based leather alternatives, plant-based wool alternatives, and recycled down alternatives. 

Farmed Animals Facing Cruelty

If we look further back into fashion’s supply chains, past slaughterhouses, we find ourselves at farms – whether that looks like a green field or a dank factory-farm. In both of these settings, animals are routinely and legally exploited and mutilated. 

For example, cattle in leather supply chains often have their horns cut off, or burned from their skull, without pain relief. Many sheep in the wool industry face mulesing – where the skin around the backside is sliced off – and almost all sheep have their tails cut off or otherwise severed. Cashmere goats have been known to cry out as sharp-toothed metal combs rip through their hair, and alpacas have even been documented vomiting in stress as they are tied down for shearing. Ducks exploited for feather down – even if they are protected from live-plucking – are often denied water to float and bathe in, resulting in debilitating disability. Some are even caged and force-fed, tied up in the foie gras industry. 

The reason this is all possible is a confronting one: around the world, laws which genuinely protect farmed animals are near non-existent. Even in countries with supposedly ‘high animal welfare laws’, farmed animals are often specifically exempt from protection. In America, Australia and the United Kingdom for example, cruelty to animals exploited in the fashion (and food) industry is legalized if it is deemed ‘necessary’ or ‘standard’. 

Animals, like us, not only deserve to live their lives, but to live them happily and healthily. Unfortunately, most animal supply chains are lacking in transparency, and even certifications which claim to ensure higher standards of welfare and reduced cruelty to animals often fall far short of their promise. So long as cruelty to animals is legal and standard to the production of animal-derived materials, these materials won’t align with efforts for total animal protection.

While this might be distressing, it’s worth keeping in mind that people all around the world are working to change laws and gain protections for animals, so that they can be recognised as sentient, and be kept safe, and able to enjoy their freedom.

Wildlife and fashion

While some wild animals are slaughtered and transformed into fashion objects – like snakes made into wallets and coyotes into fur-trimmed jackets – other free-living, native animals are impacted by fashion too. Let’s talk about biodiversity loss. 

The more land-intensive a material is, the higher the risk of biodiversity destruction associated with its production. Basically, this means that the making of some materials requires much more land than others, and because of this, more native and unique vegetation needs to be cleared for the sake of production. The problem with this, is that animals living in that vegetation – in bushlands, grasslands, forests and other ecosystems – then lose their homes. And when animals lose their habitats, they generally don’t just move, they die. Habitat destruction is the primary cause of species extinction around the world.  

So, which materials are most land-intensive, and which protect native animals better? Interestingly, it’s normally materials made from farmed animals that require the most land, in turn also harming wild animals. For example, far more cotton and hemp can be grown on the same amount of land as wool ever could be – did you know that producing one bale of Australian wool (where most wool is from) instead of cotton requires 367 times more land? What’s more, when we look to leather-like materials, we can produce far more pineapples to feed people and create leather alternative materials than we can leather from cow skins on the same land. The same is true of cacti, cork and other building blocks of leather alternatives.

How We Can Help to Protect Animals Through What We Wear

The first, most obvious and impactful way that we can protect animals is to not wear them. When we do this, we avoid all potential suffering, exploitation and slaughter of animals that is so often wrapped up in the production of animal-derived materials. But there are other ways we can help, too!

• Buy less clothes. Even if you are buying animal-free clothing, all clothing has an impact on native, free-living animals because all clothing production has an environmental impact. Our current fast fashion system relentlessly takes from the Earth without replenishing it, resulting in the destruction of ecosystems, the warming of our climate, and other environmental impacts which harm all animals – humans and non-humans. Slowing down fashion is the solution for so many of fashion’s problems.

• Choose pre-loved clothes first. Even if you want to buy new clothes, you don’t necessarily need to be taking more from the planet, and in turn, animals living here with us. Buying existing clothes is a great way to keep fashion circular, and less harmful.

• Get involved in education and impact campaigns which help people learn more about the use of animals in the fashion industry, and which seek to reduce the amount of harm the fashion industry causes to them. We won’t buy our way to a more ethical fashion system, but we can use our voices to get involved!

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About the Author
Emma Håkansson is the founder and director of Collective Fashion Justice which seeks to create a total ethics fashion system that prioritizes the life and wellbeing of non-human & human animals, as well as the planet, before profit & production. She has written countless articles on ethics, sustainability, and fashion, and has two books due out over the next two years.

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A Guide to Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Baby Showers

Awaiting the arrival of your new bundle of joy is a magical time for parents, filled with excitement and anticipation. But, if you’re considering planning a baby shower to celebrate you as soon-to-be-parents, you might wonder if it’s possible to make this a sustainable event. The good news is there are countless ways to ensure a sustainable baby shower is everything you want it to be for both mother-to-be and Mother Nature.

From the invitations to the decorations, so many elements of your baby shower can be made sustainable with just a bit of planning and some eco-alternatives. As more people have become aware of the environmental impacts of events like baby showers, the market for sustainable party supplies has grown to keep up with demand. You’ll now find great alternatives and sustainable solutions to help you plan a party you can be proud of, and that will inspire your guests to take notes for their future events!

Why make your baby shower sustainable?

Baby showers are now big business, with the average cost of hosting one anywhere between $100 and $1000. Unfortunately, along with the cost, a lot of waste happens from celebratory events, including baby showers. From food waste and single-use plastics to non-biodegradable confetti and unwanted party favors, many elements of a baby shower can be unsustainable and wasteful. 

As with all events, you'll want to make this day memorable and enjoyable for you and your guests, but you'll feel even better if you know you've done your bit for the planet simultaneously. It can seem daunting to plan a sustainable event, often with many factors to consider. But don't worry; we've come up with a list of top tips to help you plan the perfect baby shower and keep things as eco-friendly as possible!

our top tips for hosting an eco-friendly baby shower:

1. Eco-friendly invitations

One of the ways you can start off on the right foot with your sustainable shower planning is to think about the invitations you'll be making for the event. While it's common to have printed invitations sent out for a baby shower, unless you're family or close friends, these usually get thrown away. And unless the invites are fully recyclable (and your guests actually do recycle!), they will likely end up in landfill. 

Why not opt for digital invites rather than printed ones? These can be found for free online, or you could design your own with free tools like Canva and then email them out. You can even use online evite sites that allow you to track invite responses, dietary requirements, and more - making your life even easier. 

If you do go for print, try to use FSC-certified paper or recycled paper, and avoid foiled lettering or glitter, as these make the invites unrecyclable. You could even get invitations made on wildflower seed paper and encourage your guests to plant their invitations after the event. We have a post - here - that offers you some wonderful options.

2. Sustainable food and beverage options

If you're providing food and drink at the baby shower, there are several ways you can choose more sustainable options. If you're using a caterer, search for one who uses organic, locally sourced produce and provides the food in zero-waste packaging. 

Whenever possible, choose locally sourced and organic food and beverages. Locally sourced produce reduces carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation, while organic options support sustainable farming practices and avoid harmful pesticides.

Plan the menu around seasonal ingredients. Seasonal produce is often fresher, tastier, and more affordable. It also helps reduce your event's environmental impact by minimizing the need for energy-intensive storage and transportation.

Also consider opting for a plant-based menu to satisfy most dietary requirements and reduce your carbon footprint (maybe you can find some inspiration from some of our favorite vegan food bloggers). Make sure the plates, cutlery and cups you get are reusable too! You could even rent the things you need from a party rental company. They provide everything from tableware and linen to chairs and tables. 

If you still need to opt for a few disposable items, we suggest checking out Repurpose for those! They have a lot of compostable options for cutlery, bowls, plates, cups and drinkware.

To minimize food waste, estimate the number of guests accurately. Consider serving food in smaller portions or offering a buffet-style meal where guests can choose what they want. Encourage guests to bring their reusable containers to take home any leftovers.

3. Eco-friendly decorations

First and foremost, go plastic-free! This will reduce the amount of single-use items you have at the baby shower and allow you to reuse the decorations again. Decorations are often available to rent too, which could be perfect for any big decorations you had in mind. You can also ask your family and friends if they have anything you can borrow from their past celebrations.

To tie in with the eco-friendly theme of the shower, use natural elements to decorate the space to really connect people to nature and create a calm, peaceful atmosphere. Potted plants make great centerpieces, and small trees could help fill any space you have.  

Consider taking the party outside if you can, as beautiful natural landscapes make the best decorations for a party. What could be better than being surrounded by tall trees or hearing the sound of the ocean at your baby shower?

image: FashionLush

4. Games and activities with an environmental twist

We've all been to a baby shower that had loads of games with printed bingo cards, pens, paint, and even cheap onesies. Unfortunately, what doesn't get thrown in the trash usually gets forgotten or donated a few months later. Instead, think of games or activities that don't involve anything you won't use again. 

Guess the baby is a popular game that can be easily made more eco-friendly. Simply ask your guests to bring along a photo of themselves as a baby and use wooden pegs on a line to hang them up - then record everyone's guesses digitally on your phone or tablet. 

Another fun activity (not necessarily a game) would be to plant a tree. Set up a station where guests can contribute to planting a tree to honor the new baby. This activity not only encourages sustainability but also creates a lasting memory for the parents and their child.

5. Eco-friendly party favors for guests

It can be hard to come up with party favors to give to your guests that they will all want, especially when sticking to a budget. However, things like mini beeswax candles, homemade soaps and bath salts are usually crowd pleasers and can be pretty cheap if you can make them yourself or get them from a thrift store (psst..you can find lots of ribbon there).

You can also give your guests the gift of greenery by offering seed packets as party favors. Choose seeds of plants or flowers that are native to your region or support local wildlife. Encourage your guests to plant and watch them grow as a reminder of the baby shower. Another great idea would be to prepare homemade treats such as cookies, jams, or granola bars using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Package them in reusable glass jars or fabric bags, and attach a personalized note expressing your gratitude. This not only reduces waste but also shows your guests how much you value their presence.

You could even tie the party favors into the games or activities of your baby shower. For example, have people decorate mini potted succulents to take home with them or make their own candles or soap at an activity station during the baby shower. 

By opting for eco-friendly party favors, you not only reduce waste but also inspire your guests to make sustainable choices in their everyday lives.

6. Sustainable gifts 

If your guests are keen to offer gifts at your shower, think about what you really need for the new baby. Unwanted or duplicate gifts can be an annoyance and even wasteful. Why not set up a sustainable gift registry and let people know they can select something from the list? 

Struggling to come up with gift ideas? Check out our list of the best sustainable baby gifts, eco-friendly baby clothes brands, and don't forget our guide to creating a sustainable baby registry.

Not interested in gifts? Why not ask for donations to a local animal sanctuary or environmental charity you support?

7. The outfit

Don't forget about your outfit for the big day! You've been planning this party for weeks, so you'll want a special ensemble to feel good in on the day. But this doesn't have to mean going out and buying a brand new item of clothing! For the mom-to-be, if you don't have a maternity dress that will work for the event, why not rent one? There are loads of maternity wear rental websites that have dresses, skirts or jumpsuits to wear for your baby shower. Try Motherhood Rental or Rent The Runway Maternity for some inspiration! You could also find something second-hand or vintage that is often cheaper than buying brand new. You may even already have a flowy dress in your closet that has just the right amount of room for your growing belly :)

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Conclusion: Celebrating the arrival of your little one while being kind to the planet

Hosting an eco-friendly baby shower doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. By following these seven tips, you can create a memorable and sustainable event that will positively impact the Earth and your little one.

From choosing eco-friendly games and activities to providing sustainable party favors, there are many ways to incorporate sustainability into every aspect of your baby shower. You can reduce waste and promote a green lifestyle by making conscious choices, such as using recycled materials, serving organic food, and opting for digital invitations.

Remember, the baby shower is not just about celebrating the new arrival but also about shaping a better future for them. By hosting an eco-friendly baby shower, you teach your little one the importance of caring for the environment and making sustainable choices from the beginning.

So, gather your loved ones, embrace the beauty of nature, and celebrate the joyous occasion while leaving a minimal environmental footprint. Let's raise our glasses to a greener and brighter future for your little one and the planet!

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About the Author

Sarah King is a freelance writer with a focus on vegan fashion, sustainability and ethically made clothes. She campaigns for change in the fashion industry through her blog and on her Instagram page.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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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