Finding affordable sustainable clothing brands (or even affordable ethical clothing brands) can feel overwhelming, especially since many ethical labels are more expensive than the fashion you are used to. The good news is that building a more sustainable wardrobe does not have to cost a lot.
Today, there are more options for budget sustainable clothing and affordable brands than ever. Many offer clothing made with organic materials, ethical labor practices, and a lower environmental impact, often at prices similar to fast fashion.
Whether you’re looking for cheap sustainable fashion, budget sustainable clothing, or sustainable brands under $100, we’ve got you covered in this guide.
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better world. Thank you for supporting these brands – and us! Cover Image: Pact
What Does “Affordable Sustainable Clothing” Mean?
Affordable sustainable clothing is made with better materials and more responsible practices, while still being priced in a way that feels realistic for everyday life. If you’ve ever looked into sustainable fashion, you’ve probably noticed one thing right away: it can feel expensive. And while some pieces are “affordable” in this space, it doesn’t mean cheap; it means more thoughtful, longer-lasting, and worth the investment over time.
For me, affordable sustainable clothing sits somewhere between fast fashion and luxury. It’s about finding pieces that respect people and the planet, without requiring a designer-level budget. But of course, affordability is subjective!
What Makes Clothing Both Affordable and Sustainable?
Better Materials (when possible)
Many affordable sustainable brands prioritize natural fibers such as organic cotton, linen, and hemp. These tend to be easier on the environment and often feel better on your skin, too. You’ll still see some blends here and there, but the focus is usually on reducing reliance on synthetics.
More Responsible Production
This can look like fair wages, safer working conditions, and more transparency in the supply chain. Not every brand is perfect (and I always say that), but these brands are generally trying to do better than the fast fashion model.
Realistic Pricing
Affordable sustainable pieces are typically more than what you’d pay at a fast fashion retailer, but they’re not out of reach. These are pieces you can save up for, wear often, and keep in your closet for years.
A Cost-Per-Wear Mindset
This is a big one. Instead of asking “Is this cheap?” I like to ask, “Will I actually wear this?” A piece you wear 30, 40, or 50 times becomes far more affordable than something you only reach for once or twice.
Affordable Doesn’t Mean Disposable
Let’s be honest, fast fashion has us hooked on crazy-low prices. It also makes us see clothing as disposable. When a t-shirt costs less than your morning coffee, it’s tempting to wear it a couple of times and then forget about it. This mindset totally changes how we see our closets. Suddenly, clothes feel replaceable rather than special; no one’s thinking about mending or cherishing a $5 tee! Trends fly by, quality drops off, and before you know it, you’re tossing out clothes just as fast as you buy them.
Unfortunately, those low prices come with a hidden cost; whether it’s to garment workers, the planet, or just the quality of your clothes. And when pieces are made to be worn just a handful of times, that “bargain” starts to add up way faster than you’d think.
Affordable sustainable fashion isn’t about being perfect or tossing your whole wardrobe. It’s about small shifts; buying less, choosing better, and making the pieces you love last longer. That’s why “cheap” sustainable fashion isn’t about hunting for the rock-bottom price tag. It’s about squeezing the most value out of every piece you buy, and actually wearing what’s in your closet.
What is Sustainable Fashion?
When considering whether a garment is sustainable, it should adhere to several key criteria. First and foremost, sustainability entails being eco-friendly, meaning that the production process minimizes environmental impact. Second, it’s important for the garment to be ethically made, ensuring fair labor practices and safe working conditions for the people involved in its production. Additionally, sustainable garments should be durable and long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste. In terms of materials, we prioritize non-toxic clothing brands that utilize fabrics safe for both our bodies and the environment. This includes materials that are biodegradable, organic, or recycled.
While this list isn’t exhaustive, these are the fundamental characteristics we consider when curating products for Sustainably Chic. To help consumers make informed choices, we provide a simple checklist in this post here detailing what to look for in sustainable fashion. This post also offers further insight into sustainable fashion and how individuals can actively support the movement.
What is Ethical Fashion?
Ethical fashion encompasses a set of values and practices that prioritize fair treatment for all individuals involved in the production process. This includes ensuring that workers are compensated fairly for their labor, from the farmers growing the cotton to the manufacturers producing the garments. You will look for different things when shopping ethically, depending on your values. For example, if you are vegan, you would ensure the product does not contain animal products.
Ultimately, ethical fashion represents a commitment to respect, fairness, and sustainability throughout the entire supply chain.
Why Should You Support Sustainable Clothing Brands?
Did you know humans are now consuming 400% more clothing compared to 20 years ago? & that the average American generates 82 pounds of textile waste every single year? We are buying more clothes than ever, but we’re wearing them a lot less. We can mainly explain this after all by the explosive growth fast fashion has known in the past two decades. But this over-consumption of cheaply-made clothes is leading to the huge growth of textile waste, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources. It is raising social issues that we can no longer ignore, such as human rights violations.
The best thing we can do, as consumers, is to stop supporting this industry. We should avoid fast fashion brands and start supporting sustainable clothing brands, loving what we have, or purchasing secondhand.
Why Sustainable Clothing Is Usually Expensive
Because people are finally being treated their worth and paid a fair wage! Fashion isn’t cheap, but we’ve been conditioned to believe it can be. Creating clothing takes many hours, especially when using conscious, quality fabrics and paying people fairly for their work. Fast fashion is how we continuously support poverty worldwide, and the entire concept is inherently unsustainable and damaging our planet. Read more about its effect on the environment here.
We’ve made this list of brands carrying most of their pieces under $150, but make sure to sign up for newsletters so you can receive information on sales to get an even better deal if these price points are still out of your budget. In addition, we’ve added a couple of coupon codes unique to Sustainably Chic you can use on your entire purchase. As always, the most sustainable option is already in your closet so never get rid of things just because they aren’t from a sustainable brand. Also, purchasing secondhand clothing will be one of your best deals! While we don’t want to promote you going into debt, some of these brands offer options like AfterPay if you can easily budget that weekly.
How to Shop Sustainable Fashion on a Budget
Let’s bust a myth right away: shopping sustainably doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune. You can build a wardrobe with budget sustainable clothing that still aligns with your values. In fact, some of the best choices for your wallet and the planet are surprisingly affordable! It’s all about shopping smarter, not harder.
Here are my tried-and-true tips for building a sustainable wardrobe without blowing your budget:
Start with What You Already Own
Your closet is your best friend! Before you even think about shopping, get creative with what you already own. Try mixing and matching pieces you haven’t worn in ages; you’d be surprised how fresh your wardrobe can feel with a little restyling.
Shop Secondhand First
Thrifting, resale apps, and vintage shops are absolute goldmines for unique, affordable finds. I love scrolling through ThredUp or Depop from the comfort of my couch. You can snag amazing deals and give clothes a second life at the same time.
Focus on Cost Per Wear
Don’t just eye the price tag, think about the cost per wear! If you invest in something you’ll wear on repeat, it ends up costing less over time than a cheap piece you only wear once. Quality over quantity is the real money-saver here.
Prioritize Natural & Durable Fabrics
When you do pick up something new, check those labels! Fabrics like organic cotton, linen, hemp, or wool are your best bet; they hold up better, feel great, and last way longer than synthetics.
Buy Less, Choose Better
This one’s a total game-changer: you don’t need to overhaul your entire closet. Focus on adding just a few pieces you truly love and will actually wear all the time. Trust me, less really is more.
Take Advantage of Sales (Intentionally)
Sales? Absolutely, just shop them wisely! I always have a little wish list ready, so I’m not tempted by random markdowns. Stick to what you need, and those deals will actually serve you (and your closet).
Mix Sustainable Brands with What You Have
You definitely don’t have to do a total 180 overnight. Start by mixing in a couple of sustainable pieces here and there; it’s way more realistic and way less stressful. Progress over perfection!
The goal isn’t to find the cheapest option, but to build a wardrobe filled with affordable ethical clothing brands you’ll actually wear.
Affordable vs Fast Fashion: What’s the Difference?
At first glance, affordable sustainable clothing and fast fashion can look similar; they’re both accessible and widely available. But how they’re made (and how they’re meant to be used) is very different.
Fast Fashion: Built for Speed & Volume
Fast fashion brands are designed to produce large amounts of clothing quickly and cheaply. This often means:
- Trend-driven pieces that go out of style quickly
- Lower-quality materials (often synthetic)
- High production volumes that encourage overconsumption
If you want a deeper dive, I break this down more in my guide to what fast fashion really is and how it impacts both people and the planet.
Affordable Sustainable Fashion: Built for Longevity
Affordable sustainable brands take a different approach. While they still aim to be accessible, the focus is on:
- Better materials (often natural or lower-impact)
- More thoughtful production practices
- Designs that can be worn across seasons
These pieces are meant to stay in your wardrobe longer; not be worn once and replaced.
P.S. While we always encourage shopping directly from brands, we’ve also included Amazon links for those who prefer that option. Our goal is to make non-toxic, sustainable living as accessible and easy as possible for everyone.
Our Top Picks for Affordable Sustainable Clothing Brands
1. Pact
For: Men & Women
Categories: Everyday Clothing, Basics, Activewear
Price: $20-158
Size Range: XS-3XL
Pact is a wonderful clothing brand based in the U.S. that truly embodies the spirit of affordable, sustainable fashion. To begin with, they use organic cotton, certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), meaning you can wear their clothes knowing they are made from environmentally friendly, chemical-free materials. What sets Pact apart is their commitment to ethical practices; all of their products are produced in Fair Trade Certified factories, ensuring safe working conditions and fair labor for all workers involved. In addition, their collection includes a wide variety of essentials for men and women designed with a focus on comfort and durability. Finally, Pact partners with SimpliZero to actively measure and offset their carbon footprint.
2. Toad & Co
For: Women & Men
Categories: Outdoor, Activewear, Everyday
Price: $24-240
Size Range: XS-XL
Toad & Co is an affordable sustainable clothing brand that offers a wide range of sustainably made clothes for both men and women. Their collection includes everything from basic t-shirts to jackets and comfortable underwear, all designed with classic styles that stand the test of time.
What’s we love about Toad & Co is their commitment to using eco-friendly materials in all of their clothing. They incorporate a variety of sustainable fabrics such as hemp, TENCEL Lyocell, and organic cotton, along with different recycled materials. This dedication to sustainability not only benefits the environment but also ensures that you’re getting high-quality, responsibly made clothing!
3. Fair Indigo
For: Women & Men
Categories: Basics
Price: $35-230
Size Range: XS – XXL
Fair Indigo is a sustainable clothing brand based in Madison, Wisconsin, dedicated to creating timeless and ethically made apparel. Each piece is crafted in Peru using luxurious organic Pima cotton, celebrated for its incredible softness and durability.
With a strong commitment to fair trade practices, Fair Indigo ensures that every garment is produced in ethical conditions, promoting fair wages and safe working environments for all workers involved.
Their thoughtfully designed clothing focuses on longevity, creating styles that remain both fashionable and comfortable for years to come. Plus, enjoy the added benefit of free shipping on all your orders!
4. Threads 4 Thought
For: Men, Women & Children
Categories: Everyday Clothing, Activewear
Price: $38-145
Size Range: XS-XXL
Threads 4 Thought is a sustainable clothing brand that offers a wide range of casual clothing and activewear for women, men, and children. Their activewear line is not only good looking but also provides great support, making it suitable for high-intensity workouts, yoga, and lounging.
In addition to using sustainable materials, Threads 4 Thought is committed to reducing its environmental impact. The brand has achieved carbon neutrality by offsetting its entire carbon footprint. Plus, the company’s approach to dyeing its clothes involves the use of Bluesign-certified dyes and innovative dyeing technology that drastically reduces water consumption by 95% and eliminates all harmful substances.
Threads 4 Thought utilizes FSC-certified packing materials and compostable bags for shipping. Their main factory has implemented water conservation practices, achieving an impressive 80% reuse and recycling rate for industrial wastewater, setting a high standard in the industry for sustainable water management.
5. Carve Designs
For: Women
Categories: Everyday Clothing, Basics, Accessories, Swim, Outerwear
Price: $38-198
Size Range: XXS-XL
Carve Designs is more than just a women’s apparel brand; it’s a celebration of active lifestyles and sustainable fashion. Founded in 2003 by Jennifer Hinton and Thayer Sylvester, Carve Designs emerged from a deep-rooted desire for surfwear that truly caters to real women.
With clothing made from recycled, upcycled, and organic materials, Carve Designs leads the way in eco-friendly fashion. Their swimwear line, for example, uses recycled plastic bottles, helping to keep waste out of our landfills. Ethical practices are core to their philosophy, as they forge strong partnerships with manufacturing facilities in India and China. Regular visits to these facilities ensure fair labor conditions and uphold brand integrity.
6. Subset
For: Women & Men
Categories: Underwear, Loungewear
Price: $15-62
Size: XS-3XL
Subset’s incredibly comfortable underwear is crafted from 95% GOTS certified organic cotton, ensuring that it is not only soft but also produced with the highest environmental and ethical standards. These undergarments are created in a Fair Trade certified factory in India, guaranteeing fair wages and working conditions for the workers.
Additionally, the production process avoids the use of harsh chemicals, making the underwear gentle on both the skin and the environment. In line with their commitment to sustainability, Subset’s packaging is made from FSC-certified and recycled materials, and low-impact inks are used in the printing process. This ensures that even the packaging has minimal impact on the environment.
7. Warp + Weft
For: Women & Men
Categories: Denim
Price: $78-158
Size Range: 00-24
If you are in the market for a fantastic pair of jeans, we highly recommend checking out Warp + Weft!
They offer a wide range of size-inclusive denim at prices that are more affordable compared to most sustainable brands, without compromising on quality.
What’s even more impressive is that the makers have been crafting denim for several decades in a family-owned mill, so you can trust the expertise and experience that goes into every pair.
8. Passion Lilie
For: Women, Men & Children
Categories: Dresses, Everyday Clothing
Price: $14-114
Sizes: XS-3XL
Passion Lilie connects with those of us who want beautiful clothing without sacrificing our values. This affordable, sustainable brand from New Orleans focuses on ethical fashion, using organic cotton and handwoven ikat fabrics that stand out. E
ach piece is made by artisans in India who earn fair wages and work in safe conditions, helping to keep traditional craftsmanship alive. What’s great is that Passion Lilie uses eco-friendly practices, like non-toxic dyes, to reduce their environmental impact.
With a variety of designs and accessories, they make it easy for us to choose fashion that not only looks good but also aligns with our commitment to being responsible consumers.
9. Known Supply
For: Women, Men & Kids
Categories: Basics, Everyday Clothing, Jumpsuits
Price: $14-158
Size Range: XS-4XL
Known Supply is all about making sustainable fashion accessible for everyone. They focus on treating people right in the fashion industry, ensuring that every piece is crafted from organic cotton and made using fair trade practices.
What’s really cool is that the name of the person who made your garment is stitched right into the label – it’s a nice way to connect you directly to the maker!
Known Supply keeps their prices reasonable while still prioritizing fair wages and safe working environments. Their collection features timeless basics for men, women & children that are made to last, so you can wear them with pride.
10. Everlane
For: Women & Men
Categories: Everyday Clothing, Denim, Outerwear, Shoes & Accessories
Price: $17-328
Size Range: XXS-3XL
Everlane stands out as an affordable leader in sustainable fashion, recognized for its commitment to transparency and ethical practices. The brand openly shares the true cost of each item, detailing expenses for materials, labor, and transportation. By collaborating with factories that guarantee fair wages and safe working conditions, Everlane provides insights into its operations.
Sustainability is at the forefront, with collections crafted from organic cotton, Tencel, and recycled materials, including their “ReNew” line made from plastic bottles. By emphasizing timeless, high-quality basics, Everlane promotes a “buy less, buy better” philosophy, making sustainable fashion both stylish and accessible without sacrificing values.
11. Happy Earth
For: Women & Men
Categories: Basics & Accessories
Price: $19-138
Size Range: XS-XXL
Happy Earth is more than just an affordable sustainable clothing brand. It’s a movement centered on preserving our planet for future generations. When you buy any of their products, a portion of the proceeds goes towards initiatives that directly contribute to positive environmental impact.
Whether it’s fighting climate change, reforestation efforts, or cleaning up litter, you have the power to decide where your contribution goes. Join Happy Earth in their mission to make a real and measurable difference for our world!
12. tentree
For: Men, Women & Kids
Categories: Basics, Activewear, Loungewear, Accessories, Outerwear
Price: $23-328
Size Range: XXS-XXL
Tentree has made remarkable strides in environmental conservation, having planted over 43 million trees to date. Staying true to their name, the company commits to planting ten trees for every purchase made by customers.
Their commitment to the environment is deeply woven into their “earth-first” philosophy, which guides the creation of their apparel and accessories. Each item is crafted with care using eco-conscious materials such as organic cotton, TENCEL, and hemp. These fabrics are not only sustainable but also designed to provide comfort and durability.
Beyond just clothing, tentree goes a step further by offering an innovative option for consumers to purchase carbon offsets directly from their website. This initiative empowers customers to take proactive steps in reducing their personal carbon footprint.
13. Boody
For: Men, Women & Babies
Categories: Basics, Activewear & Pajamas
Price: $17-85
Size Range: XS-4XL
We don’t typically feature bamboo fabric on the blog due to the chemically intensive process often used to produce it.
However, some brands – like Boody – take a more responsible approach, using closed-loop systems and zero-waste initiatives that align more with our values.
While the concerns around bamboo are valid, we have to admit: it feels incredibly soft and comfortable to wear. The key is choosing brands that do it right. Boody is a great example of how bamboo can be both cozy and more sustainably made, and we think you’ll love it too!
14. Soul Flower
For: Men, Women & Kids
Categories: Yoga, Loungewear, Basics, Everyday Clothing
Price: $10-65
Size Range: S-XXXL
Soul Flower is all about blending affordability with eco-friendly designs, proving that sustainable fashion doesn’t have to break the bank. A lot of their clothing is crafted from GOTS-certified organic cotton, hemp, or upcycled materials, which really helps cut down on the need for new and energy-consuming production.
They take extra steps by using low-impact dyes and supporting fair trade practices, which is a big plus. By focusing on small-batch printing and minimizing packaging waste, Soul Flower not only ensures high-quality products but also stays true to its eco-friendly mission. This makes it easier for environmentally-conscious shoppers to find fun and sustainable options that fit their budget.
15. Conscious Step
For: Men, Women & Children
Categories: Socks, Basics
Price: $16-90
Size Range: XXS-XXL
Conscious Step makes it simple to fill your sock drawer with fun & affordable options that also do good in the world! Each pair is made from organic cotton and recycled materials in Fair Trade Certified factories, so you can feel great knowing that the people who make them are treated fairly. Their socks are not only colorful and comfortable but are also built to last.
What really sets Conscious Step apart is their commitment to making a difference: every pair you buy supports nonprofits that focus on important issues like climate change, education, and social justice.
16. Dickies
For: Men, Women, Kids
Categories: Workwear, Basics, Everyday Clothing, Scrubs
Price: $18-100
Size Range: XXS-3XL
Dickies has been a trusted name in workwear for a long time, and lately, it’s become a go-to for affordable sustainable clothing.
Even though they do have more room to improve, we love how their clothing is built to last so you won’t need to replace them often. Many items are made from natural fibers like cotton (we are so over polyester), ensuring they’re breathable and comfy for everyday wear.
With a focus on timeless styles and solid construction, Dickies makes it easy to shop wisely without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for reliable clothing that balances cost, quality, and sustainability, Dickies is definitely worth considering.
17. Finn + Emma
For: Children
Categories: Graphics, Everyday Clothes, Toys
Price: $7-38
Finn + Emma is a kids’ sustainable clothing brand and we love what they stand for! Their clothing is made from 100% organic cotton and they only use eco-friendly dye so kids can be comfy without all the harmful chemicals. It’s really refreshing to see a childrenswear brand that cares about where their materials come from and how they impact the environment.
What’s even better is that they support fair trade manfacturing by working with artisans to create their clothes & toys in an ethical way. Their styles range from cozy basics to fun graphics that kids (& parents) will love. Finn + Emma is a wonderful choice for parents looking for safe, cute, and sustainable options for their children’s wardrobe!
18. Baggu
For: Women & Men
Categories: Handbags, Socks, Travel
Price: $12-190
Baggu has really nailed it when it comes to making everyday bags not just functional but also fun! Their reusable totes and pouches are made to last, and I love that they’ve switched to using 100% recycled nylon for their popular shoppers. Plus, their cotton canvas bags have recycled fibers in them, which is such a cool way to give old materials a new life.
If you are into dopamine dressing or whimsical fashion, you will love some of their quircky designs. They also have modern prints and classic shapes great for everyday use- whether you’re out running errands, heading to the beach, or just wanting a smarter, greener option.
19. Lezat
For: Women
Categories: Everyday Clothing, Dresses, Activewear, Loungewear
Price: $10-128
Sizes: XXS-3XL
Lezat is one of our favorite more affordable alternatives to Lululemon. Their activewear and loungewear are made in Los Angeles with organic cotton and bio-based elastane, so you don’t have to worry about the toxic chemicals often found in workout gear.
We love that they keep their styles simple, timeless, and super wearable with soft leggings, comfy sets, and easy layers you’ll actually live in. Plus, everything is ethically produced and designed to last, giving you a sustainable upgrade without the luxury price tag. Lezat proves performance wear can feel good for both you and the planet.
20. Little Co.
For: Children
Categories: Everyday Clothing, Knitwear
Price: $6-40
If you’re looking for cute yet budget-friendly clothes for kids, Little Co. by Lauren Conrad is a wonderful choice! Their designs are so adorable, with fun prints and comfy fabrics that make getting dressed easy. Plus, the mix-and-match pieces mean more versatility and ease in the mornings.
We really appreciate that they focus on using organic cotton…it’s gentle on little ones’ skin and better for the environment. It’s the perfect combo of cute and eco-conscious! While it’s not (yet) pegged as fully sustainable, it’s a refreshing choice when many cute kids’ brands come with steep price tags (and synthetic fabrics). Little Co. lets you dress your little ones in pieces you love, without compromising your budget or values.
21. Cottonique
For: Men & Women
Categories: Underwear, Socks, Basics
Price: $20-95
Size Range: S-XL
Cottonique is a gem for anyone whose skin feels everything…think underwear, loungewear, and basics engineered for sensitivity and comfort. What makes them stand out? Every item is made with 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, with no latex, spandex, synthetic dyes, or harsh chemicals. Their process bans bleaching, resins, and irritants, so the garments are hypoallergenic & gentle even on reactive skin.
Cottonique show that purity in fabric doesn’t have to look sterile with their silhouettes that remain soft, simple, and totally wearable. It’s a quiet, thoughtful brand for those who want comfort, sustainability, and real care for your body.
22. Organic Basics
For: Men & Women
Categories: Activewear, Loungewear, Basics, Underwear
Price: $16-60
Size Range: XXS-XXL
Organic Basics is clean, essential, and thoughtfully made! Their pieces focus on lower-impact fabrics like GOTS-certified cotton, recycled nylon, and TENCEL™, with every material choice grounded in transparency and care.
Based in Copenhagen, the brand works with vetted factories and publishes impact data so you can see how your basics measure up. From underwear and socks to activewear and base layers, their wear-everywhere staples feel soft & versatile. Definitely one of our favorites for many years!
23. SeamsFriendly
For: Men, Women & Children
Categories: Customizable Everyday Clothing
Price: $30-110
Based in India, SeamsFriendly is dedicated to creating slow, ethical, and size-inclusive affordable sustainable clothing for the entire family. With a focus on natural, handwoven, and organic fabrics like cotton, hemp, and linen, SeamsFriendly ensures that each garment is not only beautiful but also gentle on the planet. Their commitment to sustainability shines through in the use of azo-free dyes and minimal waste production practices.
Every item is made-to-order, meaning no excess fabric goes to waste and you can customize your fit perfectly. Embracing body diversity, they offer an impressive range of sizes from 3XS to 7XL, celebrating all shapes and styles.
Crafted by skilled artisans in safe and fair working conditions, each piece is truly handcrafted with love. With transparent pricing and thoughtful designs, SeamsFriendly makes sustainable fashion accessible and personal for conscious shoppers around the globe.
24. Q for Quinn
For: Men, Women & Children
Categories: Basics – Underwear & Socks
Price: $11-54
Q for Quinn isn’t just about basics, it’s about reimagining your everyday wardrobe with pieces that are gentle on both your skin & the planet. This small, family-owned brand centers its line on organic, GOTS-certified, and lower-impact materials, meaning garments are free from toxic dyes and “forever chemicals,” and manufactured with transparency in mind.
What makes Q for Quinn truly sustainable is its commitment to qualit underwear and socks designed to last
25. Laura Elizabeth Jewelry
Categories: Everyday Jewelry
Price: $40-275
Laura Elizabeth Jewelry is a go-to for affordable, thoughtfully made jewelry. The brand focuses on small-batch production using recycled brass and recycled sterling silver, helping reduce the demand for virgin materials. Each piece is made with care, free from nickel, lead, and cadmium, making them comfortable for everyday wear & built to last.
What we love most is how versatile Laura Elizabeth’s designs are, with their timeless hoops, delicate rings, & minimalist necklaces that layer easily with what you already own. With many pieces priced under $100, this is sustainable jewelry that doesn’t feel out of reach.
Why You Can Trust Sustainably Chic’s Recommendations
I’ve spent over 10 years diving deep into the world of affordable sustainable fashion; testing brands, reading the fine print, and sorting through all the marketing fluff to see what really holds up.
This isn’t just another list you’ll scroll past. I only recommend brands that actually walk the walk with better materials, mindful production, and prices that we can work with.
Here’s what I look for when I’m hunting down affordable, ethical clothing brands:
- Are the fabrics actually good for you and the planet, or just another synthetic?
- Do they share the details on where and how their clothes are made, or is it all smoke and mirrors?
- Can you (and your wallet) actually swing the price tag, especially for sustainable brands under $100?
- Are these pieces you’ll actually want to wear on repeat, or will they end up collecting dust?
And let’s be real: nobody shops perfectly sustainable 24/7 (myself included!). That’s why I always shout out budget-friendly options, and why my first tip is always to check your own closet or shop secondhand.
About the Author
Natalie Kay Costello is the founder of Sustainably Chic and has been writing about sustainable fashion for over a decade. Her work focuses on ethical brands, natural fabrics, and helping consumers navigate greenwashing in the fashion industry.
Natalie –
Thanks for putting this list together 🙂
I’ve recently been buying a lot of clothes from Pact recently. I really like the quality of their clothes on top of all the sustainable things that they are doing.
What brands do you typically buy from?
By the way, I actually wrote a similar post on why sustainable fashion is important over at Honest Lifestyle (http://honestlifestyle.co/sustainable-fashion). Would love to know what you think.
Anyway, I was just thinking to leave a note to see what you think.
Thanks again Natalie!
Hi Alex,
Thanks for reading! I’m kind of in a ‘no buy’ period because I have a lot of what I need, but I did just purchase some bras and undies from Pact! I LOVE their undergarments. I just wish it didn’t come in plastic. I do have a little of something from almost every brand in this post, thu.
Love how you broke things down in your blog post, by the way!
Would help if links were available while reading.
hi melissa,
this is the first I am hearing of this issue.
you should be able to click all the photos and the actual name of the brand – you will be redirected immediately.
sorry for the confusion!
Hi Natalie! I love you blog I have been learning a lot from it recently! I noticed that you did not mention any swimwear brand on this post so I thought it would be nice to mention on the comment session Confidence Swimwear – Its a sustainable, ethically made and size inclusive swimwear brand that offers pretty affordable prices (70 usd for one piece, 85 usd for bikini set)
I’m plus size and concerned about sustainability and ethical fashion and I find difficult to find brands (specially for swimwear) that include bigger sizes so I thought it could be worth the mention for the other plus size gals out there.
Thank you again for your amazing content!
Hi Leticia!
We have a post perfect for size inclusive swimwear here:
https://www.sustainably-chic.com/blog/sustainable-size-inclusive-swimwear
Thank you for the comment <3
Thanks for sharing a good blog about Sustainable clothing. ! Eco-Friendly clothing market trend is growing day by day. Lots of brands are working hard in this industry.
I appreciate you for sharing good content and an interesting blog. I am interested in the fashion industry and want to know about the latest fashion trends.
Although these are sustainable they are not afforable. all the low range prices are based off prices of socks vs clothing like pants and shirts. for example pacts cheapest pants are 88 dollars. fast fashion brands are selling pants for 10 this is a huge gap. How can everyone make the switch with this kind of gap? As someone who is low-income and disabled. I can’t afford 88 dollar pants nor do most places have my size. thrifting for me is exhausting. I wish there was a better solution. I appreciate this article but there has to be a more affordable option from these types of companies. I don’t want to have to choose between groceries or a pair of pants.
We definitely understand your concern. A handful of the brands start with sock prices because it’s a big part of their business, but a lot of the lower prices are like tops that have gone on sale. We have a men’s post that lists the cost of shirts and pants, so we can do that for this one in the future. We don’t expect everyone to be able to make the switch, but these brands could only lower their prices by losing their sustainable status. Makers would be paid less, and fabrics wouldn’t be as conscious, etc. Our primary concern is the people who are over-consuming fast fashion brands who can easily purchase from one of these. If you are in need of pants and this is out of your budget, then the most sustainable thing for you is to go to a different brand and buy those pair of pants and take care of them. Shein and others are only popular because of overconsumption, not because low-income people support them. Also, if you don’t want to go that route, I suggest signing up for their newsletters and getting coupon codes – sometimes you can find a really good deal! Don’t ever feel like you have to choose between groceries or a pair of pants off this list. Get the pants you can afford and wear the hell out of them. How we use and treat our closet is a part of sustainability, too.
Nice and lovely clothing i seen ever. I really love it. It is also an informational blog from my side. Thanks for giving us that blog
Good list. Appreciate the diversity. I’ve never been someone who buys clothes all the time. Definitely worn a hole in hole in a number of jeans. I like the idea of buying good quality that will last a long time, the hard part is picking something that will be in my closet for years!
WeAreThought womens sizes start at 6, but their men’s sizes start at XS. Not sure why they’re not inclusive of smaller women.
Thought is an English brand so their size ‘6’ is like our size 0-2 or XS.
Thanks for putting together this blog. While sustainability is a more universal concept, I wonder what people think about affordability as it probably means different things depending on individual income. Perhaps it’s something to explore. I shared some ideas about essential clothing and affordability here:
https://trudourbani.com/how-to-feel-confident-shopping-clothing-essentials-for-men/
I’d appreciate your feedback.
Cheers,
-D
affordability is definitely subjective! that’s why I say the ‘most’ affordable the sustainable fashion industry has to offer 🙂 you can’t find lower prices than this list because then brands would have to cut corners and not pay people properly. luckily, there are other ways to participate in sustainable fashion – like loving what you have & shopping secondhand!
Thank you for making fashion accessible to everyone without compromising on style!
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Thanks for sharing all these brands. I also recently became aware of this Canadian brand (Art Vertu: https://artvertu.ca). Very good quality products, which combine art and environmental protection. I strongly advise you to check out their website!
Great list, would also love to see more sustainable streetwear brands. I personally like Arte or Broken Planet and I also recently came across Infinityfx.
I just recently got into fashion and learning about my style and sadly ended up frequently buying items from all the stores on the unsustainable list so now they are a majority of my wardrobe. I have more of an edgy, goth aesthetic and was wondering if you have any suggestions for sustainable alternative clothing shops?
Hi Jenni! In the past, I have found these goth brands to be more sustainable:
Foxblood
trued apparel
the last kult
psylo
jawbreaker
Samara wear
Hope you find something there 🖤
The issue I often have is that I need to try things on in order to know if they fit. Since all these brands are online only, I end up ordering 3 or 4 sizes and then returning, which isn’t a good sustainability practice because of shipping. I get that keeping these online only reduces overhead, etc., but when I have to try on 7 pairs of pants in each of 3 different stores in order to find what fits, ordering online is a triple challenge!
Yeah, I totally understand! That is the downfall of shopping online 🙁 Wish more of these brands were in physical stores.