Eco-Friendly Alternatives to the classic Crocs

Love them or hate them, Crocs have certainly made a significant impact on the shoe industry. Whether it's healthcare professionals relying on their comfort during long shifts or kids enjoying them on the playground, Crocs have become ubiquitous. While their popularity has ebbed and flowed over the years, today is National Crocs Day, providing an opportunity to discuss the innovative initiatives the brand is undertaking. Plus, we will explore alternative footwear options that are even more environmentally friendly for those seeking sustainable choices.

The Sustainable Evolution of Crocs

Unfortunately, because Crocs are made of a synthetic material, we can’t really call them sustainable. Additionally, there is a lack of transparency regarding the entire production process and the people involved in making the shoes. However, over the past few years, Crocs has been dedicated to making significant advancements in the realm of sustainability. One of their key initiatives has been the development and utilization of Croslite™, a proprietary foam material that offers exceptional durability while requiring significantly less energy for production compared to conventional shoe materials. Furthermore, this innovative foam is fully recyclable, making it easier for customers to responsibly dispose of their beloved Crocs.

They are proud to be at the forefront of incorporating bio-based, bio-circular content into their Croslite™ compounds, effectively repurposing plant-based waste to create shoes that deliver the same level of comfort that Crocs are renowned for. All the bio-based material they use is certified as bio-circular by ISCC PLUS. As of September 2024, they have successfully integrated 25% bio-circular content within their Croslite™ compounds, and are committed to reaching 50% bio-circular content by 2030. The majority of their shoes are crafted using Croslite™ compounds, accounting for nearly 80% of all raw materials purchased and produced.

Furthermore, Crocs has been actively involved in promoting a circular economy by implementing various measures to encourage customers to participate in the brand's "Crocs Cares" program. This innovative initiative not only aims to reduce the environmental impact of discarded footwear but also emphasizes the importance of recycling and repurposing. Customers are encouraged to return their worn-out Crocs, which are then meticulously recycled and transformed into new products, effectively minimizing waste and making significant contributions to fostering a more sustainable future.

Sustainable practices in the fashion industry

As the fashion industry continues to confront its environmental impact, the importance of sustainability has increasingly become a significant consideration for both brands and consumers. The industry's heavy reliance on resource-intensive production processes, the prevalent use of non-biodegradable materials, and the management of waste have all come under close scrutiny in recent years. In response to these mounting concerns, numerous fashion brands have taken proactive steps to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. This shift towards sustainability aims to lessen their carbon footprint and champion eco-friendly initiatives.

Consumers are demonstrating an increasing awareness of the environmental repercussions of their purchasing decisions and are actively seeking out brands that align with their values. The sustainable evolution of Crocs serves as an exemplary showcase of the brand's unwavering commitment to addressing the industry-wide challenges. Through the incorporation of more eco-friendly materials, Crocs is demonstrating that mainstream fashion and sustainability can harmoniously coexist. But there is still a long road ahead, and we hope to see their materials evolve.

Our Top Picks for Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Crocs:

1. Keep It Going Recycled Classic Clog by Crocs

Price: $50

Let’s start off the alternatives with a pair of Crocs! Introducing the limited-edition Keep It Going Clog crafted using recycled shoes collected through their ‘Old Crocs. New Life.’ program. This clog features a unique grind effect created from a variety of old Crocs, making each pair one-of-a-kind. The clog incorporates at least 25% post-consumer recycled content, with the remaining 75% constructed from their proprietary Croslite™ material. The bio-circular Croslite is derived from repurposed bio-based waste from other industries, such as cooking oil, further enhancing the shoe's eco-friendly profile. The design also features a unique rivet logo showcasing Duke with arrows, symbolizing the continuous cycle of sustainability. With its water-friendly, lightweight, and quick-drying properties, this clog delivers the iconic comfort and versatility that Crocs are known for.

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2. Rodeo Drive by Ales Grey

Price: $88

The Rodeo Drive clog by Ales Grey is a meticulously crafted shoe made in Italy. These clogs boast a range of impressive features, including UV+ water resistance and washability, an antibacterial closed-cell structure, and construction using XL EXTRALIGHT® Sustainable+ material made from 51% pre-consumer recycled materials that are GRS Global Recycled Standard certified. What's more, the manufacturing process involves zero water waste and utilizes recycled packaging. Plus, for every order placed, a tree will be planted to offset the carbon emissions generated by the package shipment, thanks to their partnership with EcoDrive. At Ales Grey, they take pride in their innovative approach, which combines advanced engineering, injection molding technology, and sustainably certified bio-based materials. Their focus extends beyond just making shoes; they are dedicated to creating footwear designed for frontline workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals prioritizing foot health recovery!

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3. Revive Shoe by KANE Footwear

Price: $80

KANE Footwear is a Certified B Corp brand that is dedicated to creating a positive impact through their sustainably designed products. Their shoe, the Kane Revive, is specifically crafted for active recovery, featuring a transformative design and innovative materials. It is washable, quick-drying, and ultra-durable, making it the perfect choice for those who lead an active lifestyle. As a special bonus, each purchase of the Kane Revive shoe includes a Kane carabiner, allowing you to easily attach your Kane product to backpacks, storage hooks, and similar items. This shoe is made in Brazil from sugarcane-based EVA foam, which not only provides exceptional performance but also helps reduce greenhouse gases by capturing CO2 as the sugarcane grows. This renewable resource not only supports sustainability efforts but also provides the ideal balance of cushioning and support to help the body renew.

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4. Jefferson Clog by Native

Price: $55

The new Jefferson clog-style silhouette from Native is designed with both style and sustainability in mind. Crafted from Sugarlite™, a sugarcane-based EVA material, these shoes are not only cute but also more eco-friendly, emitting fewer greenhouse gases compared to traditional EVA production. The material is easy to clean, provides excellent shock absorption, and is resistant to odors. With a heel-less design, slipping them on is effortless. Native has built a reputation for creating versatile, water-friendly footwear suitable for everyday wear. Plus, once you're ready to part ways with a pair, you can send them back to Native to contribute to their Remix Project, where the materials are repurposed for playgrounds!

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5. Billie Clogs by Merry People

Price: $100

Whether you're pottering around the home or tending to your garden, the Billie Clog offers you a comfortable slip-on option. The sole design provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces, and the neoprene lining ensures each step is cushioned with comfort. Made with quality natural rubber, the Billie Clog also features arch support and is 100% vegan.

While Merry People isn’t the most sustainable brand, they are committed to becoming more eco-friendly in the future. Although they currently use virgin (new) rubber for many of their styles, they are actively testing 100% recycled rubber. Their new styles, Tully and Fergie, utilize FSC certified natural rubber in the uppers and 20% recycled rubber in the outsoles.

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SUSTAINABLE BLAZERS FOR WOMEN AND MEN

A good-quality blazer is one of the most important staple pieces in anyone’s wardrobe. It is THE item of clothing we put on whenever we want to look more elegant and put together. 

Whether you are a woman or a man, you can wear blazers pretty much everywhere. They are perfect to wear at work or for an interview, for attending a party, and for going out to a restaurant or on a date. 

But blazers are also a must-have piece if you like wearing nice, chic clothes on an everyday basis. You can have a more casual look with a blazer if you pair it with a pair of jeans or regular pants, and a t-shirt underneath. 

However, most blazers we can find are produced by fast fashion brands in a very unethical way. They are also usually made from unsustainable fabrics, like polyester or conventional cotton. Not to mention how bad their quality is! 

Poorly made blazers are not made to last and they wear out fairly quickly, which is extremely wasteful. They also usually look very cheap and this is definitely not what we want when wearing a blazer. A good-quality, eco-friendly blazer is truly worth the investment, and you will never regret buying one! 

We have found 10 blazers that are designed to last and made in a sustainable and ethical way, and we have compiled them in this article. You will find 8 options for women and two for men, so everyone can upgrade their look whenever they want! 

WHAT MAKES A BLAZER SUSTAINABLE?

A sustainable blazer is one produced using eco-friendly fabrics and dyed with non-toxic, azo-free dyes. It should also be produced under ethical conditions: garment workers should be paid a fair living wage and work in a healthy, safe, and non-discriminatory environment. 

Another important factor is that the blazer needs to be well made to stand the test of time. You should be able to wear it countless times and wash it over and over again, without it wearing down quickly. 

Finally, if the brand is a certified B Corporation or climate-neutral, it will usually sell products that are made with people and the environment in mind. 

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY FABRICS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

To be sustainable, a blazer can be made from a variety of eco-friendly fabrics. Most are crafted from linen, organic cotton, Tencel lyocell, or hemp. 

There are also great, sustainable options made using recycled or upcycled fabrics such as recycled polyester, recycled wool, recycled cotton, or reclaimed fabrics. 

If you can find them, make sure to choose Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified fabrics so that you know they are free of harmful chemicals and substances. 

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OUR TOP PICKS FOR SUSTAINABLE BLAZERS FOR BOTH WOMEN AND MEN

10 eco-friendly blazers for women:

1. Alix Boyfriend Blazer

❤︎❤︎

Brand: Amour Vert 

Price: $350

Sizes: XS to XL

Introducing the Alix Boyfriend Blazer, a modern interpretation of classic tailoring. This blazer features a relaxed fit, peak lapels, and padded shoulders for a casual yet polished look. It is single-breasted with urea buttons and comes with convenient patch pockets. Crafted from a blend of 52% polyester, 45% RWS-certified wool, and 3% Spandex, this blazer is lined with 100% recycled polyester.

In terms of sustainability, the blazer is made from materials certified by the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), recycled polyester, and other controlled sources. The RWS certification ensures the welfare of sheep and the sustainable management of grazing lands. Additionally, the use of recycled polyester aligns with the brand's commitment to reducing environmental impact by repurposing materials that would otherwise contribute to nonbiodegradable waste.

The brand partners directly with mills to source its fabrics to make sure its whole supply chain remains traceable. It also creates its clothing in limited quantities to avoid unnecessary waste and ensure the highest production standards. Plus, Amour Vert ships its products in packaging made from compostable and recycled materials and printed with soy-based inks. 

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2. Parker Blazer in Red

❤︎❤︎

Brand: Whimsy & Row

Price: $288

Sizes: XS to XL

Discover the Parker Blazer, a luxurious addition to your wardrobe! This blazer boasts an oversized silhouette and is crafted from exclusive dead stock fabric, ensuring a look of sophistication and exclusivity. Elevate your style with this unique piece that is designed to be a versatile staple for seasonal transitions. The Parker blazer features a slightly oversized fit, elegant shoulder pads, a classic lapel collar, two button closures, and functional pockets. Crafted from 100% upcycled deadstock polyester, this blazer is not only stylish but also sustainable.

Whimsy + Row is a great brand to support as it produces all its pieces in small batches and within a few miles of its headquarters in Los Angeles. It means that the production process is less wasteful, and fewer carbon emissions are generated because the clothes do not travel far between the factory and the brand’s office.  

The company also only uses locally sourced, upcycled, and low-impact materials, and its clothing is made to stand the test of time. 

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3. Amira Blazer

❤︎❤︎❤︎

Brand: Transcend

Price: $295

Sizes: XS - 2X

The Amira blazer is meticulously crafted from organic cotton fabric using the traditional Ikat weaving technique, resulting in beautifully symmetrical patterns in a stunning coral hue.

The blazer features elegantly padded shoulders for a strong silhouette and offers a relaxed fit, making it exceptionally lightweight and comfortable to wear.

In terms of sustainability, the blazers are made from environmentally friendly, plastic-free cotton fabric that is fully biodegradable at the end of its life cycle. The fabric is hand-woven by skilled artisans without the use of machinery, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with fabric production. Plus, the blazers are ethically produced by female artisans in Rajasthan, India, who benefit from flexible work schedules, comprehensive medical care, and fair wages.

The founder and designer, Nazia Siddiqui, is committed to making high-quality embroidery and prints accessible to women through the creation of timeless silhouettes. Each piece is meticulously designed to withstand the test of time, with a strong emphasis on intricate details and enduring style.

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4. The Sophia Blazer

❤︎❤︎❤︎

Brand: Bastet Noir

Price: $249

Sizes: 4-10 & Custom

The Sophia Blazer is a meticulously crafted, regular fit, double-breasted blazer made from a high-quality cotton blend. This stylish reinvention of a classic design features a fully lined interior, flap pockets, inverted detailing, and a faux chest pocket with an intricately sewn-in handkerchief detail. The blazer is finished with shoulder padding, giving it a polished and structured look.

This sustainable blazer is tailor-made and created on demand, with each piece taking 8 hours to meticulously craft. The fitted silhouette, wide lapels, and two front pockets add to its sophisticated appeal, while the shoulder pads provide a defined and elegant silhouette. The ruffle handkerchief details and fully lined interior add a touch of charm to this timeless piece. Each piece from Bastet Noir is custom made with care and attention by a cooperative of single mothers in Macedonia.

This sustainable brand specializes in creating made-to-order clothing, ensuring that each piece fits its clients perfectly. What's particularly admirable is that the brand is transparent about the time and detailed costs involved in the production process, allowing customers to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each garment.

Bastet Noir's commitment to sustainability extends to the production process, as its clothing is skillfully crafted in Macedonia by a community of single mothers. The brand uses its profits to reinvest in these women, supporting them in growing their businesses and funding their children's education.

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5. James Relaxed Blazer

❤︎❤︎

Brand: Reformation

Price: $298

Sizes: XXS - XL

This blazer has a relaxed fit and is made with a deadstock fabric consisting of 78% polyester, 18% rayon, and 4% spandex. It is available in 4 different fabrics and colors.

Reformation originally sold vintage clothing in a small Los Angeles store. It has since expanded to create clothing, wedding dresses, and shoes for women. Reformation is climate-neutral certified and is a member of Textile Exchange, the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, and the Fair Labor Association.

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6. Black Crepe Enso Jacket

❤︎❤︎

Brand: Bianca Spender

Price: $524

Sizes: 2 - 14

Introducing the Enso Jacket, a modern take on a timeless Bianca Spender design that effortlessly transitions from day to night. This chic and fitted jacket features a flattering silhouette with a waist-nipping design and a flared hem, allowing for both style and movement. The Enso Jacket boasts full-length sleeves, a lapel collar, and a unique double asymmetrical button design, falling gracefully to the hip.

What sets Bianca Spender apart is their commitment to responsible business practices. Not only do they prioritize people and the planet, but they also strive to be Carbon Neutral, celebrate Australian Made products, ensure fair wages for their workers, and utilize dead-stock fabric in over 50% of their collection.

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7. She's Everything Blazer

❤︎❤︎

Brand: Reistor

Price: $107

Sizes: XS to 3XL

Sustainable fashion brand Reistor sells a classic blazer with pockets, the She’s Everything blazer, which has a timeless style and a flattering look.

Whether you wear it for a casual lunch or at work, you will always look good and put together! The white version is available in sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, but you can also get the same blazer in black in sizes up to 5XL. 

Reistor makes its She’s Everything blazer from hemp, an eco-friendly fabric that is inherently antimicrobial and breathable and that has very durable fibers. The blazer has two biodegradable wooden buttons that add a nice detail to the piece. 

The brand also uses cotton threads to make its trims and stays away from polyester, elastane, and other non-biodegradable materials. Plus, the blazer is dyed with Oeko-Tex certified and Bluesign-approved dyes, meaning that they are free of harmful chemicals and substances. The dyes also use significantly less water and energy during the dying process compared to conventional dyes. 

Finally, Reistor offsets the carbon emissions generated by the production and shipping processes and sends its clothes in reusable garment bags or compostable packaging! 

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8. Short Belted Woven Day Blazer

❤︎❤︎

Brand: Agaati

Price: $280

Sizes: XS to L

The short belted woven day blazer crafted by Agaati is designed to make you feel luxurious and stylish all while being comfortable. It has elbow-length sleeves and is shorter than most blazers mentioned in this article. Crafted in a lovely red color, Agaati’s blazer has a hidden button and a fabric belt that you can tie in a beautiful bow, making your outfit even more chic and feminine.  

The blazer is hand weaved by skilled artisans using Matka silk, a type of peace silk that looks like tweed and is made from thick yarns spun out of pierced cocoons from Mulberry silkworms. The fabric is matte but has a subtle luster in the light, and it is biodegradable and breathable. 

Agaati’s blazer is dyed using azo-free dyes, meaning that they are healthier for you and better for the environment. 

Striving for zero waste in its production process, the brand regularly uses left-over pieces of garment and deadstock fabrics given by bigger fashion companies to minimize its impact. 

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2 eco-friendly blazers for men:

1. Kinetic Blazer

❤︎

Brand: Ministry of Supply

Price: $350

Sizes: XS to XXXL

With its tailored fit, Ministry of Supply’s Kinetic blazer is a must-have item in any man’s wardrobe.

It is designed in five neutral colors, including different shades of blue, gray, and black. 

The blazer’s warp-knit fabric is incredibly stretchy, making it very comfortable to move in it.

It is made from the brand’s signature fabric, Primeflex warp-knit Japanese polyester, which is 15% corn-based.

Produced using innovative manufacturing techniques, the fabric is breathable and coated with a PFOA-free durable water repellent, and it has great moisture-wicking properties. It is also naturally wrinkle resistant as it uses your body heat to release and relax wrinkles, all within 15 minutes! How practical is that?!  

To make its clothes, Ministry of Supply works with fabric mills that received the Bluesign or Oeko-Tex certifications, and it dyes them using an energy-saving, waterless dyeing process. 

The brand is also climate neutral certified, and it uses advanced computerized techniques to create its clothing, resulting in almost no textile waste! 

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2. Inlet Herringbone Blazer

❤︎

Brand: Faherty

Price: $278

Sizes: XXS to XXL

The Inlet is a versatile garment that combines the comfort of a sweater with the style of a cardigan and the sophistication of a blazer. It is meticulously crafted from a luxurious and textured cotton blend, giving it a soft and elegant feel. The unlined tailored construction allows for a classic fit that can be dressed up for the office or casually thrown over jeans for weekend outings. The blazer construction features exterior welt pockets and a chest welt pocket, adding both functionality and style. Made from a blend of 60% organic cotton and 40% recycled polyester, the garment is not only stylish but also eco-friendly. The addition of horn dome buttons adds a touch of sophistication to the overall design.

We love that the brand is a member of 1% For The Planet and a corporate sponsor of the Surfrider Foundation. It is also a member of the Textile Exchange and Bluesign to make sure it chooses partners that use sustainable fabrics, non-toxic dyes, and traceable materials.

Plus, Faherty regularly partners with Native artists, and every month, it supports A Second U, an organization that helps place incarcerated people in the personal training industry. 

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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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Tips for Thrifting

Thrifting is one of the most sustainable ways to shop for clothes. It gives unwanted garments a new life and prevents us from buying new pieces, which saves natural resources and reduces our environmental footprint. 

However, thrifting, and especially finding good-quality pieces, can be challenging when we are not used to it. Sorting through racks of clothes of various styles and sizes is time-consuming, and we often need to do a lot of digging to find things that we love and that fit well.

We can also easily fall into the trap of overconsumption and end up with a ton of clothes we won’t wear. 

To avoid that, here are five simple tips that will make your next trip to the thrift store easier and more successful! 

Why Should You Thrift?

In the last 20 years, there has been a significant increase in clothing consumption, with humans now consuming 400% more clothing than before. This surge in consumption has led to the average American generating 82 pounds of textile waste each year. Despite buying more clothes than ever, people are wearing them less frequently. This trend can be attributed to the rapid expansion of the fast fashion industry over the past two decades.

There is more clothing than ever and according to the British Fashion Council, the current volume of clothing is enough to dress six generations of people! However, this abundance has resulted in a concerning disposal issue, with a substantial amount of donated clothing ending up in landfills. This has led to significant environmental and health problems for both individuals and ecosystems.

By avoiding purchasing something ‘new’, we can help combat these issues!

1. Shop with a list

Before going thrifting, make a list of the things you need and want to buy at the thrift store. Spend a few minutes looking at your wardrobe and identify missing pieces. 

Try to be as specific as possible when writing everything down. What pieces would you like to get exactly? What styles? What colors? What fabrics? 

Going to the thrift store with a list will make it easier for you to remember what you went there for and will prevent you from buying things you don’t need. 

2. Visit your thrift store on specific days

Thrift stores typically have specific days when they are restocking. So the key to a successful thrift shopping trip is to visit them on those days. 

It will usually be before or after the weekend, but it’s worth asking to be sure! 

You’ll also be more likely to find great items if you go there in the morning. 

3. Know where to look

Going through every single piece of clothing in a thrift store can be exhausting. If you are short on time or simply want to make things easier, first check the ends of the aisles. 

Employees will often put “new” items there, so that’s where you should find more interesting pieces. 

Also, have a look at the rolling racks. You’ll find things people have tried on but didn’t end up buying or pieces that haven’t been put out yet. You might find treasures on these! 

If you like clothes with an oversized fit, don’t forget to go to the men’s section as well. 

4. If you don’t absolutely love it, don’t buy it

If you don’t like something 100% or are unsure about the style or the fit, don’t buy it. You don’t want to get items that will end up sitting in your closet, unused. 

So try things on and only buy what fits your current body. Think about different ways you can style them with pieces you already have in your wardrobe. 

Make sure to also thoroughly inspect the clothes before buying them. Check that they’re not damaged and that they’re not pilly or stained. 

5. Don’t be afraid of DIYs

If you find pieces that you absolutely love but for some reason, they’re not perfect or something is bothering you, consider DIYing them. 

You can easily turn jeans into shorts, hem bottoms, crop a t-shirt, and replace or add buttons on jackets and shirts. If you don’t know how to do it, watch several tutorials on YouTube or ask a loved one who’s good at sewing. For some pieces, taking that extra step might be worth it! 

But be realistic and commit to making the alterations in the coming days. Otherwise, you probably won’t wear the clothes, which is not what you want.

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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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Italian Sweatshops and Luxury Goods

Italy makes up 50-55% of the luxury fashion production. Behind all the glitz and glamor lies a darker secret. Recent investigations have uncovered that prestigious luxury brands, including Dior and Armani, have been implicated in labor exploitation practices. Several other high-end labels have similarly been brought under the microscope, with many eyes keeping a close watch on their supply chains and labor practices. With the luxury fashion economy already in a shaky position, this has come at a precarious time for the sector. 

Image: BOF

“Police images of a factory raided in the course of an Italian investigation into labour exploitation in luxury supply chains. (Alamy)”

Luxury Brands Turning a Blind Eye to Worker Exploitation

While this may not come as a shock, the exposé has shed into light the brands’ (and these two names are definitely not alone in the industry) prioritization of profits over labor welfare. Luxury brands very often turn a blind eye when it comes to worker exploitation, focusing instead on cutting costs, boosting revenue, and maximizing profits. These brands manufacture their products at low “Made in China” costs, but market and sell them at a “Made in Italy” price. For example, one of Dior’s suppliers was able to produce a handbag for $57, which the luxury label then sold for $2800. (Note: Of course, this problem isn’t limited to just high end fashion - fast fashion brands like Shein and Temu are also notorious for labor exploitation).

As a result of this recent probe, LVMH’s Christian Dior was placed under judicial administration for a year by a Milan court. The investigation found that two of the brand’s subcontractors that were based outside Milan exploited their workers. These contractors operated Chinese-owned factories outside Milan, with workers that were brought in from China. 

The investigation found some workers were required to sleep in the factories, so that the suppliers would have 24/7 access to manpower. They looked at data mapping of electricity consumption, which showed “seamless day-night production cycles, including during holidays”. The probe also discovered that certain equipment safety devices had been removed to give workers the ability to operate and produce faster - showing a lack of concern for worker safety. A lot of these workers had all been illegally immigrated into Italy, and didn’t have regular contracts. 

Since it was the subcontractors engaging in unethical practices and not Dior itself, the brand was not held at fault criminally. However, Dior was found to be negligent by failing to take “appropriate measures to check actual working conditions or technical capabilities of contracting companies”, according to the Dior ruling. 

This seems to be a systemic problem in the fashion industry in Italy, and not isolated to these two brands.

As reported by Reuters, the supply chains of close to 15 companies were being looked into.  According to the court, “it is not something sporadic that concerns single product lots, but a generalized and consolidated manufacturing method”. 

“Recent investigations in luxury fashion supply chains of both Armani and LVMH fashion brand Dior highlight the urgent need for industry leaders to address meaningful change. It can no longer be acceptable to have luxury fashion business models based on human rights violations,” said Scott Newton, managing partner of Thinking Dimensions Global Consulting, based in Italy. This ruling has called into question luxury brands’ ESG (environmental, social, and governance) policies, which are too often used as a scapegoat and are a sign of greenwashing.

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The Best organic Flannel Shirts for Men and Women

The fashion industry is currently experiencing a significant transformation, with sustainability becoming a central focus. Nowadays, there are sustainable options available for almost every piece of clothing, including flannel shirts! These flannels are made from organic cotton or recycled materials, making them a responsible choice for any consumer looking to build a more sustainable wardrobe. Sustainable flannels are not only better for the planet, but they also offer style and versatility. Whether you want to dress up for a night out or go for a casual look, sustainable flannels provide a trendy and timeless option. They have a soft and comfortable feel, perfect for layering or wearing on their own.

Why Choose an Organic Cotton Flannel Shirt?

Organic cotton is a superior alternative to conventional cotton due to its adherence to organic agricultural standards. Its production method revolves around natural processes, thereby promoting the health of soils, ecosystems, and people. Also, Organic cotton farming prohibits the use of toxic chemicals or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Making the switch to organic cotton can result in significant water savings of up to 91% during the crop growth phase, as well as a reduction of 46% in greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, it grants farmers greater autonomy by eliminating the need to purchase expensive genetically modified seeds from a limited number of large corporations. Presently, only approximately 1% of all cotton produced is organic, underscoring the need for more individuals to abandon traditional cotton in favor of the more sustainable choice of organic cotton. To ensure the authenticity of organic cotton products, consumers should seek out certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and the Organic Content Standard Certification (OCS).

Read more about Organic Cotton & GOTS Cotton.

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❤︎ = we like ❤︎❤︎ = we really like ❤︎❤︎❤︎ = we LOVE

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Our Top Picks for Organic & Sustainable Flannel Shirts:

1. Pact

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Men & Women

Price: $78 - 88

Made In: India

Pact has a fantastic selection of sustainable organic cotton flannels.

They offer three options: one for men and two for women, including an oversized style and a regular style.

Each style is available in five different color combinations, giving customers plenty of choices.

What sets Pact apart is their commitment to sustainability and ethical production while having more affordable prices than other similar brands.

Their flannels are made in Fair Trade Certified Factories using GOTS organic cotton and are shipped in plastic-free responsible packaging.

Pact is also carbon neutral and has saved over 800 million gallons of water during production.

Their dedication to environmental and social responsibility makes them a standout choice for conscious consumers!

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2. tentree

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For: Men & Women

Price: $53 - 98

Made In: India

tentree is an environmentally conscious brand that focuses on providing sustainable clothing for those who embrace a laid-back lifestyle.

They prioritize using fabric blends such as organic cotton and Kapok to create flannels that are not only comfortable but also naturally insulating.

One of Tentree's notable initiatives is their commitment to planting trees with a goal of reaching one billion trees planted by 2030. This ambitious undertaking is aimed at making a significant impact on reducing climate change.

To date, Tentree has successfully planted over 30 million trees and has also been involved in land restoration projects in more than eight countries.

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3. Outerknown

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For: Men & Women

Price: $55 - 188

Made In: Peru

The Blanket shirts from Outerknown have gained widespread popularity for their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness.

These cozy flannel shirts are crafted from 100% organic cotton, ensuring both comfort and environmental responsibility.

What sets these shirts apart is the thoughtful use of corozo buttons, which are derived from tagua palm nuts collected from the forest floor, serving as a natural and sustainable alternative to plastic.

It's worth noting that Outerknown, a brand co-founded by pro surfer Kelly Slater, is accredited by the Fair Labor Association, underscoring its dedication to ethical production practices.

Furthermore, the brand stands out for its extensive use of recycled, organic, and 'regenerative' materials in 90% of its garments.

In a commendable move towards social responsibility, Outerknown collaborates with three partners certified by Fair Trade USA, further exemplifying the brand's commitment to ethical and sustainable fashion.

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4. Patagonia

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For: Men & Women

Price: $50 - 139

Made In: Fair Trade Certified™ factory in Vietnam

Patagonia is a renowned sustainable brand known for its commitment to providing ethically made outdoor clothing.

The brand offers a diverse range of colors, styles, and fabric weights, all crafted from 100% organic cotton.

What sets Patagonia apart is its dedication to minimizing environmental impact. A significant 64% of the materials they use are recycled, and they exclusively use organically grown virgin cotton.

Patagonia also maintains transparency by openly sharing information about their owned facilities and suppliers across the entire supply chain, allowing customers to make informed decisions about their purchases.

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5. Toad&Co.

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For: Men & Women

Price: $70 - 100

Made In: Turkey

Toad & Co is a reputable brand known for its environmentally conscious approach to fashion.

Their collection of flannel shirts, crafted from 100% organic cotton, not only promises high quality but also aligns with sustainable practices.

Toad & Co's commitment to sustainability is evident in their certifications from Bluesign and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, with some products holding both certifications. This demonstrates their dedication to producing clothing that meets stringent environmental and human safety standards.

In addition to their environmental initiatives, Toad & Co is deeply committed to inclusivity. They operate a warehouse that provides training and employment opportunities for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, reflecting their values of empowerment and diversity.

The brand's dedication to environmental conservation is evident through their membership in the Conservation Alliance and 1% For The Planet. Their support has contributed to the funding of 120 environmental protection organizations over the last two decades, showcasing their long-standing commitment to making a positive impact on the planet.

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6. CARPASUS

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For: Men

Price: $109 - 185

Made In: Portugal

CARPASUS is a Swiss-based clothing brand dedicated to providing high-quality, sustainable clothing.

Their signature line features organic cotton flannel shirts, which are specifically designed to offer warmth and comfort in colder climates.

What sets CARPASUS apart is their commitment to using only certified organic cotton, sourced from one of the top flannel fabric weavers in Portugal. The shirts are meticulously crafted by a Portuguese manufacturer located just a short distance from the weaving mill, ensuring a close-knit production process.

CARPASUS prioritizes sustainability by opting for natural corozo buttons over plastic, further enhancing the eco-friendly appeal of their products.

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7. Taylor Stitch

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For: Men

Price: $69 - 138

Made In: China

Taylor Stitch is an exceptional menswear brand renowned for its commitment to producing a diverse array of clothing items crafted from premium materials such as organic cottons, wools, and reclaimed fibers.

Their collection includes striking plaid flannel prints and a wide range of solid colors.

What truly distinguishes Taylor Stitch is their unwavering dedication to creating products that not only endure wear but also improve with time, which is a refreshing departure from the conventional approach to clothing design.

Taylor Stitch stands out as a remarkable brand that merits your attention and consideration!

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