15 Organic Vitamin C Serums For Bright, Glowing Skin

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the beauty industry a better place!

THE BEST ORGANIC VITAMIN C SERUMS

No matter their skin type or age, many women see vitamin C serums as a must-have in their everyday skincare routines. Indeed, these serums provide many health benefits to the skin and are seen as some of the best products for pro-aging support.

Packed with antioxidants, they help reduce redness and hyperpigmentation, brighten our skin, improve collagen and elastin production, and protect against free radicals that cause oxidative damage. They also hydrate the skin and boost our skin’s healing time.

Unfortunately, these potent treatments are often formulated with toxic chemicals we do not want to be in contact with. So if we want healthy skin without sacrificing our overall health, choosing a non-toxic, organic option is our best bet.

In this article, we share with you 15 organic vitamin C serums for bright, glowing skin!

WHY SHOULD WE OPT FOR AN ORGANIC VITAMIN C SERUM?

There are many reasons why we should opt for an organic vitamin C serum as opposed to its conventional counterparts.

Organic serums are formulated with healthier ingredients that are produced using organic farming practices. This means they are grown without harmful synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides. Organic farming reduces soil and water pollution and helps preserve ecosystems and biodiversity.

An organic serum is also a much healthier option for us because it is made without potentially harmful chemicals such as parabens, toxic fragrances, phthalates, silicones, or sulfates.

What’s more, it is usually made using sustainable practices and sold in eco-friendly packaging. It is also a more ethical option because these brands usually support fair labor practices and workers in the supply chain are not exposed to toxic chemicals.

Last but not least, organic vitamin C serums are often the best in terms of purity and quality!

WHAT NON-TOXIC INGREDIENTS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Make sure to buy a vitamin C serum that is not formulated with harmful ingredients such as those mentioned earlier. Instead, opt for products made with non-toxic, organic ingredients.

To guarantee the ingredients are grown organically, look for products that are certified organic by USDA or Ecocert. You can also look for EWG Verified products or ones that contain only 100% natural ingredients.

Most of the serums mentioned in this article are formulated with sustainably sourced, plant-based ingredients such as organic aloe vera juice, plant extracts, or natural oils. You will also find many options that are both vegan and certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny.

OUR TOP PICKS FOR ORGANIC VITAMIN C SERUMS

1. Cocokind

Price: $22

Cocokind’s vitamin C serum features a stable formula that helps firm, brighten, and defend the skin against environmental stressors.

Made with ascorbyl glucoside, it will boost your collagen production and even your skin tone.

This ingredient is paired with azelaic acid to refine the skin texture and sodium hyaluronate to plump the skin with hydration and soften it over time.

You will also find organic aloe vera leaf juice and sustainably harvested sea grape caviar extract, which is a nutrient-rich algae that improves water retention.

Unlike most other brands on the market, Cocokind transparently shares the carbon emissions generated by each of its products. Its vitamin C serum is made in California and comes packaged in a glass bottle and an FSC-certified box.

Shop Cocokind Vitamin C Glow Serum

2. Glitz Soap Co.

Price: $27

This Vitamin C Brightening Serum helps to protect against free radicals and is an excellent addition to your morning skincare routine - after a toner and before your moisturizer! This Vitamin C (10%) serum is mixed with Ferulic Acid to improve skin tone and texture, along with four types of Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate and lock in moisture.

Pair this with their Green Tea + Rose Hydrosol Toner & Kelp + Cucumber Hydrating Face Cream!

Glitz Soap Co is a Pennsylvania-based bath and beauty brand on a mission to help you indulge in bubbly and eco-conscious personal care rituals.

Shop Glitz Soap Co. Vitamin C Brightening Serum

3. Andalou Naturals

Price: $29

Infused with a nourishing blend of natural ingredients for antioxidant protection, this Vitamin C Serum will help target uneven skin tone and dark spots and combat signs of aging.

This gluten-free formula combines key ingredients such as turmeric, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate vitamin C, heirloom apple, and grape stem cells. Many of them are certified organic and/or fair trade, and they are all 100% non-GMO, vegan, and cruelty-free.

The brand packages its products using BPA-free, recyclable bottles. It also donates a portion of its yearly proceeds to different nonprofit organizations promoting women's and girls’ empowerment and education like Vital Voices and SHE-CAN!

Shop Andalou Naturals Turmeric and Vitamin C Enlighten Serum

4. The Organic Skin Co.

Price: $35

The Organic Skin Co. is an organic beauty brand offering a vegan vitamin C face serum. Its “Vitamin Sea” serum is formulated to help manage aging, replenish collagen, and rejuvenate the skin.

It is made with 88% certified organic ingredients, including New Zealand native red seaweed and black fern. Packed with antioxidants, it will help guard the skin against external elements!

The brand’s serum is also produced using supercritical CO2 extraction technology, which means it contains purer and more concentrated plant extracts compared to its conventional counterparts. This extraction method is also more sustainable as it is certified organic and produces zero waste!

The Vitamin Sea serum smells like honeysuckle with some citrus highlights, and it is packaged in a beautiful glass bottle with a bamboo lid and a compostable box. The Organic Skin Co. also plants a tree for every purchase.

Shop The Organic Skin Co. Vitamin Sea

5. Ursa Major

Price: $56

Ursa Major is a vegan and cruelty-free brand selling skincare products made with clean ingredients.

Its Brighten Up Vitamin C Serum is a lightweight, layerable brightening treatment that contains a potent and long-lasting form of vitamin C. It is designed to target hyperpigmentation, even out skin tone, lighten dark spots, and give dull skin an extra boost of radiance.

The serum is formulated with ascorbic acid polypeptide, aloe vera, rosehip seed extract, edelweiss, rose oil, and aspen bark. It smells like freshly squeezed citrus topped with herbaceous rosehip and a hint of sour rose.

Some of its ingredients are certified organic, and it does not contain any petrochemicals, sulfates, parabens, or other toxic substances.

Not to mention the brand is a certified B Corporation and a Plastic Negative company as it removes two plastic bottles from the environment for every bottle it sells!

Shop Ursa Major Brighten Up Vitamin C Serum

6. 100% PURE

Price: $58

100% PURE is committed to creating only pure, non-toxic beauty products that are completely free of harmful chemicals. Its lightweight vitamin C serum helps firm and brighten the skin tone while boosting elastin and collagen production. It will also deeply hydrate and soothe your skin thanks to its organic aloe vera gel base. The formula is also made with radiance-boosting grape and green apple, and alpha lipoic acid for fighting oxidative damage.

This serum is gluten-free, vegan, and cruelty-free, and can be used on all skin types.

100% PURE uses a stabilized form of vitamin C to ensure the product has a longer shelf life.

What’s more, for every order, the brand either donates the cost of a tree to the charity Trees For The Future or a bowl of vegan dog food to local shelter dogs! You get to choose which at checkout.

Shop 100% Pure Vitamin C Serum

7. Oil Divine

Price: $58

Clean beauty brand Oil Divine has a dark spot corrector that contains 15% oil-soluble vitamin C. This serum is designed to address hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and post-acne marks while supporting a healthy skin barrier. It also prevents signs of aging and boosts collagen production.

This vitamin C serum is infused with papaya oil, lemon oil, castor oil, turmeric oil, and rosehip oil and also contains vitamin E.

89% of the ingredients are organic, and the formula is all-natural, vegan, and cruelty-free.

It is made in the USA without toxic chemicals such as petroleum-based ingredients, GMOs, parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances, and more.

Oil Divine’s vitamin C serum is suitable for all skin types and has a refreshing turmeric and lemon aroma!

Shop Oil Divine Dark Spot Correcter with 15% Vitamin C

8. Herbivore Botanicals

Price: $65

Herbivore Botanicals sells clean, plant-based skincare products that are made with the planet in mind. Its NOVA vitamin C serum is a potent brightening formula combining 15% THD vitamin C with turmeric, an organic super root packed with antioxidants.

This product visibly improves dark spots and hyperpigmentation and evens the skin tone while being gentle even on the most sensitive skin.

It also contains arbutin naturally derived from bearberries, which helps with discoloration and tightens the look of pores.

The serum has a ginger-like smell and a silky, creamy texture. All-natural, it is made without added fragrances, synthetic ingredients, or other toxic chemicals.

Herbivore Botanicals’ products are also 100% vegan and certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny.

Shop Herbivore NOVA 15% Vitamin C + Turmeric Brightening Serum

9. Juice Beauty

Price: $65

Juice Beauty is a sustainable beauty brand offering skincare and plant-based makeup products formulated with USDA-certified organic ingredients. Its vitamin C serum contains 20% active vitamin C to help protect the skin from oxidative damage and correct blemishes, age spots, and hyperpigmentation.

Packed with antioxidants, the formula will also help smooth your complexion and fight against daily stressors while providing hydration.

The serum is also formulated with hyaluronic acid, organic aloe vera leaf juice, and vitamin E. It is also 100% vegan and certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny, and the brand sources some of its organic ingredients from its own organic farm based in California!

Plus, Juice Beauty uses sustainable packaging as its serum comes packaged in a glass bottle and an FSC-certified box.

Shop Juice Beauty Prebiotix Freshly Squeezed Glow 20% Vitamin C Serum

10. KORA Organics

Price: $75

KORA Organics offers an antioxidant-rich vitamin C serum made to improve your skin tone and protect it from environmental damage.

It is powered by some of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, including ascorbyl glucoside, Kakadu plum, and acerola cherry. This gentle formula is also blended with hyaluronic acid to help lock in moisture. The ingredients are gluten-free and non-GMO and 70% of them are also certified organic by ECOCERT Greenlife.

The formula is cruelty-free and packaged in a bottle with an airless pump so that you can get every last drop.

The brand is also Climate-Neutral certified and its serum won the Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2019! Not to mention KORA Organics has implemented different sustainable harvesting practices, resulting in less waste and no harmful chemicals.

Shop KORA Organics Noni Bright Vitamin C Serum

11. Maya Chia

Price: $110

Maya Chia creates non-toxic skincare from chia seed oil and other superfoods that support skin health.

Its Super Lift vitamin C serum is a concentrated formula that deploys different types of shelf-stable vitamin C.

Not only will it brighten your skin tone, but it will also smooth the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles & act as a primer to help your makeup last longer.

Many of its ingredients are either wildcrafted or certified organic, and it does not contain any parabens, synthetic fragrances, PEGs, SLSs, or phthalates.

This serum was even named the “best ferulic acid serum” by Allure and one of the “best serums for skin over 50” by New Beauty!

Maya Chia is also the corporate sponsor of a nonprofit that provides children and families in Guatemala with education and training so that they can improve their economic condition.

Shop Maya Chai Super lift - concentrated vitamin c-more treatment

12. Fleur & Bee

Price: $38

Fleur & Bee is a vegan, cruelty-free skincare brand selling a vitamin C serum that will brighten and even your skin tone.

It will also diminish the look of wrinkles and dark spots and promote collagen production.

Its formula is packed with powerful yet gentle antioxidants and contains key ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and squalane.

Some of its ingredients are organic, and the serum is free of toxic substances such as parabens, artificial fragrances, sulfates, and silicones.

We also like that the serum comes in a recyclable glass bottle and the packaging boxes are made from recycled, FSC-certified paper.

Not only that but Fleur & Bee also offers carbon-neutral shipping and produces its products using 100% renewable energy. It even donates 1% of its sales to a nonprofit providing menstrual care and education to women in need!

Shop Fleur + Bee Nectar of the C Vitamin C Serum

13. Josh Rosebrook

Price: $65

Josh Rosebrook’s C Complex Serum is designed to fortify and renew the skin’s surface and help offset damage from UV light. The fast absorption formula also improves and brightens the skin tone and increases its luminosity.

It is made with two stabilized and biomimetic vitamin C complexes and various natural and organic ingredients such as aloe vera leaf juice, tamanu oil, avocado oil, and licorice root. It also contains vitamin E, ferulic acid, & azelaic acid.

The brand’s serum features a lightweight, non-sticky texture and a soft citrus scent. The ingredients are cruelty-free, biodegradable, fair trade, and produced using sustainable practices.

Shop Josh Rosebrook C Bright Complex

14. One Love Organics

Price: $75

One Love Organics has a cruelty-free, vitamin C facial serum that deeply hydrates the skin, leaving it supple, soft, and dewy.

You can use it on all skin types, but especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.

Its plant-based formula uses two potent sources of vitamin C, which are a vitamin C ester and a plant-powered C complex of rosehip, acerola, baobab, and sea buckthorn oils.

The brand also combines vitamin E with green tea to naturally boost their effectiveness and adds a botanical extract of hops to increase luminosity and nourish the skin.

The serum does not contain any synthetic fragrances and is certified natural and organic by ECOCERT. One Love Organics also makes everything in small batches.

Shop One Love Organics Botanical C Facial Serum

15. Eminence Organic Skin Care

Price: $118

Eminence Organic Skin Care creates USDA-certified organic skincare products and cosmetics using sustainable practices. It has a lightweight vitamin C serum that helps any skin type appear bright, firm, and plumped. It also improves the appearance of dry, red skin and reduces any visible signs of aging. The brand combines a stabilized form of vitamin C with botanical ferulic acid, vitamin E, citrus fruit oils, leafy greens, avocado, and botanical hyaluronic acid.

This potent serum won different awards, including the Aestheticians’ Choice Awards (by Dermascope) in 2016 and 2020 and the Natural Beauty Awards (by Nature & Health) in 2016.

Eminence Organic Skin Care is also B Corp certified and cruelty-free, plants a tree for every product sold, and regularly supports different nonprofit organizations!

Shop Eminence Organic Skin Care Citrus Kale Potent CE Serum

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.

MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!

WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

Our Brand Directory is home to hundreds of sustainable brands, from makeup to cleaning supplies, from underwear to shoes. We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

Shop the Sustainable Brand Directory

The Best Non-Toxic & Sustainable Candles

Welcome to the ultimate guide on non-toxic candles, where we shed light on creating a safer and healthier environment in your home. Candles are a popular choice for creating ambiance and filling a space with a delightful fragrance. However, many conventional candles contain harmful ingredients that can release toxins when burned, polluting the air you breathe.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the world of non-toxic candles and show you how to make informed choices that prioritize your health and the well-being of your loved ones. From understanding the dangers of certain ingredients to discovering safer alternatives, we'll equip you with the knowledge to transform your candle-lit moments into a toxin-free experience.

Whether you're a candle enthusiast or just starting your journey, this guide will help you confidently navigate the complex world of non-toxic candles. Get ready to light up your home with candles that enhance your space and prioritize your health and wellness!

Understanding the Dangers of Conventional Candles

Conventional candles may seem harmless, but they often contain a cocktail of toxic ingredients that can harm your health. One of the primary concerns is the use of paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, which releases harmful chemicals such as benzene and toluene when burned. These chemicals are known to contribute to indoor air pollution, leading to respiratory problems, allergies, and even more severe health issues.

Additionally, conventional candles are often scented using synthetic fragrances containing potentially hazardous chemicals. Phthalates, for example, are commonly used to enhance fragrance and improve the longevity of the scent, but they have been linked to endocrine disruption and other health problems. When you burn a conventional candle, these synthetic fragrances are released into the air and can be inhaled, posing a risk to your health.

Burning conventional candles can have profound health implications, but there is a solution: non-toxic candles.

What Are Sustainable, Non-Toxic Candles?

Non-toxic candles, also known as natural or organic candles, are made from ingredients that do not release harmful toxins when burned. These candles are typically made from natural waxes, such as soy, beeswax, or coconut wax, free from the toxic chemicals in paraffin wax. They are also scented using natural essential oils or botanical extracts rather than synthetic fragrances.

These candles are better for the air you breathe and the environment, as they are made from renewable resources and produce less soot when burned.

Sustainable candles should be non-toxic and made by people who are paid a fair wage, with eco-friendly ingredients and packaging.

Benefits of Using Sustainable, Non-Toxic Candles

Using non-toxic candles in your home offers a range of benefits beyond just avoiding harmful toxins. Here are some of the key advantages to consider:

Improved Air Quality: Non-toxic candles release fewer pollutants into the air, resulting in cleaner and healthier indoor air quality. This is especially important for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or sensitivities to synthetic fragrances.
Reduced Health Risks: By eliminating harmful chemicals like benzene, toluene, and phthalates, non-toxic candles can help reduce the risk of respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues associated with burning conventional candles.
Environmental Friendliness: Non-toxic candles are typically made from renewable resources and are biodegradable, making them more eco-friendly than conventional candles that rely on petroleum-based paraffin wax.
Longer Burn Time: Natural waxes, such as soy and beeswax, tend to burn slower than paraffin wax, resulting in longer-lasting candles. This means you can enjoy the warm glow and fragrances for a more extended period without replacing the candle as frequently.
Aromatherapy Benefits: Many non-toxic candles are scented with natural essential oils, providing a delightful fragrance and therapeutic benefits. For example, lavender essential oil can promote relaxation and better sleep, while citrus oils can uplift your mood and increase energy levels.

Looking for Fabric and Air Fresheners? Check out our Non-Toxic Air Freshener options here!

our top picks for Non-Toxic & Sustainable candles:

1. GROW Fragrance

Price: $34

GROW Fragrance candles are my go-to non-toxic candles! They are so cool because the vessel is refillable, and the refills are made from 100% recyclable (recycled) aluminum. Everything is handmade in the USA from 100% certified plant-based blend of soy and coconut oil and plant-based fragrance. Even the wick is lead-free and unbleached. Their new Spring collection smells amazing - especially the Green Tea Matcha!

Shop Grow Fragrance Sustainable and Non-Toxic Candles

2. Sana Jardin

Price: $33-65

Sana Jardin is well known for their clean & lovely scented perfumes, and their candles are just as amazing! As a true luxury brand, its fragrances are created by world-renowned Master Perfumer Carlos Benaim using only the finest ingredients. Their candles are vegan, non-toxic, and paraffin-free, made from 100% vegetable wax and a lead-free cotton wick.

Shop Sana Jardin Sustainable and Non-Toxic Candles

Sustainably Chic | Sustainable Fashion & Living Blog | The Best Non-Toxic Eco Friendly Candles | Sundays.jpeg

3. Sundays

Price: $42-52

You may be familiar with this brand and their nail polish, but recently they came out with a couple of candles! Their candles are made with a combination of 3 notes to create a soothing and long-lasting scent consisting of essential oils and almond oil. They are made of 100% non-GMO soybean wax, have a 100% unbleached cotton wick, and come in a hand-made matte finish ceramic container - which is another beautiful jar to reuse when you are finished with the candle!

Shop Sundays Non-Toxic and Sustainable Candles

4. Siblings

Price: $24-78

Siblings wanted to fix the wasteful candle industry by offering a more sustainable way of doing candles - refilling them yourselves. Their wax is a 100% natural blend of coconut and soy wax and uses non-toxic, cruelty-free fragrances and essential oils. The bags are 100% compostable and made using 99% plant-based materials!

Shop Siblings Non-Toxic & Sustainable Candles

Sustainably Chic | Sustainable Fashion & Living Blog | The Best Non-Toxic Eco Friendly Candles | Public Goods.jpg

5. Public Goods

Price: $6-13

If you are looking for a budget-friendly, eco-friendly candle, Public Goods is one to check out. These candles are made with natural hand-poured soy wax, cotton wicks, and premium fragrance oils like cedarwood and jasmine. They are free from lead, dyes, BPA or phthalates, and are made in USA. I keep these in my guest bathroom, and love all three scents they carry so I suggest purchasing the 3-pack!

Shop Public Goods Sustainable and Non-Toxic Candles

Sustainably Chic | Sustainable Fashion & Living Blog | The Best Non-Toxic Eco Friendly Candles | P.F. Candles.jpeg

6. P.f. Candle Co.

Price: $14-36

All P.F. Candle Co. candles are hand-poured with 100% domestically-grown soy wax into apothecary inspired amber jars with a signature kraft label and a brass lid. They are a LA-based brand, and they have a strong commitment to sustainability. Their entire collection is vegan, cruelty-free and phthalate-free, and all candles come in completely reusable jars so you don’t have to throw anything away. Why would you want to throw such a pretty jar like the one pictured?!

Shop P.F. Candle Sustainable and Non-Toxic Candles

7. Prosperity Candle

Price: $14-95

This is one of my favorite ethical candle companies! Every candle is handmade by women artisans & refugees here in the U.S. They never add any dyes or enhancers, and each is poured with all-natural soy and coconut waxes, and pure cotton & wood wicks.

Their collection of Tranquility aromatherapy candles are made using 100% pure essential oils and each scent is created with guidance from an Oregon-based aromatherapist.

Shop Prosperity Candle Sustainable and Non-Toxic Candles

Sustainably Chic | Sustainable Fashion & Living Blog | The Best Non-Toxic Eco Friendly Candles | Ritual & Fancy.jpeg

8. Ritual & Fancy

Price: $26-48

Based out of Portland, Oregon, Ritual & Fancy is a woman & POC-owned candle brand, and I just find these candles absolutely beautiful! Each of these beauties are hand-poured with 100% vegan soy wax derived from a renewable resource, a slow-burning wood wick, and is topped with real pressed flowers. All fragrances are made with ethically and sustainably sourced therapeutic-grade essential oils and natural botanicals cultivated from renewable sources.

Shop Ritual + Fancy Sustainable and Non-Toxic Candles

Sustainably Chic | Sustainable Fashion & Living Blog | The Best Non-Toxic Eco Friendly Candles | Sanari Candle.jpg

9. Sanari Candle

Price: $34-46

A candle with a multi-purpose use! Not only is your house being filled with organic scents, but you’re getting a wine glass after use.

The Sanari Candles are packaged in reusable wine and whiskey glasses, and all candles are made with sustainably harvested, fair-trade, kosher ingredients.

The wax is actually made from organic coconut & non-GMO soy.

Shop Sanari Candle Sustainable and Non-Toxic Candles

Sustainably Chic | Sustainable Fashion & Living Blog | The Best Non-Toxic Eco Friendly Candles | Obakki.jpeg

10. Obakki

Price: $23-93

If you are looking for more decorative, unique candles, Obakki is one to check out! Their decorative sumac candles are handmade in Ishikawa, Japan by a family run business who have been creating traditional Japanese candles, also known as 'wa-rousoku', since 1892. They are sustainable and vegan, and made from wax harvested from the fruit of the Japanese Haze tree. And the hollow wicks allow them to produce a bright, tall flame.

Shop Obakki Non-Toxic and Sustainable Candles

11. Brooklyn Candle Studio

Price: $11-95

Made in a Brooklyn workshop, these candles use sustainable soy wax and phthalate-free perfume oils infused with essential oils, and are inspired by nature and travel, moments and memories.

All candles are petroleum-free, cruelty-free, phthalate-free, and 100% vegan, and poured and labeled by hand by their team of artisans.

Shop Brooklyn Candle Studio

MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!

WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

Shop The Sustainable Brand Directory

The Best Sustainable Mother’s Day Gifts

Mother's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show your love and care than by gifting something thoughtful and sustainable? Instead of opting for conventional presents, why not choose something unique that aligns with your mother's values and supports a more eco-friendly lifestyle? In this article, we have curated a list of 10 thoughtful and sustainable Mother's Day gifts that will not only make your mom feel special but also contribute to a greener planet.

From beautiful handmade jewelry to non-toxic candles, each gift on our list is carefully selected to prioritize sustainability without compromising style and quality. We understand that every mother is different, with unique tastes and preferences, which is why we have included a wide range of gift ideas to suit diverse personalities. Whether your mom is a nature enthusiast, a health-conscious individual, or a fashion-forward trendsetter, our list has something for everyone.

Benefits of sustainable gifts

Sustainable gifts offer numerous benefits, not only for your mom but also for the environment. Firstly, these gifts are often crafted with care and attention to detail, making them unique and special. They show that you have considered selecting something that resonates with your mom's personality, interests, and values.

Secondly, sustainable gifts are designed to minimize harm to the environment. They are often made from recycled or upcycled materials, reducing the demand for new resources and minimizing waste. By choosing sustainable gifts, you support companies and artisans prioritizing ethical and eco-friendly production practices.

Lastly, sustainable gifts can inspire others to make more conscious choices in their own lives. When your mom receives a meaningful and sustainable gift, she may be encouraged to explore other ways to reduce her carbon footprint and embrace a more eco-conscious lifestyle. The ripple effect of your gift can extend beyond Mother's Day, positively impacting the environment and society as a whole!

The impact of traditional Mother's Day gifts on the environment

Traditional Mother's Day gifts, such as flowers, chocolates, and perfumes, may bring joy to moms worldwide, but they often come at a significant environmental cost. Let's take a closer look at the impact of these conventional gifts:

Flowers: While beautiful and fragrant, many flowers are grown using harmful pesticides and chemicals, which can pollute water sources and harm wildlife. Additionally, the vast amount of water required to grow flowers, especially those out of season, contributes to water scarcity in many regions. Moreover, transporting flowers over long distances generates carbon emissions, adding to climate change. Read more about sustainable flowers here.
Chocolates: The production of chocolate often involves deforestation, as cocoa beans are primarily grown in tropical regions. Deforestation not only destroys vital habitats but also contributes to climate change. Additionally, the chocolate industry has been associated with child labor and unfair wages in some regions, highlighting the ethical concerns surrounding its production. Read more about sustainable chocolate here.
Perfumes: Many perfumes contain synthetic chemicals that can harm human health and the environment. These chemicals can persist in the air and water, contributing to air pollution and water contamination. The production of perfumes also requires large quantities of natural resources, including water and energy. Read more about non-toxic perfumes here.

Considerations when choosing Sustainable Gifts

When selecting sustainable gifts for your mom, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind:

Quality and durability: Look for well-made gifts built to last. Opt for durable materials that can withstand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements. We included brands known for their quality!
Ethical production: Choose ethically produced gifts, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for the artisans and workers involved. Look for certifications or labels that indicate ethical sourcing and production practices. All brands listed here are known for their ethical manufacturing.
Eco-friendly materials: Seek out gifts made from sustainable materials, such as organic cotton or recycled metals. These materials have a lower environmental impact compared to their conventional counterparts.
Minimal packaging: Consider gifts that come with minimal or eco-friendly packaging. Excessive packaging contributes to waste and adds unnecessary materials to the landfill. Opt for products that use recycled or recyclable packaging materials.
Support local and small sustainable businesses: Look for gifts from local artisans and small businesses prioritizing sustainability and ethical production practices. Supporting local economies and businesses helps create a more resilient and sustainable community. It’s always nice to do some shopping in your own community, first!

Besides gifting one of these beautiful, sustainably-made goods, we also encourage shopping secondhand or gifting experiences. For example, many vases are ready to find a new home at a thrift store you can fill with local flowers.

our favorite Eco-Friendly & sustainable mother’s day gifts:

1. Gift Card to Sustainable Fashion Brand PAKA

Price: $25-200

How about letting your mom treat herself to some new sustainable clothes from Peruvian brand PAKA? PAKA has created a natural, sustainable clothing line for those who love the outdoors.They believe using eco-friendly materials like their super soft Royal Alpaca that can connect consumers more to nature and sustainably support small communities. We love that PAKA is a certified B-Corp that works hard to create a better, sustainable future for the fashion industry!

Purchase Sustainable Fashion Gift Card from PAKA

2. Non-Toxic Candle

Brand: Grow Fragrance
Price: $34

Grow Fragrance is a North Carolina-based brand that creates certified 100% plant-based and toxin-free candles and air and fabric fresheners. It has a great selection of beautiful scents for every ambiance, including a few limited editions that you can only get at certain times of the year. And if yo3.u are not sure which scent to choose, Grow Fragrance has a helpful quiz that you can take to determine which one is best for your mom!

Shop Non-Toxic Grow Fragrance Candles

3. Sustainable Passport Holder

Brand: Poppy Barley
Price: $119

What a great idea this is for the Mama who loves to travel with her family! This leather passport holder comes in five different colors and 3 sizes (2 - 4 - or 6 passports). Poppy Barley is a Canadian brand and B-Corporation founded by two sisters in Edmonton, AB. Their company is committed to rethinking every step to create sustainably made, fairly-priced products designed to be used & worn on repeat.

Shop Sustainable Passport Holder by Poppy Barley

4. Non-Toxic Perfume Gift Set

Brand: Sana Jardin
Price: $49 (value $60)

Sana Jardin is a socially conscious, luxury fragrance house crafting sustainable eaux de parfum and candles, all with delightful scents. As a true luxury brand, its fragrances are created by world-renowned Master Perfumer Carlos Benaim using only the finest ingredients. The Summer Fragrance Gift Set features 3 of their top-selling enchanting and exotic scents: Berber Blonde, Revolution de la Fleur, & Venus of Verbena.

Shop Non-Toxic Perfume Summer Gift Set from Sana Jardin

5. Mama-Friendly Handmade Jewelry

Brand: Laura Elizabeth
Price: $165

I absolutely love Laura Elizabeth’s collection of necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. And for all the mamas out there with babies and toddlers, Laura even has a collection of non-toxic, durable, and “tuggable” jewelry that is not only safe for little ones to put in their mouth, but also sturdy enough for you to wear and not worry about it breaking. Everything is made by hand in Los Angeles out of recycled metals, and some of her pieces are even made using real plants!

Shop Handmade Jewelry by Laura Elizabeth Jewelry

6. Organic PJ Set

Brand: Printfresh
Price: $98+

Moms deserve to relax in comfort and luxury!

A pajama set, nightgown, or robe is a great gift idea for just about any mom.

Printfresh is a woman-owned luxury sleepwear brand offering whimsical prints on 100% GOTS certified organic cotton and screen printed by hand by their ethical partners in Jaipur, India.

Designed with inclusivity in mind, their sizes range from XS petite to 6X, and they also offer women’s, men’s and all-gender silhouettes.

Shop Printfresh Organic Pajamas

7. Reusable Water Bottles & Coffee Tumblrs

Brand: Klean Kanteen
Price: $35 - 37

This brand has some of the sweetest prints for your mom’s new to-go beverage container. Klean Kanteen is a Certified B Corp brand, Climate Neutral Certified, and Family and employee-owned! They use 90% post-consumer recycled stainless steel with a chip-resistant Klean Coat™ powder coat finish that is dishwasher safe!

Shop Reusable Water Bottles and Coffee Tumblers from Klean Kanteen

8. Non-Toxic Skincare Set

Brand: Ilia
Price: $52 ($61 value)

One of the best clean cosmetic brands on the market, Ilia now has a non-toxic skincare line to go with your favorite makeup!

This mini skincare set is ideal for travel and features their Cleanse Soft Foaming Cleanser, Base Face Milk, Lip Wrap Overnight Treatment.

Free from animal testing, Ilia runs a recycling program so that your empties never see landfill.

Shop Ilia Non-Toxic Skincare Set

9. Sustainable Flowers

According to this article in ideas.ted.com, flowers are annually a 55-billion-dollar industry in the USA. Most of the flowers we buy don’t come from the USA, most come from Columbia, and the environmental impact of growing and transporting them is much greater than we realized - and exposure to toxic chemicals for labor in the floral agriculture industry is high! Luckily, we have an article that covers all the ways you can purchase flowers sustainably because we know how much mothers appreciate a beautiful bouquet.

These lovely flowers pictured here are from one of our favorite online flower shops, Bouqs!

Learn more About Sustainable Flowers

10. Sustainable Chocolate

The chocolate industry is profitable thanks to a high-demand product with hard-to-regulate production.

Many companies underpay their workers, provide unfair working conditions, and often use child labor. Thankfully, we don't have to stop eating chocolate to combat this.

This Mother’s Day, we can make a difference by supporting ethical and fair trade chocolate brands instead!

Learn More About Sustainable Chocolate

DIY Sustainable Gift Ideas

If you're feeling creative and want to add a personal touch to your Mother's Day gift, consider these DIY thoughtful and sustainable gift ideas:

Handmade cards: Get crafty and create a personalized card using recycled paper or cardboard. Add color with natural dyes from flowers or vegetables, and write a heartfelt message to show your love and appreciation.
Herb garden kit: Create a DIY herb garden kit using recycled containers, organic seeds, and soil. Include instructions for planting and caring for the herbs so your mom can enjoy fresh flavors in her cooking.
Homemade candles: Make eco-friendly candles using soy wax, essential oils, and reusable glass jars. Customize the scent and design to suit your mom's preferences and create a calming ambiance.
Photo album or scrapbook: Gather cherished family photos and create a photo album or scrapbook that captures special memories. Use recycled or repurposed materials for the cover and pages, and add personal touches with handwritten captions and decorations.
Personalized recipe book: Compile your mom's favorite recipes into a customized book. Use recycled paper and materials for the pages and cover, and include handwritten notes or illustrations to make it extra special.

These DIY gift ideas showcase your creativity and thoughtfulness, minimize waste, and promote a sustainable lifestyle.

How to wrap your sustainable gifts

Once you have selected the perfect sustainable gift, it's essential to consider how you wrap it. Traditional gift wrapping often involves single-use paper, plastic ribbons, and excessive decorations, contributing to waste. Instead, opt for eco-friendly wrapping alternatives:

Reusable fabric: Wrap your gift in a beautiful piece of fabric, such as a scarf or a tea towel. It adds an elegant touch, and your mom can reuse it in various ways.
Recycled paper or newspaper: If you prefer traditional wrapping paper, choose recycled or eco-friendly options. Look for wrapping paper made from recycled materials, or use old newspaper to wrap your gift creatively. We also have a post dedicated to sustainable wrapping paper.
Natural elements: Incorporate natural elements like twine, dried flowers, or leaves into your gift wrapping. These elements add a rustic and eco-friendly touch while avoiding unnecessary waste.
Gift bags: Invest in reusable fabric or paper gift bags that can be used repeatedly. These bags are eco-friendly and convenient for your mom to reuse for future gifts or other purposes.

By choosing sustainable wrapping alternatives, you can extend the eco-consciousness of your gift from the inside out.

MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!

WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

Shop the Sustainable Brand Directory

The Best Sustainable Shoes

Welcome to the ultimate guide to stepping towards a greener future with the best sustainable shoes for style and sustainability. In a world where conscious consumerism is gaining traction, more and more fashion-conscious individuals are turning to sustainable alternatives without compromising on style.

This article is your go-to resource for discovering brands that prioritize not only fashion-forward designs but also ethical practices, eco-friendly materials, and fair working conditions. Say goodbye to sacrificing your fashion sense for the environment! With the growing availability of sustainable shoe options, you can embrace both style and sustainability.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best sustainable shoe options currently available, from eco-friendly sneakers made from recycled materials to vegan footwear using non-animal-derived materials. Each brand showcased here is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, embracing innovative manufacturing techniques, and promoting social responsibility.

So, whether you're a trendsetter looking to make a fashion statement or an eco-warrior striving to protect the planet, this article will help you make informed choices and take a stylish step toward a greener future. Let's dive in and explore the world of sustainable shoes together.

If you are looking for men’s shoes, check out this post here. We also have a post dedicated to Rain Boots, Winter Boots, Heels, Sandals, Sneakers & Slippers.

The Environmental Impact of Traditional Shoe Manufacturing

Traditional shoe manufacturing processes have a significant environmental impact. The fashion industry has long been associated with pollution and waste, from the use of harmful chemicals to the mass production of non-biodegradable materials. The production of conventional shoes often involves the extraction of fossil fuels for synthetic materials, excessive water usage, and the emission of greenhouse gases.

Furthermore, the disposal of worn-out shoes adds to the global waste problem. Most traditional shoes end up in landfills, where decomposing takes hundreds of years. The harmful substances used in their production can also leach into the soil and water, further polluting the environment.

What is a Sustainable Shoe?

When it comes to sustainable shoes, we look for many things: Who makes them? What are they made from? Can we wear them for years to come? Seeing transparency within the supply chain is very important at Sustainably Chic. We want to ensure the person making the shoes is treated well and makes a fair wage.

Factors to Consider When Buying Sustainable Shoes

When purchasing sustainable shoes, several factors must be considered to ensure you're making an informed and ethical choice. Here are some key considerations:

Materials: Look for shoes made from eco-friendly and sustainable materials, such as recycled or organic materials. Avoid shoes made from synthetic materials that contribute to pollution and waste.
Certifications: Check if the brand has certifications or accreditations validating their sustainable practices. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), or Bluesign.
Supply Chain Transparency: Transparency ensures ethical practices throughout the supply chain. Research the brand's commitment to fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmental responsibility.
Durability: Sustainable shoes should be designed to last. Look for high-quality craftsmanship and materials that can withstand everyday wear and tear.
End-of-Life Options: Consider what options are available for recycling or repurposing the shoes once they reach the end of their lifecycle. Brands that offer recycling programs or take-back initiatives contribute to a circular economy.

By considering these factors, you can make a more conscious and sustainable choice when buying shoes.

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

The perfect biodegradable shoe is yet to be a reality. Shoes are tricky because you want them to last - materials aren’t always ideal. Still, we prefer to find veggie-tanned leathers and recycled rubbers/polyesters, so at least we aren’t creating new virgin threads for a pair of shoes. Many of these brands also use natural fibers like organic cotton & hemp - and some of these brands are even doing amazing things like using apple peels or algae!

How Sustainable Shoes Contribute to a Greener Future

Choosing sustainable shoes is more than just a fashion statement; it is a step towards a greener future. By supporting brands prioritizing sustainability, you encourage the fashion industry to adopt more eco-friendly practices. Here are some ways sustainable shoes contribute to a greener future:

Reduced Carbon Footprint: Sustainable shoe brands prioritize reducing carbon emissions by using renewable materials, energy-efficient production processes, and carbon offset initiatives.
Waste Reduction: Using recycled materials, sustainable shoe brands help divert waste from landfills and reduce the need for new resource extraction.
Ethical Practices: Sustainable shoe brands often prioritize fair trade practices, ensuring that workers are paid fair wages and work in safe conditions. By supporting these brands, you contribute to the fight against labor exploitation and promote social responsibility.
Innovation and Education: Sustainable shoe brands drive innovation in the industry by exploring new materials and manufacturing techniques. They also educate consumers about the environmental impact of traditional shoe production, encouraging more conscious buying decisions.

By choosing sustainable shoes, you are making a positive impact on the environment and supporting a shift towards a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.

Our Top Picks for Sustainable Shoe Brands:

1. Poppy Barley

Price: $120 - 485

Materials: LWG Veggie-Tanned Leather

Poppy Barley is a Canadian brand and B-Corporation founded by two sisters in Edmonton, AB. Their company is committed to rethinking every step to create sustainably made, fairly-priced products designed to be worn on repeat. They make insanely comfortable footwear and well-designed accessories with inclusive sizing 5-12 and in medium and wide widths.

Shop Poppy Barley Sustainable Shoes

2. Nisolo

Price: $50 - 250

Materials: LWG Veggie-Tanned Leather

All shoes are made of leather that originates from Leather Working Group certified tanneries, which meet the highest standards of environmental responsibility in the industry. Some models even have vegetable-tanned leather outsoles. Nisolo is a certified B corporation. Entirely carbon neutral, it offsets its carbon footprint by investing in forest conservation projects in the Peruvian Amazon.

Shop Nisolo Sustainable Shoes

Sustainably Chic | Sustainable Fashion Blog | The Best Sustainable Shoe Brands | Sustainable Shoes by Made Trade.jpeg

3. Made Trade

Price: $89 - 280

Made Trade houses a bunch of different sustainable shoe brands. It’s nice to shop from several different designers at once, & they have everything from sandals to boots.

Some of our favorite brands can be found there, too! Made Trade also has an extensive collection of shoes for men - from slippers to dress shoes, you’ll be able to find something to add to their closet.

Shop Made Trade Sustainable Shoes

Sustainably Chic | Sustainable Fashion Blog | The Best Sustainable Shoe Brands | Sustainable Shoes by ABLE.jpg

4. Able

Price: $44-120

Materials: LWG Veggie-Tanned Leather

FashionABLE believes in order to end poverty we must provide jobs for those lacking opportunity, particularly for women.

Their collection of veggie-tanned leather shoes is absolutely beautiful. They have heels, flats, boots & sandals.

Their leather comes in all different colors and even a few prints!

Shop Able Sustainable Shoes

5. Okabashi

Price: $25-35

Materials: Vegan Recycled & Recyclable Plastic

Looking for shoes made right here in the US? Okabashi’s shoes are handcrafted in Buford, GA, and they are proud to be in the remaining 1% of US footwear manufacturers. The material they use is vegan, cruelty-free, and 100% recyclable. Plus, all the scraps and non-saleable returns are turned into new product.They are also incredibly easy to clean and very comfortable!

Shop Okabashi Sustainable Shoes

6. Will’s Vegan Store

Materials: Bio-based vegan leather

Price: $58 - 124

The online vegan department store that makes shopping vegan shoes as easy as anything! Find classic brogues and sleek loafers, perfect for office wear or special occasions. Will’s Vegan Store uses a vegan leather made from bio oil sourced from organic cereal crops grown in Northern Europe in a carbon-neutral process.

Shop Will's Vegan Store Sustainable Shoes

7. Biankina

Materials: Recycled Microfiber, Cork, Jute, Rubber

Price range: $70 - 140

Biankina is a sustainable footwear brand based in Barcelona that sells vegan shoes, including a variety of sandals for women. If you are looking for the perfect Birkenstock alternative, this brand is your best bet! They also have beautiful Espadrilles and Canvas Wedges.

Shop Biankina Sustainable Shoes

8. Oka-B

Materials: Bio-based Material

Price: $38 - 78

For the cutest sandals and ballet flats, look no further than Oka-B. Originally made as a spa shoe, they feature arch support and massage beads to keep your feet pampered 24/7. All Oka-B shoes are made with a bio-based material that contains 45% soy by weight and is BPA, latex, rubber, and phthalate-free. Oka-B shoes are made in the USA & when you return your well-loved & worn shoes, they recycle them & send a 15% off coupon toward your next purchase.

Shop Oka-B Sustainable Shoes

use code **SUSTAINABLYCHIC10** for 10% off

9. Veerah

Price: $109 - 448

Materials: Vegan Apple Leather, Algae, Renewed Plastics, Bamboo Leather

Some of the most beautiful heels you can find, Veerah has been one of our favorites for years. This brand’s shoes are inspired by women and made for warriors - and I know that they indeed make a very comfortable heel! Another plus, Veerah focuses on giving to causes that support women and girls.

Shop Veerah Sustainable Shoes

10. Thesus

Price: $80-198

Materials: Recycled Rubber, Post-Industrial Car Seat Leather, Recycle Nylon & Foam

I own a pair of their rain boots, and I haven’t bought a new pair for several years now.

They also have winter boots that are vegan & will keep you dry all year long. Plus, their vegan sneakers are made from recycled car seat leather! How interesting is that?

Shop Thesus Sustainable Shoes

11. Nae Vegan Shoes

Price: $39 - 248

Materials: Piñatex, AppleSkin, Cork

Portuguese vegan footwear brand Nae Vegan Shoes (standing for No Animal Exploitation) was founded in 2008 and is well known for their beautiful animal-free footwear. Their sandals, sneakers, boots and heels, all with European-inspired designs, are made with Piñatex, AppleSkin, cork, rPET, and On Steam Bioeco, the first ecological microfiber obtained partially from corn and recycled polyester.

Shop Nae Vegan Sustainable Shoes

12. Etiko

Price: $20 - 95

Materials: Natural Rubber, Organic Cotton

Australian brand Etiko specializes in organic, vegan, feel-good fashion and has a range of footwear, including sneakers, flip-flops and flats. Using natural rubber and 100% organic cotton, they create Fairtrade footwear that you can feel good knowing your footprints are that much lighter on the planet!

Shop Etiko Sustainable Shoes

13. Veja

Price: $135 - 225

Materials: LWG Leather, Recycled Water Bottles, Sugarcane, Organic Cotton

Veja is a footwear brand for the whole family. Its mission is to design shoes that will stand the test of time. If you’re looking for sneakers, the brand has different styles and colors to choose from. The lining of Veja shoes is made of organic cotton and recycled polyester. We love that Veja is very transparent about its carbon footprint and even discloses the individual carbon footprint of its shoe models. It also follows fair trade principles and works directly with small producers.

Shop Veja Sustainable Shoes

14. Cariuma

Price: $79-169

Materials: Cotton Canvas, Cork Vegan Insoles, Recycled Plastic Laces, Bamboo, Sugarcane

For a classic look that will last for many years, Cariuma uses only ethical manufacturing, recycled packaging, and carbon-neutral shipping. They are a Certified B-Corp Brand, & every shoe is made in an ethical factory in China. These factories have strict codes of conduct & fair wages. Plus, each pair purchased, plants 2 trees!

Shop Cariuma Sustainable Shoes

15. Noah Italian Vegan Shoes

Price: $70 - 200

Materials: Corn Leather, Cork

Noah Italian Vegan Shoes protect animals by excluding leather from each step of production and are 100% vegan PETA certified. All their shoes are made from sustainable and environmentally friendly materials, with a high percentage of recycled fibers. They are also toxin-free and hypoallergenic.

Shop Noah Sustainable Shoes

Sustainable Shoe Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of your sustainable shoes. Here are some tips to keep your shoes in top condition:

Cleaning: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning your sustainable shoes. Use eco-friendly shoe cleaners or gentle soap to avoid harsh chemicals that could harm the environment.
Protection: Apply a waterproof or protective spray to shield your shoes from dirt, stains, and water damage. Look for eco-friendly options that do not contain harmful chemicals.
Storage: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew. Use shoe trees or stuffing to maintain their shape and to avoid creasing.
Repair and Reuse: If your sustainable shoes need repairs, consider getting them fixed instead of replacing them. Many brands offer repair services to extend the lifespan of your footwear. Reusing or donating your shoes when you no longer need them is also a sustainable option.

Taking proper care of your sustainable shoes ensures they last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.

MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!

WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

Browse Our Sustainable Brand Directory

The Best sustainable Birkenstock alternatives

With their chunky buckled straps, anatomically shaped footbeds, and cork and rubber soles, Birkenstock sandals are some of the most popular shoes ever created in modern history.

The brand was founded in 1774 by a German shoemaker called Johann Adam Birkenstock. It gained traction at the beginning of the 20th century after one of its descendants invented flexible insoles designed to support and conform to the shape of the wearer’s foot. At the time, the sandals were considered a fashion faux pas but were highly recommended by physicians.

The shoes were introduced in the United States in the late 1960s where they became a wardrobe staple in hippy circles. But it was not until the 1990s that they really began to take off among Americans. Nowadays, Birkenstock sandals are still extremely popular and are seen by many all around the world as a must-have fashion accessory.

However, these iconic shoes are far from being sustainably and ethically made. If you are trying to build a conscious wardrobe and only buy eco-friendly shoes, read on!

In this article, we have selected the 9 best sustainable alternatives to Birkenstocks so that your feet can step into comfort and style without harming the planet!

ARE BIRKENSTOCKS SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL?

The brand is far from being sustainable and ethical for different reasons.

While Birkenstock uses some eco-friendly materials like jute or cork for its footbeds, most of its shoes are made with unsustainable ones, such as conventional leather and suede or synthetic materials.

Even though its shoes are quite durable and well made, these materials are some of the worst when it comes to their impact on the planet.

Birkenstock also does not seem to be doing much to reduce its environmental footprint apart from using almost exclusively solvent-free, water-based glues in its production process. It is far from enough!

Moreover, while Birkenstock sandals are made in Germany, where the company has to comply with the European Union’s strict labor laws, we do not know whether it prioritizes ethical practices throughout its entire supply chain. Are all its workers paid fair wages and working in safe conditions? Who knows?

The brand also does not seem to disclose anything about who its suppliers are and where it sources its materials from.

For all those reasons, we are all better off opting for a more ethical and sustainable alternative to Birkenstocks!

WHAT MAKES A PAIR OF SANDALS SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL?

A sustainable sandal is one made with quality and longevity in mind. It should last you many seasons, and you should be able to wear it over and over again without seeing any significant signs of wear. Once it starts to wear out, see if you can repair or resole it.

It is also made with eco-friendly materials and produced using sustainable practices. For instance, the brand should have taken steps to reduce its material waste, save energy and water, and minimize its use of harmful chemicals.

Sustainable sandals are also crafted in an ethical environment. Workers in the supply chain should receive fair wages, allowing them to live decently in their country and work in a non-toxic, safe workplace.

Avoid buying from fast fashion brands because they do not prioritize the planet and their employees. Instead, choose a transparent brand that discloses how its products are made and where. Ideally, look for companies that received third-party certifications such as Climate-Neutral, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, or B Corporation.

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Sustainable sandals and shoes can be made from a variety of eco-friendly materials. One of the most sustainable is faux leather made from food waste, such as apple leather or piñatex.

Other great options are models made from recycled plastic or any other type of recycled material like recycled rubber or recycled car tires.

If you prefer leather shoes, opt for high-quality leather that is vegetable-tanned and certified by the Leather Working Group.

Sustainable brands also use natural materials such as cork, jute, or responsibly sourced natural rubber to make their soles and footbeds.

NOW, OUR TOP PICKS FOR COMFY, SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES TO BIRKENSTOCKS

1. ABLE

Materials: Leather, Rubber

Price: on sale $48

ABLE is a sustainable clothing brand on a mission to create better opportunities for women working in the fashion industry.

It has a gorgeous pair of classic slip-on sandals that look like Birkenstocks. Combining style, fit, and function, these white slides have a very simple, yet stylish and chic look, and can be worn with practically anything from jeans to shorts to a cute little summer dress.

They feature an adjustable double strap with oversized gold-tone buckles, which you can adjust so that they fit perfectly even if you have wider feet. Their padded footbed is designed to maximize comfort when walking.

ABLE makes these sandals in Brazil using full-grain, Napa leather for both the uppers and lining and rubber for the outsoles.

The brand sources its leather as a product of the meat industry and uses semi-vegetable tanning to process it. The material ages beautifully over time, giving it more of a vintage look. It is also made to stand the test of time and crafted with quality and longevity in mind.

ABLE also makes sure all workers in its supply chain are paid living wages and are provided with dignified, safe working conditions.

Shop Able's Birkenstock Alternative

2. Nisolo

Materials: LWG Leather

Price: $138

Nisolo launched the Ella Platform Slide just in time for the warmer months ahead, and we LOVE the new style.

These comfy slides (which come in 3 colors) will be your next everyday go-to!

Nisolo is a certified B Corp and carbon-neutral company known for making ethical shoes.

They have been leading the way when it comes to paying living wages and creating an ethical work environment. They publish their wages and are very transparent about who makes their products and where.

code: FREESHIPSC for free shipping

Shop Nisolo's Birkenstock Alternative

3. Poppy Barley

Materials: LWG Veggie-Tanned Leather, Rubber, Memory Foam Insoles

Price: $218

Want the perfect fit? The Wanderlust Sandals from Poppy Barley have adjustable velcro straps (around the toes and back!) in order for you to customize your fit.

They also have additional arch support, so you can feel comfortable wearing them all day. Poppy Barley uses earth-conscious, water-based glues, and their shoeboxes are Forest Stewardship Council-certified and made with 67% recycled paper, water-based inks, and organic pigments!

Shop Poppy Barley Birkenstock Alternative

4. Will's Vegan Store

Materials: Bio-Based Vegan Leather, Cork, Vegan Suede, Recycled Rubber, Recycled Polyurethane

Price: $106

Will’s Vegan Store creates all kinds of shoes and clothes for women and men using vegan and cruelty-free materials. It offers multiple styles of sandals and two pairs of clogs that are quite similar to Birkenstocks. The uppers, which come with adjustable metal buckles to get the perfect fit, are either made from vegan suede or Italian vegan leather made with 69% bio-based content.

Its faux leather is produced in part from cereal crops with a viscose backing fabric derived from eucalyptus trees.

The brand’s sandals and clogs feature shock-absorbing cork footbeds providing arch support, insoles made of recycled polyurethane, a heel cup, and durable, grippy outsoles made with recycled rubber. They are also lined with soft vegan suede, making them very comfortable to wear, even without socks.

Will’s Vegan Store crafts them in Portugal and ships them using plastic-free packaging. It is also Climate-Neutral Certified, meaning that it measures and offsets its entire carbon footprint.

You can even use the brand’s “return to recycle” service to send back your shoes at the end of their lives so that they can get turned into new outsoles and uppers!

Shop Will's Vegan Store Birkenstock Alternative

5. Biankina

Materials: Recycled Microfiber, Cork, Jute, Rubber

Price range: $80-90

Biankina is a sustainable footwear brand based in Barcelona that sells vegan shoes, including a variety of sandals for women.

From its classic double-strap slides to one-strap models, most of its sandals are very similar to Birkenstocks. It even has double-strap slip-ons with a platform sole as well as a flip-flop type of sandal that looks like Birkenstock’s Gizeh model.

All of Biankina’s sandals have a timeless, modern, and elegant design, and they can be dressed up or down. You can choose from different colors, including some metallic ones. Both light and easy to wear, they will keep your feet comfortable and supported all day long!

The brand makes the uppers using Global Recycled Standard-certified recycled microfiber. It also uses soles made from 100% natural rubber and memory foam insoles. The cork midsoles provide natural shock absorption as you walk.

Since they also contain jute fiber, these sandals are designed to reduce heat conductivity, making them the perfect shoes for summer.

Biankina’s slides are handcrafted by skilled artisans in an ethical workshop in Spain. All its products are vegan and no harmful chemicals or glues are used during the production process.

And if you buy the one-strap style, the brand will plant two trees for your purchase.

use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC for 10% off

Shop Biankina's Birkenstock Alternatives

6. Nae Vegan Shoes

Materials: Piñatex, Cork, Recycled PET, Microfiber, Recycled Car Tires, EVA, Rubber

Price: $96

Nae Vegan Shoes is a Portuguese vegan footwear brand that sells sustainable shoes for women and men. Everything it creates is 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and crafted ethically in certified factories in Portugal.

The company offers a beautiful alternative to Birkenstock sandals with its DARCO collection.

Its four unisex slides are available in black, off-white, dark brown, and dark green.

They feature two adjustable straps with gold nickel-free buckles that you can adjust for the perfect fit. They are either made from GRS-certified recycled PET, locally sourced FSC-certified natural cork, or piñatex made from pineapple leaf fibers.

These sandals are lined with OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified microfiber produced in a CO2-free environment. So they do not contain any harmful substances and are 100% safe to wear! The lining is also hypoallergenic and has antibacterial properties to prevent odors.

The sandals’ ergonomic footbeds provide arch support and are crafted from cork and natural rubber, and their slip-resistant soles are produced from recycled car tires.

Nae Vegan Shoes also has a pair of vegan mule slippers that are incredibly similar to Birkenstock’s Boston clogs!

To top it all off, the brand ships its products using 100% recyclable, recycled packaging.

use code NAECHIC15 for 15% off

Shop Nae's Birkenstock Alternatives

7. Thesus

Materials: Recycled Plastic, Cork

Price: $138

Thesus is a Canadian BIPOC- and woman-owned brand that creates sustainable footwear and accessories. Its Terrus clogs, available in white, beige, and sage green, are a great alternative to Birkenstock’s clogs!

Unlike most clogs, these feature an adjustable back strap that helps keep them securely attached to your feet as you go about your day.

They are also very versatile since you can wear them with any outfit throughout the year (if you add a pair of socks in the colder months).

The Terrus clogs are 100% vegan, easy to clean, and made of 98% recycled plastic produced from repurposed marine waste collected by fishermen all around the globe.

They have a footbed crafted from natural cork with a soft lining, making them very lightweight and breathable. It provides arch support and perfectly molds to your feet so you can stay comfortable all day long. You will also love the wide-toe box, designed to fit all foot shapes and sizes!

Thesus uses water-based vegan glue to bind the upper and soles together, and it produces everything by hand in a family-owned factory in Portugal.

The brand pays its workers fair wages and prioritizes transparency, quality craftsmanship, and sustainable manufacturing practices throughout its entire supply chain.

Shop Thesus Birkenstock Alternatives

8. Good Guys

Materials: Apple Leather, Microfiber, Cork, EVA,

Price range: $128-133

Good Guys is a French vegan footwear brand with a great collection of unisex two-strap slide-on sandals. It offers four models, which are all comfortable and lightweight and feature a wide, anatomically shaped footbed.

Sold in the colors silver, gold, white, or brown, its sandals are either made from eco-friendly, long-lasting microfiber or apple leather.

The apple leather is produced using 30% to 40% apple waste sourced from the juice industry in Italy.

Both uppers look like real leather and are certified OEKO-TEX Standard 100, so they are completely free of harmful chemicals.

Good Guys also crafts the lining using plant-based microfiber made from corn glucose. It is very breathable, fast-drying, anti-bacterial, and OEKO-TEX certified as well.

Moreover, the sandals have non-slip EVA soles and a cork footbed that provides arch support and molds to your feet over time. As a PETA-approved brand, the company ensures all the components down to the glues are 100% vegan and cruelty-free.

The sandals are produced in a small family-owned factory in Spain that has been making shoes for over a century. We also appreciate that Good Guys uses recycled paper boxes for shipping and provides a reusable cotton bag with each shoe purchase.

Shop Good Guys Birkenstock Alternatives

9. ELK

Materials: Sheep Leather, Rubber, TPR Rubber

Price: $239

ELK is an Australian family-owned business that sells contemporary fashion pieces made ethically and with the planet in mind.

Its Uma slip-on slides are not as similar to Birkenstocks as the other models on this list, but they are still worth mentioning in this article!

Sold in a gorgeous, eye-catching metallic fuchsia or gold, these sandals will brighten any outfit and enhance your everyday style. They feature a crossover strap design and a comfortable molded footbed.

ELK’s Uma sandals have a rubber sole and a heel made of TPR rubber, while the uppers, footbeds, and lining are all crafted from sheep leather. The leather is chromium VI-free and sourced from a Leather Working Group audited and rated tannery, and it will get better with age as it develops a beautiful patina over time.

The brand is very transparent about the suppliers and factories it works with, and it only chooses partners with safe, fair, and inclusive workplaces.

ELK also uses sustainable packaging, its direct operations are 100% powered by green energy, and its products are free of harmful chemicals such as heavy metals, flame retardants, PFCs, and azo dyes.

Plus, it is a member of 1% For The Planet and Sedex, and it regularly supports and makes donations to different nonprofits. It even received the inaugural award for Sustainable Innovation at the 2019 Australian Fashion Laureate!

Shop Elk's Birkenstock Alternatives

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.