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. 


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.


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! 


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. 


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!


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. 


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! 


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


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. 


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. 


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. 


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! 


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.


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. 


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!


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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11 Non-Toxic & Sustainable Candles for the Eco-Friendly Home (2024)
 

Image: GROW Fragrance

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 working to make the world a better place!

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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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!


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.


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!


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!


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!


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?!


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.


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.


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.


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.


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.


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15 Best Etsy Shops for Sustainable Art, Jewelry, Gifts, and More
 

Etsy Shops Selling Sustainable Goods

Etsy has become one of the best places on the web to source handmade, local, and now sustainable goods. From shampoo bars and waste-free kits to upcycled art and apparel, Etsy provides an eco-friendly alternative to Amazon and other ecommerce giants that create more waste and cause more harm.

These days, Etsy also makes it easy for shoppers to identify and understand the different sustainability aspects of the stores they’re shopping from. Sustainability attributes are a newer, optional listing component that sellers can add to their listings. Shoppers can then search for these traits, such as “recycled” and “reusable” for example, and find products that match what they’re looking for.

Additionally, Etsy has committed to their own sustainability practices, becoming the first large ecommerce site to offset the entirety of their carbon emissions. They’ve also become partners with EcoEnclose, a company that makes it easier for sellers in the USA to use affordable, eco-friendly shipping options. That way, becoming a more sustainable seller on Etsy doesn’t cut into small business profits, and buyers can be part of the shift towards more environmentally friendly practices.

If you’re ready to support smaller businesses and make your lifestyle more sustainable in the process, get started with these 15 Etsy shops.

Our Top Picks for Sustainable Etsy Shops:

1. Me Mother Earth

Me Mother Earth is a Las Vegas-based sustainable living company that donates a portion of its proceeds back to ocean conservation.

They sell a variety of cleaning items, such as wooden and coconut scrub brushes, quick-dry diatomite soap dishes, foaming soap dispensers, dishwashing soap bars, and more.

They also have personal hygiene products like eco dental floss and bamboo toothbrushes for a more sustainable oral care routine.

Plus, you can find a homemade, nontoxic laundry stain remover stick along with other unique home essentials.


2. Hive and Honey Farm

Hive and Honey Farm is based in Minnesota, and they make full use of their honey farm’s byproducts by making beeswax candles, lip balms, and natural wood butter, which is designed to help you clean and polish wood surfaces. This Etsy seller’s main product is a range of beeswax food wraps for keeping food fresh without the plastic.

Their bees wrap comes in a range of sizes, with starter variety packs, food storage bags, and wraps for topping glass jars and bowls. 


3. Bunzow Glass

This Idaho-based Etsy shop was started by two former bartenders who wanted to repurpose some of the glass waste generated by the service industry. Now, they make upcycled drinkware, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and eco decor made from liquor and beer bottles.

All of the glassware they source is cut, shaped, and polished by hand. Since their company was started in 2016, they’ve diverted 10,000 bottles from their local landfill and helped buyers make more sustainable jewelry and lifestyle choices.


4. Happy Earth Boutique

This sustainable, natural, and non-toxic boutique sells pillow sprays, potpourri, yoga mat spray, shower mats, and bath salts.

All of these scented items are made using only essential oils, with no harsh chemicals.

One of their most innovative products are their toilet fizzies, which use baking soda, citric acid, and essential oil to create a fizz when they come into contact with water, gently cleaning the toilet without using harsh ingredients.


5. Manic Earth

Find reusable paper towels made from 100% cotton flannel in this Etsy shop based in Charleston, South Carolina.

You can buy a six-pack or a twelve-pack in a wide variety of playful designs and colors, from rainbow smiley faces and pickles to monstera leaves and sushi. These towels are absorbent and easy to wash and reuse, making them the perfect alternative to single-use paper towels that add waste to the environment—not to mention the cost savings in a product that can be used 10,000 times.


6. Purple Turtle Co

If you’re looking for a place to buy eco-friendly gifts, Purple Turtle Co has you covered. Their Etsy store sells a range of gift sets that can help someone kickstart a more sustainable lifestyle. Their health and beauty gift set contains a bamboo toothbrush and comb, a wooden soap dish, a makeup remover pad, and other essentials. They also have plant propagation kits and grow-your-own herb boxes, in addition to candle making kits. These DIY boxes stand out because they offer instruction guides on how to get started with a new hobby and incorporate it into your daily life for lasting, mindful habit


7. Linen by MN

Linen by MN is a handmade linen apparel company that can help you on your journey toward ditching fast fashion. This shop is committed to sustainability by using ethical production, fair trade practices, and eco-conscious sourcing. This shop also relies on locally-sourced, environmentally-friendly packaging for all their shipments. Find linen dresses, pants, tops, aprons, and more apparel, with most of their items being tailored and handmade according to your specific measurements. Choose your color, send your sizes, and wait for the perfect-fitting linen piece to arrive at your door.


8. Naturel USA

Shop owner Melissa started Naturel USA to combat the plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles filling up landfills worldwide. This Illinois-based shop has a wide range of zero-waste shampoo bars for all kinds of needs and concerns, including dry scalp shampoo, curly or dry hair shampoo, and purple toning shampoo for highlighted hair. She also has dry shampoo, starter kits, saver trays and bags that protect the bars, along with scrub-infused soaps that are vegan, handmade and cruelty-free.


9. Fripp Designs

This Etsy shop sells unique, hand-crafted art in the form of t-shirts, mugs, prints, and more.

Since each of their items are small batch and handmade at home, they make a great alternative to art and clothing you can buy at a major retailer.

This Georgia-based shop makes art in a blend of music, sports, aviation, and automotive themes, making it the perfect place to find gifts for car hobbyists, pilots, musicians, and so much more. 


10. Wild Harvest Studio

This shop makes organic cotton and hemp loungewear items like tank tops, yoga pants, jumpers, and beyond.

All of Wild Harvest Studio’s clothing is handmade, small batch, and one of a kind.

These pieces are also hand dyed with nontoxic plant dyes and printed with botanical and nature-inspired patterns. Since these pieces are custom made to order, the shop owner helps reduce textile waste. Plus, the natural fibers used in all her clothes are designed to last, helping extend their life cycle and fight back against fast fashion.


11. SimpleEcology

SimpleEcology is a sustainable lifestyle brand that helps people make easy, eco-friendly swaps.

They have a wide array of organic cotton totes, lunch bags, gift bags, aprons, and grocery bags.

Additionally, this family-run business sells reusable nut milk bags for creating your own almond milk, straining your own cheese and yogurt, or making loose leaf tea. Creating these products on your own helps reduce your consumption of single-use plastic and also saves money and resources.


12. ArtistRitasStudio

ArtistRitasStudio is a one woman artist shop that creates hand painted, customized pet portraits on salvaged wood boards.

Simply select your desired dimensions, make your purchase, and send in a photo of your pet with any additional specifications.

Florida-based Artist Rita also creates one-of-a-kind paintings of tropical wildlife, sunsets, and other nature scenes on palette wood, providing a sustainable alternative to the plastic-filled, easy discardable art that’s often found in big box stores.


13. Honeywild Apothecary

This natural skincare brand creates conscious, sustainable products that support people and the earth. Owners Laura and Kate have a five-acre property where they grow their own flowers and herbs and forage wild resources for their products. They also use honey and beeswax harvested on their own land in partnership with a local beekeeper. Their products include mineral sunscreen, everything balm, organic lip balm, botanical bath salts, and cold process soap—all of which are made in small batches to maintain a high level of quality. Everything they make is also free from sulfates, parabens, artificial fragrances, aluminum, and synthetic preservatives.


14. Ocean Plastics

This brand takes one of our environment’s greatest threats—microplastics in the ocean—and turns it into beautiful jewelry and accessories. In addition to cleaning up their local Florida beaches, these Etsy shop owners are also bringing awareness to the issue of microplastics by showing just how prevalent they are. The plastic debris are set in eco resin and shipped with plastic-free packaging and seed paper that you can plant to watch wild flowers grow. Lastly, a dollar of every sale is given to the Surfrider Foundation, which helps clean up and protect oceans and beaches.


15. Cork Culture USA

Cork Culture USA is an Etsy shop that makes wallets, purses, jewelry, bags, and accessories out of cork. As a biodegradable and recyclable material, cork comes from cork trees, whose forests sequester carbon and bolster biodiversity.

These cork goods are also a great alternative to leather, which is often tied to the environmentally degrading cattle industry, or faux leathers made from plastics. Cork Culture’s bags have a variety of colorful and interesting designs, from flowers and geometric shapes to plants and art.


About the Author

Michelle Polizzi is an independent writer and storyteller with 7 years of experience creating content online. Her writing has appeared in leading publications like Bitch, WELL+GOOD, Insider, and Healthline, and she covers topics like sustainable living, mental health, and intersectional feminism. Currently, she's pursuing an MFA in creative writing.


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Where to Rent Designer Dresses for Your Next Big Event
 

Image: Rent The Runway

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 fashion industry a better place!

A Guide to Renting Designer Dresses

When there is a special event on the calendar, it’s common to go shopping for something new for the occasion. While this isn’t sustainable for the Earth or your wallet, the good news is there are plenty of options to help you look and feel your best without contributing to the disposable fashion cycle. Whether shopping for a special event or just a special date night, renting designer dresses online is an easy way to save money and reduce pollution and your carbon footprint while feeling good in the clothes you wear. 

Why rent designer dresses?

For the planet.

By renting your clothes, especially when you don’t plan to wear the outfit again, it helps to minimize the environmental footprint associated with manufacturing, shipping, and disposing of clothing items. By encouraging the reuse of garments and extending their lifespan, dress rental services contribute to the reduction of textile waste and the conservation of resources. On average, renting one piece of clothing can save up to 24% water, 6% energy, and 3% CO2 emissions compared to buying a new item according to an LCA research study. This helps to combat the growing problem of fashion waste and encourages a more circular fashion cycle.

For your style.

Enjoy feeling more carefree with your closet by renting clothing that allows you to experiment with your personal style with no buyers remorse. You will have access to a wider variety for different occasions without having to invest in a large wardrobe of pieces you rarely wear. If you tend to avoid trying new trends or are wanting to be more creative with your wardrobe without the risk, clothing rental services are a great option for this. You don’t have to worry about feeling wasteful when the dress is longer in style, if you change your mind or if you only need the dress for a single special event because it will still have use after you are finished with it.

For your budget.

Renting dresses typically means spending a fraction of the cost compared to the cost of purchasing new items. Instead of spending money on a dress you may only wear once, renting it allows access to designer dresses for a fraction of the price. Rental services also eliminate impulse spending and more conscious consumption. With sales and promotions removed from the equation of purchases, there are no impulse buys you regret just because it was a good deal. When you rent clothes, you also don't have to worry about any costs the garment requires such as dry cleaning or repairs. Rental services typically handle these tasks as part of their service, which will save you money and time. 

The rise of rented fashion

If you are noticing a surge in clothing rental options, its because the business model is on the rise. The clothing rental market is estimated to reach 1.77 billion this year with continuous and consistent rise expected through 2029, Mordor Intelligence reports. As many people are realizing the impact of fast fashion but not wanting to sacrifice their wardrobe, rented fashion is becoming more popular. Constantly changing your wardrobe has been fueled by social media and the constant bombardment of trendy shopping hauls. However, it has also increased the appeal for clothing rental services because they provide an easy solution for evolving your style without the commitment.

Our Favorite Online Dress Rental Shops:

1. Armoire

Armoire offers monthly subscription plans that allow you to keep items for 30 days before returning.

The company offers free shipping, free dry cleaning, and free monthly personal styling with a stylist.

If you are an unlimited member, you can send back any items that aren’t a good fit for new options right away. Size availability ranges from sizes 0R through 24W and also include maternity.

The clothing options vary from semi-formal style to everyday casual clothing so you can rent more than just designer dresses.

Designers in their inventory include Adrianna Papell, Diane Von Furstenberg, Lilly Pulitzer, and more!  


2. Rent The Runway

Rent The Runway offers flexible designer dress rental options with both monthly subscription plans and one-time dress rentals.

With a large inventory of sizes, styles, and designers, you are likely to find something perfect and ready to wear for every occasion.

Rent the Runway offers sizes 00US through 22US along with maternity sizes. Dry cleaning services are included in the rental fee and there are also a variety of accessories, bags, and sunglasses available to complete the look. Designers in the Rent The Runway repertoire include Herve Leger, Rebecca Minkoff, Gucci, and Badgley Mischka.

One of the major perks of Rent The Runway is the company offers one free backup size with every one-time rental so if you are unsure of sizing or between sizes, you are more likely to have the perfect fit, with no extra charge. Rent The Runway also provides a lot of information and reporting about their efforts to increase sustainability within their own business and through their rental service, you can read more about it on their sustainability page.


3. Nuuly

Nuuly offers a monthly subscription plan for six items.

The monthly fee includes free shipping and free dry cleaning for all items. Size availability includes XS through XL, with some brands offering petite and plus sizes depending on the style.

Designers featured in the Nuuly “closet” include Anna Sui, Halston, and Ronny Kobo along with many other small labels. Nuuly does not currently have high-end or couture designers in their inventory but there are a lot of options for wedding guest dresses, brunch or luncheon events, and dresses perfect for your next vacation.

Nuuly is a popular choice if you are looking for a unique piece as they have specific collaborations with designers that are only available through Nuuly.


4. Haverdash

Haverdash offers more casual dress styles for a no commitment monthly subscription.

While the designers are smaller labels and boutique brands, there is a lot of variety and size options are often available in all dress styles.

Haverdash offers the option to switch out your three styles all month long so while you can only have three at a time, you have unlimited rotations.

If you only need a dress for a special event, you can return it and select another item to enjoy the rest of the month with your other two selections.

Size availability includes XS through XL and availability varies between brands and styles. Brands available in the Haverdash closet include Nicole Miller, Rebecca Minkoff, Vince, and Line and Dot.


5. Nova Octo

Nova Octoo offers trendy and fashion-forward designer dresses that will suit any occasion you have coming up. Their website is a breeze to shop with filters that let you sort by designer, occasion, body shape, and dress style. If you’re unsure what you are looking for or want to experiment with something new, virtual styling appointments with their staff stylist are available. 

Size availability ranges from sizes 0US through 16US and the company is hoping to expand size ranges as the company grows.

Novo Octo also offers accessory rental, which you can pick to complement your dress rental. Designers featured in their inventory include Oscar de la Renta, Monique Lhuillier, Dolce and Gabbana, Marchesa, and many more!


6. Janet Mandell

Janet Mandell offers four-day rentals for high fashion and unique dresses. If you are looking for dresses along the style of what you see on the red carpet, Janet Mandell usually has a similar look or dress by the same designer. Styles by designers like Alexander McQueen, Balmain, Carolina Herrera, Celine, Christian Dior, and Elie Saab are just a few of the large design house names. Due to the quality of designer dresses in their inventory, the selection is more limited because not all dress styles are available in all sizes.

Usually, just one size is available per dress. However, you can shop by size and easily see all the options that might work and further narrow your search by designer, occasion, and color. Janet Mandell also has a variety of casual clothing, accessories, handbags, and shoes if you want to rent a complete look.


7. Borrow by The Ensemble

Borrow by The Ensemble has designer dresses for every event and occasion. With styles from brands like BCBGMAXAZRIA, Aiden Mattox, Dress the Population and Adrianna Papell. Dresses are available to rent per item for 14 days with an optional extension period. Initial shipping and return shipping are both free along with free dry cleaning and there are no additional fees for garment wear and tear. Size availability ranges from XXS through XL or 0 through 14 depending on the designer and style.


Additional options for renting designer dresses

Le OraTulerie and By Rotation are community-based rental services where you can borrow dresses and other items from people’s personal closets. All lenders and renters go through an application process to verify their information before being allowed to lend or rent items. This makes the process much more intimate and personal but allows you to find one-of-a-kind or vintage items that most larger companies wouldn’t have in their inventory.


About the Author

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


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11 Sustainable, Organic & Vegan Vitamins To Try in 2024
 

Image: Wild Nutrition

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 working to make the world a better place!

The Best Sustainable & Organic Vitamins and Supplements

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

What to look for when shopping for vitamins and supplements

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

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

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

Our Favorite Sustainable & Organic Vitamin Brands:

1. Wild Nutrition

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

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


2. Form Nutrition

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

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

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


3. New Chapter

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

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

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

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

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


4. Mind Body Green

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

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

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


5. Plant People

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

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

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


6. HUM Nutrition

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


7. The Nue Co.

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

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


8. Garden of Life

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

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


9. Herbaland

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

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

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

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

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


10. Further Food

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

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

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

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


11. Vital Plan

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

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

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

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

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


About the Author

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


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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.


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