Sustainable fabrics are often made from natural or recycled materials, aiming to reduce harm through the production process, fiber properties, or overall environmental impact. These fabrics can also contribute to the reduction of waste, water conservation, lowered carbon emissions, and soil regeneration—though, as mentioned, there isn't one fabric that is entirely sustainable.
You'll find that "sustainable fabrics" is a term often used to group together various environmentally friendly materials, and several fabrics have garnered the "sustainable" label for different reasons. But just as sustainability is a moving target, so are fabrics—and no one fabric can do it all. But the hope is that through responsible production and environmental growing practices, better fabrics can help to create a more transparent fashion industry.
Below, you'll find some of the most commonly used sustainable clothing materials. We're sharing their definitions and which ethics and sustainability certifications to consider when shopping, so that you know how to choose the best option for you!
Recycled polyester is made from recycled plastic bottles which cuts out the need for petroleum and coal extraction. Our recycled polyester literally starts at the dump to collect plastic bottles that don't belong in landfills (yay waste-reduction!). From there, the plastic bottles are shredded into flakes by a machine (that can be run on renewable energy!). Those flakes are melted down into pellets, then the pellets are extruded (think spun and pulled like taffy) into yarn. The yarn is then knitted, cut, and sewn into clothing just like any other yarn.
