Ethical clothing is a general term that describes any type of clothing that promotes social and environmental responsibility. This means that the clothing is produced in ways that do not harm humans, animals, or the environment in any way. It also aims to improve the conditions of the people living in the clothes producing countries and communities. In essence, ethical clothing practices demand respect for human rights, social justice, and consideration of the animals that the clothes will be made of. There are many labels on such clothing. Some brands have been very politically active in dealing with issues that affect people’s lives.
The organic clothing industry has gained popularity over the past few years. These brands use organic fibers and fabrics, which mean that these products offer the same benefits as traditional clothing with none of the harmful substances that conventional manufacturing may utilize. This movement is an initiative from groups like the Fair Trade Project and World Wide Fund for Animals, who advocate for the ethical treatment of animals. They also work with the major clothing brands to promote fair wages for factory workers making organic garments.
Sustainable fashion is a collective approach and philosophy of promoting change in the apparel industry and textile production towards greater social and ecological integrity. Sustainable fashion also concerns more than just dealing with ethical textiles or garments. These brands also use ethical ways of cultivating and harvesting organic fibers and plants.
Other major organic clothing makers include Mother Nature Wears, which produces high quality, eco-friendly clothing for both men and women. They have been able to create their own designs so that each piece represents an ethical choice and is made out of sustainable plant and animal fibers. Their range of men’s clothing comprises of sweatshirts, hoodies, and shoes, while their women’s range of features apparel tops, bottoms, and coats.
The companies providing ethical clothing alternatives tend to source their fabrics and production from countries where the wages and working conditions are less harsh. Often these brands prefer to work with communities in places like Borneo or China, where labor conditions are much safer than in the west. In addition to the aforementioned organic fashion brands, there are other ethical alternatives brands offering sustainable fashion, including hemp and fair trade brands.
Some clothing manufacturers, such as Calvin Klein, have adopted an approach called “slow fashion.” This type of fashion is characterized by delicate fabrics that are not mass produced. In some cases, the brand utilizes vintage styles in order to keep its clothing timeless and hip. Several environmental advocacy groups have applauded this type of fashion as it encourages people to reconsider the way they wear clothing.