Let’s decode the complex world of vegan fashion, separating the wool from the cotton and the silk from the satin. We promise there will be no pop quiz at the end, but you will earn the right to impress your vegan and sustainable-loving friends at your next cocktail party.
What is Vegan Fashion?
Vegan fashion is clothing that does not use animal-derived materials. This means no leather, wool, silk, angora, cashmere, mohair, down, or fur. Vegan fashion also prioritizes ethical and eco-friendly production.
The demand for cruelty-free fashion is on the rise as consumers become increasingly aware of the impact of their clothing choices on animals, people, and the planet. This shift in consumer attitudes is leading to the growth of vegan fashion brands and the expansion of sustainable practices in the fashion industry as a whole.
Materials Matter
The foundation of any vegan wardrobe begins with understanding the most common vegan-friendly fabrics.
Natural Fibers
- Organic cotton: Grown without harmful pesticides and fertilizers, organic cotton is better for farmers, farmworkers, and the environment.
- Linen: A natural fiber derived from the flax plant, linen is biodegradable and highly renewable.
- Hemp: A fast-growing, hardy plant, hemp requires less water and pesticides than cotton. Hemp fibers can be used to make a variety of textiles, including denim.
Natural fibers can be processed using environmentally harmful chemicals; look for certified organic or responsibly sourced versions when possible.
Innovative Textiles
The fashion industry is constantly innovating, leading to the development of new vegan-friendly fabrics.
- Lyocell (Tencel): This fabric is made from wood pulp (often from sustainably managed forests) and is biodegradable. Tencel is also absorbs moisture, making it a popular choice for athletic wear and undergarments.
- Pineapple leaf fiber (Piñatex): This vegan leather alternative is made from the leaves of pineapples, a byproduct of pineapple farming. The pineapple plant continues to grow and produce fruit for harvest, making this a sustainable choice.
- Mushroom-based leather alternatives: Companies like MycoWorks and Fungi Perfecti are developing plant-based leather from mushrooms, which offers the potential for a renewable, biodegradable alternative to animal leather.
While these innovative fabrics have the potential to reduce the environmental impact of fashion, it’s important to consider the production methods used to make them. Look for certified sustainable versions of these fabrics to ensure they are produced in an ethical and environmentally friendly way.
Ethical Production Practices
In addition to using vegan-friendly materials, it’s important to consider the production practices employed by fashion brands.
Start with transparency. That means knowing where your clothes are made and that the people involved in making them are being treated fairly. Look for brands that are transparent about their supply chains and have policies in place to ensure fair labor conditions.
Next, consider sustainable manufacturing. Sustainable practices like using renewable energy, minimizing waste, and reducing water usage help to reduce the environmental impact of fashion. Look for brands that have made a commitment to sustainable manufacturing and have third-party certifications to back up their claims.
Certifications and Labels to Look For
When it comes to shopping for vegan and sustainable fashion, there are several certifications and labels you can look for to help you make informed choices.
- Vegan certification: Look for the Vegan Society logo or PETA-approved Vegan certification to ensure that the product is made from vegan materials and that the production process is free from animal exploitation.
- Ethical and sustainable certifications: Look for certifications like the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Fair Trade, and B Corp to ensure that the product is made using sustainable practices and that the people involved in the production process are being treated fairly.
Keep in mind that not all brands will have these certifications, but they can still be committed to vegan and sustainable practices. Do your research on brands you want to support and consider contacting them directly with any questions you may have.
Building a Vegan Wardrobe
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to start building your vegan wardrobe.
Invest in timeless pieces that are versatile and long-lasting. This will help reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion. Look for high-quality basics like a classic pair of jeans, a well-fitting pair of dress pants, a denim jacket, a simple blouse, and a classic tee.
When it comes to shopping for vegan fashion, consider shopping from ethical brands. Do your research on brands you want to support and consider reaching out to them with any questions you may have. Here are some emerging vegan fashion brands that are worth checking out:
- Patagonia: Known for their commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, Patagonia offers a range of vegan-friendly clothing for men and women.
- Everlane: This direct-to-consumer brand offers a range of ethically-made basics, including denim, jackets, and sweaters.
- Stella McCartney: A leader in the vegan fashion space, Stella McCartney offers high-end, vegan-friendly clothing for men and women.
- Reformation: While not exclusively vegan, this brand offers a range of sustainable, ethically-made clothing made primarily from natural fibers.
- Mara Hoffman: This sustainable fashion brand offers a range of vegan-friendly clothing for women, including swimwear made from recycled materials.
Supporting brands that share your values and prioritize sustainability and ethics will help drive positive change in the fashion industry.
Caring for Your Vegan Wardrobe
Once you’ve built your vegan wardrobe, it’s important to care for your clothes in a way that is good for both the environment and your wallet.
Always read and follow the care instructions on the label of your clothes. In general, opt for eco-friendly cleaning methods like washing in cold water and hanging your clothes to dry rather than using a dryer. These simple steps can help extend the lifespan of your clothes and save you money over time.
When you’re ready to get rid of clothes you no longer want or need, consider donating or repurposing them rather than throwing them away. Many charities accept clothing donations, and there are also organizations that specialize in textile recycling.
By taking care of your clothes and finding new homes for the ones you no longer need, you can help reduce the amount of clothing that ends up in landfills and extend the life of these items, reducing the need for new clothes to be produced.