Sustainability has emerged as a defining characteristic of modern fashion, and men’s clothing is not lagging behind. In the quest to minimise ecological footprints without compromising on quality and style, several brands have spearheaded the transition to eco-friendly practices. Here is a curated list of the top ten sustainable clothing brands that are reshaping the earth-conscious wardrobe of men in 2024.
Asket
Notable For: Timeless Basics and Transparency
Founded with a commitment to create the perfect wardrobe essentials, Asket puts quality and sustainability at the forefront. Every garment is carefully thought-out in terms of materials and craftsmanship, ensuring they stand the test of time. Eschewing seasonal collections, Asket promotes a thoughtful, minimalistic approach to dressing. With a strong focus on traceability, they provide a detailed “impact receipt”, cataloging the positive and negative environmental effects of each purchase.
Sustainability Highlight:
- Direct-to-consumer model reduces excess and wastage in their supply chain.
- Aiming for full traceability by 2025 and a ‘Made to Last’ guarantee to increase product lifespan.
Patagonia
Notable For: Outdoor and Activewear
Arguably one of the pillars of sustainable fashion, Patagonia has been a leader in the industry long before it was fashionable. The brand’s mission to “build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis” drives everything it does. Its Worn Wear program and use of recycled and organic materials in most of its products are testaments to this commitment.
Sustainability Highlight:
- Donates at least 1% of sales to grassroots environmental organizations each year.
- Extensive Fair Trade operation to ensure workers in their supply chain are treated fairly.
Buck Mason
Notable For: Timeless American Classics and Durability
Buck Mason emphasises timeless American wardrobe essentials that stand the test of time. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and durable materials, their clothing combines classic style with the ruggedness required for the modern man’s lifestyle. Buck Mason is dedicated to creating pieces that improve with age, ensuring that each item not only looks good but also lasts for years to come. Their approach to fashion is about building a strong foundation of versatile, everyday items that are essential for any wardrobe, from the perfect-fitting T-shirt to the classic leather jacket.
Pact
Notable For: Organic Cotton and Sustainable Practices
Pact stands out for its unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices, focusing primarily on organic cotton clothing. By using 100% organic cotton, Pact significantly reduces the environmental footprint associated with traditional cotton production, which often involves a heavy use of pesticides and water. This commitment extends throughout their product line, which includes everything from soft, comfortable basics to stylish, everyday wear. Pact’s mission goes beyond just selling clothes; it’s about creating a movement towards eco-friendly and responsible fashion. Their products offer consumers a chance to be part of the solution, contributing to a healthier planet without compromising on style or comfort.
Ecoalf
Notable For: Urban Fashion and Innovation
Ecoalf has turned marine plastic waste into high-quality clothing. The Spain-born brand pioneers the use of recycled materials across its ranges, from jackets made from plastic bottles to flip flops from upcycled fishing nets. It’s not just the materials; Ecoalf promotes a circular economy, aiming to produce without depleting natural resources.
Sustainability Highlight:
- Up-cycling waste materials help to reduce marine pollution.
- Their “What Comes Around Goes Around” philosophy ensures that at the end of a product’s life, it can be fully recycled or up-cycled.
Nudie Jeans
Notable For: Denim Essentials and Repair Services
Denim powerhouse Nudie Jeans merges sustainability with timeless style. Their entire collection is made from organic cotton, ensuring no harmful chemicals are used in their production. The brand also runs a ‘Repair Shops’ initiative, offering free repairs to their denim to extend the life of their products.
Sustainability Highlight:
- Offers transparent supply chain and lists all suppliers on their website.
- Circular model with a re-use, repair, and recycle approach to extend the life cycle of each jean.
Outerknown
Notable For: Beach-Inspired Casuals
Co-founded by surfing legend Kelly Slater, Outerknown is a testament to the sustainable surfer lifestyle. Striving for sustainability in every thread, the brand’s ‘sustainability report’ provides a comprehensive overview of their supply chain, detailing their use of organic, recycled, and regenerated fibers.
Sustainability Highlight:
- Enforces high standards for their suppliers in terms of water conservation and fair labor practices.
- Regularly audits facilities and keeps sustainability at the heart of their partnerships.
Tentree
Notable For: Adventurous Apparel and Tree Planting
Tentree doesn’t just plant trees for each product sold; they’ve made it their mission to become the most environmentally progressive brand on the planet. The Canadian brand offers a range of casual men’s clothing made from sustainable materials, with a particular focus on reducing its carbon footprint.
Sustainability Highlight:
- Transparent supply chain with a focus on ethical manufacturing.
- Goal to plant 1 billion trees by 2030.
Kotn
Notable For: Modern Basics and Supporting Farmers
Kotn’s approach to sustainability is anchored in its supply chain, which is integrated from farm to store. The Egyptian cotton used is sourced directly from farmers, ensuring they receive fair wages for their work and the land is treated with respect. Kotn’s garments are soft, stylish, and handcrafted in the Nile Delta.
Sustainability Highlight:
- Works to support smallholder farmers through fair trade practices.
- Employs regenerative farming practices in their supply chain to promote healthy ecosystems.
Everlane
Notable For: Transparency and Ethical Factories
Everlane has set the bar high when it comes to transparency in the fashion industry. This brand is open about every aspect of its production process – from the cost of materials to the ethical standards of its factories. Everlane partners with the best, ethical factories worldwide and sources only the finest materials. By providing consumers with high-quality basics at the best prices possible, Everlane not only champions ethical practices but also challenges the traditional retail markup. Their commitment to revealing the true cost behind all of their products empowers consumers to make informed decisions, aligning with a growing demand for honesty and integrity in fashion. With Everlane, it’s about more than just looking good; it’s about feeling good in what you wear and knowing the positive impact of your purchase.
Choosing from these brands doesn’t just upgrade your wardrobe—it aligns your fashion choices with a more sustainable future. Each of these companies offers a unique take on ethical production and is actively working towards reducing environmental harm. By supporting them, you’re not just looking good; you’re doing good for the planet.