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If you have an interest in shopping ethically, it can feel daunting at first. It’s OK to start small by slowly adding ethically sourced items into your wardrobe. (Big Shot Theory (Adobe Stock))
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Over a decade ago, I was introduced to Dressember. Since participating in this style and fundraising challenge to end human trafficking, I have gained an appreciation and passion for shopping ethically.
Fast fashion mass produces trending clothing at very low prices. It creates a constant flow of new styles into stores, and encourages consumers to constantly purchase new and dispose of the less than new in an unsustainable cycle.
Toxic dyes and the throw-away mindset led to a huge environmental problem. (Sasha (Adobe Stock))
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Prices are low due to poor quality fabrics like synthetic, non-biodegradable textiles. Toxic dyes and the throw-away mindset led to a huge environmental problem. Prices are also kept low due to labor exploitation. Manufacturing is outsourced to countries without many labor protections leading to unsafe working conditions, forced overtime and wages that are lower than the cost of living. Some places may even use child and slave labor.
As a consumer, we can create change by how we spend our money. One way is by seeking clothing companies that operate ethically and prioritize fair trade policies. I have a few favorites back in the States, but PCSing to Europe has opened up some additional options. Let’s explore!
Once you get into ethical and fair-trade shopping, you’ll notice a pattern. Thrifting is always recommended. After working at the Patch Thrift Shop at USAG Stuttgart, my eyes were opened to the reality of fast fashion, and it helped changed my approach to shopping.
It might take a bit longer to find just what you’re looking for while thrifting, but you’ll also discover so many fun pieces you didn’t know you needed. Thrift shops are also often operated by charitable organizations, so your purchases are giving back in multiple ways.
Start by checking out the thrift shop on base. Most of the U.S. bases around Europe have one that is operated by the spouses’ club or another private organization.
Once you get into ethical and fair-trade shopping, you’ll notice a pattern. Thrifting is always recommended. (Seventyfour (Adobe Stock))
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But don’t be afraid to branch out into the local economy. The U.K., for example, has a strong charity shop culture, so you’ll be able to find a plethora of options in the shopping areas of each town.
Boden: I have been a longtime fan of this British-based brand. My first purchase was at least 10 years ago, and the dress is still one of my favorites. If you love a preppy J. Crew look, you will love Boden for their classic styles in fun, bright colors. Plus, they have clothing for women, men and children so the whole family can be decked out in ethical clothes that are fun, comfortable and good quality. I may have spent a little too much time browsing their new arrivals section to make my own wish list while working on this article.
Armedangels: While I don’t have personal experience with this brand, browsing their website made me excited to explore them more. Looking at the New Arrivals’ section in Women’s clothes, I saw a lot of great basics like tees, tanks, dresses, jeans and so much more.
Kings of Indigo: Another brand that offers clothes for both men and women, Kings of Indigo would be another great option for building an ethical wardrobe. I browsed the new arrivals section and found more great basics. Want to shop in person? They have a location in Amsterdam. Who doesn’t need an excuse to visit The Netherlands???
Living Crafts: This German based brand offers clothes for the whole family along with some home and beauty products. As I checked the New Arrivals section, I saw everything from pajamas to promising looking basics. I know we’re talking about clothes, but their organic cotton dishcloths in a variety of colors are calling my name!
Organic Basics: As the name suggests, this Danish brand promises some great quality basics. From underwear to activewear, dresses to swimwear, this company offers something for both women and men. I also appreciated the range of body types of the models so no matter your body type, you can envision yourself in their clothes.
There are SO many more options out there, though! These options merely scratch the surface.
ThredUp: This is an online thrift shop. I love it because you can easily sort by brand, clothing type, quality, price and material. Since finding ThredUp, I probably purchase 90 percent of my clothes from them. The downside is they only stock women’s clothing. Sorry guys, you’re out of luck here!
It might take a bit longer to find just what you’re looking for while thrifting, but you’ll also discover so many fun pieces you didn’t know you needed. (AnnaStills (Adobe Stock))
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Mata Traders: This is one of my absolute favorites! But it’s just for the ladies. The fabrics are good quality, the clothes are well made, and I always get compliments when wearing my Mata Traders pieces.
Pact: They carry a lot of basics for women and men, so their items are great if you’re into a capsule wardrobe. I absolutely love their underwear!
If you have an interest in shopping ethically, it can feel daunting at first. It’s OK to start small by slowly adding ethically sourced items into your wardrobe. It’s a process and doesn’t need to happen all at once. Over time, you may change your shopping habits and find your closet is filled with items that you’re proud to wear.
