Best Ethical Fashion Brands (2026) | Independent Labels to Know

What Makes a Brand “Ethical”? 

There are a lot of ways to consider what the word “ethical” means, but to us we always start at who is behind the label. Is it a massive corporation or an individual? A huge way for us to influence a more just economy is to try and support smaller, independent designers who are doing the right things rather than fast fashion brands who are attempting to just do one small thing to right within their supply chains. That is marketing, not commitment.

We then always look at materials – are they using sustainable fabrics? Our favorites include organic cotton, TENCEL™, recycled fibers, linens, wools and hemp. Conscious brands tend to go for materials that are biodegradable.

Labor is huge ethical consideration as well. We really like brands who talk openly about what workshops they use and where they source from. We do tend to see that it it easier to find that sort of information from smaller brands who are happy to highlight where they are producing. Supply chain transparency is always key to truly ethical fashion.

Finally, low waste production will be something we consider. We really love brands that make small batch runs, even some that are made to order. Another way to combat fashion waste is foundational collections that never change. They are normally full of best selling pieces that never go on sale as they never go out of style. This is a way that slow fashion works – it may take more to make but the process is thoughtful and the end result is long lasting.

Finally, we love that innovation so often comes from our smaller slow fashion designers. They are looking at new materials, new ways of farming, new methods of dyeing that all work in harmony with the earth.

Our podcast episodes with the incredible Mara Hoffman and Christy Dawn really highlight this innovation and dedicated in conscious brands so do give them a listen!

Best Ethical Fashion for Basics

For your classic ethical fashion tees and other staples, we love OZMA, Industry of all National and Mate the Label.

For sustainable denim, we go to Triarchy, Huit, ELV Denim or the new Citizens of Humanity Regenerative Line.

A new favorite is COED, started by our friend Kelly Vitengel and her parter. It is an homage to American craftsmanship, regenerative farming and uses plant dyes. When it comes to sustainable fashion, she is ticking all of the boxes. It’s also unisex so you can shop for your partner while you shop for yourself!

Best Ethical Fashion for Formal Wear

For the most beautiful dresses, we love Christy Dawn first and foremost as they are incredibly dedicated to a regenerative farming future and lean into both the feminine and the comfort of dressing up.

Another great one for more formal wear is Olistic the Label, which is a small French line that produces with incredibly sustainable fabrics.

Our founder is a huge fan of Doen as well, and often looks at their organic cotton range for some of her more elevated dresses.

Best Ethical Fashion for Knitwear

For knits, you cannot beat the un-dyed and unisex line Industry of all Nations. Our whole team and their partners wear this line constantly. Vincent James is a new find as well, and we love her knitted dresses and perfect cardigans.

For more substantial and stylized knits, Janessa Leone, Shaina Mote and OZMA do an amazing job of creating pieces you want to wear all winter long.

Another highlight for us is the Canadian brand Bare Knitwear, which works with Peruvian farmers to create timeless pieces.

For our British friends, HERD and Navy Grew are two other classic lines dedicated to local wool and regenerative farming practices!

Best Ethical Fashion for Accessories

Janessa Leone is a our go to for the most beautiful woven hats and bags.

For swimwear, we love Anemos and Kye Intimates in Los Angeles.

For lingerie, you can see our full guide here!

Best Ethical Fashion for Workwear

Maria McManus and Another Tomorrow are both incredible New York City designers we head to for everything from party dresses to work wear.

Another Tomorrow is built on a foundation of community, transparency, and organic scarcity, every decision has been guided by our commitment to sustainability and a value system based on empathy for the Earth and its inhabitants, focused on three key pillars – human, animal, and environmental welfare. You can listen to our podcast conversation with founder Vanessa Barboni Hallik here!

Ethical Fashion FAQs

What is the most ethical clothing brand?

There are so many contenders for this position, but as a team our personal favorites from a very long list are Industry of all Nations, Christy Dawn and Another Tomorrow. All of these brands design for longevity and take their craftsmanship incredibly seriously. They are also all using various forms of regenerative agriculture which is a huge plus for us!

Are small fashion brands more sustainable?

Typically yes – small fashion brands tend to put a lot more value on the items they produce and customer relationships as these are so intrinsic to their success. They inherently seem to value more sustainable means of making items as well. 

Is ethical fashion more expensive?

Unfortunately yes, but the old adage “you get what you pay for” tends to be very true here.

How can I tell if a brand is truly sustainable?

The best course of action here is always to take matters into your own hands – no one can tell you what you value when it comes to purchasing clothing ethically more than yourself. We always suggest doing a deep-dive on a brand’s website pages, seek out their ethos, and even email their customer service if you really want to know more! If the brand truly cares about their materials, artisans, factories, etc. you will normally find that they are excited to talk to you about it!

Other tips include looking for brands working only with natural materials, or brands who have taken the time to get certifications done.