The Best Sustainable Basics: Wardrobe Staples That Last
CLOTHING
4/13/20253 min read
10 Sustainable Clothing Brands for Everyday Basics
Fast fashion is wreaking havoc on our planet, filling landfills with cheaply made clothing that wears out after just a few washes. It can be hard to avoid when society is constantly telling you that you need “this” or “that”, new trends hitting the market only to fizzle out after a year and be replaced by even newer trends. And even the brands you might not think of as “fast fashion”... are indeed that! Check out this article on some popular brands to avoid if you’re trying to live more sustainably.
I know this all sounds quite depressing, but the good news is that more and more brands are stepping up to offer high-quality, sustainable alternatives. If you're looking for everyday, timeless basics that are ethically made, organic, and built to last, here are ten brands that should be on your radar.
1. Ninepine
Ninepine is an excellent choice for those looking for comfortable and stylish everyday wear with a focus on sustainability. They prioritize eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled fabrics while ensuring ethical manufacturing practices. Their minimalist designs make them perfect for casual wear, and their durability means you won’t need to replace them often—reducing waste and saving resources. I recently purchased a couple pairs of their Asana Relaxed pants for work, and I never want to take them off – they’re SO freaking comfy!
2. Pact
Pact is known for its commitment to using 100% organic cotton and fair trade-certified factories. Their clothing is soft, breathable, and designed to be both stylish and long-lasting. Whether you’re in need of basic tees, cozy leggings, or undies, Pact has plenty of sustainable options that won’t wreck your wallet.
3. Kotn
If you love simple, well-made essentials, Kotn is definitely a brand worth checking out. They focus on sustainably sourced Egyptian cotton, working directly with farmers to ensure ethical practices and fair wages. Kotn’s clothing is designed to be timeless and high-quality, making it a smart investment for a sustainable wardrobe.
4. Organic Basics
True to their name, Organic Basics offers a range of sustainably made wardrobe essentials, from underwear to activewear. They use eco-friendly fabrics like TENCEL™ and organic cotton while maintaining transparency about their ethical production processes. Their products are not only comfortable but also built to last, cutting down on the cycle of wasteful fast fashion.
5. Everlane
Everlane is a go-to brand for those who want ethically made basics with a modern touch. They focus on radical transparency, sharing details about their factories, material sourcing, and production costs. Everlane’s sustainable collections, including their ReNew line made from recycled plastics, make it easy to build a conscious wardrobe without sacrificing style. And let’s face it – we all want to look cute!
6. Thought
Thought is a UK-based brand offering stylish and comfortable basics made from organic and sustainable materials like bamboo, hemp, and organic cotton. They prioritize ethical sourcing and fair wages while creating high-quality, versatile pieces that stand the test of time.
7. Boody
Boody specializes in ultra-soft basics made from organic bamboo. Their breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics make them ideal for everyday wear, from loungewear to underwear. Plus, their eco-friendly production methods help conserve water and reduce waste. I’ve been on a mission to find cozy underwear that’s also durable, and I must say, I am impressed! Boody is quite possibly THE coziest underwear I’ve ever worn – and feels like they’ll last years!
8. tentree
For every item purchased, tentree plants ten trees, making them a brand dedicated to environmental impact. How cool is that? They use sustainable materials like hemp, organic cotton, and TENCEL™, ensuring that their clothing is both eco-conscious and durable.
9. Colorful Standard
This brand offers high-quality, timeless basics made from 100% organic cotton. Their color-rich collections are pre-washed to prevent shrinkage, and their ethical production practices ensure fair wages and sustainability. Brighten up your wardrobe with some colorfully conscious pieces!
10. People Tree
People Tree is one of the pioneers in ethical fashion, with a commitment to fair trade and sustainable materials. They offer a range of stylish yet simple essentials made from organic cotton and other eco-friendly fabrics, all crafted with care for people and the planet.
Why Choose Sustainable Basics?
Investing in sustainable clothing doesn’t just benefit the planet—it benefits you too. High-quality, organic materials feel better against your skin, last longer, and reduce the need for constant replacements. By choosing brands that prioritize ethical practices and durability, you’re making a positive impact on the environment while curating a timeless, responsible wardrobe.
Switching to sustainable fashion is a step toward reducing waste, supporting fair labor, and protecting our planet for future generations. These brands make it easy to look good while doing good – so think of them when you’re ready to start building a capsule wardrobe that will last!