35 Cutting-Edge Sustainable Fashion Brands for Men That Redefine Style

The realm of fashion is intrinsically linked to the most pressing issues of the present moment. Today that is sustainability. Finding cutting-edge fashion whilst keeping our fingers green is easier than it sounds but it does take some research! 

Recent studies show that 60% of the consumers interviewed see sustainability as a central aspect when making buying choices, according to Pereira, L.; Carvalho, R.; Dias, Á.; Costa, R.; António, N. How Does Sustainability Affect Consumer Choices in the Fashion Industry? The remaining 40% recognize its relevance but are not implementing it.

It is not only the responsibility of consumers to make good choices. Many companies looking to make genuine positive changes to their values and day-to-day running have made great strides forward. Others have been slower on the uptake or prefer to misrepresent their supposed progress in exchange for favorable profit margins. Recently, Industry standards have pushed for significant improvements in the origins, materials, production methods, transportation, and clothes recycling. All of this, combined with our individual tastes and financial restrictions, can leave us feeling confused, guilty, and even ashamed about our consumer choices.

Fortunately, we have compiled a big list of cutting-edge sustainable fashion brands for men that redefine style and reduce the burden on you of making the right choice!

Here, in no particular order, are 35 companies you can trust:

State Of Matter Apparel: 

State of Matter Apparel is a sustainable men's clothing brand that is dedicated to creating clothing with sustainable materials, striving to achieve a close-to-100% sustainability goal. They prioritize innovative fabrics from recycled bottles, garments, and fishing nets, producing high-quality fibers. State Of Matter Apparel uses a number of creative solutions like Ecomade lycra, regenerated nylon, like-new polyester and an all-natural textile finish sourced from renewable, natural raw materials. There is a variety of stylish clothing that can be worn for formal and more casual occasions. Check out the website to find out more.

 

Pact

This socially conscious brand goes to great lengths to ensure that every step of its supply chain, from the cultivation and harvesting of organic cotton to the final sewing and all intermediate processes, complies with responsible and environmentally-friendly practices. Moreover, the use of non-GMO cotton not only benefits consumers but also supports the well-being of the farmers involved. Pact is deeply committed to creating incredibly soft and sustainable clothing for children and adults, while also contributing to a better world. They even offer environmentally friendly shipping!

Outerknown

 Outerknown is an exceptional brand specializing in basic clothing like shirts, shorts, sweaters, jeans, and more. What sets this brand apart is its commitment to sustainability. A staggering ninety percent of the fibers they source are organic, recycled, or regenerated, ensuring a reduced environmental impact. In their seven-year journey, Outerknown has made significant strides and achievements, but they acknowledge there is still much to learn and improve, a refreshing attitude to hear! Outerworn is an exceptionally transparent company that demonstrates its progress on the website.

Harvest and Mill

Harvest & Mill garments are proudly cultivated, milled, and sewn in the USA, championing American organic cotton farmers and local sewing communities. Their inclusive range of basics caters to everyone, with a substantial commitment to sustainable practices. By consciously avoiding dyeing or bleaching processes, they significantly minimize water and energy consumption and reduce the need for dye materials.

Buck Mason

Established in 2013 on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, this brand has revolutionized everyday men's fashion, infusing it with a modern, classic, and rugged touch. Praised by renowned publications like GQ, Forbes, and The Wall Street Journal, Buck Mason appeals to men worldwide. 

Buck Mason crafts its clothes in some of the world's most exceptional factories, where it blends innovative technologies with acute expertise. Its selection of local or international partnerships is guided by our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest quality standard. Buck Mason prioritizes fair working conditions and equitable compensation, fostering an environment that enables it to create some of the finest clothing at remarkably fair prices.

Stella McCartney

McCartney, a trailblazer in ethical fashion, challenges the stereotype of dull-colored fashion through her innovative designs. She consistently refrains from using leather or fur in her creations and actively contributes to environmental preservation by protecting endangered forests. McCartney's work proves that ethical fashion can be stylish, luxurious, and desirable, debunking misconceptions and paving the way for a more sustainable industry.

Quince

Quince, a San Francisco-based brand, is a good choice for budget-friendly and eco-conscious men's clothing. They have revolutionized their supply chain by shipping directly from their factories, eliminating unnecessary middlemen and excessive packaging. Additionally, they prioritize sustainability by using eco-friendly materials in their clothes, such as recycled polyester for activewear and organic cotton twill for chinos. With Quince, you can enjoy stylish, affordable, and sustainable fashion.

Taylor Stitch

This classic brand is committed to creating timeless and purposeful clothing, think California vibe. With over a decade of experience, Taylor Stitch is honing in on the essentials and emphasizing durable men's clothing that will stand the test of time. Not only that, but Taylor Stitch is also the genius behind Restitch, a program focused on repairing and reselling products to extend their lifespan and reduce waste. 

Nudie Jeans

Nudie Jeans is committed to using only organic, fair trade, or recycled cotton, accounting for more than 90%% of all the fibers in their clothing. Their organic cotton is rigorously certified by recognized organizations like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), the Organic Content Standard 100, and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). This dedication to sustainability ensures that Nudie Jeans maintains high standards throughout its production process.

Katla

Katla is a loungewear brand that seamlessly blends style and sustainability, creating a contemporary look. Grounded in their commitment to reducing fashion's environmental impact, Katla follows anti-waste manufacturing principles by implementing limited production runs. They prioritize using innovative, lower-impact materials, drawing inspiration from their Nordic heritage to create luxurious and consciously comfortable designs. With Katla, you can enjoy chic and environmentally-conscious fashion.

Gabriela Hearst

Hearst impressively organized the first-ever carbon-neutral fashion show during New York Fashion Week last September. Hearst is dedicated to using deadstock materials, which comprise approximately 25% of her collections, preventing them from ending in landfills. Moreover, she works with 600 skilled women from Uruguay who handcraft her designs. With her brand, Hearst seamlessly combines style and sustainability, positively impacting the fashion industry.

DL1961

DL1961, a denim brand based in New York, is committed to revolutionizing the industry's water consumption. Typically, producing a single pair of jeans requires a staggering 1,500 gallons of water. However, DL1961 aims to change this narrative by employing innovative 'waterless' technology. Remarkably, they have managed to produce their premium and stylish denim using a mere 10 gallons of water, 98% of which is recycled. Even more impressive is that their denim is crafted by recycling yarns that would otherwise contribute to landfill waste.

United By Blue

United By Blue, a certified B Corp, is driven by a clear philosophy: as an outdoor brand, it is dedicated to safeguarding our planet. With each article of clothing purchased, the company removes one pound of trash from oceans and waterways. By choosing their durable and sustainable apparel, you invest in high-quality products and contribute to eco-friendly initiatives. United By Blue's men's clothing is renowned for its resilience, ensuring it can withstand even the most challenging adventures. 

Patagonia

Patagonia, a pioneering advocate of environmental ethics, has been at the forefront of sustainable practices in the industry. They were among the first to embrace recycled materials and transition to organic cotton. Patagonia continually reinforces its dedication to labor ethics by prioritizing partnerships with US factories, including those in Texas and North Carolina. Through fair trade factories, Patagonia's innovative Worn Wear collection that promotes second-hand clothing demonstrates the positive impact they have made in sustainability.

Naadam

Naadam and its affordable cashmere sweaters strongly commit to transparency and sustainability. Naadam directly collaborates with herders in Mongolia, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their contributions. In addition, Naadam's dedication to sustainability is evident through its sourcing practices. In 2019, the brand successfully integrated 100% renewable or recycled materials. Naadam's holistic approach to ethical and eco-friendly practices sets them apart, making them a brand worth admiring.

Sézane

The Parisian brand, has a clear mission: to craft impeccably tailored, high-quality garments. Throughout its 10-year journey in the fashion industry, the brand remains committed to offering limited-quantity pieces. Operating under an alternative model, Sézane exemplifies creativity, innovation, and eco-friendliness. This ideology has propelled the brand to achieve B-Corp Certification, reflecting its holistic approach to every aspect of its operations. From production methods and selection of raw materials to ensuring fair working conditions, minimizing environmental impact, and actively engaging with the community, Sézane prioritizes a comprehensive and sustainable approach.

Tekla

Tekla, renowned for its impeccable striped bedding and towels, has captivated us even further with its exquisite sleepwear collection. Although they refrain from labeling themselves as a sustainable brand, recognizing that introducing new products conflicts with sustainability, Tekla has recently achieved B Corp status. Moreover, they are actively pursuing Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification and have set a target of reducing their emissions by 45% by 2025.

Todd Shelton

If you're searching for American classics that stand the test of time, Todd Shelton is the brand for you. Their made-to-order clothes embody the essence of slow fashion, with timeless silhouettes and seasonless staples that will remain in style for a lifetime. What sets Todd Shelton apart is their direct employment, ensuring complete control over the workplace conditions at their factory in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This commitment to providing a happy and healthy work environment is evident in every crafted piece. 

Everlane

The brand's dedication to transparency empowers consumers to explore the details and discover that 97% of their polyester and nylon clothing is now sourced from certified recycled fibers. Additionally, Everlane has taken significant steps to enhance its packaging sustainability by ensuring that 100% of its virgin plastic shipping bags are made from 100% recycled plastic or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper. Furthermore, their jeans are produced in a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified factory that recycles 98% of its water.

Brøgger

In 2017, Julie Brøgger introduced her Danish fashion label with a profound belief in the significance of longevity and adopting a more conscientious approach to fashion consumption. Brøgger is dedicated to implementing low-impact production methods and has gained recognition for her remarkable ability to strike the perfect balance between masculine and feminine looks. Despite the challenges of pursuing a more sustainable path, Brøgger remains optimistic, recognizing the lasting impact that recent industry changes have made on brands and consumers. 

Tentree

Tentree is a brand that plants ten trees for every item purchased. This Canadian company has set a goal to plant one billion trees by 2030. They are committed to using a range of sustainable fabrics and blends, such as organic cotton and Tencel, in their clothing production. Tentree offers comfortable clothing with a minimal footprint while contributing to a greener future.

Brother Vellies

Established in 2013 by designer Aurora James, Brother Vellies is a luxury footwear brand that is dedicated to preserving traditional African design practices and techniques. With a global network of artisans, the brand creates stunning collections using ethically sourced materials. From vegetable-tanned leathers to soling made from recycled tires, each piece is meticulously crafted with hand-carved wood, floral-dyed feathers, and beautiful fabrics. With Brother Vellies, you can embrace the artistry and craftsmanship of global artisans while supporting sustainable and culturally rich fashion.

ASKET

ASKET, based in Stockholm, has created an enduring collection of timeless garments built to withstand the test of time. With a zero-waste policy and a commitment to using natural materials, ASKET takes its role in the fashion industry seriously. The brand prioritizes full transparency, sharing detailed information about the cost, impact, origins, and supply chain of every article of clothing

Veja

Since 2005, Veja has been revolutionizing the sneaker industry. According to the brand, they produce environmentally friendly sneakers using raw materials obtained from organic farming and ecological agriculture while avoiding the use of chemicals or polluting processes. For instance, Veja utilizes organic, agroecological, and fair-trade cotton for their sneaker canvas, sources rubber from the Amazon rainforest for the soles, and even incorporates recycled plastic bottles to create a mesh. Veja's commitment to sustainability shines through its innovative approach to creating stylish and eco-conscious footwear.

Levi's

Not only is the brand renowned for its iconic denim, but it also strongly emphasizes sustainability and eco-friendly production practices. Levi's takes concrete steps to reduce water consumption, recycle and repurpose old vintage denim, and responsibly source materials like cotton and Tencel™ Lyocell. Their commitment to sustainability goes beyond materials, as they prioritize inclusivity by offering a wide range of sizes. With Levi's, you can enjoy fashion-forward denim while supporting a brand that cares about the environment and promotes body positivity.

Octobre

Octobre offers a Parisian-inspired wardrobe filled with timeless pieces that transcend seasons. Emphasizing small-batch production, 95 percent of their manufacturing takes place in Europe, ensuring high quality and close monitoring of their factories. Octobre also prioritizes sustainable practices using natural materials such as organic cotton and Mulesing Free Merino wool. With convenient worldwide shipping, you can effortlessly enhance your wardrobe with essential Parisian staples at the click of a button.

Fair Indigo

When it comes to sustainable clothing, one important aspect that is often neglected is the durability and longevity of the garments. Fair Indigo, however, prioritizes creating clothes that can withstand the test of time, with many pieces designed to last for over five years. Its Forever Organic Tees are available in various styles and dyed using earth-friendly methods. These tees are made from organic Peruvian Pima cotton, meticulously grown on a family farm, and harvested by hand. Fair Indigo focuses on producing high-quality clothes and upholds sustainable and ethical practices throughout its supply chain. Additionally, they offer free shipping options, making them a top choice for affordable organic basics and beautifully crafted accessories.

Mud Jeans

Mud Jeans is a brand that stands out for its commitment to sustainability. Their jeans are made with up to 40% post-consumer recycled denim, reducing waste and promoting circular fashion. What's more impressive is that each pair of jeans requires less than 600 liters of water, starkly contrasting the industry average of 7,000 liters. Remember that as Mud Jeans is based in The Netherlands, customers in the U.S. should consider international shipping costs when placing an order.

Parker Clay

This American-based brand is on a mission to create a future free from exploitation by improving lives and communities in Ethiopia. Through a partnership with a Women at Risk program, Parker Clay works to empower women and offer them a pathway out of prostitution by providing stable income and a safe working environment. Parker Clay supports women and they also preserve traditional Ethiopian techniques, materials, and styles, allowing the country to stay connected to its rich cultural heritage. 

Thought

Thought is a London brand offering a fantastic eco-friendly and organic men's clothing selection. Their thoughtfully sourced fabrics, including options like hemp, reflect their dedication to creating a responsible fashion line. Moreover, the brand actively engages in charitable giving, making it an ideal destination for finding essential pieces for your wardrobe. And to top it off, they offer international shipping, ensuring its sustainable styles are accessible worldwide.

Allbirds

With a focus on sustainability, Allbirds uses natural materials like Tencel Lyocell derived from wood pulp, responsibly sourced Merino wool, and even repurposed crab shells in their tees, sweaters, and outerwear. The result is a collection that is incredibly soft and cozy and built to stand the test of time. As a certified B Corp, Allbirds is committed to being carbon-neutral and adopts recycled packaging practices. Additionally, through a partnership with Soles4Souls, Allbirds ensures that returned or lightly used shoes find new homes in needy communities.

Kotn

Kotn's ultra-soft basics' luxurious touch is crafted from premium Egyptian cotton. From cotton cultivation on their farms to factory production, Kotn ensures that all their clothes are made in a fair and safe environment. They are also actively supporting their suppliers in transitioning to organic practices within the next five years, furthering their commitment to sustainability. As a certified B Corp, Kotn has significantly impacted over 100,000 lives in Egypt through initiatives such as building schools and supporting over 2,000 farms. 

Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi stands out as a Certified B Corporation. The brand prioritizes its business practices and allocates 1% of its revenue to combat poverty and promote community development. Cotopaxi places great importance on ensuring fair and sustainable working conditions and annually provides targeted grants to nonprofit organizations, furthering its positive impact on society.

MATE The Label

MATE The Label makes having a clean wardrobe simple by using only natural and non-toxic materials such as 100 percent linen, organic cotton, and low-impact dyes in their clothing. All their pieces are thoughtfully crafted, cut, sewn, dyed, and packaged in an eco-friendly manner in downtown Los Angeles. Moreover, MATE The Label is climate-neutral and actively supports environmental causes.

Boden

Boden is a brand that offers vibrant polos, cashmere sweaters, and classic cardigans. The brand is dedicated to responsible sourcing, fair trade, and ethical practices across all its factories, ensuring that your fashion choices align with your values. In terms of ethics and sustainability, Boden is a proud member of the Ethical Trading Initiative.

Who Is the Driving Force Behind All The Change?

It is remarkable how much has changed in the past 15 years, especially with the emergence of younger generations actively seeking sustainable products and brands. A recent study highlights that 62 percent of Generation Z, who are about to enter the workforce, prefer purchasing from sustainable brands, according to a Forbes 2019 report titled "The State of Consumer Spending: Gen Z Shoppers Demand Sustainable Retail." Moreover, they openly express their willingness to pay a premium for such goods. 

The shift towards sustainability is gaining momentum, with younger generations leading the charge. With every generation, the quest for sustainability strengthens.

Can The Fashion Industry Keep Up?

What may have been dismissed as a passing trend just a few years ago has proven to be a lasting movement that continues to bring about transformative changes in the fashion industry. Seeing brands realize the need for real and substantial actions, rather than superficial measures, to showcase their sustainability efforts is heartening. 

The positive news is that the fashion industry is open to change. As the industry continues to evolve, there is potential for it to generate innovative sustainability solutions that can further fuel its growth and progress. The industry must take responsibility and ensure complete transparency from the early stages of product development to the final sales rack.

Consumer demand for sustainability is a powerful force that can shape the fashion industry. As brands recognize the need for genuine change and embrace transparency, the industry has the potential to not only meet consumer expectations but also pioneer new sustainability solutions. This optimistic outlook signifies a positive and transformative future for the fashion industry and its impact on the environment.

What Does the Future Hold?

A sustainable fashion industry looks like a guarantee for the foreseeable future, but other exciting and innovative changes could be coming. Although we should be careful when predicting the future, some intriguing parts of the fashion industry are already being developed right now! 

Future fashion trends are shifting towards prioritizing health and well-being. Textile manufacturers and brands have been exploring health-promoting properties in clothing, such as nanocapsules for skin care and regeneration and intelligent threads that act as sensors and provide health benefits. The pandemic has also highlighted the importance of antiviral properties in textiles, making people feel safer.

Fashion has been moving towards comfort for years, drawing inspiration from sports and outdoor fashion. Accepting sneakers, stretch denim, and comfortable suits reflects this trend. Comfortable clothing has also gained significance, especially with the rise of remote work. Mental health has also become a prominent theme, with outdoor activities and nature being seen as a healing balance to everyday stress.

Whatever the future holds, you can be sure that the fashion industry will be one of the first setting trends!