Summer is almost here and with it, a whole new season of parties, events and get-togethers where advocates of ethical and vegan fashion will have all eyes on us for the latest in planet-friendly attire.
Most of us are aware of fashion’s adverse impact on the environment – so when deciding what to wear, it’s important that first of all we consider what’s already in our own wardrobe. By re-wearing what we wore to those same parties last year, we are showing that vegan fashion has longevity and staying power – the very hallmarks of truly ethical fashion.
But if you happen to currently be on the lookout for a future investment piece, something to last you all those years and to proudly show off at garden parties for many summers to come, here are a few ideas that tick ethical boxes and will stand the test of time.
This subtly patterned cotton wrap dress is Fair Trade and is part of People Tree’s Artisanal Collection, which is dedicated to reviving traditional handiwork techniques.
Made from organic linen, this floral dress is the perfect day-to-night option – team it with everything form sneakers to sandals. Another bonus? It comes with the holy grail of POCKETS.
Diana Tencel Dress, Mara Hoffmann / Rêve en Vert
Tencel is a wood-cellulose fabric made with a closed-loop technology – an eco-friendly technique that Mara Hoffmann has harnessed to create this ethereal, romantically printed design.
Tekstur Maxi Dress Olive, Well-Made Clothes
Every design made by Well-Made Clothes is handmade, locally produced and 100% vegan. This olive hue will set you apart from a sea of pastels at any summer event and the pleated design is both elegant and eye-catching.
Palm Ethical Bamboo Maxi Dress, Thought
Thought is a slow-fashion brand creating both everyday styles and more statement pieces like this bamboo and organic cotton maxi dress. Pair with thin-strapped sandals to maximise summer cool.
Jacquard Patterned Dress, H&M Conscious Exclusive
This recycled polyester dress has that subtle sheen that makes the design stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons. The jacquard pattern lends a polished touch and the length is perfect for showing off statement shoes.
Disclaimer: H&M has been linked to several human-rights violations. The Conscious Collection is a strong sustainability effort by the brand, but should not be used to excuse or conceal the issues linked to slavery, child labour and overproduction.
Jackie One Sleeve Ruffle Dress, Mayamiko
If you’re tired of florals and pastels and would like to add a pop of colour to your look, Mayamiko will become your go-to brand. This label is all about colour, and this structured body con dress with ruffle detailing is no exception. Bonus: it’s PETA-approved vegan.
We couldn’t do any kind of dress edit without including Reformation, the brand that has become known for its covetable dress designs – and their ethical stance. Viscose, which this dress is made from, is derived from wood, and Reformation is dedicated to making sure that their viscose comes from sustainably managed forests, so the brand has teamed up with non-profit group Canopy, which works to sustain and protect endangered forests.
A final note…
We’re here because we love fashion, and we as much as anyone understand the desire to get that fashion fix. As a fashion magazine, it’s our job to report on trends and new designs. But any new clothes, ethical or not, are straining the planet, so the best you can do for the environment fashion-wise is to shop second-hand. If you’re feeling the pre-loved vibe, your dress fix from Depop, Traid, Poshmark, Vestiaire Collective or other second-hand apps
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Photo by Tamara Bellis via Unsplash
