Why Is Sustainable Fashion So Expensive? Understanding the Cost of Ethical and Eco-Friendly Clothing
You may have noticed that sustainable fashion often comes with a high price tag when looking for new clothes.
While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper items from fast fashion brands, it’s important to understand why sustainable clothing is priced the way it is.
One example you may look for is what type of material is used to make everyday basics like simple graphic tees.
Certified organic cotton is one of the most sustainable materials yet it’s much more expensive than conventional cotton.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons why sustainable fashion is so expensive and why it’s worth investing in and some affordable sustainable fashion options.
Sustainable Materials Are Costly
One of the main reasons why sustainable fashion is more expensive is due to the cost of materials.
Sustainable materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and biodegradable fabrics are more expensive to produce than conventional materials.
This is because they often require more labor-intensive processes and more specialized equipment to create that even designer brands don’t want to invest even though ironically they charge the highest clothing prices in the fashion industry.
Organic cotton
Organic cotton is grown using natural methods without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.
It is a sustainable alternative to conventional cotton because it reduces the environmental impact of cotton production.
Organic cotton farming also promotes biodiversity and reduces water consumption.
GOTS certified organic cotton
GOTS stands for Global Organic Textile Standard. GOTS is a worldwide recognized certification standard that ensures the organic status of textiles, from harvesting of the raw materials through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing up to labeling.
GOTS certified organic cotton is cotton that has been grown according to strict guidelines for organic agriculture, without the use of harmful pesticides or fertilizers.
The certification also requires that the cotton is processed using only approved methods that minimize environmental impact and conserve resources, and that fair labor practices are followed throughout the supply chain.
When you see the GOTS label on a textile product, it means that the entire supply chain of that product has been certified to meet these strict standards, from the cotton farm to the final product.
GOTS certification provides consumers with a reliable and transparent way to identify textiles made from organic cotton, and to ensure that the product meets strict environmental and social criteria.
Recycled polyester
Recycled polyester is a more sustainable choice as it’s made from waste such as plastic bottles and packaging materials.
It is a sustainable alternative to traditional polyester, which is derived from non-renewable fossil fuels.
This material reduces waste in landfills and requires less energy and water to produce than traditional polyester.
Biodegradable fabrics
Biodegradable fabrics are made from natural materials that break down naturally in the environment without causing harm.
Some examples of biodegradable fabrics include bamboo, hemp, and linen. These fabrics reduce waste in landfills and have a lower environmental impact than synthetic fabrics.
All of these sustainable fabrics offer environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional fabrics.
By choosing organic cotton, recycled polyester, and biodegradable fabrics, you can help reduce waste and minimize your environmental impact.
Sustainable Practices Require Investment
Another factor that contributes to the cost of sustainable fashion is the investment required to implement sustainable practices.
Sustainable clothing brands often prioritize fair labor practices, ethical sourcing, and eco-friendly production processes.
This can include everything from fair wages for workers to using renewable energy sources in production facilities.
While these practices may be more expensive in the short term, they are essential for building a sustainable business model that prioritizes people and the planet.
Sustainable Brands Are Often Smaller
Sustainable fashion brands are often much smaller that the fashion industry giants, which means they may not have the same economies of scale. This can lead to higher costs for materials, production, and marketing.
However, smaller brands may also have more control over their supply chain, which can result in higher quality and more ethical fashion options.
They will have more flexibility to propose the use of eco friendly materials, they can focus on getting fair trade certification, and become pioneers in slow fashion.
You’re Paying for Quality
One of the benefits of investing in sustainable fashion is that you’re often paying for higher quality items that are designed to last.
While fast fashion items may be cheaper in the short term, as they focus on mass production, they are often made from low-quality materials that will fall apart after a few wears.
Sustainable clothing, on the other hand, is often made from higher quality materials and natural fibers in the production process that are designed to stand the test of time.
How to find affordable sustainable clothing
Now you know the reasons why more ethical fashion is more expensive, but how can you afford everything on a living wage? Below are some ideas.
Check out online thrift stores and secondhand shops
Thrift stores and secondhand shops are one of the great places to find affordable sustainable fashion. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also help to reduce textile waste.
Invest in quality pieces that last
While some sustainable clothing brands may charge a higher price tag, investing in quality pieces that are made to last can save you money in the long run. Look for timeless styles, everyday basics, and well-made clothing that won’t go out of trend.
Choose natural and sustainable materials
Natural materials like organic cotton, linen, and hemp are often more sustainable and environmentally friendly than synthetic fabrics. Look for clothing made from sustainable materials that are affordable.
Buy less and focus on essentials
Instead of buying many cheap, fast fashion pieces, invest in a few essential pieces that are well-made, timeless, and versatile. This way, you’ll have a sustainable wardrobe that lasts longer and won’t break the bank.
Look for sustainable brands that offer affordable sustainable options
Many sustainable fashion brands offer affordable clothing options here are some eco friendly brands that may fit within your budget and focus on the essentials, rather than trends.
Honest Basics
Honest Basics aims to provide access to fair fashion for everyone with its focus on essential wardrobe pieces like t-shirts, sweatshirts, and jeans at an affordable price.
All Honest Basics clothing is made with GOTS-certified organic cotton, and manufactured ethically in Bangladesh and India, in compliance with the standards set by the International Labour Organization, in GOTS-certified factories.
The brand offers a wide range of affordable sustainable clothing options for men, women, and children, with plenty of items priced under $20. The size range for their products spans from XS to L.
Yes Friends
Yes Friends is one of the many eco fashion brands based in the UK that offers sustainable, ethical, and budget-friendly clothing for your conscious closet.
Their Yes Friends Organic T-shirt starts at $12.50 and their size range includes 2XS to 2XL, and they offer a variety of essential clothing.
Yes Friends employs large-scale production and direct-to-consumer margins, allowing them to offer affordable prices for their sustainable and ethical apparel and give workers fair pay.
PACT
Another sustainable brand focusing on organic essentials is PACT and makes it effortless for eco-conscious shoppers to create a sustainable wardrobe with their affordable clothing.
The brand employs 100% Certified Organic Cotton to guarantee premium quality clothing and produces its garments in Fair Trade certified factories located in India.
PACT offers an extensive range of clothes for men, women, children, and babies. They have an ample selection of sweaters, pajamas, pants, and other wardrobe staples, with many options priced under $50. PACT’s size range runs from XS to 2XL.
Sustainable Fashion Supports a Concious Future
It’s important to remember that sustainable fashion is an investment in a more concious future and only a small piece of the puzzle.
By supporting more sustainable brands, you’re helping to create a fashion industry that prioritizes people and the planet over profit.
Sustainable fashion may come with a high price tag, but it’s worth investing in and you save money in the long run.
By choosing to shop sustainably, even if it’s simply looking for an item with organic cotton, you’ll be supporting ethical and eco-friendly practices that prioritize quality, people, and the planet.
So next time you’re considering buying a cheap graphic tee, remember that investing in a sustainable option is an investment for everyone future.
