The Ethical Brands That Should Be On Your Radar

The deplorable conditions under which garment workers operate are absolutely condemnable and must be stopped. These workers face long hours, hazardous environments, and are often paid less than minimum wage.

Yet, the fast fashion industry continues to exploit cheap labour in second and third-world countries to meet the ever-growing demand for ‘cheap’ clothes. The culture of fast fashion has devastating consequences not only for the environment but also for human lives.

A recent incident highlighted the tragic reality faced by millions of garment workers. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many big fashion labels have left workers unpaid, leaving them vulnerable to food insecurity and financial hardship.

The disruption of global supply chains has worsened their plight, pushing many further into poverty. It’s a moral obligation for those at the top of the economic ladder to protect the most vulnerable and safeguard the well-being of their workers.

Brands like JCPenney, Balmain, American Eagle Outfitters, Kohl’s, Oscar de la Renta, Sears, Walmart, Topshop, Esprit, and more have been named in the Hunger in the Apparel Supply Chain report by the Worker Rights Consortium (WRC) for failing to commit to paying workers in Bangladesh and other countries in full for completed or in-production orders.

The pandemic has opened a Pandora’s box, revealing the enormous power imbalance within the fashion industry and the indifference of conglomerates towards factory workers.

Equally distressing is the fashion industry’s disregard for the environment. As consumers, we’re becoming increasingly aware of our carbon footprint and the impact our choices have on the planet.

If you’re seeking to shift towards a more ethical wardrobe, this list of slow fashion brands is an excellent place to start. These brands are dedicated to sustainable and ethical practices and should be on your radar.

Top Ethical Brands to Support:

Kuwaii

Kuwaii is one of Australia's most transparent fashion brands. Known for its minimalist, classic silhouettes, and simple detailing, the brand focuses on quality over quantity.

The slow fashion brand produces garments to order, using sustainably sourced fabrics like silk, cotton, and linen.

Kuwaii offers feminine designs in beautiful patterns and colours that flatter every body type. The brand has expanded its range to include shoes made from stock leather remnants.

Milk and Thistle

Milk and Thistle is another ethical Australian brand gaining popularity for its modern take on classic silhouettes.

The brand uses locally sourced natural fibres and produces collections in small batches to minimise waste. The clothes are high-quality, easy to wear, and proudly made and printed in Australia.

Everlane

Everlane offers modern wardrobe essentials that suit a variety of personal styles. The brand partners only with ethical factories worldwide, sources materials sustainably, and even discloses the true cost of their products to consumers.

Everlane is committed to transparency and ensures that the factories they collaborate with are audited and treat their workers fairly. Their collections focus on timeless, versatile pieces that stand the test of time.

Mother of Pearl

Mother of Pearl, a London-based brand, creates effortlessly chic outfits grounded in four key pillars of sustainability: environmental responsibility, social responsibility, complete transparency, and animal welfare.

The brand is uncompromising when it comes to its ethical obligations, offering full disclosure of the production process for each garment. They use sustainable fabrics like TENCEL, organic wool, and organic cotton in their collections.

Lois Hazel

Melbourne-based label Lois Hazel is committed to sustainable and ethical practices. Each collection is made with deadstock and organic fabrics in Brunswick, Melbourne.

The collections are contemporary, multifunctional, and easy to wear, perfect for everyday occasions. Lois Hazel is passionate about reducing waste and increasing transparency across the supply chain.

Cue Clothing

Established in 1968, Cue Clothing is a well-known Australian brand that has evolved to meet the needs of modern shoppers. Accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia, the label’s pieces are modern, timeless, and crafted from luxurious materials.

Cue Clothing has long-standing relationships with manufacturers and is committed to ethical practices, making it a favourite among Australian shoppers who value both style and sustainability.

Conclusion

The fast fashion industry’s disregard for garment workers’ rights and its detrimental impact on the environment cannot be ignored.

As consumers, we have the power to choose where we spend our money, and supporting ethical fashion brands is one of the most impactful steps we can take towards a more sustainable and compassionate future.

By supporting Australian and international brands that are committed to ethical practices, we can help create a fashion industry that values both people and the planet.