From an environmental and ethical standpoint, fast fashion is best avoided. However, the marketing tactic that many of these companies have implemented is that they are affordable for the most part; a highly favourable attribute amongst students not wishing to break the bank with every new clothing purchase. Many sustainable options these days come with a heavy price-tag in exchange for a non-guilty conscience.
With apps like Vinted and Depop becoming increasingly popular, avoiding fast fashion brands is becoming easier and easier. But buying fast-fashion items second-hand means you’re still getting fast-fashion quality pieces, sometimes already worn out. What about when we want to treat ourselves to something brand-new? These are some of my favourite affordable sustainable fashion brands I love to support.
Hissy Fit Clothing
@hissyfitclothing
Based and produced in Birmingham and focused on off-cut and dead-stock fabrics that might have otherwise been thrown away, Hissy Fit Clothing are my current obsession. I recently bought one of their reversible skirts which is basically two skirts in one and I love it so much, it’s so comfy and fits amazingly. Hissy Fit are transparent about their supply chain and consist of only a handful of staff members working to produce quality pieces that will last. They make sure to keep suppliers and manufacturers local, as well as stocking a vast range of sizes. Known for their ‘Franken Tops’, their lucky dips and their Reversible Range, Hissy Fit are definitely a go-to for me.
Gaia Garments
@gaia_garments
Specialising in minimalist basics that promote the concept of a capsule wardrobe and avoiding over-consumption, Gaia Garments are a new and small sustainable brand. All items are made-to-order, handmade, and reversible, so each piece is a conscious investment and a commitment to reducing waste. The brand has had a boost in popularity and as such the website is currently on pause for new orders, but their Instagram page shows their tops and skirts that will soon be available. Investing in basics like this, pieces that are designed to last, is so important in keeping ourselves in check and avoiding chasing trends that ultimately will only be worn a handful of times.
Ethical Roots
@ethicalroots
Bright, loud hippie patterns are Ethical Roots’ forte, perfect for the warmer months approaching. The owner Lucy began selling on Depop in 2016 and since then their website has expanded, offering a vast range of options, not just limited to clothing but also exploring jewellery and homeware options too. They offer inclusive size options and are particularly passionate about making sure their items are Fair Trade as well as investing a percentage of their profits to Fair Trade producers globally.
Shop Orango
@shoporango
Shop Orango have a website now, but I first discovered them back home at the York Shambles market where they had a beautifully decorated 70s themed stall. They still trade at this market and occasionally at others, and I love being able to see their pieces in person. They do have a couple of vintage items on their website, but they are predominantly a jewellery and art prints business. Their jewellery is either handmade by the owner or traded by a small family business in India. Their prints are on recycled card, and they use re-used packaging for their online orders.