Fashion with a sustainable conscience

Graphic showing the title, 'Fashion with a sustainable conscience.' CREDIT: FSU PUBLICATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT

As the global fashion industry faces increasing scrutiny for its environmental impact, Canada is home to many brands leading the way in sustainable practices. These companies are transforming the fashion landscape by embracing eco-friendly materials, ethical manufacturing processes, and a commitment to social responsibility. This shift is not just about making stylish clothing, it’s about creating a more sustainable future for the planet.

One of the trailblazers in this movement is Kotn, a Toronto-based brand founded in 2015 by three friends, Benjamin Sehl, Mackenzie Yetes, and Helali (Rami). Known for its high-quality basics, Kotn sources responsibly grown Egyptian cotton directly from farmers, ensuring fair wages and sustainable farming practices. As a certified B Corp, Kotn’s mission extends beyond fashion. The brand has partnered with local NGOs in Egypt’s Nile Delta to support educational initiatives, fund school infrastructure, and provide resources for teachers. This commitment to community development exemplifies how fashion can drive positive change.

Frank and Oak, based in Montreal, has been redefining casual and formal wear since 2012. The brand’s modern designs are crafted from sustainable materials like hemp and bamboo, reflecting a blend of comfort and style. Frank and Oak’s unwavering dedication to responsible fashion is evident in its comprehensive sustainability goals, which include using recycled or cruelty-free wool and ensuring that 78 per cent of its products are made from sustainable materials.

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Regarding accessories, Matt & Nat has been a pioneer in vegan and sustainable products since 1995. The brand, known for its innovative approach to materials, avoids animal-based products and uses alternatives like recycled plastic bottles, cork, and rubber. This commitment has led to Matt & Nat recycling over nine million plastic bottles yearly, showcasing how fashion can be both chic and cruelty-free. Their innovative spirit inspires us to rethink the possibilities of sustainable fashion.

TAMGA Designs has brought a vibrant, bohemian flair to sustainable fashion since 2014. Known for its colourful prints and flowing silhouettes, TAMGA uses eco-friendly fabrics such as Tencel and Ecovero. Both fabrics are created from renewable wood fibres, are fully biodegradable and produced in a closed-loop system. The brand also emphasizes transparency in its production processes, providing detailed information on the environmental savings of each product. Beyond fashion, TAMGA is committed to reforestation efforts, partnering with the Sumatran Orangutan Society to support rainforest conservation.

For those looking to make a tangible environmental impact with their purchases, Tentree offers a unique proposition. The Vancouver-based brand plants 10 trees for every item sold, having planted over 74 million trees worldwide. Tentree’s products are made from lower-impact and recycled materials, emphasizing comfort and sustainability. The brand’s initiatives help combat climate change and create jobs in communities worldwide, illustrating the far-reaching benefits of sustainable business practices.

Another notable player in the sustainable fashion arena is The Good Tee. Adila Cokar founded it in 2020 after coming to the knowledge that more than 270,000 cotton farmers have taken their lives since 1995. The Good Tee is Canada’s only brand using Fairtrade-certified cotton sourced from Indian farmers. The brand’s commitment to ethical manufacturing extends to its transparent supply chain, which is traceable from seed to finished product. This level of transparency is crucial in an industry often criticized for its unethical practices.

Thesus (formerly known as Alice + Whittles) is another standout in the Canadian sustainable fashion landscape. This BIPOC woman-owned and women-led company specializes in outdoor footwear and accessories made from over 95 per cent natural and recycled materials. Thesus is committed to transparency and responsible manufacturing practices, aligning its efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The brand’s commitment to diversity and sustainable development is evident in its products, which tackle ocean pollution, climate change, and economic inequality.

LONDRE offers minimalist swimwear crafted from recycled plastic bottles to minimize environmental impact. The brand has already recycled over 750,000 plastic bottles from Taiwan’s streets and beaches. LONDRE’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its products; it also donates to environmental and women’s health initiatives, demonstrating a holistic approach to social responsibility.

For those seeking stylish and functional outerwear, NORDEN provides a compelling option. This Montreal-based brand creates parkas, raincoats, and puffers from recycled materials, offering a sustainable alternative for those braving Canada’s harsh winters. The company’s products come with a full-circle program, encouraging customers to return old jackets for recycling or donation, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to a circular economy.

The movement towards sustainable fashion is not just a fad but a necessary change in response to the fashion industry’s environmental impact. As more consumers become aware of the importance of ethical and sustainable choices, these Canadian brands set a high standard for the global fashion community. Their efforts are not only helping to reduce waste and conserve resources, but they are also fostering a culture of responsibility and care for our planet. In a world where fast fashion often dominates, these Canadian brands stand out for their commitment to doing things differently.