Eco and Ethical Fashion Got Affordable

I have long been of the opinion that we should make an effort to live in both an ethical and sustainable way including the clothes that we wear. I have even set up a clothes swap website to help promote the recycling and reuse of clothes. I often rant for some time about second hand clothing being the best option and the ultimate in eco fashion as it has minimal environmental impact but is still affordable. But whilst I often buy second hand or vintage clothing, when I need (or want) new clothes, I have often shied away from Eco fashion and ethical fashion in the form of clothes made from organic, fairtrade, recycled and other sustainable fibres due to the high price and lack of choice.

Things are improving though and there has been a distinct increase in design quality and choice over the last few years. No longer are eco and ethical fashionistas limited to buying organic cotton t shirts and relatively bland leisure wear, there are a steadily growing number of innovative ethical and eco fashion labels.

Renewal Rare Eighties Party Dress £70

Whilst recently researching an article on ethical and eco fashion, it suddenly struck me that eco fashion has become distinctly more affordable with the growth of companies like People Tree and Ascension, even Urban Outfitters stocks a line called Renewal Rare which brings back to life old vintage pieces.

Eley Kishimoto for People Tree Tunic - £48-£64

The People Tree designer collaborations are amazing, with pieces by Eley Kishimoto, Bora Aksu, Richard Nicoll, Karen Nicholl and Jessica Ogden available in all the main sizes in the sale at the moment.

Ascension bamboo Isabel Dress - £28.50

Annie Greenabelle Panelled Pinafore Dress - £29.50

Ascension stocks a number of different labels including Bibico, Karen Cole its own label which includes organic cotton and bamboo clothes produced ethically at price comparable to the mid to high end of the high street (the above two items are in the sale).

The great thing with about ethical and eco fashion is that not only do you get a guilt free conscious but also a really comfortable and well made piece of clothing that is likely to last for years. As gorgeous and affordable as these clothes are, I will be sticking to my shopping ban for now, as buying clothes that you don't really need, however eco friendly the clothes are, is not really sustainable or ethical.