Denim: the ultimate wardrobe staple that most of us can’t live without. But did you know that the beloved fabric is one of the most environmentally harmful materials out there? From its creation to the dyeing process, denim production is notoriously polluting. It’s time to ditch the traditional denim and opt for sustainable and ethical options instead.

Believe it or not, a single pair of jeans can use up to a whopping 396 gallons of water! It’s a shocking fact that we’ve known for over 20 years, yet denim production hasn’t slowed down one bit. But don’t worry, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. Some incredible designers have created more sustainable and ethical jeans, and other brands are finally catching on to the impact their products have on the planet.

It’s time to say goodbye to harmful denim and hello to a more eco-friendly and ethical future. Join us on this journey towards a more sustainable and conscious fashion industry. Let’s look into the 10 best ethical denim brands that stand out in 2023:

• Mud jeans: Use Code: K7325 when checking out to get 15% discount!
• Elv denim: click here for the store
• Boyish: click here for the store
• Nudie jeans: click here for the store
• Kings of indigo: click here for the store
• Outerknown: click here for the store
• Warp +weft: click here for the store
• Reformation: click here for the store
• Re/Done: click here for the store
• Everlane: click here for the store

MUD jeans:

Use Code: K7325 when checking out to get 15% discount!

Mud Jeans is one of the most exciting sustainable and ethical denim brands out there, and we’re not just saying that. Here’s why:

First of all, they’re B Corporation certified, meaning they’ve scored highly in areas such as environmental and social impact, accountability and transparency. Their current score is 124.7 points, which is seriously impressive.

When it comes to the actual denim production, Mud Jeans has got it down. They use organic cotton to create their high-quality jeans, and they’re also working towards a fully circular economy by recycling old jeans. Plus, they’re dedicated to reducing water usage throughout the production process.

But what really sets Mud Jeans apart is their unique leasing option. Yes, you read that right! You can lease their jeans for a lower price than buying them outright, and then when you’re done with them, you can return them to be recycled. This is not only a fantastic way to get your hands on some amazing quality denim, but it’s also a sustainable solution for those who might not have the budget to invest in a new pair of jeans regularly.

And it’s not just jeans they offer; Mud Jeans has a range of sustainably-made pieces including jumpsuits, trousers, skirts and even vests, all made with the same high standards and ethical principles.

We tried hard to find at least one negative thing to say about Mud Jeans, but we couldn’t find a single thing. This brand is truly leading the way in sustainable and ethical denim, and we’re excited to see where they’ll go next.

ELV denim:

ELV Denim is a sustainable denim brand that produces jeans using upcycled denim that would have otherwise ended up in landfills. They aim to reduce waste and pollution by giving new life to discarded clothing.

On their website, you can find a wide range of products, from classic high-waisted skinny jeans to trendy oversized jackets, all made from recycled denim. They even have a special collaboration with Swarovski, adding some sparkle to their pieces.

Although their website doesn’t focus solely on sustainability, their commitment to using upcycled denim and sustainable production methods sets them apart from other denim brands. In fact, according to Good On You, ELV Denim is one of the best sustainable denim brands out there, with a rating of “Great”.

One downside of the brand is that they are not yet certified by any third-party sustainability organizations. However, their commitment to sustainable practices, including vegan and recycled fabrics and production in the UK, demonstrates their efforts to reduce their environmental impact.

Another potential area for improvement is that they don’t have a program for customers to donate their old denim. While they do sell their products, it would be great to see them take a more proactive role in reducing textile waste by accepting old denim for upcycling and giving customers credit towards future purchases.

One thing to note is that the brand’s products are a bit pricey, with prices ranging from £240 to £300. However, the hand-crafted, carefully sewn pieces are designed to last and be treasured, making them worth the investment.

Overall, ELV Denim is a great choice for anyone looking for ethical and sustainable denim options that don’t compromise on style.

Boyish:

Pros:

Have you seen that denim jacket from Boyish? It’s an absolute showstopper, and just one of many incredible designs from this brand. Boyish is a PETA-approved, vegan, and cruelty-free denim brand that offers a range of stylish and sustainable denim pieces.

Not only does Boyish create gorgeous denim clothing, but they also prioritize sustainability and ethical production practices. In fact, according to Good On You, Boyish is one of the most sustainable denim brands out there with a rating of 14/15. The only point they lost was in the “People” category, due to the final stage of production being in a high-risk labor abusive country. However, Boyish takes measures to ensure the ethical treatment of workers by tracing their entire supply chain and adhering to the International Labor Organization (ILO) principles.

Cons:

It’s true that Boyish denim can come with a higher price tag than fast fashion brands, but the quality is certified and worth the investment. So, if you’re looking for high-quality, sustainable denim that’s also stylish and ethical, look no further than Boyish.

Nudie Jeans

Are you a denim lover searching for a truly sustainable brand? If so, Nudie Jeans should be on your radar.

Their jeans are made from organic cotton and they are fully traceable. From the initial stages of farming to the production process, they make sure to have total control and transparency. Plus, they use sustainable materials, such as recycled cotton and polyester, and avoid harmful chemicals.

What’s more, the brand’s dedication to ethical labor practices is unparalleled. They aim to have fair wages and healthy working conditions for all their employees, including those working in their factories.

But the best part? They encourage their customers to repair their jeans instead of throwing them away. They even offer free repairs for the lifetime of your Nudie Jeans, as part of their repair program. This approach to sustainability is truly unique, and it sets them apart from the rest.

With a wide range of styles and fits, you’re sure to find the perfect pair of jeans for your wardrobe. So next time you’re on the hunt for a new pair of denim, make sure to check out Nudie Jeans – a brand that cares about both fashion and sustainability.

Kings of indigo:

Kings of indigo is leading the way in ethical and sustainable denim, making it the perfect choice for conscious fashion lovers.

What sets Kings of Indigo apart is their commitment to sustainable materials and production methods. Their jeans are made from organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and innovative fibers like TENCEL™ and REFIBRA™. Plus, their production process uses less water and energy than traditional methods, minimizing their impact on the planet.

But it’s not just about sustainability – Kings of Indigo also offers a range of trendy and stylish denim pieces. From classic jeans to jumpsuits and jackets, their collection has something for everyone. And with options for men and women, you’re sure to find the perfect fit.

But the best part? Kings of Indigo‘s commitment to ethical practices doesn’t end with the environment. They also ensure fair labor practices, with many of their products being made in factories that adhere to the Fair Wear Foundation code of conduct.

So if you’re looking for a denim brand that combines style, sustainability, and ethics, Kings of Indigo is the way to go. Check out their collection and join the movement towards a more conscious fashion industry.

Outerknown:

Outerknown is the environmentally-conscious brand revolutionising the fashion industry.

Not only do they create chic and trendy denim pieces, but their commitment to using eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing practices makes them a top contender in the sustainable fashion world.

Their use of organic cotton and recycled materials, as well as their Fair Trade certification, sets them apart from traditional denim brands. Plus, their transparent supply chain ensures that every step of the manufacturing process is ethical and sustainable.

But it doesn’t stop there. Outerknown also works to reduce waste and water usage in their production process, showing that they truly care about the impact their brand has on the environment.

So if you’re looking for high-quality denim that you can feel good about wearing, look no further than Outerknown. With their trendy designs and eco-friendly practices, they’re the perfect addition to any sustainable wardrobe.

Reformation

Reformation, the eco-friendly fashion brand that is shaking up the denim game.

Not only do they make the most swoon-worthy jeans in all the land, but they’re also committed to ethical and sustainable practices. From sourcing recycled and organic fabrics to reducing water waste, Reformation has it all.

And the best part? They make sustainability look good. Their jeans come in a range of styles and washes, so you can strut your stuff and save the planet all at the same time.

But let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. What really sets Reformation apart? For starters, they use a combination of eco-friendly and recycled materials in their denim production. This helps to reduce their carbon footprint and waste, while still creating beautiful and high-quality jeans that are perfect for any occasion.

But that’s not all. Reformation also prioritizes the wellbeing of their workers by ensuring they are paid fair wages and work in safe conditions. And they make sure to keep an eye on their environmental impact by tracking and reporting on their water usage and greenhouse gas emissions.

If you’re looking for a fashion brand that puts sustainability first, then look no further than Reformation. They make it easy to look and feel good, all while doing your part to help the planet. So go ahead, treat yourself to a pair of these sustainable denim wonders and join the Reformation revolution!

Re/Done:

Re/Done, the Los Angeles-based denim brand that has been revolutionizing the way we think about jeans.

At the heart of the brand’s philosophy is a commitment to sustainability, which is reflected in every aspect of their production process. Re/Done uses vintage denim, which not only keeps perfectly good materials out of landfills, but also gives their jeans a unique and timeless feel. By repurposing vintage denim, the brand is also able to reduce the water and energy usage that comes with the production of new denim.

But Re/Done isn’t just about sustainability – their jeans are also seriously stylish. The brand’s signature high-rise cut and straight leg fit have made them a favorite of fashion icons like Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski. And with a range of washes and distressing options, there’s a pair of Re/Done jeans for every style preference.

In addition to their commitment to sustainability and fashion, Re/Done is also dedicated to social responsibility. The brand partners with local Los Angeles non-profits to give back to the community, and also works to ensure that their production processes are ethical and fair.

If you’re looking for denim that looks great and feels even better, Re/Done is the perfect choice. From their commitment to sustainability to their effortless style, it’s clear that Re/Done is changing the denim game for the better.

Warp + weft

Are you on the hunt for sustainable denim that looks and feels amazing? Look no further than Warp + Weft, the brand that’s revolutionizing the fashion industry.

Pros:

Warp + Weft is an innovative denim brand that’s committed to ethical and sustainable practices. Their denim is made with a unique blend of recycled cotton and Tencel, which uses 95% less water than traditional denim production. Not only that, but their materials are also GOTS-certified organic and Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified.

But that’s not all – their designs are also incredibly stylish and versatile. With a range of cuts, washes, and sizes, there’s something for everyone in their collection. Plus, they offer a 14-day home try-on program so you can find your perfect fit.

Cons:

One downside to Warp + Weft is that their prices can be a bit higher than fast fashion brands. However, when you consider the quality of their denim, the sustainable practices they employ, and the fact that they offer free repairs for life, it’s definitely worth the investment.

Overall, Warp + Weft is a great choice for anyone looking to invest in high-quality, sustainable denim. They’re committed to doing things the right way, and their products are both stylish and eco-friendly. So go ahead, treat yourself to a pair of their amazing jeans – your wardrobe (and the planet) will thank you!

Everlane:

Are you looking for affordable sustainable denim that won’t break the bank? Look no further than Everlane! With prices starting at just £80, Everlane is the cheapest brand we’ve reviewed so far. But is it too good to be true?

On the surface, Everlane seems like a dream come true for eco-conscious fashionistas. They provide a detailed breakdown of the costs for each product, including the cost of materials and transportation, to show how their pricing is still affordable even while maintaining a sustainable supply chain.

And their sustainability goals are ambitious: they’re aiming to eliminate new plastic from their supply chain by 2021 and have already achieved a remarkable 98% water recycling rate. But as I dug deeper, I began to wonder how they could offer denim at such a low price point.

It turns out that Everlane is not as ethical or sustainable as they claim to be. According to Good on You, a website that rates brands on their sustainability and ethical practices, Everlane falls short in several key areas. While they do use recycled materials and eco-friendly fabrics, the factories they work with do not have any proof of minimizing waste or water consumption. And they produce their garments in countries where labor abuse is a high risk, which could explain their low prices compared to other sustainable brands.

So, while Everlane may be one of the biggest mainstream sustainable brands out there, we believe it should be at the bottom of the list when it comes to ethical and sustainable denim. If you’re looking for truly sustainable and ethical denim, we recommend checking out some of the other brands we’ve reviewed.