Although it can be exciting and enjoyable, fashion can also have drawbacks. The clothing industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world and regularly mistreats both workers and animals. As a result, more and more people are choosing to buy apparel in an ethical and sustainable way, which is advantageous for the environment and the manufacturer. Sustainable fashion for men expresses their minimalistic style and reduces their fabric footprint without compromising on quality.
But what does it mean to shop ethically and sustainably? Ethical shopping means buying clothes that are made in fair and humane conditions, where workers are paid well and treated with respect. Sustainable shopping means buying clothes that are made from eco-friendly materials, that use fewer resources and create less waste, and that can last longer and be reused or recycled. By shopping ethically and sustainably, you can support the environment and the people who make your clothes, and you can also feel good about yourself and your style.
Tips for Sustainable Fashion For Men
In this article, we will give you some tips and suggestions to help you upgrade your style with sustainable fashion for men. We will cover topics such as how to choose the right fabrics, where to shop online or locally, how to recycle and reuse your clothes, how to buy second-hand clothing, and how to keep it simple and classic. By following these tips, you can dress well and save the planet at the same time.
Choose the Right Fabric
Choosing the right fabric is the first step to shopping for ethical and sustainable fashion for men. Some fabrics are more eco-friendly than others because they use less water, energy, and chemicals to produce. They also have less impact on the environment when they are disposed of, as they are biodegradable and do not release microplastics. Some of the best natural fabrics for the environment are:
- Organic cotton: Organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified seeds. It uses less water and energy than conventional cotton, and it preserves soil quality and biodiversity. Organic cotton is also soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic.
- Silk: Silk is a natural protein fiber that is produced by silkworms. It is lightweight, smooth, and strong, and it has a natural luster and drape. Silk can also regulate temperature, absorb moisture, and resist wrinkles and dust mites. However, silk is not vegan, as it involves killing the silkworms to obtain the fibers. Some alternatives are peace silk, which lets the silkworms emerge from the cocoons before harvesting the fibers, or vegan silk, which is made from plant-based materials like soy, banana, or pineapple.
- Hemp: Hemp is a fast-growing plant that does not need much water, land, or pesticides to grow. It produces strong and durable fibers that can be spun into various types of fabrics. Hemp is also breathable, absorbent, and UV-resistant, and it has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Hemp can also be blended with other fibers, such as organic cotton or bamboo, to create softer and more versatile fabrics.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is a renewable and versatile plant that can grow in different climates and soils. It can also absorb more carbon dioxide and produce more oxygen than other plants. Bamboo fibers can be made into fabrics that are soft, smooth, and moisture-wicking. Bamboo fabrics can also have antibacterial, anti-odor, and thermo-regulating properties. However, some bamboo fabrics are not very eco-friendly, as they use harsh chemicals and solvents to process the fibers. A more sustainable option is bamboo linen, which uses a mechanical process to extract the fibers.
You can also look for vegan as sustainable fashion for men, which means it does not use any animal products, such as leather, wool, fur, or feathers. Vegan clothing is more ethical, as it does not harm or exploit animals for fashion. It is also more eco-friendly, as animal products have a high environmental impact, such as greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and land use. Some vegan clothing brands are Noize, In the Soulshine, and Brave GentleMan.
Shop Online or Buy Local: Choosing the Smarter, Sustainable Option
Once you’ve committed to shopping sustainably, the next big question is where to shop. Should you buy online or head to your local stores? Each option comes with its own set of benefits when it comes to sustainable fashion for men. The key is knowing what works best for your lifestyle while keeping the planet in mind.
Many men still enjoy the experience of browsing racks in-store or taking a trip to the mall. But traditional shopping methods—especially when involving frequent car travel—can come with environmental drawbacks. On the flip side, online shopping has evolved into a powerful, more sustainable alternative when done thoughtfully.
Why Online Shopping Can Be a Smart Sustainable Choice
When you’re hunting for ethical men’s fashion, shopping online can offer more than just convenience. Here’s why it might be the better route for the planet—and your wallet:
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Less Travel, Fewer Emissions: Skipping the drive to the store means reducing your carbon footprint and conserving fuel.
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Time-Saving Convenience: No need to battle traffic or long checkout lines—just shop from the comfort of your home.
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Access to More Sustainable Brands: Online platforms give you a wider selection of ethical men’s clothing brands that might not be available locally.
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Easier Price and Review Comparisons: It’s simpler to find the best deals, read reviews, and make informed purchases.
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Perks Like Discounts and Free Shipping: Many eco-conscious retailers offer incentives that make online shopping even more cost-effective.
The ability to research a brand’s sustainability credentials in real-time is another huge plus. Sites like Good On You rate clothing brands on their environmental and ethical practices, helping you shop with confidence.
The Value of Shopping Locally for Sustainable Men’s Fashion
If you’re lucky enough to live near stores that prioritize sustainability, shopping locally can be a fantastic option. It’s not just about buying products—it’s about building a connection with your community and supporting eco-friendly businesses close to home.
Here are some great reasons to shop locally:
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Support Small Businesses: Your purchases help independent retailers thrive and boost the local economy.
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Celebrate Local Culture and Craftsmanship: Discover unique pieces made by local designers or artisans that reflect your region’s creativity.
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Lower Transportation Impact: Products made and sold locally typically require less shipping, which cuts down on packaging waste and emissions.
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Create Personal Connections: Meeting the people behind the products adds a personal layer to your purchases—and lets you ask about sourcing and production directly.
Shopping locally also allows you to try items on before buying, which can reduce returns and, in turn, lower the environmental cost associated with shipping and re-shipping.
Online vs. Local: Why Not Both?
You don’t have to pick just one. In fact, mixing both methods can be the most balanced approach. You might find that shopping online is ideal for specific sustainable brands or hard-to-find items, while local stores are perfect for discovering something new and connecting with your community.
The key takeaway? Wherever you choose to shop, being intentional matters. Take the time to research the brands, ask questions, and prioritize companies that are transparent about their ethics and environmental impact.
Don’t Waste Your Clothes
Not wasting your clothes is a great way to shop sustainably and ethically. When you throw away your clothes, you contribute to the huge amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills or incinerators. This waste not only takes up space and resources but also releases harmful chemicals and greenhouse gases that pollute the environment. By not wasting your clothes, you can prevent this damage and save valuable materials and energy.
There are many things you can do with your clothes that you don’t wear anymore instead of throwing them away. You can donate them to a charity, such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army, where they can be used by people in need or sold to raise funds for social causes. You can also sell them online or at a garage sale, where you can make some money and find new owners for your clothes. Another option is to swap them with your friends, where you can exchange clothes that you don’t like or don’t fit for clothes that you do. This way, you can refresh your wardrobe and have fun with your friends.
You can also upcycle your clothes into something new, which means you transform them into a different product or give them a new function. For example, you can turn an old shirt into a pillowcase, a pair of jeans into a tote bag, or a sweater into a scarf. You can also use your creativity and sewing skills to alter, embellish, or repair your clothes, giving them a new look and extending their life. Upcycling your clothes can help you express your style and personality and also reduce the need to buy new products.
By not wasting your clothes, which is also sustainable fashion for men, you can clear some space in your closet and give your clothes a second life. You can also save money, support your community, and protect the environment. Not wasting your clothes is not only good for you but also good for the planet.
Buy Second-Hand Clothing
Buying second-hand clothing is one of the best ways to shop sustainably and ethically. When you buy clothes that have been used by someone else before, you extend their life cycle and prevent them from ending up in landfills. You also reduce the demand for new clothing, which saves water, energy, and chemicals that are used to produce them. According to some estimates, buying one second-hand item can save up to 3,000 liters of water and 22 kilograms of carbon dioxide.
You can find second-hand clothing in various places, such as thrift stores, consignment shops, online platforms, or flea markets. These places offer a wide range of clothing items, from basics and essentials to unique and vintage pieces. You can discover new styles, brands, and trends that you might not find in regular stores. You can also find high-quality designer clothing for a fraction of the price. Buying second-hand clothing can help you save money and create a more personal and original wardrobe.
Buying second-hand clothing is not only good for the environment but also for the people who make and sell it. By buying second-hand clothing, you support local businesses and communities, as well as charities and social causes. You also help create more jobs and opportunities for people who work in the second-hand clothing industry. Buying second-hand clothing is sustainable fashion for men and can also be a fun and rewarding experience, as you can meet new people, learn new stories, and share your passion for fashion
Keep It Simple and Classic
Keeping it simple and classic is another tip to dress well and save the planet. You don’t need to buy a lot of clothes or follow every trend to look stylish. Instead, you can opt for eco-friendly fabrics that have low-waste patterns, meaning they use less fabric and create less waste. For example, you can choose organic cotton, hemp, or recycled polyester, which are more sustainable than conventional cotton, synthetic fabrics, or virgin polyester.
Sustainable fashion for men can also stick to simple and timeless designs that can be worn in any season and for any occasion. For example, you can invest in a few versatile pieces, such as a white shirt, a black blazer, a pair of jeans, or a little black dress, that can be mixed and matched easily. By shopping less and choosing quality over quantity, you can show that you care for the environment and your own style. You can save money, space, and time, and avoid the stress and clutter of having too many clothes. You can also express your personality and confidence and create a signature look that suits you.
Sustainable Men’s Clothing Brands That Are Making a Difference
Sustainable men’s clothing brands are changing the fashion game—making clothes that are not only stylish but also good for the planet and the people behind the seams. These brands prioritize eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, recycled polyester, and Econyl, while also following ethical practices and supporting fair labor. If you’re looking to upgrade your wardrobe and your values at the same time, you’re in the right place.
Below are some of the top sustainable men’s clothing brands that stand out for their commitment to the environment and ethical manufacturing. From rugged outdoor wear to everyday basics, these labels are proving that fashion can be both conscious and cool.
1. Outerknown
Founded by pro surfer Kelly Slater and designer John Moore, Outerknown blends performance and sustainability. The brand crafts its collections using organic cotton, hemp, alpaca wool, recycled polyester, and Econyl. Its stylish yet laid-back clothing is made under fair trade conditions, and it’s perfect for guys who want quality outdoor gear with a conscience.
2. Taylor Stitch
Taylor Stitch is all about timeless, durable clothing that doesn’t harm the planet. The brand uses sustainable materials such as organic cotton, hemp, wool, and various recycled fabrics. One of its standout initiatives is the Restitch program, where returned or damaged garments are repaired and resold—helping to close the loop on fashion waste.
3. tentree
With a mission right in the name, tentree plants ten trees for every item sold. But it doesn’t stop there. The brand makes its men’s apparel from eco-conscious fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, Tencel, and recycled materials. Even the packaging is biodegradable, and tentree’s carbon offset practices make it one of the most environmentally proactive brands on the market.
4. Pact
Known for comfort and affordability, Pact is your go-to for men’s everyday basics with a sustainable edge. It uses organic cotton certified by both Fair Trade USA and the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Through its Pact Impact program, the brand also supports various social and environmental causes, making your purchase count beyond the wardrobe.
5. Patagonia
Patagonia has long set the standard for ethical and sustainable fashion. Its men’s clothing and outdoor gear are made from organic cotton, hemp, recycled fabrics, and other natural fibers. The brand is deeply involved in activism and environmental protection—supporting grassroots efforts and donating a percentage of profits to eco-causes.
6. Allbirds
Primarily known for its eco-friendly sneakers, Allbirds uses renewable materials like merino wool, eucalyptus fiber, and sugarcane. Its men’s footwear is lightweight, breathable, and designed with sustainability in mind—from the soles to the packaging. Certified as a B Corporation, Allbirds proves that performance and planet-friendliness can go hand-in-hand.
7. Free Fly
Free Fly is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers. The brand specializes in clothing made from bamboo—a fast-growing, renewable material that’s soft, breathable, and naturally UV-protective. Free Fly’s pieces are perfect for fishing, hiking, or just lounging, and the company ensures ethical production every step of the way.
These sustainable men’s clothing brands are more than just fashion statements—they’re part of a growing movement to make style more ethical, eco-conscious, and meaningful. Whether you’re looking to overhaul your entire closet or just add a few responsible pieces, these brands offer options that align with your values without sacrificing comfort or design.
Express yourself with Sustainable Fashion for Men
Sustainable fashion for men is not only a trend but a necessity. The clothing industry has a huge impact on the environment and the people who work in it, and we need to be more aware and responsible for our choices. By choosing the right fabrics, shopping online or locally, recycling and reusing our clothes, buying second-hand clothing, and keeping it simple and classic, we can dress well and save the planet at the same time.
Sustainable fashion for men is also a way to express our personality and style without compromising our values and ethics. There are many brands and options that offer ethical and eco-friendly clothing for men, and we can find them easily on the web or in our communities. By supporting these brands and initiatives, we can also make a positive difference in the world and inspire others to do the same. Sustainable fashion for men is not only good for the environment but also good for ourselves.
