4 Green Textiles to Make Your Closet More Sustainable

4 Green Textiles to Make Your Closet More Sustainable

Denim is a staple in many people's wardrobes, but the traditional production of this beloved fabric can have a significant environmental impact. From the pesticides used to grow cotton to the energy-intensive manufacturing process, there are many opportunities for eco-friendly improvement in the denim industry.

However, there are also innovative and sustainable alternatives to conventional materials used in denim production. By choosing to support brands that use these materials, we can reduce the environmental footprint of our favorite pair of jeans.

Here are some of the most sustainable denim raw materials currently on the market. We’ve also included some of our favorite styles in each material.

Organic Cotton

Conventional cotton is one of the most chemically-intensive crops in the world, with 25% of all insecticides and 10% of all pesticides being used on this one crop. According to the Textile Exchange, "every farmer selling their crops as organic must meet a set of strict rules that include requirements around soil health and the prohibition of artificial fertilizers, hazardous synthetic pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs)." Not only is this better for the environment, but it also protects the health of farmers and workers throughout the supply chain.

Look for Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Organic Cotton Standard (OCS) certified denim to verify they organic content of the materials.

our pick:

Nudie Jeans: Lofty Lo Wavy Blues, $200

‍These straight leg jeans made from 80% certified organic cotton and 20% recycled cotton give a classic look with the marbled wash and high waist. The denim is sourced in India through Chetna Organic which is both Fairtrade and organic certified.
‍

‍

Recycled Cotton

According to the Sustainable Apparel Coalition's High Index, recycled cotton is the most sustainable cotton fiber source. Using recycled cotton reduces the demand for new cotton, and it also requires significantly less water and energy to produce compared to traditional cotton. Cotton can be sourced from recycled materials, such as post-consumer waste or factory scraps.

our pick

‍MUD Jeans: Wilma Works, $153
We love the utiliarian look of the Wilma Works in Indigo.  97% of MUD's jean collection contain recycled content, 32% of which are made with 40% post-consumer cotton.

‍

‍

Hemp

Hemp is a durable and fast-growing plant that requires very little water and pesticides to thrive. It can also be grown in a variety of climates, making it a more sustainable alternative to cotton. Hemp has a similar texture to linen and can be blended with other materials to create a softer fabric.

our pick

Afends: Fink Gigi Hemp Denim, $109
This super wide leg flower printed look is coming straight out of 90's girl dreams. The brand is pushing forward the use of hemp as a sustainable alternative to cotton. Check out the entire Afends' Hemp Collection.

‍

‍

Tencel

Tencel is a cellulosic fiber made from wood pulp that is sourced from sustainably-managed forests. TENCEL™ is Lenzing AG’s registered brand name for lyocell and modal fibers. The production process for TENCEL™ uses a closed-loop system that captures and recycles 99% of the solvents used. The fabric is preferred as it comes from renewable sources and is biodegradable. Also, Tencel has a soft, smooth texture and is known for its moisture-wicking properties.

our pick

Boyish: The Jovi, $200
Another wide leg style, The Jovi by Boyish brings a retro high rise look. The Jovi is made of certified organic cotton and TENCEL Lyocell.

‍

Choose Sustainable Jeans

By choosing denim made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, recycled cotton, hemp, and Tencel, we can reduce the environmental impact of our clothing while still enjoying the comfort and style of our favorite pair of jeans. As consumers, we have the power to drive demand for more environmentally-friendly fashion choices. So next time you're in the market for a new pair of jeans, consider opting for a sustainable alternative. Your wardrobe and the planet will thank you.