Hi, I’m Mara, an Italian living in the UK and a writer for Eco-Stylist. My journey towards sustainable fashion began in 2014 when I worked in London’s iconic retail stores.
I was always surrounded by racks of beautiful clothes when I understood there was more to the fashion industry than met the eye. In particular, when I worked for a renowned denim company, I began my journey to learn more about the denim manufacturing process, how brands make denim and the scope of conventional denim processes.
My concerns linked to conventional denim prompted me to learn more about sustainable manufacturing and how people and the environment are impacted by the denim industry’s production. Since that moment, I have reconsidered my choices and become more aware of how broadly my purchases affect the environment and people.
In the previous article, part 1: the bad, I focused on the problems that the denim industry causes to the planet and people. I shared what I have learnt about the traditional production and consumption of denim, the impact of the textile industry, including the denim, on our planet, whether sustainability in denim is possible and two brands that use friendly processing techniques for denim and are actual examples of sustainable ways to produce denim.
In this article, I will get deeper into what we mean by sustainable denim production, how I make sure the denim jeans I buy are sustainable, from the production process to the dyeing and finishing process, and how our demand for sustainable production of denim is changing the denim industry.
We’ll see that there are solutions for increased environmental sustainability and the commitment to sustainability is real for some brands. I’ll also share the three top brands that challenge the conventional denim industries and the wastewater produced by the denim because their jeans are made keeping in mind the importance of sustainable denim processing.
The shift toward sustainable production and consumption has already started. Let’s see how to be part of it.
Sustainability and eco-friendly denim: understanding sustainable jean production
Sustainability of denim production is the process that not only minimizes the environmental and social impact of making jeans, but also contributes positively to our planet. It encompasses every stage of the process, from raw material to dyeing, finishing, and distribution.
As I’ve highlighted in the other article, traditional denim production is a significant drain on resources in the fashion industry, with its heavy water use, chemical-laden dyeing processes, and exploitative labour conditions.
Sustainable denim, on the other hand, is a shift toward a cleaner, more ethical and conscious way of making jeans. Additionally, it incorporates innovative technologies designed to minimize the use of harmful chemicals and waste during manufacturing and dyeing processes.
Our pair of jeans doesn’t have to come with a high price for our planet and people; if we choose companies that make things right, we can be part of an important shift. It’s our responsibility to make ethical choices, as these choices encourage companies to adopt new practices and technologies, and partner with suppliers that can lead to significant improvements in a short period. But how can we be sure to choose the right brand?
Spotting brands that make denim with a true commitment to sustainability
Despite the popularity of sustainable products, not all “eco-friendly” labels are similar. As consumers, we have the power to make informed choices that support ethical and environmentally friendly practices. But how do you know if the jeans you’re buying are truly sustainable and ethical?
First, I look at certifications that can help me get to the point. I know they offer transparency and assure me that a brand meets rigorous environmental, social, or animal welfare standards. Three examples of certification I look for are:
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): It certifies that a fabric is organic and ensures that the entire supply chain meets strict social and environmental standards. Everything from the raw materials to the finished product, including fair labour and wages, is included in the certification.
- Fair Trade Certified: It makes sure that employees work in safe and ethical conditions and are paid fairly. Additionally, it aims to protect the environment by encouraging brands to invest in water-efficient technology, waste reduction, and reduced chemical usage.
- OEKO-TEX®: It’s a globally well-known organization that offers independent certifications to ensure textiles meet high safety and sustainability standards. Two of its prominent labels are STANDARD 100 and MADE IN GREEN, each serving distinct purposes.
At the beginning, it is a lot to take in. However, the key is knowing what certification means and then trusting it. If you want to learn more, check out our full guide to fashion certifications and what they mean.
Secondly, I choose brands based on their transparency policy. Generally, brands truly committed to sustainability are open about their manufacturing processes, supply chains, environmental impact, mistakes and challenges. I visit their website to look for an annual sustainability report, checking if they share their goals and progress, as well as information about the manufacturing process and their sustainable practices.
Additionally, before making a purchase, I always consider the quality and longevity of the denim. I look for durable stitching, high-quality denim fabrics, and timeless designs that won’t go out of fashion.
During these years, I’ve also developed an approach for deciding whether I can trust a brand. Here are my five keys to producing sustainable denim and what to look for when you buy a new pair:
- Organic & Recycled Materials: I always opt for denim made from recycled fibers or organic cotton grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers to reduce water usage and chemical pollution. I like thinking that these crops will promote soil health and biodiversity.
- Water Recycling: I cannot stand the idea of water waste around denim, which is why I choose brands that adopt water-saving techniques, like ozone washing, which uses less water and fewer chemicals, or laser technology that reduces water usage by up to 90%.
- Innovative Dyeing Techniques: I’ve looked at pics online related to the impact of traditional denim dyeing techniques, which is why I commit to brands that use friendly dyeing techniques instead. It can be natural dyes derived from plant sources or eco-friendly raw materials, such as natural enzymes; it doesn’t matter to me. I want to be sure my denim is less harmful to workers and the environment.
- Fair Labor Practices: I always look at international or third-party certifications to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of workers because I want to buy from brands that adopt fair labour practices and provide safe working conditions, fair wages, and transparency throughout their supply chains.
- Circular Fashion: I want my denim to last and have the least possible impact on the planet, that’s why I look for take-back programs, repair services, and a focus on durability. It keeps my denim out of landfills, reduces waste, promotes a more circular economy and makes me feel part of a positive change.
The Best Sustainable Denim Brands: My Three Favorites
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As I said previously, there are so many brands claiming to be “green” or “eco-friendly,” and it can be tough to tell who’s truly honest. That’s why Eco-stylist has done the research for us and selected the best sustainable denim brands that are leaders in transparency, innovation, and ethical values.
In this section, I’ll walk you through our top picks and explain why these brands hit the mark.
1) Taylor Stitch – a long-term vision that challenges fast-fashion norms
The brand is built around Five Pillars of Responsibility and emphasizes responsible sourcing, community impact, durable products, and reducing waste. Over 99% of Taylor Stitch’s cotton is now organic. Additionally, it innovates with hemp-based and byproduct-sourced leather, as well as responsibly sourced yak and merino wool.
The brand’s Re-stitch program invites customers to send back worn items, which are then repaired and resold at a discount, thereby extending garment life and keeping our clothes out of landfills.
Why I like Taylor Stitch: For the combination of solid design blended with sustainability. Additionally, because it sources its materials carefully and every piece carries the promise of lasting quality and repairability. In a nutshell, it’s a brand that demonstrates we can have sustainable clothes without compromising style.
Eco-Stylist Rating: Silver
Home Country: USA
My selected piece: The Slim Jean
2) Boyish – Vintage vibe with a sustainable conscience
It is one of the most sustainable denim labels from LA, blending eco-conscious materials with thoughtful manufacturing techniques. Jeans use one-third less water than conventional denim, thanks to water recycling systems. They also reduce dye intensity by limiting indigo dips and using a gentler indigo from Dystar with a much lower chemical footprint.
About 20% of their product line utilizes deadstock fabrics, and even buttons, rivets, labels, and packaging are made from recycled or compostable materials. Their cotton is traceable, sourced from farms certified by GOTS, OCS, or BCI in Turkey and Brazil. It incorporates recycled cotton (Refibra), with a goal toward fully recyclable fibers.
Why I love Boyish: For its unique blend of sustainability with a sunny California aesthetic where every detail feels intentional. It is progress embodied in beautifully made jeans.
Eco-Stylist Rating: Silver
Home Country: USA
My selected piece: The Ricky | Love Jones
3) Triarchy – Denim that’s biodegradable in under two years
Born from a family’s passion to rebuild wasteful fashion norms, Triarchy now leads the way in the production of truly responsible denim. They use organic cotton, Tencel, and the world’s first plastic-free stretch made from natural rubber. Their wash processes utilize ozone, laser, e-flow, and nanobubble technology to reduce water and chemical usage while maintaining the vintage significantly, worn-in look that we like.
Additionally, every garment is carbon-neutral, thanks to targeted offset programs, and the company practices full transparency by publishing third-party audited supply chain data via Greenstory, Retraced, and Renoon.
Why I love Triarchy: They don’t just talk about change, they are the change. From innovative fabrics to high-integrity production and real-world responsibility, Triarchy’s denim is as sustainable as it is stylish.
Eco-Stylist Rating: Silver
Home Country: USA
My selected piece: Fonda High Rise Wide Leg – Off White
More Sustainable Denim Brands
For more sustainable jeans check out our brand guide and filter by denim brands. Our brand guide features over 100 sustainable brands that Eco-Stylist has vetted and certified for transparency, fair labor, and sustainably made.
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Mara is an Italian writer and communicator specializing in sustainability, multilingual communications, and localization. She loves literature, art, and traveling. She dreams of living on a sailing boat to explore the Mediterranean.
