Trade in Fast for Fair: 10 Fair Trade Brands Every Ethical Consumer Should Know About
Would you believe that, in this day and age, many of us are still supporting companies that profit from sweatshops? Not only are people receiving unfair wages for long hours of work but, in some instances, children are being employed.
Beyond the human atrocities, companies who don’t abide by fair trade practices are likely to dispose of harmful chemicals improperly and use materials riddled with non-organic materials.
If you’re ready to support fair trade practices, strong production ethics, cruelty-free methods, and sustainable materials, then let’s go shopping. These 10 fair trade brands are not only stylish but feel-good, too.
Top 10 Fair Trade Brands Every Eco-Conscious Shopper Must Know
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Eileen Fisher
Eileen Fisher has made a decades-long career out of their fair trade practices. They support higher wages and invest in the local communities where they operate.
The company has a particular affinity for Peru, judging by their Love, Peru project. Through it, over 600 families in and around Arequipa benefit from their fair trade practices and higher wages.
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Everlane
Everlane is known for its “radical transparency.” They believe their customers have the right to know where their products are made. On the sidebar of each product page, you can read about the factory where their products are made. It’s also touted as the world’s cleanest denim factory.
Everlane’s denim line is particularly wonderful. They offer an array of cuts and styles. One of their most popular picks is the Japanese denim line, offered in high-rise, mid-rise, and skinny styles.
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Patagonia
Given their love of the outdoors, it’s nice to see Patagonia has a genuine concern for protecting the environment. Their line of men’s jeans is made of organic cotton, which removes the risk of GMOs and harmful pesticides.
Beyond that, they follow a dying process for their denim that uses 84 percent less water and 30 percent less energy.
In 2015, the company started a campaign called “Denim Is a Filthy Business.” They even produced a video detailing the numerous ways a single pair of jeans can pollute the environment.
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People Tree
People Tree has some of the cutest prints in the game. Their dresses are particularly show-stopping. Best of all, their cotton is fair trade. In truth, it doesn’t take long to learn more about the benefits of fair trade; they’re endless.
People Tree focuses uses little to no harmful chemicals, opting for low-impact dyes and organic cotton farming. The company also ensures workers are paid a fair wage and farmers receive a good deal for their products.
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Stella McCartney
If you’re considering a shift from vegetarianism to veganism, you’re going to have to consider your wardrobe, too. When you’re ready for vegan leather products, start with Stella.
Of course, this makes the company cruelty-free. But they also take pride in being honest and reliable with a modern flare. It’s a win-win all around when you shop Stella’s brand.
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Reformation
The folks at Reformation know that up to two-thirds of the sustainability impact happens at the raw materials stage. Fiber selection is everything and their practices reflect it. They aim to ensure over 75% of their fibers are plant-based or, at least, recycled.
At their manufacturing plant, Reformation’s electricity is 100 percent wind-powered. To be even more economical, they use LED lighting and Energy-Star rated appliances. Also, you can be sure they recycle, compost, and donate anything that hasn’t been used in their manufacturing process, making zero waste their ultimate goal.
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MATT & NAT
Let’s talk accessories. MATT & NAT have the cutest line of accessories. So, when it’s time for a new purse or wallet, be sure to shop their brand. In fact, MATT & NAT stands for MAT(T)ERIAL + NATURE.
They refuse to use any animal-based materials while remaining sustainable and eco-friendly. Some of their sustainable materials include cork and rubber. Best of all, the lining of all Matt & Nat bags is made entirely from recycled water bottles.
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Lakeborn
If you’re a t-shirt and jeans kinda guy or gal, head on over to our friends at Lakeborn. You know how, for every pair of Toms shoes you buy, they give a pair to a child in need? Lakeborn takes a similar approach.
For every product purchase, someone in need is provided clean water for an entire year. They’re backed by Water.org, a company co-founded by the one and only Matt Damon. You can join their movement by following #TheRippleEffect.
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Levi’s
Did you know this long-standing brand is fair-trade? They, too, made the vow to use less water during production. In fact, they started an initiative called WATER<LESS.
To date, they’ve saved more than three billion liters of water and recycled more than two billion liters. On their website, they advertise a 96% reduction in water usage when manufacturing.
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HoodLamb
If you’re in the market for a cozy hoodie that can withstand Canadian winters, look no further than HoodLamb. They feature hemp-based products, knowing it’s one of the strongest organic materials out there.
Beyond protecting the environment, they also protect animals. They’ve teamed up with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, which seeks to defend the marine wildlife worldwide.
Fair Trade Brands for Every Desire
No matter what you’re in the market for, there are fair trade brands you can opt to support. Here at Get That Right, we’re all about health, wealth, education, and happiness.
While you seek to make the world a better place, don’t forget about your personal health and happiness. here are seven self-care strategies you can start implementing today.
And, of course, don’t forget the most important members of our family – our dogs! Take a look at these pros and cons of going organic for your dog food.
