11 Sustainable Fashion Gifts for the Climate Warrior in Your Life

Trying to figure out what to get everyone on your list this holiday season can seem like a chore. However, it is possible to shop for items that make your loved ones happy and are kind to the environment.

A great way to do that is to purchase pieces from brands that believe in being considerate to the planet and bolster causes that aid local communities and underserved populations. The good news is that it really isn't a struggle to find manufacturers who are making these strides. Before hitting "complete purchase," look to see if the brand is transparent about its sustainability practices. You can also read labels and look for companies that use recycled materials, organic fabrics, natural waxes, and upcycling practices.

To make things even easier for you, we've pulled together some of the brands that are not only conscious in their practices but also offer great items to give this holiday season. Below, 11 gifts from sustainable brands to shop.

4Kinship Vintage 70s Velvet Maxiskirt $150.00

Shop

4Kinship is a Diné (Navajo)-owned sustainable brand making handmade, repurposed, upcycled, artisanal products. It was founded in 2015 by Amy Denet Deal with a desire to honor and support her community. The brand is currently helping fundraise for the Diné Skate Garden, which supports the community of Two Grey Hills on Navajo Nation. This handmade maxi skirt is a beautiful example of 4Kinship's pieces. 

Aliya Wanek Sanaa Dress $235.00

Shop

Speech therapist and designer, Aliya Wanek, founded her eponymous label in 2016, creating pieces from natural fibers that are hand-dyed. This Sanaa dress was locally dyed and made in a family-owned factory in the Bay Area.

Passion Lilie Denim and Orange Ikat Scarf $26.00

Shop

Recognizing the negative impact of pesticides on biodiversity, Passion Lilie was launched in 2013 with a mission to produce ethically made products. Each item, such as this fair trade Ikat scarf, is handmade in small batches by craftspeople using natural fibers, organic cotton, and non-toxic dyes. Purchases from the brand also help provide jobs with fair wages to artisans in Bangalore and Andhra Pradesh, India.

Escvdo Nube Sweater $475.00

Shop

Chiara and Giuliana Macchiavello, sisters originally from Lima, founded this Peruvian-inspired fashion label Escvdo. The brand partners with local craftspeople to support traditional ways of sheering and hand spinning and sources organic Pima cotton from Pisco. Traditional weaving techniques are used to create fashion pieces like the oversized Nube sweater.

Dare to Roam Scout Weekender $148.00

Shop

Launched by Ciara (yes, the Ciara), Dare to Roam uses 100% recycled nylon. The roomy Scout Weekender made with antimicrobial technology is fully lined, features side clips, has a slip trolley sleeve, a removable shoe bag, and two adjustable top handles so you can sling it over your shoulder and go.

Parker Clay Merkato Signature Tote $198.00 $133.65

Shop

Parker Clay is an accessories-focused brand launched by a husband and wife team using all sustainable leathers. The brand, a B-Corporation, hires at-risk women living in Ethiopia and provides skills training and financial literacy opportunities. The versatile Merkato Signature Tote is great for everyday running around and work (it fits a 15" laptop).

Forsake Lucie Chelsea Sneaker Boot $150.00

Shop

Forsake, which has maintained net-zero emissions since 2019, was Climate Neutral Certified for 2020. The Lucie Chelsea is made with waterproof full-grain leather, resists moisture absorption and water damage, and looks great with a pair of sustainable denim.

Gobi Cashmere Turtle Neck $137.89 $94.24

Shop

Gobi, which commemorated its 40th anniversary in September, was founded by a native Mongolian community in Ulaanbaatar. The brand's core values have been focused on nature, sustainability, preservation, and ethical practices. This 100% premium Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck works well under a blazer or solo paired with a midi skirt.

Della Terra Hudson $284.00

Shop

Della Terra produces shoes made of recycled materials from plants such as pineapple, corn, grape seed, and castor. They are also made without the use of solvents and chrome, lead, and phthalate. It doesn't hurt that these boots are also very cute.

Sanuk Cozy Vibe Indoor/Outdoor Slippers $75.00

Shop

Sanuk's Cozy Vibe Slipper is made from natural and high-quality recycled materials including hemp, renewable bio-based sugar cane, EVA Foam, responsibly sourced leather, Tencel, and RPET. The best part though? You can wear them inside or out.

Spy+ Boundless Sunglasses $70.00

Shop

Spy+'s Boundless style blocks over 99% of surface glare and is constructed of Bioplastic, which is made with 50% organic plant matter.