This week, the Bubs and I walked to the mall for a quick errand, and we ended up there long enough for a soft pretzel (I love you Wetzel, pretzel genius) and some poking around the stores.

Wow, that was depressing!I mean the pretzel was delicious, but wow the stores were crappy!

It feels impossible to find anything that isn't sewn or made in another country with really sketchy labor standards. The Gap doesn't have one good option. Not one. If you are buying from the gap, you are endorsing unethical labor. Neither does Loft or JC Penney. Don't even get me started on Forever 21. It has all traveled a long way so we can get cheap clothes, made poorly, and that costs our ethics and environment a hell of a lot. 11 million tons of textile waste goes into landfills and the water each year. In our recent history, many people have died due to the unsafe working conditions of factories that make clothes for Walmart and others. This is everywhere, and it is a huge problem. And when you walk into these stores, it feels like there is no way around it.

No wonder so many people give up! If every option is terrible, why even try?

Here's why: good options do exist. And we live in a magical time of the internet, where in the time you read about my Wetzel's pretzel (seriously, way better than Auntie Anne's- those ones are too greasy), you could already have bought yourself ethical underpants. Found them, browsed them, BAM! Ethical underpants.

Hundreds of stores, online spaces, and companies are out there improving fashion- it's a huge movement. People don't want to buy clothes that wreck the environment or enable the gross mistreatment of other human beings (and for good reason! Can we as Christians support this? How about just as citizens?). There's a market for slow, ethical clothing, and so many people are returning this call that two weeks in, I am still discovering new options every time I research.

In short, don't let places like Kohl's or The Gap fool you- you don't have to buy their crap anymore. You can get ethical clothes, organic clothes, fair trade clothes, and made in America clothes at every price point in every style. Don't believe me? Well, get ready for a fashion list of biblical proportions (this thing is LONG). Not enough for you? This blog is also compiling the list to end all list of American-made brands for anyone who likes feminine stuff.

Before we get too far into this, let me point out the (sort of) obvious-

The most eco-friendly thing you can do is buy significantly less. 

Make what you already have work. Find a tailor and finally use the stuff sitting dormant.

The most eco-friendly things you can buy are USED.

 It is also the cheapest possible option, so yelp consignment stores near you and check them out. It's way more affordable, has usually traveled very short distances, and creates no new waste. We may have grown up where shopping at places like Goodwill meant you weren't making ends meet, but now shopping secondhand just means you aren't a fool. I have a list of great online sources for secondhand clothes, so if you don't have good shops near you, you can still shop secondhand.

You don't even have to buy it! Share clothes with your friends or join an amazing group on the Buy Nothing Project. Learn to sew or find a tailor and you can turn someone else's trash into something amazing (check out Refashionista if you need inspiration).

Now, sometimes certain things are more difficult to buy used or you have a particular piece you need and don't have the time to comb consignment stores. It happens. If you are going to buy something new, consider supporting companies that are making their clothes in ethical, responsible, and environmentally-friendly ways. Here are the priorities I am thinking about:

Made in America (or Local to You)- The United States aren't perfect, but if your clothing is made here, you can feel certain that the person who made it was paid reasonable wages. That they weren't children, and their life wasn't in danger because of the conditions of the factory. Also very important, clothes made in the US have traveled much shorter distances than those made much further away, which means they used significantly less fossil fuels. Lastly, you worried about America? Want to make it great? Stop sending all your money to other countries and invest in quality pieces made here. Every dollar that stays in America is a vote to improve our culture and economy.

Fair Trade- Fair Trade is a growing area of clothing manufacturing, where the workers are paid much more than they would at other companies (sometimes working in co-ops) and work in much better conditions. These companies often take the form of some kind of social action and often employ and empower women. I think this is awesome, and often if they are socially-conscious, they are keeping the environment in mind as well. Another way to make every purchase count.

Eco-Friendly Clothing- Some companies focus on using all organic materials or using clean energy in the manufacture of their duds. Awesome. I'm in.

 Minimal Synthetic Fabrics- You know what those synthetic fabrics are made out of? Plastic! It is freaking everywhere, and it creates a ton of waste that won't go away. In fact, synthetic fibers travel out our washing machines into our water sources, poisoning everything we drink and eat. Yes, it is that terrible. Don't buy synthetic fibers.

This blog does use affiliate links for Amazon and Etsy, so we make a tiny bit of money if you shop from either of those sites. That being said we have no loyalty to Amazon, when you can buy local, buy local first. 

Alright, so this one is LONG (please forgive the mostly short descriptions, but otherwise we will never make it through), but the next time you are thinking about clothes-shopping, promise me you will poke around here first. Because you have so many options.

 Because Old Navy might be cheaper, but it's because they are doing wrong, do you really want to invest in that?

Here's the list of over 50 options. I aimed it at women, but many of the brands make things for both genders; if you want more hot tips for USA-made men's clothing, you cannot do better than A Continuous Lean. Men always have a good option! I starred some of my favorites in case you need to start somewhere. For Women, we have our own take on The American List here!

All American Clothing Company (USA)- Pants, Lounge Pants, and Tank tops all made in the USA.

All USA Clothing (USA)- This site, as you may have guessed, sells all made in America clothing! Lots of choices, mostly very affordable.

*American Giant (USA)- American Giant got on the national radar a year ago for their amazing hoodies, which had a waiting list for quite some time (they seem better prepared for all the orders now). I bought the boy American Giant sweatpants for Christmas, and he loved them. American cotton and American Workers.

Baldwin Denim (USA)- Based in Kansas City (how cool is that?) this denim company is cool, clean, and modern. Yet I will still wear them, and I am none of those things. Well done, Kansas City!

*Blue Canoe (USA, EF)- Eco-conscious clothing made in the US. I think they have gorgeous pieces (bottoms, tops, dresses, and lingerie) that are really figure-flattering and stylish. Everything looks comfortable and soft as well. Check them out and consider trying a piece on sale, which is around 20 bucks.

Clothes Made from Scrap (USA, R)- T-shirts made from recycled cotton and recycled pop bottles. Before you feel weird about it, think about all the synthetic (plastic-based) fabrics in your wardrobe. In fact, I bet you could find some bad news just by checking the tags you have on (unless you do your blog reading in the nude, in which case, more power to you! Way to reduce!).

Do U Speak Green (R, O, FT)- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified, this company makes t shirts and other clothing out of organic cotton, bamboo, and recycled fabric. It's testing materials are biodegradable.

Eileen Fisher (USA, FT)- This company makes their clothes in the US from fair trade fabrics made in Peru. Sharp, clean, and modern. Looks like what Audrey Hepburn might wear now if she were around and about 10 times more badass.

Elegantees (FT)- Elegantees hires women who survived being sex trafficked and are now free in Nepal. The goal is to reduce these women's -9*/89+vulnerability by battling poverty in Nepal. Their tops aren't just plain t-shirts (though they do have thse), but they have a wide variety of tops to buy. Who would have thought buying a t-shirt could be social action?

Emerson Fry (USA)- Minimalist clothes with some play ith volume.. Simple colors. Perfect for a capsule wardrobe? Most made here, and when it's not, it's well-marked and fair trade,

Esperanza Threads (USA, O)- This company started (in Cleveland, Ohio) as a response to sweatshops and the horrible state of fashion manufacturing. They sell t-shirts and sweats (as well as towels). Simple and clean look.

The Ethical Silk Company (EF, O, FT)- The Ethical Silk Company was started when its founder realized that they boil the silkworms to get the resource. Ugh! That is horrible! Instead, they use Ahimsa 'peace' silk, which is made with an eco-friendly process where no animals are harmed. They use a fair trade source in the Himalayas and manufacturer in Jaipur. 5% of their proceeds go to preventing homelessness and supporting centers where their clothing is manufactured.

* Eva Franco (USA)- Franco, a Romanian American, sells gorgeous and original dresses out of a Los Angeles factory. I have one Eva Franco dress, and I really love it. Well-made and interesting. Not basic, but very body-flattering. You can find her on Modcloth or at Anthropologie, among many other places.

Everlane (T)- This company has a minimal, modern aesthetic so they are about as on trend as anything on this list. They are also all about supply chain transparency, so you can actually look at their map and see where the clothing comes from. They make it onto a lot of ethical lists (and are also beloved because they sell really high quality clothes online only, so the prices are much better), but honestly, I am a little skeptical. They brag about being made at the "best factories" but is that the same as most ethical? Bright side is you can see exactly where each piece is made- t-shirts and belts are made in LA. I don't see them addressing ethics or the environment as a priority, so I might take this one with a big grain of salt. Better than nothing, but as you can see, other options abound.

Fair Indigo (FT, O, USA)- This site sells clothing items from multiple companies, but they have one clear mission, which I LOVE "create a culture of caring with every piece you wear." I couldn't have said it better myself. Lots of great stuff for Men, Women, and Babies and Kids. I love this company and their values (you can even shop by the values that matter most to you!), and I will FOR SURE be shopping at this site from here on. Great place to browse for yourself or for gifts.

Fair Trade Fashion (FT, EF)- This site sells a variety of companies and is a pretty big player in the slow fashion movement. Has everything from t-shirts to underwear, and I especially appreciate how concerned they are with waste and educating about fair trade labeling as well. Might be a good resource if you are just curious- you don't even have to buy anything! I have even been to their Seattle store, and it was filled with cool and practical things.

Go Travelwear (USA)- Simple, chic travel basics. Bring the US with you on your journeys (or just wear these anytime? Stylish and not wrinkly sounds like a win any day).

Good Society (EF, O)- These jeans, made in Italy, are made with 100% organic cotton and minimal environmental impact. Plus, I imagine that their European manufacture means every thread is super chic. I love the colors.

from Green Label Organics

Green Label Organics (USA, EF)- Sustainably-made t-shirts. They even have some eco-friendly messages! I couldn't resist this one.

Gypsy05 (USA, EF)- Gypsy05 is bohemian and colorful and the least lame tie dye I have ever seen. The heart of the company may be their swimsuits and cover ups but I think their dresses and tops are also gorgeous and summery, so I thought I would include them here as well. Every garment is dyed and manufactured in Los Angeles.

Hae Now (FT, EF, O)- These simple t-shirts and totes, for adults, teens, kids, and babies, are very simple. But they can be bought in bulk in needed and they are doing way more good than their Hanes counterparts.

Hempy's (USA, EF)- Hemp s a sustainable and gentle to the environment material- most of the products this company sells seem pretty butch, but I do like their t-shirts.

Here Today Here Tomorrow (EF, O, FT)- This London-based studio and store that takes a "holistic approach" to sustainability. They have a line of 100% organic, hand-knitted wool wear, which can be one of the trickier things to find, so even though they are in London, it might be a great resource. They work with a fair trade manufacturer in Nepal who also has a hardcore approach to keeping the water clean.

from Impression Purple

Impression Purple (FT)- This company uses traditional embroidery techniques to make gorgeous moden garments. Artisans in Pakistan create the clothes as part of the Ethical Stitch Program.

Indie Apparel (USA)- This site sells indie fashion designer items as long as they are made in the USA. Pretty wide variety, but some look really modern and unique.

Karen Kane (USA)- Since 1979, this company has been making "most" (??) of its clothing in their Los Angeles factory. Adorable designs that look like maybe one of those Southern girls who is always perfectly put together would wear it. Stylish but not overly edgy. Pretty. They also have a plus size line, which isn't as common (as it should be).

*M Rena (USA)- My favorite tank tops in the world, made in LA, built to fit all, and you can get long ones that I could never go without again. A staple basic in my wardrobe. You can buy them on Amazon as well- so easy!

Maggie's Organics (FT, O)- This company has complete transparency about every step from cotton plant to leggings or t-shirt. Mostly casual wear and socks, but everything looks very soft and comfy.

Margaret Winters (USA)- Factory right in New York. Loosey goosey colorblock sweaters.

Mata Traders (FT)- This clothing company has SUCH cute clothes- I really love the patterns and the dresses. They employ women in India and Nepal and are fair trade certified. They work with co-ops and try to end the cycle of poverty for the women who work for them, offer fair wages, and a reasonable work day. You can read all about it on their website. Pretty amazing!

Matter (EF)- This company talks a lot about empowering the communities where their travel pants are made, but I can't see anything that actually refers to them as Fair Trade. I also see an investment in eco-friendly materials and zero-waste manufacturing, but I can't find any official content or certifications. So do your research before you go this route. On the other hand, the pants are really cool.

Nanette Lepore (USA- mostly)- Nanette Lepore was one of the American labels (Zac Posen is another) that has committed to manufacturing at least some of their garments in the United States. Their swimsuits mostly aren't, but many of the bohemian and beautiful dresses are. A good switch in from many other brands that still only manufacture abroad (so if the clothes are that expensive, you have to ask what you are paying for if NOT safer and more ethical labor).

No Sweat (USA, FT)- One hundred percent United States Union-Made. One hundred percent fair trade materials. T-shirts and hoodies.

Nomad by Elroy (FT)- This company intends to maintain textile traditions that have been taken over by modern and industrialized manufacturing by buying their fabrics from small family businesses who continue textile traditions in various cultures. Elroy began as a economic development project in Indonesia, where the owner tried to employ locals to make clothing out of sustainable and upcycled fabrics.

Onno (O, EF)- This company makes their t-shirts out of organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo. They are also certified as carbon-free, which is pretty awesome. Their shirts are made in China, but their factory isn't shared and they strictly control the work day to be a healthy length with a real lunch break. That part is pretty cool.

*Pact (FT, O, EF)- We have lots of Pact stuff in our house- especially baby socks and underwear, and I have loved every single thing we have bought from them. They also sell simple clothing pieces like tshirts and a few dress designs. They are fair trade certified, use all organic cotton, and much is made sustainably (I especially remember reading on my The Bub's socks that they were made in a factory that used all wind energy. Super cool.

Patagonia (FT, USA)- This has to be one of the most mainstream stores on the list, and they have both Made in the USA t-shirts and a large selection of fair trade items. Perfect for hiking and sportiness and whatever it is that outdoorsy people do.

People Tree (FT, O, S)- People Tree has been a pioneer in fair trade fashion, and it has been in the business for 20 years. Most of these companies are pretty new to the game, so I was impressed. They invest in fair trade practices and are fair trade certified at every level of their production and were the first to have their cotton achieve the Global Organic Textile Standard at every level of their supply chain. They also minimize waste, don't use toxic dyes, and even travel their products in the ways which use the least fossil fuels. Plus, they have a lot of selection and I want to buy half their site.

Rachel Pally (USA)- Gorgeous dresses (including maternity and plus size, which they call white label) made in Los Angeles. Feels easy, not overwrought, yet it is still elegant. Also, super figure flattering in that way you find with clothing made by a woman for women. A good switch from something like Asos. Definitely steeper, but might be good for the right clothing. Could keep every wedding guest dressed for the rest of time.

Raven and Lily (FT, EF)- This woman- owned and led company employs 1500 workers at fair trade wages. They also won a B-Benefit Corporation (helping impoverished women improve and establish their livelihood, honoring traditional labor, and using eco-friendly practices). The owner also lives in a tiny house in Texas, which I think is a pretty fun fact. They also have some of the cutest pieces I have seen on this (LONG) quest for ethical clothing.

Royal Apparel (US, O, R)- Royal Apparel is owned in New York but manufactures their product (and therefore makes new jobs) in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania. They use organic cottons, bamboo, and hemps as well as recycled plastic bottles.They have basic tees and tank tops for all ages. Their aesthetic reminds me of American Apparel, but less rapey.

from Shabby Apple

Shabby Apple (USA)- Shabby Apple sells beautiful dresses and swimwear. The company is owned by a woman and made in America, so it is a great option. In retrospect, I wish I had chosen something from them as a bridesmaid dress, but I think a lot of their dresses would work for much more casual events as well.

from Shelby Steiner

Shelby Steiner (USA)- Portland-based. Super modern, minimalist, and just a little bit Pacific Northwest rough chic (it's a thing, I swear to you). Also, the sheer badassery of this model makes me want to shave my head, and then I remember I am not a model or a badass.

SOS Tees (USA, O)- Simple organic cotton grown in Texas and made in Texas! Keeping the whole supply chain right under their own noses.

Skreened (1/2 USA, EF)- This company screens t-shirts to order and it looks the majority of the shirts are made in the US (the rest are "ethically-sourced" but not fair trade certified). They also contribute to a number of green initiatives.

Stop Staring (USA)- These vintage-inspired dresses are super figure-flattering and adorable. Another fashion company based out of LA (go Los Angeles manufacturing!) I tried one once, and I couldn't pull it off, but I bet you can!

Style with a Heart (FT, O, EF)- This website is cool because you can buy clothing items based on which environmental issues are most important to you (including recycled and vintage! YES! Not including made locally/ something by geography, but all in all, I'm impressed). They have 100's of ethical and environmentally conscious brands to choose from, so there is a lot here. So much in fact that it makes me feel sad that this War and Peace of a fashion list is only the tip of the iceberg. On the brightside, look at a website like this, and by the end, you will be sure you can go the rest of your life without buying one unethical clothing item.

Symbology (FT)- Lots of really interesting and fashionable clothing made by women in India and the West Bank. They also stress preserving cultural traditions, using traditional techniques from the region the clothing are made, empowering those techniques to continue to move forward. They also use a lot of beautiful prints. I don't see anything about environmental impact though, so I can't speak to that in this case.

Synergy Organic Clothing (EF, O, FT)- This company works with a factory of about 150 women in Nepal, who are paid a living wage and receive bonuses. They use organic cotton and low-impact dyes as well. Very committed to clean water, solar power, and recycled paper as well! Plus, their clothes are really cute, yoga and otherwise.

Sympatico (USA, EF)- This company mostly sells loose blouses made of hemp, so natural fabric and some of the shirts could look plenty stylish with the right outfit. And if your look is granola, they have nailed it.

Tarn (USA)- Super outdoorsy gear. Made in Colorado.They only do a few things, but by all accounts, they do them well.

Three Dots (USA)- Based in LA, Three Dots has a female CEO and creative director. Their central business are simple essential t-shirts, but they have clearly expanded into sharp classic dresses, skirts, and other pieces. Borderline preppy, but the kind of simple, smart, wearable pieces made with high quality materials that might be perfect for a capsule wardrobe. Classics.

* Velvet by Graham and Spencer (USA- not all)- Perfect replacement for where you buy your basics, this company sells tank tops, maxi dresses, jeans, the works (just make sure what you pick is, because they aren't 100% US manufactured).. Any kind of piece that you could buy at Gap, they sell here, but way more chic. Also sold on Amazon and Anthropologie.

That's it! I am never blogging again! This post will retire me forever. Ok, you know I kid- I am on a mission! But it does move slow.

So, if you want to green your wardrobe, follow these three steps:

1. Buy Less- We all have too much clothes! Set yourself a limit per season and see what you actually think is worth buying, rather than being an impulse or a hope it will work out. Also, I know I often have so much clothes that I forget what I already have; donate clothes down to a manageable size, and you can keep a better eye on it.

2. Buy Used- Your smaller wardrobe should be more than 50% consignment if you can help it. Look up your consignment options, and if something isn't important enough to be your one garment per season, or important enough to be worth the larger ethical price tag, it must be time to get it used.

3. Buy Ethically- Use the list here to find options that are better for your skin, your ethics, and your world. I love these brands and I know there are tons more.



Have a fair trade or made in America brand you love? Any good advice on greening your clothes? Leave me a comment and share this list! If you want more shopping lists (including shoes, make up, paper towels, post-it notes, and WAY more) check out the Giant List of Shopping Lists.

When The Boy and I were living together and finally sort of had our business together, we started buying clothes at the Gap, and we felt pretty damn snazzy. Most of my life, I did shop at Old Navy with my mom, and I loved the wall of flip flops.

Seriously, if you don't love the wall of cheap flip flops, we probably just won't get eachother. A whole rainbow of barely there footwear? Just heaven.

Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic are three levels of the same company, that go from pretty damn cheap and casual to business and a little more high end (still pretty affordable). Old Navy and Gap are great at capturing that mass appeal- they have pretty useful stuff for everyone (including kids- I know lots of people who swear by Old Navy), and none of it is all that expensive (just nice enough to make 2 kids in their 20's feel on point).

So how does a mega company make enough stuff that can stay relatively on trend and still keep prices low? A rainbow of 1 dollar flip flops cheap?

Well, you send all of your manufacturing to places that can make it cheap. Sweatshop cheap.

Gap was founded by Donald and Doris Fisher in California in 1969, and their family continues to be deeply involved in the huge international company's business.

Gap especially is known for its sometimes genius branding. I mean, you can see the white background and the people in jeans, right? Though they portray an All-American image, none of their clothing is made in America. This on its own is a bummer- moving manufacturing abroad takes jobs away from American people and it adds tons of fossil fuels and other shipping waste to its process from raw materials to stores. But worst of all, in this company's case, is that their outsourcing of labor has led them (and in turn, all of us) to fund sweatshops and grossly mistreated labor.

Since 2003, there have been multiple very serious incidents where Gap was essentially caught in this mistreatment- reports showed sweatshop workers in Saipan were forced to work extreme overtime in unsafe conditions and were even subject to forced abortions.

A few years later, one of their suppliers (Western in Jordan) was caught using child labor, forcing a 109 hour work week, and even raping employees. A few years after that, an Indian factory was filmed revealing child labor. Want to read more about these situations? There is lots of information out there- start here, here, and here.

Gap did make efforts to correct these situations, but when safety proposals were attempted in India, Gap rejected it, fighting to keep unsafe factories open, to undermine inspectors, and retaining unethical labor (especially through contracting, where they benefit from super cheap labor but can turn a blind eye to working conditions) throughout their supply chain.

They refused an agreement to protect their workers from tragically unsafe working conditions. They would rather see another factory burn to the ground. Let that set in, because that's what you are getting with your rainbow flip flops and t-shirts.

Everytime we buy something, we tell the company selling it (and the larger market) "This is ok with me." So you need to ask yourself whether you want your t-shirts to come with this kind of ethical and moral baggage. We can do better for the people who make our clothes.

1. For Everyone- Buy Less and Buy Used

If you don't want to fund this fast fashion set of practices, but you need something and aren't rolling in the dough, your best bet is buying consignment. Always. But before we get to that, you might consider redefining what constitutes "need." As the fashion industry only gets faster and cheaper, there's a constant suggestion that you don't have enough, or that you have to have a MTV cribs style mega closet before you have everything you need. Just not true. You are better off taking what you already have to a tailor than buying a bunch of new stuff.

My guess is that at least half of Old Navy's income is impulse buys. You didn't need shorts, but now that you see them, they look cute (and are on sale) so why not. They make more money, you feel like you got a deal, and those shorts will be worn out in a summer or two. This is a huge waste of money that you could spend on so many other things, so why not just skip it? If you want to cut down on random spending, start making a list and then change your first stop for shopping-


Buying clothes used had a stigma around it when we were kids (it was like the bottom of the barrel, and even know people from home will talk about it only in terms of "charitable giving"), but in this world of fast fashion, people now throw away tons of clothes every year. Buying new from these companies and then donating it only deepens cycles of poverty globally and creates massive waste.

Trust me, there is enough barely used clothes being thrown away that there is enough for everyone. In fact, if you can't find things you love at your local stores (or you feel like it is a huge intimidating step to start browsing), I suggest checking out sites like Thred Up, which has a huge collection of used clothes being updated everyday.

The bright side of buying consignment is that you don't have to say goodbye to the brands you love. If saying goodbye to Old Navy is giving you pangs, you can still buy this brand, just for half the price. You lose that immediacy of trends, since most things are a season or two behind, but you can choose things that will last you longer and be a little more classic anyway.

Before my first son was born, about 96% of my wardrobe was new, with a few hand me downs and consignment pieces sprinkled in. Now that I am trying to do right as a steward of the Earth, everything I have bought is about 90% used 10% new (mostly I can't do secondhand underwear, so we do Pact). My kids' wardrobes are probably 95% used.

This works perfectly for us, and I think it would work for most people. For every 4 things you buy for your wardrobe, 3 should be used. It's a high bar, but the more you stretch to reach it, the more good you do.

Not convinced? Let me prove it-

For Kids and Babies

City Threads- Ever since American Apparel was sold to Gildan (a rough day in these parts), City Threads has been our go to company when we need simple kids basics. It is made in America, cotton not synthetic materials, and they have lots of cute stuff (that doesn't have dumb sayings on it- why do companies think kids need stupid nonsense written across their chest at all times?).

Winter Water Factory- This brand, based in Brooklyn, is totally American-made and adorable. They have some of the cutest, coolest prints I have ever seen for kids clothing. It isn't cheap, but I have bought a few things from them, and they have been high quality and lasting.

Etsy- If you are looking for t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other baby and kid clothes, you can find really original and fun stuff on Etsy. You can see some of my favorites on this post.

For Masculine Clothes

American Giant- I love the sweatpants made by this American company. They also do simple t shirts (and basic dresses). Yes, they are more expensive, but if you buy 1 pair of great and lasting sweatpants instead of 5 over time, you will still save money.

Gustin- My husband is a huge fan of Gustin, and I would guess that is where he has spent the majority of his clothing budget since we switched to shopping ethically. The weird thing is that they make things to order, so do not order from them if you are on a time crunch! On the other hand, if you have things you know will need replaced, this is a no-waste way to get great looking and fitting
Zappos

Earnest Sewn- This brand does a small number of items for both men and women, but they all look great. Cool without trying too hard. Definitely on the expensive end, but they look classic and well-made enough to last.

AG Jeans- This is another company with lots of classic basics. I'll be honest with you, I still look st sites like this and feel like I could never splurge like this, but with sales and a change in shopping, it might be within reach.

For Feminine Clothes

There are SO MANY great American-made options that you don't even know exist. Here is a list of American-made wonderfulness for more feminine and unisex stuff.

Gilli- This is a great brand if you are looking for simple basics with a little style. You can find them on Amazon and they have a perfectly great website all their own (other super affordable amazon Made in America brands? Popana and M Rena). Blue Canoe is another great spot for slightly simpler dresses and cuts.

Zappos has a pretty huge Made in America Women's section. If you are looking to browse or find a specific made in America thing (including LOTS of jeans), this might be a fun place to start.

Mata Traders- This fair trade company sells really flattering dresses in great prints. Shopping fair trade will truly help women and laborers around the world, not continue their mistreatment.

Reformation- Ok, this store is cooler than I will ever be on my best day, and it's definitely more expensive than Old Navy, but it is worth checking out if you just want to see what is out there that is made in America.

For Made in America Jeans

Old Navy or the Gap your go to for jeans? Luckily, American-made jeans are actually still pretty easy to come by. They aren't as cheap, because no one was mistreated in their making. Here is an (ever-growing) list of American denim and their price range.

Roundhouse Jeans (30-70), LC King (50-130), Levi's (not all are made in America, but they do have a collection- 88-98), Rogue Territory (140-250), Ruell and Ray (175), Jean Shop (180-250), J Brand (180-280), Raleigh Denim Workshop (195-250), Rag and Bone (195-295), Tellason (200), Baldwin (200-550) Self Edge (250-350), Rising Sun Jeans (325)




Large companies like the Gap do employ tons of retail workers in their stores, so they definitely do some good, but that good only goes so far if their churning out of fast fashion has so many negative consequences as well. Fight back against fast fashion and stand up for American manufacturing with how you spend your money. If you want more shopping ideas, check out My Giant List of Shopping Lists.

Today, Modcloth officially announced that they were acquired by Jet.com who is owned by Walmart. As you would, they tried to announce the acquisition as if it were a good thing, saying-

"We will stay true to our mission of empowering, celebrating, and inspiring women.

Um, what about Walmart says empowering women to you? Is it their history of mistreating their own workers, paying them so little (and manipulating their hours) that you essentially guarantee they will need public assistance to live? Is it the gross and sometimes inhumane manufacturing conditions their garment workers live in (remember when the factory collapsed a few years ago, they were making clothes for some of the Walmart brands, among others)? Is it the Waltons hoarding money at the top, becoming more and more wealthy while being one of the least generous? Their business plan of squeezing out small businesses? Walmart may get a bad rep, but much of it is well-deserved, and I think "empowering" and "inspiring" with them at the helm is a pretty huge leap.

So, alas, I loved you Modcloth. I really did. Back in college, I could not get enough of your dresses, and you made me feel like it was cool to love kooky prints and cinched waists. But we are done now. I stopped giving my money to Walmart a while ago, and I don't care how cute your dresses are, I believe in American small businesses, in treating labor with respect, and in environmental responsibility, so I won't even visit your site again.

I have recommended Modcloth over and over on this blog for their "Made in USA" filter, so you could buy clothing you felt confident were made ethically and which weren't being shipped all over creation. You won't see that anymore. In fact, I will remove all the links tomorrow.

For a long time, I have used Modcloth as the first stop when I have wanted something specific that I couldn't find in consignment. It bums me out that is no longer the case, BUT if you are also feeling a little at a loss, don't despair. There are so many other good choices out there, or other places to find Modcloth brands you love. Pick based on your own ethics and priorities, but here is a list of some of your MANY options-

Fall in Love with Consignment Again- I know most Modcloth shoppers are probably no stranger to a consignment store, but it never stops being worth saying that if you care about the environment, no shopping is greener than secondhand. So many great pieces already exist, so this might be a good opportunity to go revisit stores near you. Don't have much nearby? Thred Up puts up new things everyday (not unlike another store we used to know- you can still do your daily browse) and their consigned goods are infinitely better for the environment (and your wallet).

from Bettie Page

Bettie Page- This dress company has the retro, quirky, form-fitting, bright-colored wonderfulness up the wazoo. Always playing with fun prints and really flattering styles. Also made in America by two women.


Esther Williams Swimwear- You know those Made in the USA magic swimsuits we all bought from Modcloth? Also available on Amazon (I know, not a huge step up from Walmart, but good to see how you really can find this stuff anywhere) and Unique Vintage, and for less money.

Eva Franco- This amazing designer, an immigrant from Romania, makes most of her gorgeous dresses in the US. You could usually get one or two on Modcloth, though they are on the more expensive end, it might be a good stop if you are looking for something really special. You can sometimes buy her dresses at Anthropologie as well.


Hello Holiday- An old classmate from college sent me this store, and I am already obsessed with it. Has a Made in America filter and carries some of the greatest stuff. Perfect (maybe better?) replacement for the Modcloth-shaped hole in your heart. I also love that they have a great range of sizes, which is really lacking from many of these sites. Also, someone go buy this dress, because I am obsessed with it.

from Mata Traders

Mata Traders- This fair trade company sells really flattering dresses in great prints. They are ACTUALLY empowering women by paying them fairly and building career skills to fight global poverty.

from Gilli

Gilli- This is another company that I have bought off of the Modcloth Made in USA page. It also happens to be available on Amazon and they have a perfectly great website all their own. Blue Canoe is another great spot for slightly simpler dresses and cuts.

from Reformation

Reformation- Ok, this store is cooler than I will ever be on my best day, but their clothes are beautifully made and I have loved the t-shirts I bought from them. They are extremely invested in minimizing their environmental impact, are Made in the US, and they are vertically integrated so they know exactly what is going in their clothes. The prices are higher, but again, might be great if you want something really special (or boob-baring).

Show Me Your Mumu- This brand is perfect if you tend toward the more bohemian, 70's look. Lots of swingy dresses in cool prints, and the best made in America bridesmaid dresses I have seen anywhere.

Pact- Fair Trade cotton goods, for everything from cute socks to pajamas to simple wrap dresses. A nice place to look if you want more ethical basics. And seriously, their socks and underwear are the best.

from Rachel Pally

Rachel Pally- My other favorite source for dresses. Lots of her cotton and modal dresses are so soft and flattering (even the maternity dresses). Doesn't have that Modcloth quirk, but might be worth checking out.

Unique Vintage- This other shopping site, even more committed to a retro feel, serves up a bunch of retro and American-made dresses. This includes Stop Staring!, Steady (love this one), Heart of Haute, and Bernie Dexter. You will feel like you never left Modcloth, and you have so many cute and campy options. Perfect place to quench a modcloth craving, without so much Walton.

from Shabbyapple

Shabby Apple- I read this American-made company is also under big transitions, so if they no longer belong on this list, I will take care of it. But they make beautiful collections of dresses in lots of vibrant colors and flattering cuts. Owned by a woman for a long time.

Ok, I know I am missing TONS- what would you add to the list?

There are so many good options; don't get discouraged! We lived without Modcloth before, and we can do it again. Want even more ideas? Check here. If you are looking for more eco-friendly shopping ideas, check out my Giant List of Shopping Lists.

This blog series "Don't Buy... Instead Try..." intends to point out some of the most egregiously unethical, wasteful, and environmentally ridiculous companies out there. Instead of dwelling on their considerable awfulness, the series will focus on the other options you have for purchasing.

Every purchase we make is a vote for the kind of world we want. 
Every single purchase is political.
 Every single purchase has ethical ramifications, and 
every single purchase should be approached with a spirit of stewardship. 

We can change the world by refusing to fund extreme greed, the mistreatment of other human beings, and the trashing of the environment. We need to stay aware of the many choices available to us. Will we get it right every time? No. But if we all make little changes, we can send companies a new message, that consumers will show up if they do the right thing. 

from ebay

Tonight, we headed to our local mall for some dinner, dessert, and letting our kid play in the pretty awesome play area. When dessert fell through (damn you, Dairy Queen), we just walked through the mall, and it struck me that basically any of the stores there would qualify for this blog. If we want to minimize our environmental impact or support American businesses that employ lots of Americans (not just a handful of underpaid high school and college students), we may all need to step away from the mall.

One of the most egregious of these is American Eagle (but we could say almost all the same things about stinky Abercrombie and Fitch, inexplicable Aeropostale, and the Gap) Despite "American" being in the name, American Eagle Outfitters sells only a tiny hand full of American products (mostly their scents, 4 t-shirts, Burt's Bees products, and a few Woolrich blankets online only). This is better than nothing, and it makes me sad to write this because the company is based out of Pittsburgh, but if you are trying to shop for ethical clothes, this isn't the place to start.

Also notable- the sheer number of t-shirts with American imagery on them- all of which were made elsewhere.

The first store was in Michigan, and the company was once headquartered in Tennessee. It's still not particularly large (especially compared to some of the things we have looked at here), but makes over 150 million dollars a year. They also have recently signed a "franchisee" agreement with one of the huge clothing distributors in the Middle East, so this "All-American" brand has stores all over the world. The company also makes the vast majority of their clothes oversees and have run into trouble for how they treat their labor.

American Eagle's strength is that it is marketed primarily to teens and young college students (specifically ones that wish they hung out at the beach a lot? Beach days aren't that common in Pittsburgh). I'll be honest with you, the teenage years horrify the (low key) environmentalist in me. They  are growing so fast that you don't want to spend a lot of money, but you also might have more trouble steering them away from trendy clothes or shopping in consignment stores. Striking that balance can feel incredibly tough if not impossible.

The good news is that it isn't impossible. You can still sidestep clothing stores like American Eagle and do better for the environment.

1. Get it Used- Yes, I know that I just said that someone who shops at American Eagle may not be wildly excited about used clothes. That doesn't mean you can't find something! Check what consignment shops are available around you and start browsing. You can probably save a whole lot of money and at nicer places find things that would still feel cool now. You can at least fill some wardrobe blanks this way.I have bough almost everything from consignment stores or Thread Up in the last year, and it has saved me a ton of money.

2. American Giant- This company's stuff will last you a long time, but their stuff does not come cheap. Might be a great place to check!

3. Pact- Fair Trade cotton goods, for everything from cute socks to pajamas to simple wrap dresses. A nice place to look if you want more ethical basics. And seriously, their socks and underwear are the best.

There are plenty of clothing companies out there still made in America- for boys, you can check The American List and look out for sales. Even when shopping for someone in a seemingly endless transitional phase, you can still get some of your shopping done in a way that

Want more shopping inspiration? Check out my Giant List of Shopping Lists.