Once upon a time, I was a fast fashion addict. But over the past few years, I have been dedicated to purchasing clothing made from natural fibers (unless thrifted). Here’s why:

1. 1. Better for the environment. Natural fibers biodegrade creating little to no impact on the environment. They also don’t leach microplastics into our waterways through washings.
   2. Better for your health. Ultimately synthetic fibers come from oil, which could adversely affect the skin.
   3. Better investment. The fast fashion industry has been producing cheap clothing that isn’t made to last. Natural fibers can hold up much longer with proper care.

Synthetic fibers could also be called plastic fibers. They are derived from petroleum or petrochemicals and wreak havoc on our ecosystems if not disposed of properly, and even then, they never truly decompose. Some common synthetic fibers are polyester, acrylic, nylon, and spandex. Even recycled plastic (like post-consumer water bottles) turned into fiber is the wrong choice for the fashion industry. Please read: 3 Reasons Fashion Should Be Plastic-Free (Including Recycled Plastic) for more information. However, I do think that recycled polyester over virgin polyester is always a better choice.

These up and coming fibers are game-changers for sustainable fashion. They are natural, vegan fibers that can replace animal and synthetic leather. You’ll be seeing more of these as development continues.

vegan

A high-performance textile spun from the same proteins as a spider’s web and created using biology, fermentation, and traditional textile production. The main input of this fiber-making process is sugar from plants that are grown, harvested and replanted. It’s a durable fiber with elasticity and softness. Learn more here.

vegan

MuSkin is a 100% vegetable alternative to animal leather. It comes from a big parasitic fungus that grows in the wild. MuSkin is made of the external peel of this mushroom. The material has a soft surface that is very similar to suede. Learn more here.

The base of Piñatex is a byproduct of pineapple harvesting – the leaves. Their new use creates an additional income stream for farming communities. Even the residual leaf biomass is used as natural fertilizer/biofuel. This material is completely biodegradable. Learn more here. | UPDATE 2/8/19 it was brought to my attention that this material is currently not as sustainable as previously thought. Here is a statement from their website, “Piñatex is made of natural fibers and polylactic acid fibers which is 100% biodegradable. The resins we currently use for coating are petroleum based and such are currently not biodegradable. We are excited to be working on bio-based coating which will take Piñatex to the forefront of sustainability.“

Zoa is the first biofabricated materials brand from Modern Meadow. It is able to be any density, hold to any mold, create any shape or size, take on any texture, and combine with any other material. Cells are designed at the DNA level to create micro-organisms that produce the proteins needed. Through fermentation, the cells are multiplied into billions of collagen-producing cell factories. These collagen proteins become the building blocks of the material. Learn more here.

RELATED POST: 3 Reasons Fashion Should Be Plastic-Free (Including Reycled Plastic)

Potentially one of the first natural fibers used in history according to archaeologists findings in 8000 BCE. Hemp might be the best, it uses less water than cotton, yields more crops, and is easy to manage (doesn’t need herbicides or pesticides). It also cleans and rejuvenates the soil. Hemp is a very durable, strong fabric. It’s one downfall is that it easily wrinkles.

Lenpur is a biodegradable fabric made from white pine tree clippings. It “offers the comfort of silk, the touch of cashmere and the lightness of linen.” It is a step above other cellulose fibers due to its softness, absorption capacity, ability to release dampness, and ability to sustain a higher thermal range keeping you cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

A lustrous fabric derived from the nettle plant. The fabric is made from the fibers within the stalks of the plant, not the barbs on the outer surface of the plant. Nettles have actually been used in food, fabrics and even medicine as far back as the 16th century. The plant grows almost uncontrollably making it highly renewable. Its related to flax and hemp, and can be used to produce a fine linen cloth, much stronger than linen and even increases strength when wet. It also blends nicely with other fibers and can help add softness and increase longevity.

RELATED POST: Slow Fashion Brands: 100+ Labels to Love

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Stunning photo by Velizar Ivanov via Unsplash

There’s a booming movement with upcycling post-consumer plastic (ex. water bottles) into wearables. Brands like Everlane, Madewell, Eileen Fisher, Adidas, and Patagonia have either been doing it for years or have suddenly jumped on board with this innovation. Everlane recently came out with their ReNEW collection turning plastic bottles into puffer jackets, fleece pullovers, and parkas. Eileen Fisher, an OG in a sustainable fashion, also uses recycled fibers from plastic water bottles. Adidas’ Parley shoes are made from ocean plastic. The list goes on and on.

The majority of clothing today is made of synthetic petroleum-based (plastic) fibers like polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex. But plastic is better suited for industries where it will have longevity, and the ability to be reshaped into something else again. The construction, medical, automotive, or aviation industries are much more responsible areas for our recycled plastic. An example is  ByFusion,  a company from New Zealand on a mission to find a deep solution to plastic that already exists. They turn recycled plastic into bricks to create housing. This reduces the amount of local environmental pollution and enables individuals, communities, and companies to transition plastic waste into something useful. This advanced new building material, which accepts ALL types of plastic, can’t bear as much weight as concrete, but it has great acoustic and thermal insulation properties. Plus, the bricks have a 95% lower emission footprint than concrete blocks. They are ideal for use in road projects or fill-in building frames. This is an incredible innovation that could immensely benefit underdeveloped communities where pollution is high. ByFusion is just one of many companies finding long term solutions for plastic waste.

RELATED POST: 8 Plant-Based Textile Innovations Changing the Fashion Industry

Photos from ByFusion

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THERE ARE THREE BIG ISSUES WITH PLASTIC TURNED FIBER…

But first, why did we even start make clothing out of plastic? Natural fibers have their limitations, and while for thousands of years that’s all mankind used, in the mid 1940’s we found we could make clothing out of petroleum or petrochemicals. This was faster to produce, easier to maintain, cheaper, and could even be more durable.

The most popular fibers in the world are synthetic, accounting for 65% of the world’s production versus only 35% for natural fibers. Approximately 70% of synthetic fibers are made from polyester, otherwise known as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in textiles.

1. PLASTIC FIBERS BECOME UNRECYCLABLE

Once the post-consumer plastic is crushed into pellets and then spun into yarn ready to be weaved into fabric, the fiber hits its final stage. Plastics cannot indefinitely be recycled – a common misconception. Once the fibers are woven into fabrics most of them are rendered non-recyclable. This is because almost always the fabrics have a chemical backing, lamination, or another type of finish. Or they are blends of different synthetics like polyester and nylon. The fabric is unsuitable for the mechanical method of recycling because it cannot separate the various chemicals to produce recycled yarn. Maybe one day we will have the money and factories to do such a task but as of now, it is not possible. Since recycled fabric becomes unrecyclable and it’s certainly not biodegradable it is only a short-term solution for diverting post-consumer plastic from landfills, but ultimately that’s where the clothing will eventually end up.

The process of creating fiber out of post-consumer plastic.

2. SYNTHETIC CLOTHING SHEDS MICROPLASTIC FIBERS

When synthetic clothing is washed tiny microplastic fibers shed during the wash cycle. These little microplastic fibers make their way through the waterways and eventually into our lakes, rivers, and oceans. Plastic microfibers represent up to 85% of the plastic pollution found on shorelines around the world. You’ve heard the statistic, at this pace by 2050 we’ll have more plastic than fish in the ocean. Not to mention fish eat these plastics and they eventually make their way up the food chain on to our plates. It was found that 73% of the deep-sea fish caught in the Northwest Atlantic had microplastics in their stomachs. Right now, our best solution for this problem is washing synthetic clothing in a microfilament bag. These bags collect the microplastic fibers so they can easily be disposed of properly. You could also try a Cora Ball, but these only catch up to 35% of microplastic fibers per load. Recycled plastic fabric would be no different in shedding microplastics, another reason clothing should stay plastic-free.

Photo by The Guppy Friend.

3. SYNTHETIC CLOTHING COULD BE UNHEALTHY

On another side of this topic are the health effects of wearing synthetic clothing. Synthetic fibers are ultimately derived from petroleum which could wreak havoc on the skin, especially clothing designed for activity where our skin is more prone to absorbing what lies on top of it. Synthetic activewear always has some type of chemical finish applied in order to boost wicking performance. It’s less of a concern with apparel like outer jackets that wouldn’t pose a significant risk to exposure compared to sports bras or leggings. Sweat and movement friction prompt a more rapid absorption of hazardous substances from the fabric to the skin. Phthalates and formeldahyde are among the long list of chemicals to look out for. Some companies, like Patagonia, are outsourcing high-performance organic fibers and seeking natural alternatives to chemical finishes because of this. More research is yet to be done to truly understand how synthetic clothing effects our health.

THE SOLUTION? REVERTING BACK TO NATURAL FIBERS

Ditching synthetic fibers, even recycled synthetic fibers, for natural fibers such as cotton, hemp, silk, wool, and linen from organic farmers is a more environmental and health-conscious choice. If these natural fibers were to end up in the middle of a woods or on a shoreline they would degrade like a boss, leaving little to no impact on the environment around them. This is how fashion can be circular.  ☾

RELATED POST: Slow Fashion Brands: 100+ Labels to Love

Photo by Mia Moessinger via Unsplash.

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Why does zero waste matter? A zero waste approach helps to conserve natural resources and reduces pollution from extraction, manufacturing, and disposal. This ultimate list of zero waste swaps can help you live a less impactful lifestyle without sacrificing the things you love. Starting with the top four worst offenders:

2.  the bag

It is said, that on average we only recycle one plastic bag for every 200 we use. Each year, it is estimated that 500 billion to 1 trillion plastic bags are consumed worldwide. That comes out to over one million per minute! Unfortunately billions end up as litter each year. Swap to a reusable bag. For produce, organic cotton or muslin bags are perfect. For shopping use totes that you can store in your car, there are even foldable shopping bags to keep things compact. The stasher bag is a great choice to swap out zip lock baggies for snacks, sandwiches, and other food.

4. The coffee cup

Americans consume 400 million cups of coffee per day or equivalent to 146 billion cups of coffee per year, making the United States the leading consumer of coffee in the world. 25 billion of those coffee cups are thrown away every year. If you don’t make your own coffee at home, bring your own to-go reusable coffee mug. I like the Keep Cup, or this tall ceramic travel mug with a dual purpose – it contains a tea infuser for those who like their tea on the go.

Compartment food storage containers for easy meal prep. These are air tight, leak proof, and come with a BPA-free lid. They are microwave, oven (up to 450°F), freezer, & dishwasher safe.

Portable, flexible silicone wine glasses are perfect for backyard parties because they are unbreakable. These are dishwasher safe & stain-proof.

Double walled sweatless stainless steel cups are great for the outdoors. They are labeled so you will always know who’s is who’s.

For the beer lovers. This was made for a trip to the local pub or grocer for fresh craft beer.

Ditch the popcorn bags and make your own on the stove top. Almost all microwave popcorn varieties come in wasteful bags lined with perfluorooctanoic acid – a toxic chemical that can stay in the environment and our bodies for long periods of time and is linked to numerous health hazards, even being labeled a carcinogen.

A reusable and durable scrubbing wand for cleaning dishes.

Swap out dryer sheets caked with chemicals for a wool dryer ball. Drop a few essential oils of your choice for your desired scent.

There are over 7 billion people in the world, most of which brush their teeth with a typical plastic toothbrush. Use a bamboo toothbrush instead. Olas toothbrushes are biodegradable and come in a recyclable cardboard box.

A dentist-formulated mouth rinse that is free of alcohol, fluoride, artificial colors and other harmful additives. It is packaged in a glass bottle.

Swap out cotton balls and makeup wipes for these reusable pads.

Another zero waste option if you are less comfortable with a cup during your period. These washable cotton pads are easy to use and come in a variety of sizes.

Highly recommended by doctors, bidets are considered far more hygienic than conventional toilet paper. This one is easy to install and has adjustable settings.

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Antonym Cosmetics

Antonym Cosmetics is known for their luxurious formulas and sustainable bamboo, wood, + paper packaging.

•  certified vegan options (organic beeswax in lipsticks)
•  fsc certified packaging
•  sustainable bamboo packaging
•  ecocert certified ingredients

VISIT ANTONYM

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Au Naturale

Au Naturale makes their products by hand from scratch in their private lab where they have full control over their supply chain.

•  100% vegan + gluten-free
•  creme-based makeup packaged in aluminum
•  ecocert + cosmos certified ingredients
•  started the The Clean Beauty Revolution. They are calling on legislation to monitor the industry and protect people’s health.

VISIT AU NATURALE

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Crunchi Cosmetics

Crunchi is known for their high performance cosmetics. The company is dedicated to informing consumers about the safe cosmetics movement.

•  vegan options (organic beeswax is used in some products)
•  100% gluten-free
•  USA made
•  glass, aluminum, + paperboard packaging
•  70% certified organic ingredients
•  ecocert certified mineral pigments (iron oxides)

VISIT CRUNCHI

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RMS Beauty

RMS, one of the OGs in clean cosmetics, is known for their minimal and clean approach to beauty.

•  vegan options (ethically sourced beeswax is used in some products)
• recyclable or reusable packaging made of glass or aluminum.

VISIT RMS BEAUTY

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The Organic Skin Co.

The Organic Skin Co. uses ‘supercritical extracts’ (CO2 extracts) that are 250 times more potent than conventional extracts making their products great for the skin.

• 100% vegan
• 100% gluten free
• biogro certified (all products are made with over 70% organic ingredients)
• palettes are customizable, reusable, and recyclable. 
• tree planted for every product purchased

VISIT ORGANIC SKIN CO.

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Poppy & Pout

Poppy & Pout is known for their lip balms. They are flavored with a hint of essential oils or natural flavor oils and a drop of Vitamin E.

•  ethically sourced USA beeswax
•  tubes are made of recyclable cardboard + printed with non-toxic inks
•  other packaging materials include glass

VISIT POPPY & POUT

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Photo of Elate Beauty Refillable Compacts.

Refillable clean cosmetics for a zero waste lifestyle! The brands listed create formulas with cruelty-free, natural, eco-friendly ingredients that are safe for the skin. These are products worth refilling over and over again:

Alima Pure cosmetics are crafted from minimal ingredients for maximum impact.

•  vegan options
•  woman owned
•  member of 1% of the planet
•  certified B Corporation
•  100% carbon neutral
•  powered by green energy

Refills available for the following:

PRESSED FOUNDATION
CREAM CONCEALER
PRESSED EYE SHADOW
CREAM HIGHLIGHTER
CREAM BLUSH

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Elate is known for their sustainable beautiful bamboo packaging.

• 100% vegan
• 100% gluten free
• water processed bamboo
• fair trade bamboo
• rspo certified suppliers
• 100% of products are compostable or recyclable / 75% are plastic free

Refills available for the following:

UNIVERSAL CRÈME
PRESSED FOUNDATION
LOOSE MAKEUP POWDER
CRÈME REVEALER
PRESSED EYE COLOR
PRESSED CHEEK COLOR
BROW BALM

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Kjaer Weis created an iconic line of lasts-forever, refillable packaging.

The Red Edition is 100% recyclable (just separate the red packaging from the metal tins and magnets, and put in the paper recycling bin).

• made in Italy
• CCPB certified organic ingredients

Refills available for the following:

CREAM FOUNDATION
BRONZER
HIGHLIGHTER
CREAM BLUSH
EYE SHADOW
CREAM EYE SHADOW
PRESSED POWDER
LIP STICK
LIP TINT
LIP PENCIL
MASCARA

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Sappho is a Canadian based Greek inspired clean eco-conscious makeup brand.

• 100% vegan
• womxn led
• organic ecocert ingredients
• suppliers are part of the responsible mica initiative
• zero carbon footprint facility
• supports local charities

Refills available for the following:

SETTING POWDER
EYE SHADOW
BLUSH

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Pure Anada is a Canadian brand with a goal to create luxurious, affordable cosmetics exclusively using ingredients that are derived from nature.

• vegan options + gluten free
• ethically sourced ingredients
• organic + wildcrafted ingredients
• woman owned

Refills available for the following:

PALETTES & COMPACTS
PRESSED EYE SHADOW
PRESSED FOUNDATION
PRESSED CHEEK COLOR

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The Organic Skin Co. uses ‘supercritical extracts’ (CO2 extracts) that are 250 times more potent than conventional extracts making their products great for the skin.

• 100% vegan
• 100% gluten free
• biogro certified (all products are made with over 70% organic ingredients)
• tree planted for every product purchased
• palettes are recyclable

Refills available for the following:

8 POD
4 POD

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Ecco Bella is known for their Flowercolor makeup line that is made from earth minerals infused with precious flower cutins. Just as a flower stays beautiful over time, this flower wax-infused make-up glides on and lasts longer.

• vegan options + gluten free

Refills available for the following:

COMPACTS
PRESSED EYE SHADOW
PRESSED BLUSH
PRESSED BRONZER
PRESSED FINISHING POWDER

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Plaine products is a hair and body care company that created a closed loop zero waste system.

• 100% vegan
• palm-oil + sulfate free
• made in the USA
• carbon neutral
• certified B corporation
• 1% for the planet
• member of the plastic coalition
• founded by women

Refills available for the following:

SHAMPOO + CONDITIONER
BODY WASH
LOTION
HAND WASH
HAND SANITIZER
FACE CARE
TRAVEL SIZE

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