Are you looking to positively impact the environment by consuming more ethically?
The concept of green fashion has grown exponentially in recent years, and an increasing number of sustainable fashion activists are working tirelessly to bring planet-friendly style into the mainstream.
They're a voice for change, shedding light on the fashion industry's impact on our planet and its inhabitants.
But who exactly are they? Read on to discover the true identity of these sustainable superheroes!
Contents
Later in this article, I'll delve into the essential qualities that define a sustainable activist and provide actionable steps for you to contribute to the cause.
However, before we get to that, allow me (in no particular order) to introduce you to some remarkable individuals applying daily pressure to fast fashion brands.
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Meet Lily, the passionate force behind Imperfect Idealist.
Her mission? To empower you with insightful guides born from her personal experiences and meticulous research, all while championing our precious planet and its inhabitants.
Lily's path took a turn in 2020. Once a fast-fashion enthusiast, she now strides in the direction of sustainability. This change wasn't just about swapping shopping habits. It was about confronting the misconceptions within the sustainable fashion movement.
I reached out to Lily to ask what inspired her journey. She said:
I got into sustainable fashion because I felt that the mainstream movement had a lot of misconceptions, and I wanted to debunk them. You don't have to buy from expensive ethical brands, you don't have to get rid of your fast fashion and start over.
I wanted to advocate for approaching our closets more mindfully, whether that's extending the life of what we already own, or responsibly rehoming clothing so it doesn't end up trashed or dumped abroad like most donated clothing is. I wanted to raise awareness for fashion reforms around the world.
I try to approach sustainable fashion from a realistic and welcoming perspective, recognizing that not everyone has the same resources, and we can't be perfect. What matters is just if we care and try our best.
For Lily, true sustainability isn't about shelling out for high-end ethical brands. It's about slowing down, taking care of what we own, and advocating for better laws.
Lily believes in sustainable fashion for all, not just the affluent. She recognizes that those with lesser means have been practicing sustainable fashion out of necessity long before it became a trend.
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Dan Pontarlier is a passionate sustainable fashion advocate and enthusiastic upcycling supporter based in Paris.
As the founder of both ESH Club and the genderbending brand THE LABORATOIRE, Dan has firmly rooted himself as a thought leader on sustainable practices in the fashion and travel industries.
His impressive portfolio includes collaborations with hundreds of hotels and a significant role in developing the Strategic Sustainability Plan (2017-2019) with the Barcelona City Council.
I reached out to Dan to ask about his unique approach, and he said:
In the realm of sustainable fashion, I blend the sexy with the sustainable, creating a genderbending and fluid sartorial statement. I’m all about proving that saving the planet doesn’t mean you lose your edge – it’s about wearing your values with style.
My approach is quirky enough to raise an eyebrow and fluid enough to defy norms. I’m not just changing how we dress; I’m challenging the very idea of it. Who says you can’t save the planet while looking devilishly good?
Dan's talents extend beyond consulting; he's also an innovative fashion upcycling designer.
But Dan's passion doesn't stop at creating fashionable pieces. He's committed to fostering positive change and reducing poverty and hunger. Through his work, he supports brands that promote decent jobs, economic growth, environmental respect, gender equality, liberty, and fluidity.
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Emma Slade Edmondson is a UK-based mindful fashion campaigner, marketer, and podcast host attempting to transform the clothing industry one retro, second-hand find at a time.
Her Instagram grid is a treasure trove of pre-loved gems, demonstrating that style and sustainability aren't mutually exclusive.
Beyond her eye-catching ensembles, Emma uses her social media prowess to illuminate vital issues surrounding race and intersectional activism.
Emma wears many hats, but one of her most notable roles is the host of the Mixed Up Podcast. This platform explores the multifaceted experiences of being mixed-race.
Off the airwaves, Emma is the driving force behind ESE Consultancy, a creative strategic marketing agency. Her transformative approach to retail marketing and behavior change has caught the attention of major UK brands, charities, and social enterprises, including Cancer Research UK, Shelter, Westfield, Universal, and Mayamiko.
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Kate Caric is an eco-activist and educator who has taken up arms against greenwashing and consumerism. She loves championing the cause of sustainable fashion and hopes to transform it from a niche trend to an everyday norm.
Kate serves up a feast of fashion inspiration. She curates outfits that are as stylish as they are sustainable, spotlights her favorite ethical brands, and even crafts gift guides for every festive occasion.
Her Insta is a haven for those seeking to merge style with ethics.
Kate's activism doesn't stop at style. She also uses her platform to voice her thoughts on the pressing matters of our time, such as the climate crisis, transformative justice, and the pitfalls of the fashion industry.
Her candid discussions about the harsh realities of fast fashion brands are refreshingly honest and thought-provoking.
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Taslima Akhter is a remarkable woman who seamlessly blends activism and artistry into a powerful force for change.
Born in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in 1974, Taslima has spent decades advocating for worker's and women's rights. Her journey eventually led her to the world of documentary photography (a medium she uses to shed light on critical social issues).
Taslima's lens focuses on gender, environmental, and cultural narratives, unflinchingly exploring spaces of social discrimination. Her ability to capture raw, poignant moments has not gone unnoticed.
In 2013, TIME Magazine recognized her talent, selecting her photograph 'Final Embrace' as one of the top ten photos of the year. That same year, her work earned her the Best Photography Award at the 5th Dali International Photography Exhibition in China.
In 2011, Taslima's series 'The Life and Struggle of Garment Workers' won third prize in the Julia Margaret Cameron Award for documentary photography. A year earlier, she represented the entire South Asia region as a prestigious Magnum Foundation scholarship recipient. Her work was also displayed at the Angkor Photo Festival in Cambodia during the garment workers' strikes.
Currently, Taslima shares her expertise as a lecturer of photojournalism at Pathshala (South Asian Media Institute) in Dhaka. She also coordinates Bangladesh Garment Workers Solidarity, furthering her advocacy for fair treatment and sustainable practices.
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Hailing from Lebanese-Canadian roots and currently residing in the heart of New York, Céline sustainably spans continents and cultures.
At the core of her work is her role as an equity climate designer, where she co-founded the Slow Factory. This organization highlights her commitment to fostering a regenerative, reciprocal systemic change that transcends the fashion industry's traditional boundaries.
Céline's talents extend beyond the realm of fashion design. As an acclaimed artist, her creations have been proudly displayed in prestigious national museums such as de Young, MoMA, and Cooper Hewitt. Each piece she crafts is a love letter to the planet, intertwining beauty, and social consciousness.
Céline is also dedicated to educating the next generation of sustainable fashion pioneers. Through her educational programs, curriculums, and methodologies, she's paving the path for applied climate justice in academia and various sectors, including fashion and waste industries.
As the founder and CEO of Remake, Ayesha Barenblat passionately champions a more ethical, transparent, and accountable fashion industry. Her journey is deeply rooted in a commitment to social justice and respect for people and our planet.
With over 15 years of leadership experience, Ayesha has driven change across public, private, and civil sectors to help uplift the rights and dignity of the often-overlooked women who breathe life into our clothes.
Before her groundbreaking work with Remake, Ayesha was at the helm of brand engagement at Better Work (a joint venture by the World Bank and United Nations), advocating for safe and decent working conditions within global garment factories.
Her expertise also extends to strategic sustainability integration. She's offered invaluable advice to industry giants such as Levi Strauss and Company, Marks and Spencer, Nike, and the Gucci Group.
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Emi Ito is a California-based sustainable fashion enthusiast and proud advocate for BIPOC creators in the ethical fashion industry.
At the heart of Emi's story is Little Koto's Closet, an Instagram account and blog that chronicles her sustainable fashion journey. Here, Emi showcases her love for vintage and slow fashion pieces (garments crafted by companies committed to fair working conditions and sustainable materials).
Her entire Instra grid is a testament to her belief that fashion can be stylish and kind to our planet.
She also co-curates the Buy from BIPOC platform. This vibrant space shines a spotlight on the creative work of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in the sustainable, slow, and ethical fashion communities.
Emi's roots run deep, profoundly shaping who she is today. As the great-granddaughter of a tea master, the granddaughter of a calligrapher, and the daughter of a koto and shamisen musician, she carries a rich cultural heritage that infuses her work.
One of Emi's most notable contributions is her vocal stance against the cultural appropriation of the kimono in fashion, highlighting the importance of respect and understanding in cross-cultural exchanges.
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Once a self-confessed fast-fashion addict, Leah (the brains behind The Unmaterial Girl) is now a vocal advocate for the slow fashion movement, inspiring others with her transformative journey.
Her Instagram feed is a vibrant showcase of her love for vintage-inspired and funky styles, proving that sustainable fashion can be bold, unique, and utterly stylish.
Leah has an unwavering commitment to inclusivity. A proud advocate for the LGBTQI+ community, she frequently collaborates with other influencers to foster a safe and welcoming space for all.
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As a multi-talented storyteller, Aditi Mayer paints vivid narratives through film, photography, journalism, and creative direction, all anchored in sustainability. She explores the fashion industry through her lens, focusing on decolonization and intersectionality, offering fresh perspectives and sparking meaningful conversations.
Aditi's thought leadership has been influential since 2014, examining the fashion industry's inner workings, highlighting sustainable practices, and promoting social consciousness. Her insightful talks have resonated with audiences and established her as a respected voice in the industry.
Her work has graced the pages of publications like Vogue and National Geographic, reflecting her ability to merge art, industry, and education.
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Elizabeth is renowned for her deep understanding of consumer culture and the fast fashion landscape. She champions labor rights within the apparel sector, using her voice to advocate for change.
Elizabeth's book (Overdressed: The Shockingly High Cost of Cheap Fashion) unveiled the shocking consequences of fast fashion on our environment, economy, and society in 2012.
In 2019, Elizabeth furthered her mission with the publication of The Conscious Closet: The Revolutionary Guide to Looking Good While Doing Good. This practical guide dives into the latest research on fashion's impacts, empowering consumers and fashion enthusiasts to transform the apparel industry and make an enduring positive difference.
As a trusted commentator, Elizabeth frequently shares her insights with international news outlets like Al Jazeera, Vogue Business, MSNBC, CBC News, The New York Times, Teen Vogue, and NPR.
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Dominique Drakeford is a dynamic force in the realm of sustainable fashion.
With her unique blend of storytelling, education, and public speaking, she is not just an influencer but also a change-maker with over a decade of experience in environmental justice advocacy and youth development.
I reached out to Dominique and she said:
Sustainable fashion is about cultural identity formation and embodiment! On a personal level it speaks to impactful adornment and how we stylishly show up for self, ancestors and community - an individualized homage to our culture. From a global landscape, sustainable fashion is about understanding the cultural collective currency of how supply chain heals or disrupts the co-mingling of human and nature-based ecosystems!
Sustainable fashion MUST focus on nurturing the energy of both individual and systemic cultural flows through celebrating the beauty of Black and brown indigenous rubrics of regeneration while decolonizing (in theory and practice) extractive Anglo-American/ Eurocentric constructed narratives & infrastructure!
And yes sustainable fashion is the epitome of luxury, sexy, elegance, hip hop, quality, flyness, artsy, quirkiness, minimalism, maximalism etc. … all of it! Stylistically - it transcends genres and celebrates creative ingenuity!
Dominique's approach to sustainable fashion transcends the conventional. She weaves together style and sustainability to help us rethink our relationship with the Earth and foster economic change that benefits all.
Her work is characterized by an unwavering commitment to making sustainable clothing accessible to Black and Brown Indigenous communities.
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Nina Gbor is an eco-stylist and sustainable fashion educator who steadfastly redefines the fashion landscape. With her unique, eco-conscious perspective, she's influencing style and shaping attitudes towards sustainable living.
Nina is an international speaker, consultant, and the mastermind behind Clothes Swap & Style (a venture offering a unique blend of sustainability workshops and styling sessions, all designed to help you discover your style within the circular fashion economy).
But that's not all. Nina is also at the helm of the Circular Economy & Waste Program at The Australia Institute.
With a master's degree in International Development also under her belt, she often shares her insights as a guest lecturer at universities in Australia and abroad.
Through the power of her Eco Styles platform, Nina actively engages with various entities (from media and councils to schools and community groups) to find practical ways for society to transition towards a holistic, sustainable fashion future.
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Eco-Age (an agency co-founded by Livia Firth, MBE) has quickly become a powerhouse in sustainability consulting, offering integrated solutions for sustainably minded brands.
Livia's formidable efforts haven't gone unnoticed. She's been honored with the prestigious UN Fashion 4 Development Award and the Rainforest Alliance Award for Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability.
But it's not just her actions that inspire; it's her words too. Livia is a compelling keynote speaker and has addressed many high-profile events, including the World Economic Forum.
Livia co-wrote and produced The Green Carpet Fashion Awards 2020. This event was a first of its kind, merging augmented reality, hologram technology, and special effects to create a truly immersive experience.
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As a fervent advocate for sustainable fashion, Heidi Kaluza has carved out a unique niche for herself. She's not your typical influencer but an 'anti-influencer' whose mission goes beyond aesthetics.
Heidi's Instagram page is a hub of education and inspiration, shedding light on the often murky realities of the fashion industry.
She says:
Heidi Kaluza is a fast fashion influencer turned slow fashion advocate who has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between the art and business of fashion through the lens of sustainability. She is particularly passionate about exploring, promoting and investing in alternative business models that accelerate the transition to placing people and the planet first.
Whether you are fiending for for lifestyle inspiration or ways to strategically usher in a new, more equitable era in fashion and beauty, @the_rogue_essentials offers many ways to get involved, create community and foster the slow fashion mindset.
Rather than promoting consumerism, she champions a different mantra...appreciating and utilizing what you already have.
Her insider's perspective started with her time as a manager at Nordstrom. But she really witnessed firsthand the industry's glaring lack of supply chain transparency when she first began to monetize her Instagram presence.
These experiences fuel her advocacy and lend authenticity to her message.
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Brittany Sierra is the founder of The Sustainable Fashion Forum (SFF).
With a passion for conscious fashion and an eye for innovation, Brittany has created a platform that's as engaging as it is informative.
SFF isn't your typical media company. It's a vibrant global community where fashion enthusiasts and experts converge. The complexities of sustainable fashion are unraveled, sparking innovative thinking and bold solutions to some of fashion's most urgent challenges.
In essence, SFF is a catalyst for change, championing a unified approach to a more sustainable and equitable fashion industry.
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Clothes Horse is the brainchild of Amanda Lee McCarty.
Amanda is shaking up the fashion world one episode at a time as a consultant, content creator, and podcast host.
With an approachable tone and a knack for straightforward storytelling, she brings a fresh perspective to eco-conscious consumers in the US (and beyond).
Clothes Horse, the podcast that unabashedly shouts "DontGiveYourMoneyToAssholes" is where Amanda's passion shines through. She meticulously researches, writes, and hosts each episode, delving into everything from personal style definition to the burgeoning second-hand clothing market.
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Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson is a dedicated marine biologist, policy expert, and accomplished writer who calls Brooklyn her home. She is the co-founder of Urban Ocean Lab, an innovative think tank focusing on the future of our coastal cities.
With her pen as mighty as her passion, Dr. Johnson co-edited the bestselling climate anthology All We Can Save: Truth, Courage, and Solutions for the Climate Crisis and co-founded The All We Can Save Project.
Dr. Johnson's academic credentials are equally impressive. She holds a BA in environmental science and public policy from Harvard University and a Ph.D. in marine biology from Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
Her leadership extends beyond academia and activism. Dr. Johnson serves on the board of directors for Patagonia and GreenWave and offers her expertise to the advisory boards of the Environmental Voter Project and Scientific American.
Her tireless efforts have earned her prestigious recognitions, such as the Schneider Award for climate communication, a spot on the Time 100 Next List, and an appointment to the Secretary of State's Foreign Affairs Policy Board.
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Aja Barber is an inspiring activist and writer who calls London home.
Aja is not your typical fashion influencer. Sure, she dazzles her Insta followers with stunning outfit inspirations, but there's more than meets the eye. Each post is an invitation to explore the intricate relationship between fashion and the environment through her insightful long-form posts.
She champions sustainable brands, highlighting those making real strides in eco-friendly fashion. Aja breaks the cycle of constant consumerism by promoting re-wearing outfits, challenging the norm of always needing something new.
Aja's work extends beyond social media. As a writer and fashion consultant, she specializes in race, intersectional feminism, and sustainable fashion. She believes in the interconnectedness of these themes, advocating for fair wages and responsible practices in the fashion industry.
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Meet Leah, a renowned environmentalist hailing from Los Angeles, CA. She's not just an environmental advocate; she's an 'eco-communicator.'
This term, coined by Leah herself, encapsulates her unique approach to activism, where she underscores the intimate connection between social justice and environmentalism.
Leah is the visionary behind Intersectional Environmentalist, a non-profit organization at the crossroads of environmental justice, education, and inclusivity. Born out of her passion for change, this platform has become a leading resource for accessible and diverse climate education.
But her influence doesn't stop there. She is also the creative mind behind Green Girl Leah. A platform that she uses to leverage her extensive eco-focused experience to spearhead a variety of projects and engage with her audience on a deeper level.
Leah's academic credentials are equally impressive. She holds a B.S. in Environmental Science & Policy, with a focus on Comparative World Religions, from Chapman University.
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Mikaela's influence in the climate justice scene is undeniable.
Her work has been recognized by giants like Forbes, Global Citizen, and BBC Woman's Hour, who named her one of the most influential women in the UK climate movement.
In 2021, Mikaela made waves when she took part in the landmark 'Paid To Pollute' case against the UK government. This bold move demonstrated her commitment to challenging oppressive systems exacerbating the climate crisis and making the climate movement an accessible space for all.
But Mikaela isn't just an author and activist. She's also a medical student in Edinburgh, where she manages to balance her studies with her passion for sustainable fashion and racial justice.
Using the power of Instagram, she highlights the critical connection between these issues, advocating for second-hand and sustainably sourced outfits.
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Stella McCartney has harnessed an unwavering commitment to our planet. She has carved out a unique space where style meets sustainability, Proving that you don't have to compromise one for the other.
Guided by principles of circularity, her designs are crafted from cutting-edge materials that are not only cruelty-free but also tread lightly on our planet.
Stella's quest to redefine luxury doesn't stop at the design table. She's committed to lifting the veil on supply chains, championing transparency through meticulous reporting, measuring, and tracking. It's all part of her mission to foster trust and inspire change.
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As a passionate advocate for body positivity and eco-consciousness, Marielle is trying to reshape the fashion landscape. Her compelling hashtag, #slowfashionforall, urges ethical fashion brands to expand their horizons and embrace all sizes.
Born in the heart of Canada, on the 53rd parallel, Marielle knows the power of local businesses in nurturing thriving communities. She brings this ethos to her content creator, social media manager, and brand consultant work.
Armed with a camera and a laptop, Marielle can often be found in cozy coffee shops, chasing the perfect light for her shoots.
Follow her journey for a regular dose of stunning styles and valuable tips on selecting ethically sourced and flattering clothes for plus-size bodies. Her curated outfits showcase her sartorial prowess and serve as a potent reminder that ethical clothing should be inclusive.
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Sophia Li is a Chinese-American journalist and climate advocate who blends storytelling and sustainability. As an award-winning communicator, she untangles complex topics like climate justice, human rights, and web3, making them more relatable and engaging for the modern audience.
Her voice resonates far and wide, from hosting Meta's podcast Climate Talks to penning articles for CNN, Earthshot Prize, and the United Nations. You may have also spotted her work in publications like Vogue, New York Magazine, Washington Post, and Atmos.
Before launching into climate advocacy, Sophia honed her digital storytelling skills as the Entertainment Media Editor at American Vogue, shaping the magazine's digital and social persona.
Being an activist is more than just blogging about sustainable issues or loving style or trends; it's about using that passion to foster a healthier, fairer fashion world.
Fashion activism challenges the status quo and pushes for eco-friendly practices.
It's about conscious consumerism and standing up for what's right.
Activists champion sustainable fabrics and recycled materials, waste reduction through recycling and upcycling, and support brands prioritizing fair trade and workers' rights.
They're sewing the seeds for an industry that respects people and the planet.
Slow fashion campaigners are not just followers; they're leaders.
They drive change, organize campaigns, and collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to create a ripple effect of positive change throughout the fashion industry.
There's a direct link between fashion activism and climate justice.
With the fashion industry being a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, environmental campaigners are stepping up to reduce this carbon footprint and promote climate-friendly practices.
With its disposable clothing and negative environmental impact, fast fashion is a significant challenge.
Eco-fashion advocates are leading the charge against this trend, advocating for slow, sustainable fashion practices that respect our planet and its inhabitants.
Many activists are the cheerleaders for sustainable and ethical brands.
They use their platform to promote transparency, fair trade, and environmental responsibility, urging consumers to choose sustainable over conventional alternatives.
Sustainable clothing campaigners strive to weave a new narrative for the fashion supply chain.
They fight for traceability, fair wages, and safe working conditions for all those involved in the production process.
Activists often teach consumers about sustainable shopping practices such as buying second-hand clothing, repairing, and upcycling.
Greenwashing, the deceptive practice of a company attempting to appear more sustainable than it is, is a common issue in the fashion industry.
Activists expose these false claims and encourage consumers to evaluate brands critically.
Activists often face resistance from various stakeholders within the industry.
Despite these challenges, they continue pushing for systemic change, dialogue with industry leaders, and challenging the status quo.
Even the most dedicated activists cannot tackle it all alone. They rely on your support. Here are a few ways to take action, contribute to the cause, and make a difference.
One of the best ways to support sustainable fashion advocates is by choosing sustainable products from ethical companies over fast fashion alternatives.
A great way to ensure you support an ethical brand producing sustainable clothing is to look out for trusted green certifications.
Some good ones to look out for (that cover both materials and business practices) include the following:
Embrace sustainable shopping practices like buying second-hand, renting clothing, or participating in clothing swaps with friends and family.
Join forces with like-minded eco-shoppers to amplify the voices of zero-waste champions on social media platforms.
By sharing their inspiring messages, actively engaging with their content, and passionately spreading the word about the importance of sustainable fashion, you can create a powerful movement towards a more ethical and eco-friendly industry.
Encourage your favorite fashion companies to adopt sustainable and ethical practices.
Let them know that, as a consumer, you value eco-friendliness and expect them to do the same.
The power of the dollar is a beautiful thing. If they start losing customers, they will soon fall in line and clean up their act.
Sustainable fashion started gaining momentum in the early 1960s, fueled by the passion and drive of the hippy and punk movements. Their efforts laid the foundation for a more conscious and compassionate approach to fashion.
Zara is a fast-fashion brand with little going for it in terms of environmental awareness. Arabella shares her opinions on Zara (and many other well-known brands) in her 20 Fast Fashion Brands to Avoid (and Why) article.
Slow fashion is a thoughtful approach to creating, purchasing, and maintaining clothing that goes beyond fleeting trends. The term was coined in 2007 by Kate Fletcher (an inspiring English activist, writer, designer, and sustainability professor).
The three pillars of sustainability in fashion are environmental, social, and economic.
Woke washing refers to the practice of incorporating social justice themes into marketing campaigns to create a positive image for a company without taking meaningful action.
The Rana Plaza disaster was caused by the illegal construction of a commercial building in Dhaka, Bangladesh, that contained several garment factories. The building had numerous structural issues and collapsed on April 24, 2013. The tragedy resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries.
Social media activists are reshaping the fashion industry one thread at a time.
By supporting their efforts, you can contribute to a more ethical, environmentally-friendly fashion world.
So, let's put on our eco-warrior gear and join the sustainable fashion revolution!
Are you a hand-me-down fan who is already avoiding exploitation and buying less? Or do you grab the first item you see in Walmart? Drop me a line and let me know.
