Last Updated on November 13, 2024
Stockings were always my absolute favorite part about the holiday season so I had to create a guide for this year’s hottest zero waste and eco friendly stocking stuffers.
I love small gifts; they have always been my favorite. What can I say? I love the little things like socks, bars of soap, the occasional gift card, and chocolate! Lots of chocolate.
This post was sponsored. Many of the links below are affiliate links for more information please see my disclosure policy.
So, I wanted to create an easy guide so you can find a few perfect gifts that will easily slide into a stocking on Christmas morning, and so you can avoid Amazon.
If you’re looking forward to stuffing stockings this year, I’ve rounded up some zero waste and eco friendly stocking stuffers so you can ditch plastic trinkets and gadgets for some of these zero waste, ethical alternatives.
relaxing at home:
I think my favorite part of winter is getting cozy inside so I hope this holiday season, you’ll find some time to get snuggly.
Slip on your favorite jam-jams, light a few candles, snuggle with a thick blanket, sip some hot cocoa, eat a few cookies, and watch a bad holiday movie or a board game – whatever you’re into.
for movie and tv show marathons:
Love flipping through channels and watching a good movie? Then you also know how annoying it is when your remote controller batteries conk out.
That’s why Coast Portland’s zithion-X USB-C rechargeable batteries are so convenient: You’ll always have batteries ready, because you can recharge them!
These batteries quickly recharge in roughly 2.5 hours using USB-C charging cables. They have long-lasting run times, with 2-6x longer than other batteries.
You can easily check the status of your battery’s charge level with a built-in charge level indicator too. It’ll be solid red when charging and solid green when fully charged.
Best of all, these zithion-C batteries are a carbon neutral certified product. Their production and use result in zero increase in CO2 levels in the atmosphere. Plus, being reusable, they help keep batteries out of landfills.
unwinding on your phone:
Know someone who loves to scroll on their phone after a long day? Consider gifting them a compostable phone case as a stocking stuffer!
Pela Case offers compostable phone cases for android and iphones alike with a wide array of styles and designs to choose from.
They even have compostable accessories like phone grips and card holders.
Everything is delivered plastic-free.
Plus they offer Pela360, a recycling program that lets you return your old case when you buy a new one.
stay comfy:
Pact creates underwear made from 95% GOTS certified organic cotton. Plus, they’re so comfy!
A pair or two should easily fit into a Christmas stocking! I love how cozy this 6-pack of boy shorts look.
Plus, all of Pact’s clothes are made in a fair trade certified factory, shipped carbon neutral, and have plastic-free recyclable packaging.
sip something warm:
Arbor Teas offers organic, fair-trade, loose-leaf tea in backyard compostable packaging.
It’s made from a cellulose material, and even their labels on the package are made from sugar cane waste and compostable too.
I love their green tea, but if you want to keep the holiday theme going, you need to try their Holiday Spice Black Tea!
add some ambiance:
P.F. Candle Co makes 100% vegan and non-toxic soy wax candles hand-poured into apothecary inspired glass amber jars. Vegan candles are amazing and I love that it has a kraft paper label and brass lid!
This plastic-free candle is paraben-free, phthalate-free and never tested on animals. It’s homemade in California with 100% domestically grown soy wax and has a cotton core wick.
worth waking up for:
Looking for something to look forward to? All these gifts will make mornings in the winter more bearable.
So whether you’re getting ready for the day, or just trying to get your mojo going, these are my top picks!
perfect curls:
A Simple Planet is a sustainable haircare brand that focuses on refillable, plant-based products. They use organic, natural ingredients and offer refills.
Their curl cream hydrates and enhances curls using biodegradable, organic ingredients in reusable and refillable packaging.
It’s free from harsh chemicals too, such as silicones, parabens, or artificial additives.
Use the code goingzerowaste for 15% off.
for fresh breath:
Greco Gum’s Mastic Gum is an ancient, natural chewing gum with unique health benefits.
This plastic-free all-natural gum is made with 100% pure Chios mastic, sustainably harvested on the island of Chios in eastern Greece.
Chewing this gum supports dental health by naturally cleansing the mouth and strengthening the jaw muscles.
It also promotes gut health by balancing stomach acids and supporting digestion.
The first 100 people to claim KATHRYN15 will receive an additional 15% off their first order.
floss those teeth:
Don’t just brush those pearly whites – floss them too! Cocofloss gets chompers jolly clean with its patented, loofah-like weave of 500+ scrubby threads spun from recycled water bottles.
This eco floss is infused with coconut oil, vegan wax, and irresistible scents. The floss is free from BPA, parabens, SLS, and PFAs.
The Cocofloss Holiday Collection includes Elf-Care Samplers, Cocofloss Holiday Sets, Cocobrush Holiday Sets, Sea-Life Conservation Sets, and Minty Mistletoe Duos.
for fashion lovers:
ThredUp is an online consignment and thrift store that sells over 55k brands from Gap to Gucci.
You can find everything from women to kid’s clothing, all up to 90% off retail price.
Purchasing a ThredUp gift card makes a great stocking stuffer!
There’s the option to buy a physical or digital gift card too, making it ideal for last minute gifting.
glam up:
Get ready for the day with Billion Dollar Beauty’s Babe Bundle. This kit comes with a beauty box, blush, brow powder, brow pomade, eyeshadow, highlighter, lip balm and tweezers – and it’s all vegan, cruelty-free and paraben-free.
Better yet, you only have to buy it once – because it’s refillable for life! The box it comes in is reusable and made from 30% PCR plastic. You can refill it with any colors you want, which helps reduce waste because you’ll pick shades you desire.
to brighten your day (and skin):
Kiss dull skin in the morning goodbye with Aurahïa’s Glass Face brightening serum. This EWG verified serum is vegan, cruelty-free and made with natural, gently exfoliating ingredients.
Apply it twice daily for best results, once in the morning and once at night. Use it before moisturizing or after cleansing for soft glowing skin.
Aurahïa uses packaging materials that are recycled, reusable or zero waste. Their labeling ink is non-toxic and water-based.
for the skincare fanatics:
If you’re a skincare fanatic, I love you. No, really! I have sensitive acne prone skin and no matter what I do I always seem to have texture on my face.
For the first time in years, I’ve come prettyyyy close to fixing it. I mean it’s still textured but it’s better than it was last year! And, that’s thanks to skincare fanatics and the geniuses behind some of my favorite products.
Check out my blog post 20 Organic Zero Waste Skincare Brands for even more recommendations!
for smoother skin:
Know someone who suffers from dry skin in the winter? Why not gift them Brondell’s Nebia Self Care Kit? Dry brushing helps exfoliate and safely remove dry skin.
The kit includes a long-handled bamboo loofah, a boar-hair bristle brush with pumice stone, and a bamboo cotton shower cloth complete with its own cotton storage bag.
Everything is sustainably sourced, and it’s all made using plastic-free materials. The cotton storage bag is also ideal for travel!
The self care kit is BOGO free with purchase of Yuba HaloNetic.
refills on refills:
Activist Skincare is refillable, vegan, cruelty-free, and 5% for the planet. The Sample Kit, Sea to Skin Cleansing Gel and Calming Force Clear Skin Serum for acne-prone skin are perfect stocking stuffers.
You can keep your empty glass bottles and refill them at home. The pouches are recyclable through TerraCycle and the ingredients are super-effective actives and botanicals.
You can keep your empty glass bottles and refill them at home. Activist’s pouches are recyclable through TerraCycle and the ingredients are super-effective actives and botanicals.
sustainably harvested:
Josie Maran is a woman owned beauty brand that packages most of their products in glass bottles and has partnered with Terracycle to take back empties.
Their 100% Pure Argan Oil (their whipped version is my absolute favorite! ) is vegan, cruelty-free and completely pure – it’s intensely hydrating.
Josie Maran’s argan oil comes from a UNESCO-protected region to help prevent deforestation and over-harvesting.
A single argan tree can live for more than 600 years and produce fruit throughout its entire lifecycle!
they got it ALL:
BLK + GRN is an all natural marketplace by all Black artisans. They have everything ranging from nail polish to hair care.
Their Carib Lime Body Soap is made from 100% plant essences, cold-processed and has a revitalizing citrus scent that’ll make any Christmas stocking smell great.
Justin and I have a tradition of gifting each other multiple bars of soap in our stockings! It’s an in expensive treat that we get to use all year long!
getting active in the new year:
Know someone who enjoys barre, spin, and orange theory classes? Here are a few of my favorite workout companions!
for washing all those work out clothes:
Tru earth is a certified B Corporation that creates sustainable laundry detergent strips.
Their eco strips are completely plastic free. They come in a compostable cardboard sleeve that doubles as a shipping envelope.
1 strip equals 1 load, making each pack good for 32 loads. These are perfect stocking stuffers for fitness lovers because when you work out frequently (take it from me) you’re ALWAYS doing laundry.
boosting energy levels:
MegaFood is a certified B Corporation that formulates sustainable vitamins and supplements.
They’re non-GMO project verified, 1% For The Planet, Plastic Neutral, and certified glyphosate residue free. They test for over 150 pesticides and herbicides.
For stocking stuffers, check out their mushroom focus support. Formulated with lion’s mane, this will help support a sense of alertness. Perfect for supporting energy levels as you exercise.
for outdoor runs:
EarthHero is an online marketplace for thousands of sustainable goods!
They’re a B Corp, 1% for the Planet, and uses plastic-free and carbon-neutral shipping.
For stocking stuffers, check out their Hip Pack from Cotopaxi. It’s made from 100% repurposed nylon. Plus, this 3L fanny pack donates 1% towards world-changing nonprofits worldwide!
stay hydrated:
Klean Kanteen’s Stainless Steel Straws are perfect stocking stuffers!
They are a family owned, B corp that’s completely plastic-free. And, they’re members of 1% For The Planet so they donate portions of each sale to environmental organizations, and are certified climate neutral!
for book lovers:
Know someone whose always got their nose in a book? Here are a few of our favorites reads that would fit in perfectly with your eco-friendly stocking stuffers!
zero waste newbie:
Shameless plug, but 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste is my book! It would make a great addition to any stocking stuffer.
In 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste, I share low waste tips, DIY recipes for beauty and home; advice for responsible consumption; and even secrets for how to go waste free at the airport.
plant parents guidebook:
Farmer Nick, aka Nick Cutsumpas’ new book Plant Coach, is a plant lover’s dream.
Plant Coach is his comprehensive guide for the everyday plant owner who wants to alleviate the stress of plant ownership while doing the best for their plants and the planet.
Cutsumpas reframes what it means to be a plant parent by viewing the home as an ecosystem, introducing unconventional and sustainable plant tactics.
climate optimists rejoice:
Know a climate optimist? Be sure to stuff this into their stocking: Saving Us by Katharine Hayhoe is a climate scientist’s case for hope and healing in a divided world.
This is not another doomsday narrative about a planet on fire. It is a multilayered look at science, faith, and human psychology, from an icon in her field—recently named chief scientist at The Nature Conservancy.
kickin’ it in the kitchen:
Whether you know an aspiring chef, love to meal prep, or generally dislike cooking, these eco friendly stocking stuffers will help reduce food waste and get dinner on the table fast! Plus, an extra treat for the kitchen’s number one fan – your dog.
freezer prep:
Stasher Bag sells reusable silicone bags that are versatile, plastic-free and BPA-free.
The assorted 4 piece pack includes 1 snack size, 2 sandwich sizes, and 1 half gallon size.
These silicone food storage bags can be used in the freezer, microwave, oven or dishwasher. They’re designed to replace plastic zip lock bags.
for recycling your food scraps:
Know someone who loves cooking with fresh produce? They probably end up with a lot of food scrap waste!
Lomi food composter is a solution that takes all your food scraps (yes, even animal products) and transforms them into valuable nutrients in under 24 hours.
Purchasing a Lomi gift card makes a great stocking stuffer! It’s completely paperless and delivered by email. And it never expires!
keep it fresh:
Usually, we eat avocados one half at a time, right? Avocado Huggers were created to reduce food waste by keeping the leftover half fresher longer!
These huggers are BPA and phthalate free, and come in two sizes with a unique pit pocket that can be pushed in or out so you won’t need any more disposable plastic wrap, baggies or foil!
survive the cold weather:
Cold weather can be brutal on the skin and body so make sure your loved ones are stocked up on all the essentials! These gifts will get them through the winter in more ways than one.
keep dry skin at bay:
Dry winter skin? Plaine Products body lotion can help. This lightweight, palm-oil free, vegan and cruelty-free lotion is fast-absorbing and will hydrate the skin.
Plaine Products specializes in refillable products – you can ship back your empties and they’ll send you a refill. They sanitize and reuse all the bottles they get back too, creating a more circular economy.
All the bottles are made from aluminum which is easy to recycle. You can also request “no pump” if you already have some to further avoid waste.
keep those hands moisturized:
Dry, cracked hands? Superzero’s hand treatments will deliver luxurious hydration on the go all winter long, minus the plastic packaging. These vegan, cruelty-free plant-based hand balm bars will activate by gently massaging the bar between dry hands.
The hand balm bars come wrapped in compostable wrapper that can be re-used to store the bar. It’s otherwise packaged in recycled and recyclable cardboard boxes. You can also gift it with the balm storage case for easy travel. Bars are TSA and portable.
sweaters for your legs:
I tested it just to make sure, but these leggings will fit into a stocking! They’re also super cozy and will keep your legs very warm.
Icebreaker is made mostly from merino which is anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and rockstar for temperature regulation. They produce a transparency report every year that covers everything from social responsibility, worker safety, animal welfare, and environmental integrity. Read the Report
don’t forget your ears:
Tentree plants ten trees for every single purchase!
They specialize in using eco-friendly and recycled materials, and offer a number of great stocking stuffers like their mittens and adorable beanies.
when you need to unwind:
I can’t figure out if the holidays are more stressful this year or less? I attend a lot of gatherings so I’m completely wiped out at the end of the day.
Here are a few small ways I like to relax and unwind. All of these eco-friendly stocking stuffers are perfect for your friend, parent, or spouse who needs to carve out some time for themselves to recharge!
take a nap:
Olive + Crate creates sustainable bedding made from certified Tencel fiber, which is grown free of pesticides and insecticides.
Their vegan eucalyptus silk eye mask is a perfect stocking stuffer! If you know someone who enjoys napping, this will be their new best friend. It’s moisture wicking, breathable, and blocks out light so you can nap any time of day.
light a candle:
Candleholic Shop makes adorable soy candles in recycled liquor and wine bottles. This process saves bottles from going to the landfill, and also creates truly unique gifts.
They carefully cut each bottle by hand, sand it to perfection, and then pour their premium natural soy wax.
These candles are cruelty-free, paraben-free and PETA-approved!
Here are 30+ eco friendly stocking stuffers! Of course, this is only the tip of the iceberg so be sure to check out my guide for consumable gifts and experience gifts.
I’m also working on a post about handmade gifts this year! I love to do a mix of all of these so I’m reducing consumerism as well as supporting sustainable brands who are doing good things for our planet.
Do you have a favorite sustainable brand that’s perfect as a stocking filler?
The post 30 Zero Waste, Eco Friendly Stocking Stuffers appeared first on Going Zero Waste.
These brands have all types of sustainable socks for just about all of your footwear or around-the-house needs, from no-shows and performance-ready ankle socks to comfy crew-length and cozy knee-high socks.
I originally wrote this guide about four years ago, and I must say that sustainable socks have upped their game since then. We’ve been able to raise the bar on what it takes to get included in this guide.
What Qualifies as (More) Sustainable Socks?
There are several criterion I’ve used to determine the brands in this guide. Some brands meet several of these criteria and some even meet all of the criteria below.
- Use of at least 70% natural and organic materials, like organic cotton, hemp, and organic wool
- Uses certified organic materials and sources from certified GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) factories and/or Fair Trade factories
- Minimal to no use of synthetic fibers, preferring recycled when there are some synthetics used
- Use of either no dyes, natural dyes or low impact dyes
- Responsibly manufactured, ideally locally made or produced in fair trade environments
You’ll find that most of the sustainable socks in this guide do have a small percentage of synthetics for some stretch. (Though there are three brands with 100% organic cotton socks — check them out below!) I like to use a Guppyfriend Washing Bag to prevent the microplastics from synthetic textiles from being released into our waterways.
In case you have sensitive skin or want a pair of organic socks with an even lower environmental impact, there are also several brands with dye-free sock options.
As mentioned, the brands featured in this guide have all types of socks whether you’re looking for breathable moisture-wicking socks to play tennis in or comfy socks to cuddle up and say warm with. However if you’re looking for more substantial slippers, my guide to eco-friendly and ethical slippers will be a better bet.
The guide features affiliate links. As always, we only feature brands that meet high standards for sustainability that we love — and that we think you’ll love too!
Where to Find Sustainable and Organic Socks
1. Cottonique
Best for: latex-free organic cotton socks for sensitive skin
Materials: 100% GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton
Price: $18 for Kids (3 pairs) | $23-$28 for Adults (2 pairs)
Categories: Quarter, Crew, Ankle, Kids
Cottonique is the only brand I’ve found so far that sells exclusively 100% organic cotton socks. Founded by and designed for individuals with skin sensitivities, Cottonique’s socks are free of latex, spandex, or any other synthetic stretch.
The socks are also OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified and sewn in the brand’s owned GOTS- and B Corp-certified factory in the Philippines.
I tried out the brand’s crew-length socks and found them to be quite comfortable, and I appreciated the ribbed detail. Without elastic for stretch, they fit snug in order to stay in place, so it’s important to get the right size! I wear a shoe size 7.5-8 and the medium was perfect.
2. Q for Quinn
Best for: soft, dye-free organic cotton socks
Materials: 98 – 100% Organic Cotton
Price: Kids’ from $10 | Adults from $15 / Pair
Categories: Ankle, Crew, and Trouser Socks
Made from 98% GOTS-certified organic cotton (with one pair of socks made of 100% cotton), Q for Quinn’s socks are breathable and super soft. One reviewer calls them the “softest socks I’ve ever worn!” and hundreds of other customers giving five-star reviews seem to agree.
Q for Quinn also has organic dye-free adult and kids’ socks perfect for sensitive skin.
3. Maggie’s Organics
Best for: 100% merino wool socks
Materials: 73% – 99.8% Organic Cotton | 60 – 100% Organic Merino Wool
Price: From $8.50 / Pair
Categories: Footie, Ankle and Crew Socks; plus Allergy, Recovery, and Diabetic
Sourcing GOTS-certified organic fibers and knitting all of their socks in the US, Maggie’s Organics is the real deal when it comes to sustainably-made socks.
The company is also committed to “Real Fair Trade” — they invest in the wellbeing of their farmers and suppliers and are on a journey to become employee-owned.
4. Rawganique
Best for: 100% natural fiber socks (cotton, linen, and wool)
Materials: 100% Organic Cotton, 100% Hemp, and 100% Wool Options
Price: From $12 / Pair
Categories: Anklet, Crew, Knee-High, and Dress Socks
If you’re looking for plastic-free socks, you will love Rawganique. The brand has several options of 100% natural fiber socks that are free of polyester, spandex, or nylon. Select from breathable 100% organic cotton socks, temperature-regulating 100% linen socks, or cozy 100% wool socks.
There are also several options of organic socks blended with a bit of synthetics for some stretch. These options will likely be more suitable for sport and hiking use.
5. Organic Basics
Best for: core-color basics with recycled synthetic blends
Materials: 70 – 75% Organic Cotton
Price: From $14 for 2-Pack
Categories: No-Show, Ankle, Crew, and Knee-High Socks
Focused on only the essentials — and doing them well — Organic Basics creates a range of quality organic socks in core colors like black, gray, blue and white. While these (more) sustainable socks do contain a percentage of synthetics, the majority of the synthetic content is recycled. I also appreciate that the product pages suggest a cooler washing temperature of 30C since clothing care and cleaning can make up a significant portion of a product’s total impact.
6. PACT
Best for: GOTS-certified organic no-show socks
Materials: 75 – 83% Organic Cotton
Price: From $14 for 2-Pack
Categories: No-Show and Crew Socks
PACT’s organic cotton no-show socks are made in a Global Organic Textile Standard certified factory. The no-show pairs come in basic black, white, and tan as well as some cute prints. They feature a new design and silicone grips to make sure they stay in place. That said, the socks unfortunately only come in one size — some of the reviewers who wear a shoe size 9 note that they are a bit too small for them.
7. Harvest & Mill
Best for: Naturally-colored dye-free cotton socks
Materials: 88% Organic Cotton
Price: $10 – $12 / Pair
Categories: Ankle and Crew Socks
Sustainable basics brand Harvest & Mill uses USA-grown and spun cotton for their ankle and crew organic socks. While these socks might look dyed with their earthy colors, they are actually completely dye-free — the natural color cotton varieties Harvest & Mill uses are naturally a muted brown or green.
8. tentree
Best for: hemp-blend white socks that plant trees
Materials: 71% Hemp and TENCEL
Lyocell
Price: $10 – $14 for 2-Pack
Categories: Ankle, Quarter, and Crew Socks
Socks are the crucial foundation of any closed-toe shoe and tentree’s basics are here to ensure you’re always putting your best foot forward. Crafted from a comfortable blend of hemp, TENCEL Lyocell, recycled polyester, their socks come in several lengths in basic pairs.
Plus, every pair plants 10 trees (the reason for their namesake ten-tree).
9. Conscious Step
Best for: giftable cause-driven organic socks
Materials: 75% Organic Cotton
Price: $15.95 / pair
Categories: Ankle and Crew Socks
Conscious Step’s socks are made with Fairtrade and GOTS-certified organic cotton and recycled polyester. The brand’s organic cotton socks are made with an exceptional quality too — with some even featuring a cushioned insole and arch support. But perhaps what this brand is really known for is that each design is associated with a different cause where a portion of your purchase goes.
10. Kind Socks
Best for: organic socks with fun prints
Materials: 80% Organic Cotton
Price: $12 – $14 / pair
Categories: Crew and Ankle Socks
KIND Socks is a Black-owned sustainable sock brand using GOTS-certified organic cotton for their vibrant collections. With prints like monstera leaves, watermelons, and bumblebees, KIND Socks will bring a touch of whimsy to any outfit.
The post 10 Sustainable Socks Made with Organic Fabrics appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.
When the temperatures go up, all I want to reach for is natural fibers — specifically, my linen clothing. There’s nothing quite as breathable or breezy as linen. So in this guide I break down what to know about this quintessential summer fiber, and share my top selections for linen clothing brands. They’re all small to mid-sized brands, mostly women-led!
Some Background on Linen
Where does linen come from?
Linen fiber is extracted from the stalks of flax plants. This plant is also known for providing us with nutritious flaxseeds and linseed oil — talk about an overachiever!
In fact, linen is one of the oldest fibers known to man, dating back to the prehistoric era. Archaeologists and paleobiologists have discovered flax fibers during excavations that were twisted, indicating they were used to make ropes or strings among many proposed applications that must have been a great advantage to the hunter-gatherer society. In fact, linen wrappings were even used for mummification in ancient Egypt.
Linen fabric is then created by obtaining its fibers from the inner bark (or stalks) of the flax plant.
How is the linen cloth made?
Before the fibers are spun into the breezy linen you know and love, its fibers are loosened and separated from the rest of the stalk through a process known as “retting”. At that point, the fibers are still straw-like and coarse in texture.
To soften it, the fibers are broken up into small, short bits, while the actual fiber is left unharmed, and then “scutched”, where the straw is scraped off the fiber. After which they are then pulled through “hackles”, that comb the straw out of the fiber to finally prepare flax for spinning into linen fabric.
And linen clothing is, of course, garments comprised of linen fiber in its entirety or blended with other fibers. For this guide, I tried to select brands that only used 100% linen or at the minimum blended linen with other natural fibers like cotton.
The Benefits of Linen Clothing
Why wear linen? Known for being ideal during the summers, clothing made from linen will allow heat to escape from the body while absorbing moisture and drying relatively quickly. While linen may have a notorious reputation for wrinkling rather quickly, when blended with other fibers, the creases aren’t as discernible as they would be with pure linens.
While linen may be notorious for its high energy consumption owing to its need to be ironed more, linen clothing’s pros easily outweigh its cons.
Flax plants can be grown in the harshest of climate conditions that require minimum water. What’s more impressive is the plant’s ability to absorb carbon. The European Confederation of Flax and Hemp (CELC) states that one hectare of flax absorbs 3.7 tons of CO2 every year.
Is Linen More Sustainable Than Cotton?
While there are benefits and drawbacks to every fiber when it comes to environmental sustainability, there are a few points where linen stands out when compared to cotton.
First, we know that durability is a key aspect of sustainability, because it means our clothes will last, enabling us to keep our clothes longer and buy new clothing less frequently.
So how long does linen clothing last in comparison to cotton? Linen clothing is up to 12 times stronger than cotton, helping increase its longevity and taking away the need to be replaced so often.
Another question might be about flax’s water usage. While the irrigation needs of the crop are dependent on the region’s climate (just as with cotton), 450–750 mm of water per season is sufficient for flaxseed. In fact, some studies even indicate that flax could be regarded as a drought-tolerant crop.
How to Care for Linen Clothing
When it comes to caring for linen clothing, linen can be washed on a gentle machine cycle with a mild detergent. (Check out these low waste low-impact detergent options.)
In case you’re curious whether linen stretches or shrinks, then there isn’t much to worry about. Linen is mostly pre-shrunk during the manufacturing stages but pure linens may show about 4% shrinkage.
And when it comes to stretch, linens aren’t known to stretch out over time but can show some level of elasticity when blended with other fibers.
Finally, it’s no secret that linen clothing tends to wrinkle easily! You may choose to embrace the natural characteristics of linen and wear your linen clothing as is, or if you want a crisper look, you may either want to look for a linen blended fabric, or be prepared to steam and/or iron your garments relatively frequently.
Note: This guide includes partners and/or affiliates. As always, brands must meet high standards for sustainability and ethics — and I only share brands that I believe in.
How to Find Sustainable Linen Clothing
So of course, I’m a big advocate for “secondhand first” when it comes to all fashion, including linen clothing. While your local thrift store might not be filled with 100% linen clothes, online secondhand shops can be a great resource. For luxury and premium brands, Vestiaire Collective and The RealReal. For more affordable options, my favorite pick is ThredUp because you can filter by natural fibers only. To be clear: the listings aren’t always accurate, so I still double check the descriptions of any product that shows up with that filter, but it does save some time to start there.
When looking for new linen clothing, I always prioritize small to mid-size women-led businesses. And I check the product details to see if they use 100% linen or if they’re deceptively saying “linen blend” and then it’s actually 50% polyester!
And while not perfect you can also look for certifications. These are the ones most relevant to linen clothing and linen fashion brands.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifies that the finished textile product has been tested for harmful substances (heavy metals, formaldehyde, pesticide residue). This is a chemical-safety certification, not a guarantee of fair labor or environmental practices. So it tells you the linen has been tested for potentially toxic chemicals, but it doesn’t tell you who made it or how. Note that some brands just say “OEKO-TEX certified” — that virtually always refers to OEKO-TEX Standard 100, the most common certification from OEKO-TEX.
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certifies that a textile contains a minimum percentage of certified organic fiber and meets environmental and social criteria through processing. It’s the standard for verifying a fabric is genuinely “organic,” not just marketed that way.
B Corp certifies the company as a whole against social and environmental performance standards (labor, governance, environmental impact). This is a business-level cert, not a product-level one, so it doesn’t speak to any single garment’s materials.
Fair Trade Certified verifies that the specific factory/facility producing the item meets standards for labor conditions, wages, and worker safety, and that a Community Development Premium is paid to workers. It’s a labor and production-facility certification. It doesn’t certify the fabric’s environmental footprint or chemical content (that’s what OEKO-TEX covers), so a garment can carry both certifications and they’re speaking to different things.
Where to Find Eco-Friendly Linen Clothing
I scoured through dozens of brands to find my top picks for brands with sustainably-crafted linen clothing for women (some have men’s clothing too). I’ve included their conscious qualities, what they’re best for, and any caveats so you can make the best decision for yourself. Keep in mind while shopping that 100% linen garments won’t have any stretch — so if you run between sizes, I’d default to sizing up. But of course, check the size chart and reviews for each brand!
1. Linen Handmade Studio
Best for: tailored, elevated linen clothing
A lot of linen clothing can feel quite casual. And while Linen Handmade studio does have relaxed-fit options, what differentiates the brand in my opinion is their tailored options. I often hear from conscious readers that they want to wear natural fibers to work, but they can’t find something nice enough. Enter in: Linen Handmade Studio’s tailored pieces.
The brand has linen blazers and jackets, linen vests, and linen pants elevated enough for work or an evening out. (They even have bridesmaid dresses.) I’ve been wearing their Evelyn Longline Linen Vest in red clay on repeat and gotten so many compliments on it.
Price Range: $68 – $305
Size Range: US 2-18 (runs slightly small, I’d size up!)
Based in: Lithuania | Ships: Internationally; free U.S. shipping on orders $300+
2. MATE
Best for: casual GOTS-certified organic linen clothing
Prioritizing natural non-toxic materials, MATE has a collection of effortless linen shorts, button-downs, and pants made from GOTS-certified organic linen and colored with low-impact dyes.
That means that the color options at MATE are a bit more limited than you might see at other brands. They carry white, black, and “dune” — a soft beige.
I have their organic linen button-down in white and it’s been a reliable staple for me the past two years that’s held up beautifully.
Price Range: $88 – $178
Size Range: XS – XL
Based in: U.S. | Ships: Internationally
3. Linen Fox
Best for: romantic pastoral clothing in trend-forward colors and prints
Linen Fox is a Lithuanian small independent fashion brand — their team of 16 people make all of their linen clothing — including womenswear, menswear, and kids clothes.
The brand’s garments are made from OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified linen fabric. The label follows fair trade principles to production and reduces fabric waste by selling their fabric scraps as samples, and crafting accessories like scrunchies. They also ship in 98% plastic-free packaging.
Price Range: $74 – $187
Size Range: XS – XL (several products fit oversized; check each description!)
Based in: Lithuania | Ships: Internationally
4. Magic Linen
Best for: linen separates plus matching home linens
From classic linen shirts to linen aprons and linen pajamas, Magic Linen is your destination for finding summer-ready sustainable linen clothing for men or women.
The small business’ linen clothing is made with European flax linen certified by OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
The Etsy shop also has plenty of linen home goods — I have linen curtains and bedsheets from Magic Linen and the quality of the fabric has been fantastic, with the sheets holding up well even after years of washing.
Price Range: $93 – $298
Size Range: XS – XXL
Based in: Lithuania | Ships: Internationally
5. Beaumont Organic
Best for: European-made linen clothing with full factory transparency
Looking for breathable garments perfect for your summer getaway to the English countryside or sea? Look no further than Beaumont Organic.
Beaumont Organic is a UK slow fashion brand with garments made from natural fabrics, like flax linen clothing! The brand publishes a directory of the factories they source from — 97% of production takes place in Northern Portugal.
They also have a repair program and are launching a resale program (currently available within the UK only).
Price Range: $211 – $300
Size Range: XS – L
Based in: UK | Ships: Internationally
6. LoveAndConfuse
Best for: feminine style linen clothing
The linen clothing from this lovely small Lithuanian brand on Etsy are truly swoon-worthy!
From wrap dresses to ruffled midi’s to high-waisted linen shorts and linen crop tops, their collection of linen fashion will have you dreaming of a slow travel escape to somewhere warm and sunny.
Price Range: $116 – $225
Size Range: XS – XL
Based in: Lithuania | Ships: Internationally
7. Neu Nomads
Best for: classic linen garments and resortwear
With a mission to create simple, sustainable luxury, Neu Nomads offers quality classics made from earth-minded materials, including 100% OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified linen.
You’ll find linen trousers, effortless shirts, resort-ready kaftans, and tailored linen blazers in classic colors like white, black, olive, and bright coral.
Price Range: $159 – $359
Size Range: XXS – XXL
Based in: U.S. | Ships: Internationally
8. EILEEN FISHER
Best for: classic linen clothing with circularity programs
Slow fashion brand EILEEN FISHER has elegant, minimalistic garments made from eco-minded fabrics including organic linen. Several of the pieces are made in Fair Trade Certified factories.
This is the largest company on the list, but still considered a medium-sized enterprise — and, of course, this namesake label is woman-founded.
EILEEN FISHER’s organic linen clothing is timeless and made with quality, as part of their circularity efforts. In addition to ensuring their pieces last, the brand also has a resale program called Renew and a “third life” program that repurposes unwearable garments into unique artwork and other goods.
Price Range: $98 – $268
Size Range: XXS – XL
Based in: U.S. | Ships: Within U.S.
Your Questions, Answered:
What about Quince’s linen clothing?
While Quince offers more affordable linen clothing, in my experience their linen clothing is ok quality, but does not compare with the quality of some of the other brands on this list. Also, I personally want to prioritize women-led small businesses for my guides, not venture-backed billion-dollar companies.
Should I look for organic linen clothing?
While organic linen is wonderful, it is quite rare. Only two brands on this list use certified organic linen. Note that OEKO-TEX Standard 100 linen is not “organic” linen, but rather linen clothing that has been tested against common harmful substances. The most common certification for organic fiber clothing is Global Organic Textile Standard, or GOTS.
Is there any linen clothing that’s work-appropriate?
This one depends on your work place’s dress code, but there are a few options on this list with linen blazers, trousers, and other more tailored pieces like Linen Handmade Studio and Neu Nomads.
More Sustainable Clothing Guides:
The Best Organic Cotton Fashion Brands
Actually Fashionable Hemp Clothing Brands
The post 8 Best Linen Clothing Brands With Easy Breezy, Beautiful Pieces appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.
9 Best Linen Clothing Brands With Easy Breezy, Beautiful Pieces
Breezy, light, and breathable, we take a deep dive into how one of the best summer fabrics fares when it comes to sustainability while discovering these brands that are doing right by linen.
Some Background on Linen
Where does linen come from?
Linen fiber is extracted from the stalks of flax plants. This plant is also known for providing us with nutritious flaxseeds and linseed oil — talk about an overachiever!
In fact, linen is one of the oldest fibers known to man, dating back to the prehistoric era. Archaeologists and paleobiologists have discovered flax fibers during excavations that were twisted, indicating they were used to make ropes or strings among many proposed applications that must have been a great advantage to the hunter-gatherer society. In fact, linen wrappings were even used for mummification in ancient Egypt.
Linen fabric is then created by obtaining its fibers from the inner bark (or stalks) of the flax plant.
How is the linen cloth made?
Before the fibers are spun into the breezy linen you know and love, its fibers are loosened and separated from the rest of the stalk through a process known as “retting”. At that point, the fibers are still straw-like and coarse in texture.
To soften it, the fibers are broken up into small, short bits, while the actual fiber is left unharmed, and then “scutched”, where the straw is scraped off the fiber. After which they are then pulled through “hackles”, that comb the straw out of the fiber to finally prepare flax for spinning into linen fabric.
And linen clothing is, of course, garments comprised of linen fiber in its entirety or blended with other fibers. For this guide, I tried to select brands that only used 100% linen or at the minimum blended linen with other natural fibers like cotton.
The Benefits of Linen Clothing
Why wear linen? Known for being ideal during the summers, clothing made from linen will allow heat to escape from the body while absorbing moisture and drying relatively quickly. While linen may have a notorious reputation for wrinkling rather quickly, when blended with other fibers, the creases aren’t as discernible as they would be with pure linens.
While linen may be notorious for its high energy consumption owing to its need to be ironed more, linen clothing’s pros easily outweigh its cons.
Flax plants can be grown in the harshest of climate conditions that require minimum water. What’s more impressive is the plant’s ability to absorb carbon. The European Confederation of Flax and Hemp (CELC) states that one hectare of flax absorbs 3.7 tons of CO2 every year.
Is Linen More Sustainable Than Cotton?
While there are benefits and drawbacks to every fiber when it comes to environmental sustainability, there are a few points where linen stands out when compared to cotton.
First, we know that durability is a key aspect of sustainability, because it means our clothes will last, enabling us to keep our clothes longer and buy new clothing less frequently.
So how long does linen clothing last in comparison to cotton? Linen clothing is up to 12 times stronger than cotton, helping increase its longevity and taking away the need to be replaced so often.
Another question might be about flax’s water usage. While the irrigation needs of the crop are dependent on the region’s climate (just as with cotton), 450–750 mm of water per season is sufficient for flaxseed. In fact, some studies even indicate that flax could be regarded as a drought-tolerant crop.
How to Care for Linen Clothing
When it comes to caring for linen clothing, linen can be washed on a gentle machine cycle with a mild detergent. (Check out these low waste low-impact detergent options.)
In case you’re curious whether linen stretches or shrinks, then there isn’t much to worry about. Linen is mostly pre-shrunk during the manufacturing stages but pure linens may show about 4% shrinkage.
And when it comes to stretch, linens aren’t known to stretch out over time but can show some level of elasticity when blended with other fibers.
Finally, it’s no secret that linen clothing tends to wrinkle easily! You may choose to embrace the natural characteristics of linen and wear your linen clothing as is, or if you want a crisper look, you may either want to look for a linen blended fabric, or be prepared to steam and/or iron your garments relatively frequently.
Note: This guide includes partners and/or affiliates. As always, brands must meet high standards for sustainability and ethics — and I only share brands that I believe in.
How to Find Sustainable Linen Clothing
So of course, I’m a big advocate for “secondhand first” when it comes to all fashion, including linen clothing. While your local thrift store might not be filled with 100% linen clothes, online secondhand shops can be a great resource. For luxury and premium brands, Vestiaire Collective and The RealReal. For more affordable options, my favorite pick is ThredUp because you can filter by natural fibers only. To be clear: the listings aren’t always accurate, so I still double check the descriptions of any product that shows up with that filter, but it does save some time to start there.
When looking for new linen clothing, I always prioritize small to mid-size women-led businesses. And I check the product details to see if they use 100% linen or if they’re deceptively saying “linen blend” and then it’s actually 50% polyester!
And while not perfect you can also look for certifications. These are the ones most relevant to linen clothing and linen fashion brands.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifies that the finished textile product has been tested for harmful substances (heavy metals, formaldehyde, pesticide residue). This is a chemical-safety certification, not a guarantee of fair labor or environmental practices. So it tells you the linen has been tested for potentially toxic chemicals, but it doesn’t tell you who made it or how. Note that some brands just say “OEKO-TEX certified” — that virtually always refers to OEKO-TEX Standard 100, the most common certification from OEKO-TEX.
B Corp certifies the company as a whole against social and environmental performance standards (labor, governance, environmental impact). This is a business-level cert, not a product-level one, so it doesn’t speak to any single garment’s materials.
Fair Trade Certified verifies that the specific factory/facility producing the item meets standards for labor conditions, wages, and worker safety, and that a Community Development Premium is paid to workers. It’s a labor and production-facility certification. It doesn’t certify the fabric’s environmental footprint or chemical content (that’s what OEKO-TEX covers), so a garment can carry both certifications and they’re speaking to different things.
Where to Find Eco-Friendly Linen Clothing
I scoured through dozens of brands to find my top picks for brands with sustainably-crafted linen clothing for women (some have men’s clothing too). I’ve included their conscious qualities, what they’re best for, and any caveats so you can make the best decision for yourself. Keep in mind while shopping that 100% linen garments won’t have any stretch — so if you run between sizes, I’d default to sizing up. But of course, check the size chart and reviews for each brand!
1. Linen Handmade Studio
Best for: tailored, elevated linen clothing
A lot of linen clothing can feel quite casual. And while Linen Handmade studio does have relaxed-fit options, what differentiates the brand in my opinion is their tailored options. I often hear from conscious readers that they want to wear natural fibers to work, but they can’t find something nice enough. Enter in: Linen Handmade Studio’s tailored pieces.
The brand has linen blazers and jackets, linen vests, and linen pants elevated enough for work or an evening out. (They even have bridesmaid dresses.) I’ve been wearing their Evelyn Longline Linen Vest in red clay on repeat and gotten so many compliments on it.
Price Range: $68 – $305
Size Range: US 2-18 (runs slightly small, I’d size up!)
Based in: Lithuania | Ships: Internationally; free U.S. shipping on orders $300+
2. MATE
Best for: casual GOTS-certified organic linen clothing
Prioritizing natural non-toxic materials, MATE has a collection of effortless linen shorts, button-downs, and pants made from GOTS-certified organic linen and colored with low-impact dyes.
That means that the color options at MATE are a bit more limited than you might see at other brands. They carry white, black, and “dune” — a soft beige.
I have their organic linen button-down in white and it’s been a reliable staple for me the past two years that’s held up beautifully.
Price Range: $88 – $178
Size Range: XS – XL
Based in: U.S. | Ships: Internationally
3. Linen Fox
Best for: romantic pastoral clothing in trend-forward colors and prints
Linen Fox is a Lithuanian small independent fashion brand — their team of 16 people make all of their linen clothing — including womenswear, menswear, and kids clothes.
The brand’s garments are made from OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified linen fabric. The label follows fair trade principles to production and reduces fabric waste by selling their fabric scraps as samples, and crafting accessories like scrunchies. They also ship in 98% plastic-free packaging.
Price Range: $74 – $187
Size Range: XS – XL (several products fit oversized; check each description!)
Based in: Lithuania | Ships: Internationally
4. OhSevenDays
Best for: deadstock linen with custom sizing available
OhSevenDays was founded by Megan Mummery after seeing the vast supply of surplus fabrics (i.e. deadstock) in Istanbul, Turkey.
While originally sourcing their deadstock fabric from middleman sellers, OhSevenDays now sources their surplus fabrics (including linen) directly from OEKO-TEX fabric mills for better transparency.
Price Range: $$
Size Range: XS-XL + custom sizing options
Based in: Turkey | Ships: Internationally
5. Magic Linen
Best for: linen separates plus matching home linens
From classic linen shirts to linen aprons and linen pajamas, Magic Linen is your destination for finding summer-ready sustainable linen clothing for men or women.
The small business’ linen clothing is made with European flax that means the pre-certification guidelines of OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
The Etsy shop also has plenty of linen home goods — I have linen curtains and bedsheets from Magic Linen and the quality of the fabric has been fantastic, with the sheets holding up well even after years of washing.
Price Range: $-$$
Size Range: XS – XXL
Based in: Lithuania | Ships: Internationally
6. Beaumont Organic
Best for: UK-made linen with full factory transparency
Looking for breathable garments perfect for your summer getaway to the English countryside or sea? Look no further than Beaumont Organic.
Beaumont Organic is a UK slow fashion brand with garments made from natural fabrics, like flax linen clothing! The brand publishes a directory of the factories they source from — 97% of production takes place in Northern Portugal.
They also have a repair program and are launching a resale program (currently available within the UK only).
Price Range: ££ – £££
Size Range: XS – L
Based in: UK | Ships: Internationally; covers EU customs & fees
7. LoveAndConfuse
Best for: ultra feminine style linen clothing
The linen clothing from this lovely small Lithuanian brand on Etsy are truly swoon-worthy!
From wrap dresses to ruffled midi’s to high-waisted linen shorts and linen crop tops, their collection of linen fashion will have you dreaming of a slow travel escape to somewhere warm and sunny.
Price Range: $ – $$
Size Range: XS – XL
Based in: Lithuania | Ships: Internationally
8. Neu Nomads
Best for: affordable linen garments
With a mission to create simple, sustainable luxury at affordable prices, Neu Nomads offers quality classics made from earth-minded materials, including organic linen.
You’ll find linen trousers, effortless shirts, chic blouses, summer dresses, and even linen blazers in a range of colors among Neu Nomad’s consciously crafted selection.
Price Range: $ – $$
Size Range: XS – XL
Based in: U.S. | Ships: Internationally
9. EILEEN FISHER
Best for: investment-piece linen with a circularity program
Slow fashion label EILEEN FISHER has elegant, minimalistic garments made from eco-minded fabrics including organic linen.
EILEEN FISHER’s organic linen clothing is timeless and made with quality, as part of their circularity efforts. In addition to ensuring their pieces last, the brand also has a resale program called Renew and a “third life” program called Waste No More that repurposes unwearable garments into unique items.
Price Range: $$$
Size Range: XXS – XL
Based in: U.S. | Ships: Within U.S.
Your Questions, Answered:
What about Quince’s linen clothing?
While Quince offers more affordable linen clothing, in my experience their linen clothing is ok quality, but does not compare with the quality of some of the other brands on this list. Also, I personally want to prioritize women-led small businesses for my guides, not venture-backed billion-dollar companies.
Should I look for organic linen clothing?
While organic linen is wonderful, it is quite rare. Only two brands on this list use certified organic linen. Note that OEKO-TEX Standard 100 linen is not “organic” linen, but rather linen clothing that has been tested against common harmful substances. The most common certification for organic fiber clothing is Global Organic Textile Standard, or GOTS.
More Sustainable Clothing Guides:
The Best Organic Cotton Fashion Brands
Actually Fashionable Hemp Clothing Brands
The post 9 Best Linen Clothing Brands With Easy Breezy, Beautiful Pieces appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.
9 Best Linen Clothing Brands With Easy Breezy, Beautiful Pieces
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