Previously, “sustainable fashion” was a buzz term of sorts, hovering on the periphery of mainstream fashion. Now that big brands have cottoned onto the trend, many consumers are taking note and being more mindful of their purchases.
Currently, the U.S. is dominating the North American sustainable clothing sector. Global Market Insights Inc. predicts the industry will reach about $1.10 billion in revenue by 2032.
From organic cotton to recycled polyester, companies are seeing value in using sustainable fabrics in their clothing. In this article, we’ll discuss the sustainable fashion trends that are dominating 2024.
#1. The Circular Economy
The circular economy works on the simple premise that sustainability is the core of the production process. All materials are reused and regenerated as a way of minimizing waste.
Many companies are using the circular economy model as a means to stay transparent in the production of their clothing.
When Levi’s launched their Water<Less collection in 2022, the denim brand was one of the first to implement the circular economy.
According to the U.N., it takes about 7,500 liters of water to produce one pair of jeans. Their iconic 501 jeans were reimagined to reduce their environmental impact by using less water in their manufacturing. The jeans are now made from a blend of certified organic cotton, sustainably sourced wood pulp and Circulose.
Other brands leading the circular fashion trend in the U.S. are Mara Hoffman, Outerknown and Another Tomorrow.
#2. Sustainable Diamonds
When they were first introduced in the 1980s, lab-grown diamonds didn’t gain much attention. Taking the ethical considerations into account, people are now more inclined to purchase them.
To combat fraudulent laser inscriptions on lab-grown diamonds, The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) offers same-day GIA report verification. GIA is the authority in grading diamonds in the diamond industry. It has also started authenticating color diamond certificates.
There are two types of GIA diamond grading reports for color diamonds: a full certificate (colored diamond grading report) and a half certificate (colored diamond identification and origin report).
Like a full GIA diamond grading report, customers are now able to view any natural-colored diamond GIA report online. The grading report will give you access to the shape and cutting style, color origin, color grade and clarity.
Besides checking the quality reports, buyers also want to know about pricing. They can dig deep into a diamond price chart to understand the long-term price trends and appreciation forecasts.
Leibish notes that diamonds are an excellent investment opportunity besides being a sustainable fashion choice. The growth applies to both colorless and colored diamonds.
#3. On-Demand Fashion
Vogue says the fashion industry estimates about 10 to 45% of clothing is never sold due to overproduction. This model is solely based on retailer predictions of what they think customers are going to buy. In this regard, the system is already broken.
On-demand manufacturing can remedy the problem. The made-to-order model has already been adopted by fashion brands such as Weekday.
Another option is leveraging 3D technology and making the items directly from the yarn. Unspun partnered with Eckhaus Latta last year as a step in this direction. The focus of its Spring 2024 collection was using 3D printing to make clothes on demand.
#4. African Designers Taking Charge
A few years ago, Africa was the dumping ground for fast fashion brands. Not much has changed, but African designers are starting to realize their continent’s worth.
Rich in natural resources such as silk and organic cotton, Africa could become the epicenter for responsible and sustainable fashion.
Fair Planet says African fashion designers are changing the narrative by combining ethical fashion practices with their cultural heritage.
Cotton Made In Africa (CmiA) is a leading standard for sustainably produced cotton. The initiative was started by the Aid Trade Foundation and their goal is to improve the working conditions of smallholding farmers in Africa while protecting the environment.
The organization recently integrated cotton-growing countries in West Africa into the global supply chain for football clothing.
#5. Adjustable Sizing
The concept of adjustable sizing has often been thrown around by fashion brands. Now, it’s become part of the ethos as companies cater to the body-positive market.
Adjustable sizing also fixes common sizing issues and is a practical solution to sustainable fashion. Clothing items with adjustable ties or waistbands increase the wear and reduce the need for a replacement.
Fashion houses are adopting the trend and consumers are welcoming it.
Designer Ester Manas has a one-size-fits-all model with stretchy material and adjustable straps. Stylist Julie Pelipas who owns Bettter, does upcycled, oversized clothing catering for a minimum of two sizes.
By the looks of it, sustainable fashion isn’t going to die down any time soon. The trend has become a global movement. As a mindful consumer, it’s up to you if you want to join it or not.
