10 High Quality Clothing Brands To Add To Your Wardrobe
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I’ve researched and tested our favorite sustainable fashion brands for the best quality clothing at the most affordable prices — these are my top picks.
Best Occasion Dresses & Denim: Reformation ($48+)
Best USA-Made Closet Staples: Buck Mason ($48+)
Best For Graphic Tees, Activewear, Outerwear: tentree ($45+)
Best Organic Activewear & Loungewear: MATE the Label ($68+)
Best Adult Basics (Tees, Undies & Maternity): Pact ($24+)
Best Organic Cotton Basics: Organic Basics ($40+)
Best Elevated Basics: Quince ($16+)
Best For Colors & Patterns: Toad&Co ($48+)
Best For Fair Trade Basics: Yes Friends ($22+)
Best For Conscious Outdoor Wear: Patagonia ($45+)
Why Do Sustainable Materials & Production Practices Mean Better Quality?
What Are the Best Fabrics For Affordable, Sustainable Clothing?
What Are the Relevant Certifications?
Can Sustainable Clothing Lead To A More Polished Look?
Once you dive into the world of sustainable fashion, there’s no turning back — and honestly, why would you want to? After nearly a decade of wearing sustainably made clothing, I’ve come to experience firsthand the difference between a fast fashion brand and a brand committed to being conscious. I can always spot the difference by the way the brand discusses how their clothes are made and what they’re made of. Sustainable brands care deeply about the planet, the people crafting each garment, and the quality of the materials we wear every day.
Shopping sustainably can initially feel overwhelming. There’s a lot to consider. However, we went ahead and conducted firsthand research to identify the brands leading the charge, setting high standards for what ethical and eco-conscious fashion should look like. I’ve personally tested each one to see if their clothing lives up to their values, and I’m excited to share my honest take.
Our criteria & methodology:
As a mom in my mid-30s with two little ones, I’ve learned that clothing has to work as hard as I do. Functionality comes first, but I’ve also become more discerning about fit. I want pieces that look effortlessly put together, even on the busiest days. With a baby on one hip and a toddler racing ahead, my wardrobe needs to keep up with me in real life. And here in Colorado, where the weather can flip from sunny skies to snowstorms in a heartbeat, versatility is everything. I rely on well-made pieces I can layer when it’s cold and wear solo when the sun gets hot. With all of this in mind, I chose pieces to test from the following brands that would elevate my current wardrobe while meeting my closet standards.
All brands on our list were chosen and evaluated for the following criteria:
- HIGH QUALITY | Each one of these brands uses quality materials and manufactures items that are made to last and look great during wear.
- SUSTAINABLE | The brands on this list use thoughtful labor and production practices and prioritize recycled and natural ingredients, leading to a better overall product.
- AFFORDABLE | All the brands below offer fair pricing while maintaining the integrity of their sustainable production processes. We look for brands that offer products starting below $50, and have a much lower price per wear because of their durability.
I’ve also gone even more in-depth, reviewing many other high-quality clothing brands, including some on this list! Here are my reviews of Sézane, Quince, Buck Mason, MATE the Label, and my comprehensive review of the best sustainable activewear brands.
For even more affordable and sustainable clothing options, check out our guide to vintage and secondhand clothing shops online. And if you’re making the shift to a completely ethical wardrobe, add a few responsibly made shoes, vintage jewelry, and eco-friendly purses, too!
1. Reformation
Best For | Occasion dresses & denim
Size Range | Women’s XXS–XL & XSP–LP; denim 23–34
Price | Women’s tees starting at $48
Reformation is tackling denim waste and prioritizing sustainable and ethical practices, including safe and fair working conditions as part of its efforts. The brand is making affordable denim (with some options made in the USA) available to everyone — and it’s doing so with only a third of the water used by comparable companies. With dozens of styles, this is the place to find sustainable and fashion-forward jeans for your capsule wardrobe. (See more sustainable jeans here.)
Courtney’s Review | I’ve loved Reformation for years, but this was my first time trying their jeans. I opted for the Cynthia High Rise Straight (in the Colorado wash, naturally); it’s the perfect classic fit once you size down, and the Tyler Barrel adds a fun, trendier vibe to my denim lineup. Both are insanely soft and comfortable. I also grabbed one of their linen dresses to complete my cottagecore dreams, which might be my new year-round staple — it fits like a dream and layers perfectly. One big takeaway is to size down in their jeans. I found I was about two sizes smaller than my regular size. Each jean also fits completely differently, so while I may be a specific size in one style, I may be a different size in another. Luckily, Ref offers easy returns and exchanges to explore and find the right style/size that works for you.
2. Buck Mason
Best For | USA-made closet staples
Size Range | Women’s XXS–XXL, men’s XS–XXL; women’s denim 22–32, men’s denim 28–40
Price | Tees starting at $48
Buck Mason is a brand founded on crafting high-quality, low-impact staples that are designed to last. Their pieces are thoughtfully crafted in the USA and produced in Fair Trade factories worldwide, with a focus on timeless essentials that suit every style. What sets them apart is the way they draw inspiration from vintage clothing, translating classic details into modern wardrobe staples.
Courtney’s Review | I adore Buck Mason for their classic, timeless fits, along with a dedication to producing quality wardrobe essentials. I also love that Buck Mason draws significant inspiration from vintage clothing in all their creations. This is evident in small details, such as snaps on tanks for keeping bra straps in place, 100% cotton T-shirts, or the classic fit of their denim. I feel more elevated wearing their clothes, even if it’s a simple Henley. They’re one of those clothing brands you can rely on for their quality and effortless, timeless staples.
Read my in-depth review of Buck Mason here.
3. tentree
Best For | Graphic tees, activewear & outerwear
Size Range | Women’s XS–XXL, men’s S–XXL
Price | Tees starting at $45
tentree is rooted in the belief that we have a responsibility to protect and preserve the world we live in. This earth-first apparel brand celebrates its commitment to our planet with ethically crafted and sustainably designed products, all while planting 10 trees for each item purchased. With a motto of ‘buy one, plant ten,’ tentree believes that you don’t have to be a hardcore environmentalist to make a difference. The brand has now planted over 100 million trees around the world and is well on the way to its goal of planting one billion by 2030.
Courtney’s Review | The first thing I thought when I pulled this set out of the bag was how silky and soft the pieces were. They feel thin yet durable…Because of their size, I wouldn’t work out in these. Instead, I’d rather wear them for hiking and walking — and will definitely wear them often for those activities!… Overall though, I love the color and the lightweight softness that’ll be great for summer.
4. MATE the Label
Best For | Organic activewear & loungewear
Size Range | Women’s XS–3X; men’s S–XXL; kids 0–7Y
Price | Women’s tees starting at $68; men’s tees starting at $78; kids’ tees starting at $28
MATE the Label is passionate about creating clean loungewear, activewear, and everyday essentials, predominantly made from organic cotton and nontoxic materials. The women-founded and women-run brand focuses on creating healthy and functional essentials for all, with a women’s size range from XS–3X. MATE also holds Climate Label, GOTS, and B Corp certifications that highlight its rigorous dedication to social and environmental impact. Keep in mind that each garment is thoughtfully made with all-natural materials, so it’s important to take care when washing to prevent shrinkage. With MATE, you can always be certain you’re getting a piece that is safe and sustainably made — which is extra important when you’re moving and sweating in it.
Courtney’s Review | In my opinion, you can never have too many black leggings. Unlike typical spandex leggings, these Organic Midi Leggings feel soft and stretchy while still offering the body-hugging feel you want. I’ve also never had yoga pants with pockets, and turns out it’s a game-changer for a mom who sometimes just needs a place to put my phone. I also tried the Organic Racer Tank, which is my favorite bra style out of all the items I tried from the brand. I love the slightly longer tank length that gives it a flattering, streamlined fit.
Read my in-depth review of MATE the Label here.
5. Pact
Best For | Adult basics (tees, undies, maternity)
Size Range | XS –2XL
Price | Tees starting at $24
If you’re on the hunt for super-soft basics that are also fair trade, look no further than Pact. The brand sells organic clothing for everyone in the family, including toddlers and babies. Plus, they’re universally comfortable and made for layering, ideal for year-round wear. Given the affordable price point, high quality, and eco-friendly packaging, a purchase from Pact is sure to be a win — and when you’re done, you can send it back to Pact to give to those in need with its Give Back Box® program.
Courtney’s Review | Looking at Pact, you feel a little more wholesome and cozy. I turn to them for yoga and casual sets made from organic cotton. They also have an array of prints and earth-toned colors that add a pop to any conscious wardrobe. My favorite go-tos are their leggings. These On The Go-To Bootcut Leggings serve as comfortable pants that can also be worn to yoga. Paired with the On The Go-To Crop Tank, this set is my new favorite. To complete the look, I added the Luxe Stretch Jersey Swing Cardigan. It adds a light, cozy layer for chilly weather or morning yoga. Keep in mind that, given the organic cotton composition of their pieces, the fit will be softer and more comfortable rather than tight and form-fitting.
6. Organic Basics
Best For | Organic cotton basics
Size Range | XXS–XXXL
Price |Tees starting at $40
Organic Basics was founded in 2015 in Copenhagen with a mission to create high-quality low-impact closet staples. Using materials like organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell, and recycled fibers to reduce environmental impact. Their clothes are unique because, while they are everyday essentials, their pieces have an understated edge and subtle sexiness that sets them apart from the basics you reach for every day. Organic Basics is a certified B Corp and is known for its exceptional transparency, sharing the environmental footprint of every product it makes. The brand also holds respected certifications including Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Organic Content Standard (OCS), Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), and Global Recycled Standard (GRS), giving shoppers confidence that every piece is made with people and the planet in mind.
Courtney’s Review | As a mom of two little ones, I’m constantly reaching for functional staples, so I appreciate that Organic Basics gives everyday essentials a subtle edge. I’d had my eye on the Pointelle Cardigan for a while, and after ordering it in an XS, it quickly became one of my favorite pieces. The delicate pointelle knit and open button detail make it feel both cozy and sexy, though I’d recommend sizing up if you prefer a more relaxed fit.
I also love the Everyday Straight Leg Pants, which offer the perfect balance between comfort and feeling pulled together. The tie waist is a thoughtful detail, and while I ordered a small, I could have comfortably worn an XS. The Core Baby Tee is a fitted, slightly cropped take on the classic white tee that again makes a simple outfit feel edgy. Pair with the Core Straight Leg Pants for the perfect running errands look. The organic cotton is incredibly soft, though I found the pants ran a bit long and loose on me. After trying a few different bottoms, I’d recommend checking the size guide for each style, as the fit varies depending on the fabric.
7. Quince
Best For | Elevated basics
Size Range | Women’s XS–XXL, men’s XS–XXXL
Price | Women’s tees starting at $16, men’s tees starting at $20
Quince believes everyone should be able to afford the best, so the brand has set out to make luxurious pieces at accessible price points. The team responsibly sources sustainable materials like organic cotton, Mulberry silk, and cashmere to create stylish designs that last. Quince transparently shares information about its partner factories, including wages and working conditions, and is BSCI and Bluesign® certified.
Courtney’s Review | I’ve tried Quince’s cashmere, but I’ve never had the opportunity to try their leather or silk. This stunning motorcycle jacket, crafted from 100% ethically sourced leather, is priced at only $200. It’s a piece I’ll keep in my wardrobe until I’m ready to pass it down to my grandchildren. This Washable Stretch Silk V-Neck Cami is so lightweight, and I’ll love styling it in different ways. To complete my wardrobe, I added a pair of Pleated Wide Leg Pants. However, it’s worth noting that their pieces tend to run on the large side.
I work from home and spend most of my time with my two young children, so this look wouldn’t be an everyday go-to. Yet, Mama needs to look sophisticated sometimes. What I love about Quince is the chance to grab affordable, high-quality essentials. That elevates your daily wardrobe without compromising on natural, earth-conscious fabrics.
Read my in-depth review of Quince here.
8. Toad&Co
Best For | Colors & patterns
Size Range | Women’s XS–XL; men’s S–XXL
Price | Women’s tees starting at $48; men’s tees starting at $58
Toad&Co began in the 90s with a mission to create versatile, comfortable, and easy-to-wear clothing that brings joy. What sets Toad&Co apart is its focus on eco-friendly fabrics, including organic cotton, hemp, and recycled fibers, as well as its commitment to ethical manufacturing practices. They also champion social good by partnering with organizations that create job opportunities for adults with disabilities. Alongside, they also offer a pre-loved Toad Again site that allows customers to buy and sell pre-loved Toad&Co. It’s a brand that makes getting dressed fun while also helping the planet and its people.
Courtney’s Review | I was so excited to try Toad&Co for its wholesome and unique styles. I am utterly obsessed with this 100% organic cotton Airscape Midi Skirt. It’s a wardrobe staple that makes me want to frolic through the hills and pick flowers. Yet it’s thick enough to wear in the colder months with a sweater. Alongside, I’m over the moon about this Manzana Quilted Jacket, also made from 100% organic cotton. Its floral pattern is unique, and the quilted fabric is thick and cozy.
Last but not least, I tried the 100% cotton Manzana Square Neck Dress. Its lightweight, soft, and breathable fabric makes it a year-round staple. It feels like a timeless classic.
9. Yes Friends
Best For | Fair Trade basics
Size Range | 3XS–4XL
Price | Tees starting at $22
Yes Friends Fair Trade basics are not only high-quality and sustainably made, but they’re also highly affordable! With tees starting at $22 and hoodies at $80, you’ll be able to buy quality premium clothes without hurting your wallet. Even better, each piece is made using organic cotton in ethical and sustainable factories. Yes Friends can keep their costs low while still paying their workers more than a living wage through their pioneering bonus program and large-quantity purchases. A win-win!
Courtney’s Review | Can you have too many classic tees or white tanks in your wardrobe? The answer is no. I’m constantly grabbing for a tee or tank to complete any look. I’m thrilled to add Yes Friend’s Classic Organic Tank Top to my daily wardrobe. It’s one that I’ll pair with jeans or wear under a sweater. It’s GOTS certified, which gives it a lightweight and soft feel. While the fit is body-hugging. I also love the thicker straps to wear with a bra.
10. Patagonia
Best For | Conscious outdoor wear
Size Range | Women’s XXS–XXL; men’s XXS–3XL
Price | Women’s tees starting at $49; men’s tees starting at $45
Patagonia is widely recognized not only as an outdoor clothing brand but also as a company deeply rooted in environmental responsibility. From the beginning, their mission has been clear: “We’re in business to save our home planet.” That ethos shows up in everything they do, from using recycled and organic materials in their apparel to investing in regenerative farming and advocating for climate action. Alongside, Patagonia takes a thoughtful approach to design. Creating durable, long-lasting clothing that reduces waste and encourages customers to buy less, repair what they already own, and think more intentionally about consumption.
Courtney’s Review | Living in Colorado, you see Patagonia everywhere. Their clothes are famous for being durable outdoor staples. They are made with high-quality construction, so they last a long time. I was excited to try their new and improved Classic Retro-X® Fleece Jacket. It’s a fresh design taken from their classic Retro-X fleece. They used 100% Repreve® recycled polyester certified by OceanCycle. The inside feels like a waterproof jacket, so you’d want a shirt underneath. The outside is fuzzy and cozy. Paired with their Pack Out Tights, I love the soft feel of these leggings, which are also made from recycled polyester. The pockets make them look like pants, so they’re great leggings for any adventure.
Courtney Jay Higgins is a Contributing Editor at The Good Trade. She has a BA in Visual Communications from The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and is the founder of Coincide, a subscription-based yoga platform focusing on inclusive, sustainable yoga rooted in ancient Eastern practices and spirituality. Her 10+ years of experience in yoga include a 200-hr YTT certification in a Hatha-based yoga practice and a certification in prenatal yoga. She has been featured in Shoutout Colorado, Voyage Denver, and Cora’s Blood & Milk. Since 2017, she has been reviewing sustainable fashion, natural makeup, organic wellness, and safe pregnancy products for The Good Trade’s readers.
The Good Trade editors are a diverse team of writers, researchers, and sustainable product enthusiasts. Every recommendation is informed by hands-on testing, rigorous vetting, and years of reporting on the products and practices that shape our daily lives. We are not a marketplace, and we are not owned by a brand. Our editorial team maintains independent standards across every review and recommendation.
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Some frequently asked questions about sustainable clothing:
Why do sustainable materials & production practices mean better quality?
Clothing made with sustainable materials is more durable and of higher quality than clothing made from non-sustainable fabrics. For example, organic cotton is known to be a lot stronger than conventional cotton, meaning you might find your organic cotton shirt keeping its integrity well throughout its wears and washes! You may also notice that garments made with sustainable, high-quality fibers retain their color and don’t pill as easily. Sustainable manufacturing processes usually involve better craftsmanship of each clothing item, which can reduce these instances of wear and tear and prevent clothes from being sent to the landfill.
And what if a clothing item does get damaged and needs some extra care? Sustainable fashion items are often easier to mend and repair due to their use of premium fabrics. You might even find some brands will repair the item for you for free or a small fee!
What are the best fabrics for affordable, sustainable clothing?
Fast fashion brands can produce clothing quickly and cheaply, mainly because they rely on synthetic fabrics. The problem is that these fabrics often contain harmful chemicals, such as PFAS, which can leach into your skin and cause long-term environmental harm once they inevitably end up in landfills.
If you’re shopping sustainably on a budget (and yes, it’s absolutely possible), start by looking for brands that prioritize ethical production and sourcing. From there, focus on natural fibers. Some of the best budget-friendly, eco-conscious options include organic cotton, hemp, deadstock or upcycled materials, and bamboo. These fabrics aren’t just natural — they’re also regenerative, making them a win for both you and the planet.
What are the relevant certifications?
Another key marker when shopping from a sustainable brand is its certifications. Earning one means the brand has passed rigorous testing, and most will proudly display these credentials on their website — making it easier to spot genuine sustainability efforts versus greenwashing.
Top certifications to look for include:
- Certified B Corporation
- EWG Verified™
- Fairtrade International
- The Climate Label Certified
- Forest Stewardship Council®
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
- Leaping Bunny Program
- PETA
Many of the brands on this guide hold multiple certifications, confirming their commitment to genuine sustainability.
Can sustainable clothing lead to a more polished look?
Yes! Timeless and versatile designs are prioritized so that each garment can be worn for a variety of seasons and settings. Attention to detail in the design and construction of sustainable clothing also leads to a better-tailored fit, a luxe feel, and finer details and stitching throughout each piece, adding to the overall appeal and sophistication of sustainable clothing. With high-quality fabrics and styles that never go out of style, sustainable clothing will keep you looking your best for less.
That’s why we’re sharing sustainable clothing brands that make shopping for ethical clothing a more affordable experience. Buying fewer, higher-quality items is ultimately a more affordable and sustainable option. With a little planning, this kind of thoughtful spending can go a long way in supporting sustainable fashion that makes us feel and look good without breaking the bank in the long run.
