13 Dec

7 Ethical Outfits for the Festive Season

If you want to inject a little festivity into your wardrobe while still approaching the holiday season with a more sustainable attitude, we’ve found some amazing ethical festive outfits.

December is here, 2021 is almost finished, and the holidays are officially upon us. ‘Tis the season for decadent meals, festive decorations, and time spent with loved ones. But with all the shopping we’re about to do, it’s also the season of mass consumerism.

Let’s face it; the holidays are one of the most common excuses to add new pieces to our closets. It’s hard to say no to some indulgent purchases, from the new sweater dresses and seasonal sales to the collections of shimmering shoes that are like ornaments for the feet. What’s even more difficult is saying no to the fast fashion boom that’s almost too tempting with its velveteen and sequins designs attached to cut-rate price tags. But with this list, you’ll be one step closer to starting 2022 on a more eco-conscious foot.

We know the difficulties of 2021 have placed limitations on this year’s holiday season again, so we’ve tailored our list of the best ethical outfits to fit all circumstances. Whether you decide to go out or stay in, our collection of sustainable brands will have you decked in garments made with cruelty-free production methods, quality materials, and sleek cuts. After all, this is the season of giving.

For that holiday movie marathon

Underprotection

Rated: Good

Wendy Pajamas – Ships Internationally from Denmark

PJs this decadent can only be fit for the holidays. All of Underprotection’s synthetic materials come from recycled sources, and are both GRS-certified, guaranteeing that the materials have actually been recycled, and Oeko-Tex certified, which labels it free of harmful chemicals. These vegan PJs not only wrap you in some of the cosiest satin material, but are also produced with your best interest in mind. Find the range in XS-XL.

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Shop Underprotection.

Shop Underprotection @ LVR Sustainable.

Conscious Step

Rated: Good

Socks That Protect The Arctic – Ships internationally from the US

Socks with a cause. Conscious Step is an American brand that offers premium fair trade, organic, vegan socks matched to a direct charitable impact. Choose from several causes including protecting our oceans, planting trees, and providing safe drinking water. Get snowed in supporting iconic bears with these cute organic cotton pairs. The socks come in S-L sizes.

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Shop Conscious Step.

Birdsong

Rated: Good
Close up of reclaimed faux fur and upcycled leather beige slippers by Birdsong.

Reclaimed Faux Fur Open Slippers – Ships internationally from the UK

Birdsong is a boutique label producing gorgeous womenswear. Its clothes are handmade in London by knitters and sewers, earning above the London living wage. The business is built on a philosophy of fairness and authenticity, promising customers “no sweatshop, no photoshop”. These reclaimed leather crossover slippers hand-crafted in London by women facing barriers to employment for ultimate support and comfort. Birdsong’s slippers are available in sizes 35 to 46.

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Shop Birdsong.

Shop Birdsong @ SlowCo.

Womsh

Rated: Good
Person wearing a grey unisex hoodie by Womsh made from organic cotton.

Amina Pearl Grey Hoodie – Ships internationally from Italy

Fashion and sustainability can go together and Womsh is the brand that proves it. Its shoes are entirely designed and manufactured in Italy, and its clothing range, like this cosy unisex hoodie, is made from eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton. Find most shoes in EU sizes 35-42, and clothes in XS-2XL.

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Shop Womsh.

Shop Womsh @ COMOVITA.

Shop Womsh @ Curate.

For drinks with your crew

Christy Dawn

Rated: Great

The Rianna dress – Ships Internationally from the US

Using a farm-to-closet initiative, which involves regenerative cotton farming that helps in rebuilding soil organic matter, Christy Dawn is a brand that creates cosy, flexible dresses that work for those unpredictable family moments. The Rianna dress is a simple yet beautiful wrap dress fit for celebrating and unwinding. Find the clothes in standard sizes XS-XL, or shop the Extended and Petite collections.

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Shop Christy Dawn.

Will’s Vegan Store

Rated: Good

Vegan Leather Block Heels – Ships internationally from the US

In keeping with Christy Dawn’s sleek simplicity, Will’s Vegan Store has the ideal pair of shoes to accompany the look. Will’s Vegan Store produces animal and human-friendly women’s and men’s footwear at affordable prices. These gorgeous vegan block heels come in a flattering holiday red colour or this simple yet elegant black, so you can pair them with any outfit for a touch of chic. Find the women’s shoes in US sizes 5-10, and men’s in 7.5-14.

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Shop Will’s Vegan Store.

Shop Will’s Vegan Store @ Immaculate Vegan.

Raven + Lily

Rated: Good

Anika Geo Drops – Ships internationally from the US

Offers

Three eco-friendly jewelled rings by Raven + Lily.

Raven + Lily – Jewellery

Refined jewellery sustainably sourced from upcycled brass and hand shaped by Raven + Lily's artisan partners. 60% off jewellery on sale. (Ends: 31 JUL)

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A pink Raven + Lily handbag on the ground next to someone reclining in an orange dress.

Raven + Lily – Handbags

Raven + Lily's leather goods are produced locally by artisans, using hand dyed vegetable-based colours, and utilising the by-product of farming communities. 60% off handbags on sale. (Ends: 31 JUL)

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A pile of eco-friendly pillows, throws, and home textiles by Raven + Lily.

Raven + Lily – Home

Each textile is made using hand spun, hand dyed, and hand woven cotton. 60% off home items on sale. (Ends: 31 JUL)

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Stand out from the crowd with these beautiful golden earrings. Raven + Lily supports local female artisans to create handmade jewellery, bags, and homewares. This US brand’s products are eco-friendly and empower communities through fair wages, healthcare, and education.

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Shop Raven + Lily.

Shop Raven + Lily @ Cerqular.

Mashu

Rated: Good

Philippa 2 White – Ships internationally from the UK

While Mashu’s price range is a little on the higher end, the British brand creates high-quality sustainable accessories, specializing in luxury handbags. The Philippa 2 White is a great sustainable addition to your wardrobe, complete with a removable strap and magnetic closure for your versatile needs. All of Mashu’s products are vegan and handmade in Athens, Greece.

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Shop Mashu.

ASKET

Rated: Good

Black Merino Roll Neck – Ships internationally from Sweden

ASKET has been creating timeless wardrobe essentials since 2015 with revolutionary sizing and fair pricing. The brand disregards seasonal collections, cuts out all the middlemen, and only sells directly to you—putting its entire focus on building a single permanent collection. Chuck this black cosy roll neck sweater on if it gets a little chilly. Find the range in sizes XS-XL.

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Shop ASKET.

For a lovely winter hike

Finisterre

Rated: Good
Person wearing ethical khaki puffer jacket by Finisterre

Nebulas Insulated Jacket – Ships internationally from the UK

Be one with the trees on your outdoor adventures in this 100% recycled (GRS certified) polyester olive green puffer, the brand’s warmest insulated ladies jacket.

Born from the needs of hardy British surfers, Finisterre is a pioneering, sustainable outdoor brand, built to inspire a love of the sea and anchored in exceptional products. The range is available in UK sizes 8-16.

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Shop Finisterre.

Thesus (Alice + Whittles)

Rated: Good
sustainable weekender boot from fashion brand Alice + Whittles

The Weekend Boot – Ships internationally from Canada

Thesus (formerly known as Alice + Whittles) favours transparency, ethical manufacturing practices, and sustainable materials as a means of creating long-lasting, positive change. We love these hiking boots that can lower your carbon footprint while supporting your feet. Find the boots in EU sizes 36-46.

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Shop Thesus.

tentree

Rated: Good
A red wool beanie with a pompom, ethically made by tentree in Canada.

Wool Tree Cable Beanie – Ships internationally from Canada

A winter staple, this classic pom beanie will keep you warm all season long. All tentree’s products are created with an Earth-First approach, meaning they’re made in fair, safe working conditions, and constructed using only sustainably sourced and recycled materials. tentree’s super comfy fabrics and easy wardrobe staples are typically available from XS to XL.

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Shop tentree.

LANIUS

Rated: Good

Wool Scarf – Ships internationally from Germany

“Love Fashion, Think Organic, Be Responsible” are the maxims of LANIUS. It uses eco-friendly materials, like GOTS certified cotton. All LANIUS facilities are SA8000 certified and it is a member of the Fair Wear Foundation. Warming and stylish, this sustainable scarf is made in Europe and sets a course in every outfit with the elaborate ribbed pattern.

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Shop LANIUS.

For the family gathering

Mother of Pearl

Rated: Good

Esther Black Daisy Dress – Ships internationally from the UK

Mother of Pearl is a sustainable and ethical luxury womenswear and accessories designer brand from the UK that celebrates individuality and authenticity. We love the Esther dress for its square neckline and asymmetric skirt. The brand uses a high proportion of eco-friendly materials including organic cotton and ensures the payment of a living wage across some of its supply chain. Find most products in UK sizes 6 to 16.

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Shop Mother of Pearl.

Shop Mother of Pearl @ Rêve en Vert.

Shop Mother of Pearl Pre-Owned @ Vestiaire Collective.

NOAH

Rated: Good
Black heeled sustainable vegan Chelsea boots by NOAH.

Martina Vegan Leather Chelsea Boot – Ships internationally from Germany

NOAH creates cruelty-free and 100% vegan shoes and accessories. This German brand’s high-quality and long-lasting shoes are hand-crafted in Italy, using a small proportion of eco-friendly material. The Martina Chelsea boots would pull off an effortlessly chic outfit when matched with Mother of Pearl’s Esther dress. Find them in EU sizes 35-42.

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Shop NOAH.

Shop NOAH @ Immaculate Vegan.

Svala

Rated: Good
A black sustainable Pinatex tote ethically made by Svala.

Simma Tote – Ships internationally from the US

Svala creates luxury designer vegan handbags, purses, bags and totes. Each bag is handcrafted sustainably and ethically in LA with high-quality, premium vegan leather PU, cork, and Piñatex, like in this versatile black Simma Tote with plenty of room for that last minute gift for your niece or nephew.

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Shop Svala.

Opera Campi

Rated: Good

Camicia Zero – Ships internationally from Italy

Founded in 2017, Italian brand Opera Campi creates premium quality garments from locally-sourced raw materials. By using a balanced approach to sustainability, the brand makes conscious choices throughout its supply chain and donates 4% of its profits to social causes. Go for the low-impact hemp shirt for a timeless, minimalist look. The brand is inclusively sized from 3XS-3XL.

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Shop Opera Campi.

For that virtual office holiday party

Mila.Vert

Rated: Great

Paintbrush Blouse– Ships within Europe from Slovenia

If you’re going to celebrate the holidays in front of a screen, you might as well be comfortable while you do it in this gorgeous blouse. Mila.Vert offers timeless, minimal, and chic clothing, adding sophisticated details that give the garments a modern feel. The Slovenia-based brand wants to make desirable clothing, avoiding the ethical and environmental issues that the fashion industry represents. Find the garments in sizes XS-XL, or make a custom fit order free of charge.

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Shop Mila.Vert.

Nisolo

Rated: Good
woman wearing gold festive earrings by nisolo

Link Earrings – Ships internationally from the US

Your shoes might go unnoticed (and let’s face it, you’ll probably be wearing your chunky socks anyway), but a festive Zoom outfit wouldn’t be complete without a lovely pair of earrings or necklace to add a bit of shine. From golden hoops to beaded necklaces, this company not only offers you a beautiful collection of jewellery, but does so all while paying workers a living wage, and fighting against deforestation in the Amazon basin.

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Shop Nisolo @ Made Trade.

Shop Nisolo.

CARPASUS

Rated: Great
man wearing white CARPASUS sustainable workwear Oxford shirt

Dress Shirt in Porto Sky – Ships internationally from Sweden

Dress shirts made from 100% organic cotton. Yes, please. CARPASUS is a Swiss menswear brand that makes fine shirts, ties, socks, and pocket squares. CARPASUS uses GOTS certified cotton and manufactures locally to reduce its carbon footprint. It also traces its supply chain and ensures workers are paid a living wage. Find most products in EU sizes 36 to 46.

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Shop CARPASUS.

For the outdoor celebration

All the Wild Roses

Rated: Good

Lia Indigo Stripe Cotton Wrap Dress – Ships internationally from Australia

For those living in a warmer climate, a BBQ or backyard celebration is the best way to spread some holiday cheer. If you’re looking for some new threads, All the Wild Roses has you covered with a collection of vibrant dresses suited for sunnier festivities. All the Wild Roses offers bohemian fashion for the dreamers and change-makers. This Australian brand uses up to 50% deadstock fabric to create high quality and long-lasting products. Find most items in sizes XS to 2XL.

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Shop All the Wild Roses.

The Nude Label

Rated: Good
Ethical chunky block heels by The Nude Label

The Wood Sndal – Ships internationally from Spain

The Nude Label curates comfy vegan underwear, swimwear, and sandals that feel as good as they look. Made from bio-vegan leather and responsibly sourced wood to create the lowest possible footprint, these lightweight wood sandals are great for a comfy and casual look. Find them in EU sizes 36-42.

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Shop The Nude Label.

KAYU

Rated: Good

Elle Ribbon Straw Tote Bag – Ships internationally from the US

Handcrafted bags, hats, and accessories. KAYU commits to using natural materials such as straw, wood, and shells. It also partners with local artisans in the Philippines to produce its products. This timeless straw tote you’ll reach for year over year is perfect for celebrations on the beach.

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Shop KAYU.

Shop KAYU Pre-Owned @ Vestiaire Collective.

Afends

Rated: Good

Hemp Cuban Short Sleeve Shirt – Ships internationally from Australia

Offers

A black bucket hat and black small bag by eco brand Afends.

Afends – Accessories

Bring your wardrobe into the new season with easy upgrades and responsible accessories. Exclusive 20% off accessories with code TAKEA20. (Ends: 31 JUL)

Checkout code: TAKEA20
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Two people wearing THC essentials crafted by Afends.

Afends – THC Essentials

The basics you’ve been looking for—good for you and the planet. Made from hemp. Exclusive 20% off THC essentials with code TAKEA20. (Ends: 31 JUL)

Checkout code: TAKEA20
Shop now
Two people sporting recycled goods ethically made by Afends.

Afends – Recycled

Explore Afend's recycled collection, created with recycled and organic cotton. From pants to tees and sweats, featuring a slew of new prints. Exclusive 20% off recycled collection with code TAKEA20. (Ends: 31 JUL)

Checkout code: TAKEA20
Shop now
Two people wearing eco-friendly Afends Denim.

Afends – Afends Denim

Afends Denim: the foundation of Afends. Whether you like ‘em loose, straight, or super baggy, we’ve got your next all-day, everyday jeans. Exclusive 20% off Afends denim with code TAKEA20. (Ends: 31 JUL)

Checkout code: TAKEA20
Shop now

Afends is an Australia-based fashion brand leading the way in organic hemp fashion, using renewable energy in its supply chain to reduce its climate impact. A short-sleeve button up is always a classic warm weather choice. You can find the full range in sizes XS-XL.

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Shop Afends.

For that New Year’s kiss

Whimsy + Row

Rated: Good

Vivian Dress in Blush Velvet – Ships internationally from the US

This LA-based brand mixes sustainability with style, delivering classic, flirtatious garments that’ll have any suitor puckering up for countdown. Specializing in non-toxic, organic materials and zero-waste production, it’s hard to choose from the wide assortment of dresses. In our opinion, the shiny Vivian dress is the best choice for this year’s New Year celebrations. Find most products in XS-XL.

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Shop Whimsy + Row.

Shop Whimsy + Row @ Earthkind.

ARTICLE22

Rated: Good
emma watson wearing silver hoop earrings

Laos Dome Earrings – Ships internationally from the US

Every piece of ARTICLE22 jewellery is locally handcrafted in Laos using recycled materials from Vietnam War bombs, plane parts, military hardware, and other aluminium scraps. The brand embodies the innovation that the fashion industry needs more of—using recycled materials to produce beautiful globally-marketable products, while equipping locals artisans with new skill sets and providing them with a sustainable source of income. These ARTICLE22 unique silver dome earrings were worn by our lovely supporter Emma Watson. The jewellery range is available in sizes S-XL.

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Shop ARTICLE22.

HYER GOODS

Rated: Good

Mini Shoulder Bag Black Lizard – Ships internationally from the US

HYER GOODS is an NY-based, leather goods label that curates handmade products including handbags, wallets, and accessories. By upcycling “trash” it eliminates the massive energy footprint needed to cultivate land, livestock, crops, and fertilizers, while simultaneously reducing the amount of waste being sent to landfill. Less energy and less pollution mean fewer greenhouse gases. The mini black shoulder bag will pair well with any NYE ‘fit.

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Shop HYER GOODS.

A.BCH

Rated: Great

Long Sleeve Linen Shirt – Ships internationally from Australia

A.BCH is a Melbourne-based, Australian-made fashion label for individuals who care about garment provenance. It utilises renewable, organic, and recycled materials. This modern black linen shirt looks good on everyone, for every occasion. Find the range in sizes XS-XL, or customise to fit you.

See the rating.

Shop A.BCH.

Just because it’s Christmas, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your values. You can look glam into the New Year while still consuming in a mindful and sustainable way, simply by shopping with ethical brands and choosing items that will last year after year. Happy holidays, ethical fashion lovers.

Author bio: Delilah Smith is freelance journalist, storyteller, and sustainable fashion advocate from Oakland, CA. After changing her career path from editorial to film, she balances her position at Pixar Animation Studios with her Good On You contributions, returning back to editorial to spread awareness on the environmental effects of fast fashion, and give readers more eco-conscious choices. When not writing, you can find her on an aerial silk, which everyone should try at least once! You can find her on Instagram.

Editor's note

Feature image via Underprotection, all other images via brands mentioned. This article was updated in December 2020. Good On You publishes the world’s most comprehensive ratings of fashion brands’ impact on people, the planet and animals. Use our Directory to search more than 3,000 brands. We may earn a commission on sales made using our offer codes or affiliate links.

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