How to Celebrate Earth Day 2025 in Style and Sustainability

So what is Earth Day — and why should it matter to the fashion industry?
Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22, was established in 1970 to raise awareness about environmental issues and spark global action. Today, it’s observed by over a billion people internationally and has become a key moment to reflect on the health of our planet and the human activities that threaten it. Today, the environmental impact of fashion is increasingly impossible to ignore.

As one of the most influential and resource-intensive industries, fashion plays a critical role in shaping the environmental narrative. The fashion industry’s pollution is vast and complex: it accounts for approximately 2.1 billion tones of greenhouse gas emissions per year, roughly 4% of the global total. A significant 70% of these emissions stem from upstream activities like raw material extraction and textile processing. Even more troubling, an estimated 120 million trees are logged each year to feed the demand for viscose and other cellulose-based fabrics — a figure expected to double in the next decade.

But it doesn’t end there. The way fashion negatively affects the planet also extends to extensive water consumption, chemical use, microplastic pollution from synthetic fibers and an overwhelming volume of waste. Every second, the equivalent of a truckload of clothing is burned or landfilled. The environmental cost of fashion is embedded in every stage of its lifecycle — from design to disposal.

In this context, understanding what sustainable fashion is becomes more relevant than ever. It’s not just about using better materials, but about rethinking the system. Slowing down production, investing in quality over quantity, ensuring fair labor practices and making transparency a core value. Fashion and sustainability are no longer opposing ideas — they are increasingly seen as inseparable.

That’s why, in 2025, Earth Day fashion takes on renewed significance. It reflects a growing global movement that blends style with responsibility and creativity with consciousness. Raising sustainable fashion awareness means reimagining what we wear as a form of activism — an opportunity to align personal expression with planetary care. More than a trend, it’s a cultural shift, where aesthetics and ethics not only meet but move forward together.

The environmental impact of fashion has become undeniable in recent years. Fashion industry pollution is becoming a main contributor to the climate issues we face today. As conversations about the disconnect between fashion and sustainability grow louder, so does the need to distinguish true commitment from greenwashing. What is sustainable fashion? That in itself is a very loaded question. But how can you identify a sustainable fashion brand — and what makes a clothing label genuinely responsible?

There are several key indicators. First, look at the materials. Brands committed to ethical fashion often use certified organic fibers, regenerated fabrics (like recycled polyester or ECONYL®) or responsibly sourced natural alternatives. The most trustworthy labels prioritize low-impact production methods, fair labor practices and full supply chain transparency. Packaging also matters — many leading names now use recyclable or compostable materials as part of their sustainability strategy.

Another crucial tool is certification. Third-party fashion certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Fair Trade and OEKO-TEX offer credible proof of environmental and social standards. These labels help consumers make more informed choices when shopping for eco-friendly clothing.

However, in a market where “sustainability” is increasingly used as a buzzword, spotting the difference between greenwashing in fashion and real, measurable commitment is essential. True sustainable brands are transparent about their practices, share verifiable data and avoid vague claims or misleading language.

For those who are concerned with how fashion affects the planet, there are small things you can do today to start taking action. Knowing how to shop for ethical fashion in 2025 means going beyond the label — asking questions, researching certifications and supporting brands that align with long-term values rather than short-term trends. Because real change in fashion doesn’t start with perfection, but with awareness and intention.

Stella McCartney: Pioneering Responsible Fashion

Since its launch in 2001, Stella McCartney has redefined what it means to be a fashion brand with a conscience. Built on a values-driven approach from day one, the brand has consistently challenged industry norms — refusing to use leather, fur, feathers or animal glues, and championing cruelty-free design long before it became mainstream. But Stella McCartney’s commitment to sustainable fashion goes far beyond materials. With a continuous focus on innovation, transparency and long-term responsibility, the brand has introduced low-impact textiles, biodegradable alternatives and pioneering partnerships with material science leaders like Bolt Threads and ECONYL®. From renewable energy and waste reduction to regenerative agriculture and traceable sourcing, every aspect of production reflects a deep respect for the planet and those who inhabit it.

Stella McCartney is also one of the few ethical clothing brands that has translated its principles into systemic action — supporting artisans, improving labor standards across its supply chain and actively advocating for environmental legislation. Whether developing the first garments made from mushroom-based leather, launching circular fashion pilots, or being the only fashion brand present at COP26, Stella McCartney continues to lead the conversation around what modern eco-conscious fashion should look like. In a world where greenwashing in fashion is increasingly common, this is a brand that proves sustainability can be both authentic and aspirational.

Veja: Redefining Sneakers Through Transparency and Responsibility

Since its founding in 2004, VEJA has set a new standard in the footwear industry by prioritizing transparency, ethical practices and environmental stewardship. The brand’s commitment to sustainable fashion is evident in every aspect of its operations — from sourcing materials to production and beyond.​

VEJA’s sneakers are crafted using organic cotton sourced directly from farmers in Brazil, ensuring fair compensation and eliminating intermediaries. The brand also incorporates wild rubber from the Amazon rainforest, supporting local communities and promoting forest preservation. Additionally, VEJA utilizes recycled materials, such as plastic bottles, to create innovative fabrics for their shoes .​

Transparency is at the heart of VEJA’s philosophy. The company openly shares information about its supply chain, production costs and environmental impact. By doing so, VEJA empowers consumers to make informed choices and fosters trust in its commitment to ethical fashion.​
VEJA’s dedication to sustainability has earned it B Corp certification, reflecting its adherence to rigorous social and environmental standards. Through continuous innovation and a steadfast commitment to responsible practices, VEJA exemplifies how fashion can be both stylish and conscientious.​

For those seeking ethical brands that align with their values, VEJA offers a compelling choice — demonstrating that it’s possible to look good while doing good.

Soeur: Timeless Elegance with a Responsible Spirit

Founded in 2008 by sisters Domitille and Angélique Brion, Soeur is a French ready-to-wear brand that blends androgynous charm, a spirit of freedom and effortless Parisian elegance. Inspired by travel, masculine tailoring and cinematic nostalgia, Soeur creates clothing that is refined yet relaxed — timeless pieces designed for women and girls who value beauty, balance and authenticity.

But beyond its poetic aesthetic, Soeur carries a clear and evolving commitment to sustainable fashion. The brand believes that responsible clothing begins with quality and longevity — garments made to last, to be loved and eventually passed on. This philosophy is expressed through its “Permanents” collection of seasonless staples and a second-hand platform, reinforcing its vision of a circular wardrobe.

Soeur’s approach to ethical fashion is rooted in concrete actions. From choosing traceable, single-material fabrics for greater recyclability to favoring local production across Europe and North Africa, the brand is reshaping its supply chain with integrity. By 2024, over 70% of its pieces will be designed with recyclability in mind and nearly half of its suppliers have collaborated with the brand for over five years — proof of strong, long-term partnerships that foster shared progress and social investment.

Transparency is central to Soeur’s sustainability journey. Through rigorous social audits, full supply chain traceability and continuous reevaluation of what it means to be eco-responsible, the brand is not just following regulations — it is actively raising its standards. As of Spring-Summer 2025, more than half of its collection qualifies as eco-responsible, marking a meaningful step forward in the pursuit of fashion that is not only beautiful but deeply thoughtful.

Acne Studios: Scandinavian Minimalism Meets Conscious Innovation

Founded in 1996 in Stockholm, Acne Studios has evolved from a creative collective into a multidisciplinary luxury fashion house known for its refined minimalism and artistic collaborations. Beyond its distinctive aesthetic, Acne Studios is deeply committed to sustainability, embedding responsible practices across its operations.​

The brand’s sustainability strategy is structured around nine key targets, including designing for longevity, utilizing preferred materials, ensuring low-impact production and achieving full supply chain traceability. By the fiscal year 2026/2027, Acne Studios aims to make 100% of its collections from preferred materials and produce using low-impact processes. Additionally, the company is working towards reducing its absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 50% across its entire value chain by 2030, aligning with the Paris Agreement goals. ​

Acne Studios’ commitment to transparency and ethical practices is further demonstrated by its B Corp certification, recognizing the brand’s high standards of social and environmental performance. Through initiatives like circular packaging and waste reduction, Acne Studios continues to redefine modern luxury with a conscience.​

Acne Studios offers a compelling blend of contemporary design and responsible innovation for those seeking fashion that harmonizes style with sustainability.​

Shopping for sustainable fashion online has never been more accessible, but making truly responsible choices requires a mindful and informed approach. From identifying ethical clothing brands to evaluating material quality, production transparency and long-term value, building a conscious wardrobe means buying less, but better.

At LuisaViaRoma, we pride ourselves on being an online store with sustainable brands. LVRSustainable makes it easier to explore curated selections of brands committed to environmental and social standards. Conscious and ethical shopping has never been so easy. LVRSustainable presents a curated selection that features products and partnerships that encourage more mindful consumption within our communities. By focusing on organic, vegan, recycled and lower-impact practices, alongside ethical craftsmanship, we promote a lifestyle that considers both environmental and human well-being. These practices help us provide products that support a more conscious lifestyle, emphasizing the connection between the well-being of our planet and the quality of life for its people.

Besides product choice, practical tips for buying ethical clothes include checking for trusted certifications, favoring timeless pieces over trends and investing in proper garment care to extend the life of what you wear.

Check Materials and Certifications

When shopping for sustainable fashion, start by checking the materials used. Prioritize natural fibers like organic cotton, hemp or linen, and innovative low-impact materials such as TENCEL™, recycled polyester or regenerated nylon (like ECONYL®). Avoid fabric blends that are hard to recycle and prioritize garments made from a single type of fiber for better end-of-life recyclability.

Key Certifications to Look For:

• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): ensures organic fibers and responsible processing.
• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: guarantees the fabric is tested for harmful substances.
• Fair Trade: focuses on ethical working conditions and fair wages.
• FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council): used for wood-based fibers like viscose, ensuring responsible forest management.
• Cradle to Cradle Certified®: evaluates sustainability across a product’s entire life cycle.

These labels help confirm that a product meets environmental and social standards, making your wardrobe choices both stylish and responsible.

Choosing the Right Pieces

Choosing well-made, versatile garments that can be styled in multiple ways and worn across seasons is essential to building a conscious wardrobe. Investing in fewer, higher-quality pieces is not only a style statement — it’s the foundation of responsible fashion. Because thoughtful fashion doesn’t end at checkout, it starts with intention and lasts through how we live with our clothes.

The Importance of Aftercare

Clothing aftercare is central when discussing shifting to a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. We believe in high-quality and long lasting products. The first step into sustainable fashion should be to choose items that have conscious attributes, such as organic materials, recycled components or fibers that are certified to meet certain environmental and ethical standards. But how we care for an item after purchase is just as important to make sure that what we have in our closet lasts a long time. That is why we decided to offer this brief section to our clients, to empower them by sharing how to maintain their clothes as new and to have a curated wardrobe to cherish in their own homes.