Sustainable fashion isn’t just a trend—it’s becoming a necessary shift. As the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry becomes more visible, knowing how to recognize truly sustainable clothing is more important than ever.

But what exactly makes a fabric sustainable? Which materials should you choose? What certifications matter, and which practices should be avoided?

In this guide, you’ll discover the most innovative and low-impact fabrics, the materials shaping the future of fashion, and the essential certifications to look for when buying sustainable clothing. You’ll also find practical tips to help you spot greenwashing—through clear guidance on how to read labels, assess brand claims, and shop more consciously.

Because yes, fashion can be part of the solution—if you know what to look for.

In a world increasingly aware of environmental and social responsibility, sustainable fashion is no longer a passing trend—it’s a real necessity. But what does “sustainable” actually mean in the fashion world?

It means adopting a conscious approach at every stage of the production process—from sourcing raw materials and designing garments to manufacturing, distribution, and even what happens at the end of a product’s life. Sustainable fashion focuses on minimizing environmental and social impact, reducing waste, cutting emissions, and eliminating exploitation.

Unlike fast fashion, sustainable fashion is built on ethical and circular models. It promotes high-quality, long-lasting garments (and their proper care), full traceability, fair working conditions, and the use of responsible fabrics. What sets sustainable fashion apart is the quality of materials, the presence of trusted certifications, transparency across the supply chain, and a focus on people and planet. It’s a way of dressing that tells a story—one based on values and conscious choices.

When it comes to materials, sustainable fashion favors natural fibers such as organic cotton and linen, regenerated fibers like ECONYL® (made from plastic waste), and recycled fabrics sourced from post-consumer textiles. When certified and properly used, these materials offer valid alternatives for those who want to shop sustainably and reduce their impact on the planet.

In this context, we often talk about sustainable brands—brands that adopt responsible production methods, use low-impact materials, and provide clear, verifiable information about their practices. But be careful: not everything labeled “green” is genuinely sustainable. The growing phenomenon of greenwashing—when brands create a false image of sustainability without changing their actual practices—is a real issue. That’s why it’s crucial to read between the lines and understand what truly defines a sustainable garment.

At the end of the day, fashion does have an impact on the environment—but it can also be part of the solution, if we choose to act responsibly.

In today’s fashion landscape, the word “green” is used often—but spotting truly sustainable clothing requires awareness and attention. Fortunately, there are clear criteria to help determine whether a product is genuinely sustainable and whether a brand is truly committed to environmental and ethical values.
One useful framework is the “3 Ps” of sustainable business: People, Planet, Profit. A responsible company should create economic value (Profit) while respecting workers’ rights (People) and protecting natural resources (Planet). Starting from these principles, here are key criteria and practical tools to help you assess whether a garment is truly sustainable.

• Transparent Labeling
• Responsible Material
• Sustainable Packaging
• Traceable Supply Chain
• Public Sustainability Reports

Let’s explore these points in more detail and learn how to spot the signs of truly sustainable fashion.

When it comes to sustainable fashion, it’s crucial to understand which fabrics are the most polluting—and which ones are the most sustainable. Some materials, such as virgin polyester or acrylic, have a significant environmental impact. They’re derived from fossil fuels and are not biodegradable, contributing to long-term waste and pollution.

On the other hand, there are natural, regenerated, and recycled fibers that are more respectful of both the planet and the people involved in the production process. But how can you tell if a fabric is truly sustainable? And when can a fabric actually be called sustainable?

The answer depends on several factors: how it’s grown or manufactured, how much water and chemicals are used, its overall lifecycle, and how it’s disposed of at the end of use. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most promising sustainable fabrics of the future, with details on their characteristics, advantages, and most common uses in the fashion industry.

Must-Know Certifications for Conscious Fashion Choices

Shopping for fashion in an ethical and informed way also means understanding which sustainability certifications are the most reliable. These international standards ensure that garments are produced with respect for the environment, human rights, and transparent practices. To avoid the risk of greenwashing, it’s essential to know what these certifications mean, who issues them, and what types of products they apply to. Here’s a guide to the key certifications to look for when choosing truly sustainable clothing.

GOTS – Global Organic Textile Standard

• What it means: Ensures that at least 70% of a product’s fibers are organic, grown without synthetic pesticides and with respect for the environment.
• Who issues it: Various internationally accredited bodies (e.g., Control Union, ICEA).
• What it applies to: Natural fiber textiles such as organic cotton, linen, or wool.

OEKO-TEX® – Standard 100

• What it means: Certifies that the product does not contain harmful chemicals that could pose a risk to human health.
• Who issues it: International OEKO-TEX® Association.
• What it applies to: All types of textiles and accessories, including buttons, zippers, and threads.

Fair Wear Foundation

• What it means: Ensures that workers involved in production are treated ethically and paid fair wages.
• Who issues it: Fair Wear Foundation, an independent NGO based in the Netherlands.
• What it applies to: Textile supply chains and finished garments.

RCS – Recycled Claim Standard

• What it means: Verifies that a product contains recycled materials and certifies the exact percentage used.
• Who issues it: Textile Exchange, a global nonprofit organization.
• What it applies to: Fabrics and products made with recycled materials such as polyester, nylon, or cotton.

bluesign®

• What it means: Ensures that production processes are safe for the environment, workers, and end consumers.
• Who issues it: bluesign technologies ag (Switzerland).
• What it applies to: The entire textile supply chain, with a focus on clean chemicals, water management, and energy efficiency.

FSC – Forest Stewardship Council

• What it means: Guarantees that cellulose-based raw materials (used for viscose, lyocell, modal, etc.) come from responsibly managed forests.
• Who issues it: FSC International.
• What it applies to: Cellulose-based fabrics and packaging materials.

GRS – Global Recycled Standard

• What it means: Certifies that at least 20% of the material used is recycled, and also checks compliance with environmental and social responsibility standards.
• Who issues it: Textile Exchange.
• What it applies to: Textile products and accessories made with recycled materials.

PETA-Approved Vegan

• What it means: Certifies that no part of the product contains animal-derived materials and that no animal testing was involved at any stage.
• Who issues it: PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals).
• What it applies to: Clothing, shoes, and accessories.

SA8000

• What it means: A global standard for social accountability in the workplace.
• Who issues it: Social Accountability International.
• What it applies to: Working conditions, human rights, fair hours, and wages throughout the supply chain.