The season of knitwear, layers and cozy basics is finally upon us! But with fast fashion companies dominating the global market, many environmental harms stem from swapping old clothing items for pieces that are new, trendy and manufactured by fast fashion companies.
The fashion industry is responsible for 10 per cent of global emissions, which is more than shipping and international flights combined. And even though most consumers are aware of these consequences, trying to find stylish, ethically-sourced clothes is a time-consuming process.
Luckily, Toronto is home to many sustainable fashion brands, so if you’re thinking of shopping downtown this season, I’ve listed some of the city’s top picks you should check out while you’re there. Plus, if you decide to make a purchase, you’ll be rewarded with high-quality pieces that will reduce your carbon footprint – how great is that?
Hoi Bo
Located in the heart of the Distillery District, Hoi Bo is an ethical women’s fashion brand known for its handmade and high-quality basics.
Whether you’re looking for simple turtlenecks or warm outerwear, Hoi Bo has it all. Their diverse selection of bags are also pretty cool.
Kotn
Kotn specializes in clothing for both women and men. Founded on aesthetically-pleasing neutrals and simplistic designs, their Fall 2022 Collection is full of cozy essentials that are perfect for everyday wear. My personal favourites are the Cable Sweater in Moon and the Mini Suit Skirt in Pine Bark Plaid.
They also make sure that their customers are well-educated on their company’s manufacturing process. Crafted from 100 per cent Egyptian cotton, their clothes are designed in Canada and are sustainably made in the Nile Delta and Faiyum regions of Egypt. They’ve also funded over fifteen schools in Egypt and are planning to build a total of 50 by 2025. For more information on their sustainable practices, check out the About page on their website.
Good For Sunday
All of Good For Sunday’s clothes are made in Canada, and according to their website, they mill, dye, sew and cut every piece right here in Toronto. With packaging made from 100 per cent post-consumer waste, they are currently partnering with the reforestation organization Pachama to help limit shipping emissions.
Whether you’re looking for trendy graphic tees or cozy fleece pullovers to help you survive your daily commute, Good For Sunday has you covered.
Uncle Studios
Uncle Studios is located at 52 St. Lawrence Street in Toronto and creates pieces that are, “based on future nostalgia with a focus on clean fabrics.” Some eye-catching items on their website include The Mohair Vest and this Draped Silk Top.
As well as using sustainable materials, their packaging is 100% recyclable and made from handcrafted Lokta paper. They even dedicated an entire sustainability section on their website that goes into further detail about the creation process.
Good Night, Day
Even though this is an online store based in Hamilton, I couldn’t resist adding it to the list.
This independent shop specializes in minimalist and sustainable knitwear that is both hand-knit and hand-worked in-house. Founder, designer and knitter Tara-Lynn Morrison knits every item and even offers original knitting patterns for customers to purchase on the shop’s website.
While everything is beautifully made, I’m obsessed with their toques. But be aware, all of their items are limited edition and are sold in small batches, so don’t wait until they sell out!