Whether you have been repping ethical fashion brands for a while now or are relatively new to the foray, there is no denying that the future of fashion is changing — for good. Today, there is a whole new crop of emerging labels that support important causes with their profits, help save the planet by incorporating sustainability and create designs that make you feel good from within. In a nutshell, they aim to reduce any negative impact on the planet, people and animals. If this sounds like a fashion bandwagon you’d like to jump on, we’ve hunted for some of the best names in the business to help you shop consciously.
Best ethical fashion brands
Etika Jewels
Etika Jewels is a homegrown pioneer of sustainable jewellery in the United Arab Emirates. Recently, the distinguished jewellery brand has announced their philanthropic partnership with Gulf for Good. With every purchase until November, Etika Jewels will make a donation to Child Rescue Nepal’s Safe in School initiative for the purpose of safeguarding every child’s right to education.
If you’re interested in beauty for a good cause, you can support Child Rescue Nepal by shopping conflict-free, ethical, and sustainable jewellery pieces at www.etikajewels.com.
YOOX and YOOXYGEN
Via @yoox on Instagram
YOOX has consistently honoured innovative brands that are mindful of people, animals, and the planet at large. In fact, on Earth Day 2009, YOOX launched its very own sustainable platform called YOOXYGEN, a destination dedicated to socially and environmentally responsible fashion pieces. Practicing ethical fashion long before the final products are sold on the shelves, YOOX and YOOXYGEN have placed sustainability at the forefront of their production process. You can shop the brand’s new sustainable collection here, exclusively on YOOX.
Conscious Citizen
Via Instagram
Conscious Citizen was founded through an unlikely friendship centred around fashion and a shared desire to create a positive impact. They aim to shift consumer mindsets and promote a sustainable lifestyle through education and gradual change. By curating a platform focused on our four circular pillars, they inspire conscious citizens to reshape the fashion industry.
From left, Pink Lemonade Regular Full Set for Dhs628 on consciouscitizenworld.com
Kinki Swim
Via Instagram
This Australian brand, founded in 2022, is making waves in the UAE with their sustainable swim and resort wear pieces. Not only do they create elegant and multi-functional designs, but they also prioritize sustainability by using free-flowing fabrics, silky satins, and powering their factories with solar energy. Plus, they give back to ocean-saving non-profit organizations in Bali. Shop Kinki Swim at Summer Soul Dubai or get it delivered internationally—because looking gorgeous and protecting the planet can go hand in hand.
From left, La Reina Dhs1,396, La Sirena Dhs1,543, La Isla Dhs1,470. Shop at kinkiswim.com
F5 Global
Via Instagram
UAE-based brand, F5 Global is more than just a trendy athleisure label. Their clothing line is made from 100% organic cotton and GOTS-certified sustainable materials and creates limited-quantity products as opposed to mass production. The hoodies, sweatpants, t-shirts and shorts for men, women and kids are versatile and chic so you can make a street style statement with a clear conscience.
From left, Cropped Sweatshirt for Dhs299, Unisex Oversized Hoodie for Dhs349, Leggings for Dhs199. Shop at f5global.com
Reborn Society
Via Instagram
We love this eco-positive label for its urban-cool crop tops, stylish activewear, comfortable sweatpants and more. Oh, and did we mention that the brand has partnered up with UNHCR to support refugees worldwide? With every item sold from its Reborn collection, three dollars are donated towards empowering people who have been displaced so that they can get access to their most basic needs.
From left, Meteorite Cargo Pants for Dhs514, Aurora Jumpsuit for Dhs275, Metaberse Croptop for Dhs238. Shop at therebornsociety.com
The Giving Movement
Via Instagram
The Giving Movement has made a name for itself in the Middle East as the go-to ethical fashion brand that gives back. It is known for its statement and comfy lounge and activewear but they’ve also got formals and abayas. We’re big fans of its sustainable fabrics and Insta-worthy designs.
From left, Asymmetric Softskin© Tank and Sports Bra, Cinched Re-Form100© Blazer for Dhs999, Wide Re-Shell100© Pants for Dhs399. Shop at thegivingmovement.com
Zyne
Via Instagram
Created by Zineb Birtel and Laura Pujol, Zyne is a Moroccon footwear brand that preserves local traditions with the support of women artisans. We’re huge supporters of their beautifully handcrafted mules that showcase beautiful embroidery and beading.
From left, Topaz75 sandals for Dhs1,322, Obee flats for Dhs1,138, Swary heels for Dhs1,616. Shop at zyneofficial.com
Eurthlin
Via Instagram
Meet Eurthlin, a cruelty-free and ethical fashion brand that is based in Dubai. They believe that animals are not materials and we should look to nature for inspiration. We love their elegantly made vegan leather bags and the fact that with every product sold, they plant a tree.
From left, Terra tote for Dhs991, Terra pouch for Dhs459, Terra shoulder bag for Dhs606. Shop at eurthlin.com
Ohoy Swim
Via Instagram
Is it time to add some cute beachwear to your wardrobe? Ohoy Swim is a Scandinavian-inspired ethical fashion brand that crafts its super stylish bikinis and one-pieces using 100% plastic waste from the sea — and, they have a factory in the UAE too.
From left, Thursday swimwear for Dhs369, Sunshine hat beeswax for Dhs291, Sia Wave bikini and bottoms for Dhs486 (approx.). Shop at ohoyswim.com
BLSSD
Via Instagram
This luxury, streetwear label was launched by Lama Riachi who is a cancer survivor. She understood the need and opportunity for an ethical fashion brand that went beyond looks and aesthetics. The profits gained help drive revenue which facilitates treatments for cancer patients and assists terminally ill patients to reunite with loved ones. Check out the brand’s super cool dresses, shirts, body suits and other edgy pieces on their website.
From left, Code cutout monokini for Dhs730, Oslo cable knit dress with grosgrain edge for Dhs1,160, Berlin convertible shirt for Dhs1,050. Shop at blssdfashion.com
The AvantGuard
Courtesy of The AvantGuard
Invest in a great pair of sunglasses that are both stylish and sustainable. Luxury eyewear label The AvantGuard has created biodegradable ones that are good for you and the environment. These are made in limited quantities using premium bio-degradable acetate and shatterproof Carl Zeiss lenses which offer UV400 and blue light protection. They also deliver *big* on style.
From left, Montmartre Cateye Sunglasses for Dhs1,012, Milan Geometric Sunglasses for Dhs1,199, Capri Panto Sunglasses for Dhs1,087. Shop at theavantguard.com