Accessories can add a special touch to any outfit, but many are made from materials that harm the environment. Cheap, polluting materials used in jewelry, sunglasses, and handbags and wallets can have a negative impact on the planet. To combat this issue, there is a growing need for more sustainable accessories.
Thankfully, there are now a number of sustainable accessories brands that offer eco-friendly options. From sunglasses to scarves, handbags to jewelry, and even hair ties and hats, there are many choices available for those looking to accessorize sustainably. This article will focus on sustainable sunglasses and highlight some of the top brands in this category, including Sunski, Proof Eyewear, and Warby Parker.
1. SUNSKI
San Francisco-based brand Sunski offers sustainable sunglasses for all genders and ages, including blue light glasses for indoor eye protection. Their sunglasses are available in lifestyle, alpine, and sport collections.
Sunski’s sunglasses are made with SuperLight frame resin, which is created from recycled plastic that would otherwise end up in landfills. This approach allows them to reduce plastic waste while producing high-quality sunglasses. In addition, Sunski offers a lens replacement service and a forever warranty to keep their products out of landfills even longer.
Sunski is a member of 1% for the Planet and donates 12% of their profits to environmental causes. They are also working towards becoming a Certified Carbon Neutral company.
By choosing Sunski sunglasses, customers can enjoy stylish and sustainable accessories while contributing to a more eco-friendly future.
2. Proof Eyewear
Proof Eyewear is a sustainable brand that offers handmade sunglasses made from biodegradable and recycled materials. The materials used in the frames include cotton-based acetate, recycled skateboard decks, recycled aluminum, and FSC-certified sustainably-sourced wood. These materials are paired with durable components such as polycarbonate lenses and stainless steel hinges. While these components are not biodegradable, the sunglasses are designed to be easily disassembled for proper disposal.
Proof Eyewear is committed to sustainable practices, which includes upholding supplier responsibility through biannual visits and using eco-friendly materials. The brand also donates a portion of their profits to various environmental organizations and vision care projects. A total of 12% of their profits go toward these efforts.
By choosing Proof Eyewear, consumers can support a brand that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices. The brand’s commitment to using sustainable materials and giving back to the environment and community make it a great choice for those looking for eco-friendly accessories. Proof Eyewear is available for purchase online.
3. WARBY PARKER
Sustainable SCARVES
Warby Parker is a company that offers sustainable and eco-friendly eyewear products. They have expanded their product line to include sustainable scarves that are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last.
The company’s sustainable scarves are made from environmentally friendly materials such as organic cotton, wool, and recycled polyester. These materials are carefully selected to ensure that they are of the highest quality and are produced in a way that minimizes their impact on the environment.
Warby Parker’s sustainable scarves are designed to be both stylish and functional. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, making it easy to find the perfect scarf to match any outfit. They are also designed to be versatile and can be worn in a variety of ways, making them a great addition to any wardrobe.
In addition to their commitment to using sustainable materials, Warby Parker also has a number of sustainability initiatives in place. They audit all of their third-party suppliers and factories to ensure that they are meeting their sustainability standards. They also offset all company operations along their supply chain, making them a carbon-neutral company.
Through their “Buy a Pair, Give a Pair” program, Warby Parker has donated over four million pairs of glasses in over 50 countries via non-profits like VisionSpring, Ver Bien, and Aravind. This program helps to provide access to eyecare for people in need around the world.
Overall, Warby Parker’s sustainable scarves are a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality, eco-friendly accessories. With their commitment to sustainability and their stylish designs, they are sure to be a hit with anyone who cares about the environment and wants to look great at the same time.
4. ZESTT ORGANICS
Zestt Organics is a women-founded brand that specializes in soft, cozy, and socially conscious sustainable fashion accessories. The brand only partners with manufacturers who prioritize the health and wellbeing of their workers.
Zestt Organics has a unique Lot No. program that allows customers to trace the origins of their women’s scarves and identify who was responsible for making them. This program promotes transparency and accountability in the supply chain.
All of Zestt Organics’ products are made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton, which means they are free of over 100 harmful chemicals and do not require chemical softeners. This certification also supports an ethical supply chain.
By using organic cotton, Zestt Organics is contributing to the promotion of sustainable practices in the fashion industry. The brand’s commitment to transparency, ethical manufacturing practices, and sustainable materials makes it a great option for consumers who prioritize social and environmental responsibility in their purchasing decisions.
Available exclusively through Zestt Organics, these sustainable fashion accessories are a great way to add a touch of style to your wardrobe while supporting a more sustainable future.
5. NAADAM
Naadam is a brand that offers eco-friendly accessories, including sustainable scarves made of 100% Mongolian cashmere. Despite cashmere’s negative reputation, Naadam ensures that their cashmere is sourced ethically. The brand pays premium prices to their herders and uses sustainable practices, from closed-loop dyeing to veterinary care and gentle hand-shorn techniques for their free-range goats.
Naadam’s goats are raised in a desertification-resilient area and are ranged over a Manhattan-sized piece of land to minimize grazing impact. The brand also provides additional funds for their herding communities, donates returned and damaged goods to nonprofits, offsets all shipping emissions, and uses energy-efficient manufacturing facilities.
Naadam’s sustainable scarves come in various colors, thanks to their closed-loop dyeing process. The brand’s sustainability practices extend beyond their products to their operations, making them a responsible and eco-friendly choice for those looking for sustainable accessories.
Available at Naadam, these scarves are not only fashionable but also ethical and environmentally friendly, making them an excellent choice for conscious consumers.
6. Organic Basics
Sustainable HANDBAGS & WALLETS
Organic Basics, a Certified B Corp, is not only known for its sustainable clothing but also for its eco-friendly accessories. The brand offers a range of sustainable handbags and wallets made from organic and recycled materials.
Their handbags are made from eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and Tencel lyocell. These materials are not only sustainable but also durable, ensuring that the handbags will last for years. Organic Basics also offers vegan handbags made from Piñatex, a leather alternative made from pineapple leaf fibers.
In addition to handbags, Organic Basics also offers a range of sustainable wallets made from recycled leather and organic cotton. Their wallets are free from toxic chemicals and are designed to last.
Organic Basics’ sustainability practices extend to their shipping and packaging. They use carbon-neutral shipping and eco-friendly packaging made from recycled materials.
By choosing Organic Basics’ sustainable handbags and wallets, consumers can make a positive impact on the environment while still looking stylish.
7. CARRY COURAGE
Carry Courage is a sustainable accessories brand that produces handbags and wallets in a fair labor studio based in Portland, Oregon. The brand offers a range of accessories, including clutch bags, cosmetics bags, cross-body bags, essential oil bags, tablet bags, tote bags, wallets, and zipper pouches.
Carry Courage’s sustainability practices are centered around using Earth-friendly materials and conscious sourcing of hardware. The brand’s handbags are made from Portuguese cork and organically-grown American linen, both of which are PETA-approved vegan materials. The hardware used in the accessories is recyclable and sourced from a woman-owned company in the US.
The brand’s made-to-order batches are hand-sewn, ensuring that each accessory is unique and of “heirloom quality.” Carry Courage’s commitment to sustainability makes it a great option for those looking for accessories that are both stylish and eco-friendly.
For those interested in alternatives to traditional leather, Carry Courage’s use of cork and linen provides sustainable options that are both durable and fashionable. The brand’s commitment to conscious sourcing and fair labor practices also makes it a great choice for those looking to support ethical fashion.
8. Matt and Nat
Matt and Nat is a sustainable fashion brand that produces eco-friendly wallets, handbags, tote bags, briefcases, sling bags, coin purses, weekender bags, and eco-friendly luggage. The brand offers a range of designs for both men and women, including bifold, crossbody, zippered, and minimal card holder wallets.
The brand is committed to using natural materials such as cork, rubber, and recycled nylon in their products. They also use 100% rPET from plastic bottles for the linings of their accessories. Since 2007, Matt and Nat has recycled more than nine million plastic bottles every year.
Matt and Nat’s sustainability practices make them a popular choice for those looking for eco-friendly accessories. The brand’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of recycled materials and their efforts to reduce waste.
Overall, Matt and Nat is a great choice for those looking for stylish and sustainable accessories that are both functional and environmentally friendly.
9. HYER GOODS
Jewelry
Hyer Goods, a sustainable clothing accessories brand, offers a range of high-quality jewelry that is perfect for the conscious consumer. The brand’s jewelry collection features a variety of pieces that are made from recycled precious metals and ethically sourced gemstones.
Hyer Goods’ commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of recycled precious metals, which reduces the need for mining and minimizes the environmental impact of the jewelry industry. These recycled metals are carefully selected for their quality and durability, ensuring that each piece of jewelry is made to last.
In addition to using recycled materials, Hyer Goods also offers a selection of sustainable jewelry that is made from eco-friendly materials, such as bamboo and cork. These materials are not only environmentally friendly, but they also add a unique touch to each piece of jewelry.
Overall, Hyer Goods’ jewelry collection is a great choice for anyone who is looking for sustainable and stylish jewelry. With their commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices, Hyer Goods is a brand that is sure to impress.
10. Tiny Sparkle Studio
Tiny Sparkle Studio is a sustainable accessories brand that can be found on Etsy. The brand offers a range of classic jewelry pieces, including rings, bracelets, earrings, nose rings, necklaces, and men’s gifts. All of the items are handcrafted by metalsmith Katrina in her California home studio, using recycled or sustainably sourced metals and gems.
To ensure sustainability, every item is sent in a 100% recycled paper box with a paper raffia bow. Additionally, Etsy will carbon offset the shipping of all orders made on the platform. By using recycled materials and carbon offsetting, Tiny Sparkle Studio is dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact.
Overall, Tiny Sparkle Studio is a great option for those looking for sustainable accessories that are both stylish and eco-friendly.
11. OMI WOODS
Omi Woods is a Black-owned Etsy shop that specializes in fair trade artisan jewelry. Their metal pieces feature designs that showcase the beauty of Africa and its diaspora, with each piece telling a unique story. The jewelry collection includes earrings, necklaces, pendants, and cufflinks, with designs such as gold-shaped cowrie shells and Egyptian coins.
The company’s sustainability practices are commendable, as they use platinum, sterling silver, and solid yellow, white, and rose gold, all of which are conflict-free. Additionally, their gold is 100% fair trade and sourced from Africa. Omi Woods also donates a portion of their sales to organizations like 8 Billion Trees.
For those looking for sustainable accessories, Omi Woods is a great option that offers unique and beautiful pieces while also supporting ethical and eco-friendly practices.
12. Solios
Solios is a brand that offers eco-friendly and sustainable men’s and women’s watches. The brand was founded by two university friends who prioritized sustainability and received a Certified B Corp certification. Solios’ watches are made of sustainable vegan leather, which eliminates the use of toxic chemicals, PU, or PVC. The watches also use various other sustainable materials.
What makes Solios’ watches stand out is that they run on solar power, making them an environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, Solios offers a watch recycling program, which helps reduce waste.
Overall, Solios’ commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness makes them a great choice for those looking for stylish and eco-friendly accessories.
13. NORDGREEN
Sustainable Hair Ties & Clips
Nordgreen, a Danish watchmaker that produces eco-friendly accessories, has expanded its product line to include sustainable hair ties and clips. These hair accessories are made with non-toxic materials and are designed to be long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
The hair ties and clips are made with conflict-free metals and closed-loop tanned leather, and vegan options are also available. These materials are carefully selected to ensure that they do not harm the environment or the people involved in their production.
Nordgreen’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its products. The company operates a carbon-neutral headquarters and most employees bike to work. The Danish-owned factory in China upholds strict EU labor standards and recycles 99% of solvents used in production.
When you purchase Nordgreen’s hair ties and clips, you can also choose to support various causes, such as providing clean drinking water, preserving rainforests, or providing education to children.
By choosing Nordgreen’s sustainable hair ties and clips, consumers can make a positive impact on the environment and support a company that prioritizes sustainability in all aspects of its business.
Key Points:
- Nordgreen produces eco-friendly accessories, including sustainable hair ties and clips.
- The hair accessories are made with non-toxic materials and are designed to be long-lasting.
- Nordgreen’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its products to its operations and partnerships with charitable organizations.
- By choosing Nordgreen’s sustainable hair ties and clips, consumers can make a positive impact on the environment and support a socially responsible company.
Entities: hair accessories
14. KOOSHOO
KOOSHOO is a sustainable accessories brand that offers a range of eco-friendly hair ties, scrunchies, and headbands. The brand’s name translates to “feeling good” from Norfuk, and their ethical supply chain and use of natural, organic, and non-toxic materials certainly make customers feel good.
The husband-wife team behind KOOSHOO was the first to create a biodegradable hair tie, and their product line now includes several different colors of hair ties, scrunchies, and headbands in a rainbow of colors.
KOOSHOO’s plastic-free hair products are made of 70% GOTS and Fair Trade organic cotton and 30% natural rubber. The cotton is dyed with AZO-free, low-impact dyes in a solar-powered L.A. dyehouse. Additionally, the brand partners with a Fair Trade manufacturer/social enterprise in India that supports community programs and pays a living wage.
KOOSHOO’s commitment to sustainability and ethical practices has earned them a spot on EarthHero, an online marketplace for eco-friendly products. By choosing KOOSHOO’s sustainable accessories, customers can feel good about their fashion choices while also contributing to a healthier planet.
15. Terra Ties
Terra Ties is a company that offers organic hair ties that are both sustainable and worry-free. These hair ties are made from biodegradable elastic composed of natural rubber, wrapped in organic cotton to ensure comfort and reduce hair breakage. Additionally, the hair ties are long-lasting and strong, and are colored with natural dyes. Terra Ties also takes pride in their eco-friendly packaging which is made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials.
The company’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in their choice of materials and production practices. By using natural rubber and organic cotton, Terra Ties avoids the use of harmful chemicals that are commonly found in traditional hair ties. The use of natural dyes also eliminates the need for synthetic dyes that can be harmful to both the environment and human health.
Terra Ties’ hair ties are available for purchase on EarthHero, an online marketplace that specializes in eco-friendly products. With Terra Ties, customers can enjoy a stylish and sustainable solution to keep hair out of their faces without sacrificing the health of their hair or the environment.
16. REPRISE
Sustainable Hats
Reprise, an ethical activewear brand, offers a range of sustainable and eco-friendly accessories for a conscious consumer. In addition to leggings and shorts, Reprise also offers a small selection of all-organic hair ties and scrunchies. The brand’s hair accessories are made from GOTS & Fairtrade certified organic cotton, Fair Trade natural rubber, and are dyed with GOTS & OEKO-TEX certified organic dyes.
Reprise’s commitment to sustainability extends to their hats as well. The brand’s hats are made from sustainable materials, including organic cotton and recycled polyester. Reprise ensures that their hats are produced in factories that meet their ethical standards, including fair labor practices and safe working conditions. The brand also uses carbon offsets to make their products carbon neutral.
By offering sustainable hats and other accessories, Reprise is contributing to a more sustainable and conscious fashion industry. Consumers can feel good about their purchases knowing that they are supporting a brand that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices.
17. tentree
tentree, a sustainable outdoor clothing company, offers a range of eco-friendly hats for men, women, and children. The hats are made from a variety of sustainable materials, including Tencel lyocell, Repreve polyester (made from recycled plastic bottles), hemp fabric, organic cotton, and recycled wool.
In addition to using eco-friendly materials, tentree is a Certified B Corp that plants ten trees for every purchase made. This initiative aims to increase biodiversity in areas that have been damaged by deforestation. tentree has set a goal to plant one billion trees by 2030.
For those planning a hike or outdoor adventure, tentree recommends pairing their sustainable hats with zero waste sunscreen to protect exposed skin.
Overall, tentree’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly materials makes their hats a great choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact while still enjoying stylish and functional accessories.
The hats are available for purchase on the tentree website.
18. Storied Hats
Storied Hats is a sustainable accessories brand that combines top-quality materials with great style. The brand offers a range of hats for both kids and adults in classic and funky designs that allow for personal style expression. What sets Storied Hats apart is that the brand does not have a logo, as the focus is on the wearer and not the brand.
Storied Hats is committed to sustainability and uses fabrics that are 90% sustainable, including recycled polyester and wool, organic cotton, and hemp. The brand partners with ethically managed facilities and is a member of 1% for the Planet, a global movement that supports environmental solutions.
With Storied Hats, consumers can enjoy fashionable accessories that are not only stylish but also sustainable. The brand’s commitment to sustainability ensures that consumers can make a positive impact on the environment while still looking great.
19. Kin the Label
Sustainable Belts
Kin the Label is a woman-owned and operated company that specializes in sustainable accessories. While hats are their primary focus, they also offer a range of sustainable belts for women. These belts are made using a variety of materials, including vegetable leather and stonewashed linen.
To reduce shipping emissions, Kin the Label processes these materials as close to the source as possible. This commitment to sustainability extends to their packaging, which is made from recycled materials and is 100% biodegradable.
The sustainable belts offered by Kin the Label are both stylish and environmentally friendly. They are perfect for those who want to make a fashion statement while also reducing their impact on the planet.
Here are some of the sustainable belts available from Kin the Label:
| Belt Name | Material | Features |
|---|---|---|
| The Classic | Vegetable Leather | Available in black or brown |
| The Braided | Vegetable Leather | Braided design with gold buckle |
| The Linen | Stonewashed Linen | Available in beige or black |
| The Skinny | Vegetable Leather | Available in various colors |
| The Woven | Paper Straw | Woven design with gold buckle |
In addition to their sustainable belts, Kin the Label also offers a range of sustainable hats and other accessories. With their commitment to sustainability and affordable prices, Kin the Label is a great choice for those looking to make a positive impact on the environment without sacrificing style.
20. NISOLO
Nisolo is a Nashville-based brand that specializes in sustainable fashion accessories. The brand offers eco-friendly handbags, ethical shoes, and sustainable leather belts for both men and women. Nisolo’s belts come in various styles, including woven, braided, and smooth, all made from natural leather sourced as a byproduct of the meat industry. The leather used is certified by the Leather Working Group, ensuring its sustainability.
Nisolo is a Certified B Corporation, and they provide a living wage to all the people working in their factory. The company is also working towards providing a living wage to everyone in their supply chain. Nisolo offsets 100% of their carbon emissions, making them a certified Climate Neutral company.
Nisolo’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their practices, making them a great choice for consumers looking for eco-friendly fashion accessories. The brand’s earthy options are not only stylish but also environmentally conscious.
21. ASKET
ASKET is a sustainable fashion brand that offers a range of accessories, including men’s belts made from vegan leather and vegetable-tanned full-grain Italian leather. The brand is committed to Full Transparency, allowing customers to see the entire production process and the environmental impact of each garment and accessory.
ASKET follows a slow fashion approach and designs pieces that are made to last. They encourage customers to reduce their wardrobes to pieces that they will keep and wear for a long time. To help customers take care of their ASKET belts, the brand provides a Care Program, a Repair Program, and a Revival Program.
The Care Program helps customers maintain their belts and keep them in good condition. The Repair Program offers assistance to those who need help fixing their belts, while the Revival Program allows customers to resell or recycle their belts when they no longer need them.
ASKET’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond their products. The brand uses eco-friendly packaging and works with suppliers who share their values. They also donate a portion of their profits to environmental projects.
Overall, ASKET is a brand that values sustainability and transparency. Their commitment to creating long-lasting pieces and reducing waste makes them a great choice for those looking for sustainable accessories.
HOW WE FOUND THESE SUSTAINABLE FASHION ACCESSORIES
Materials
When searching for sustainable fashion accessories, the focus was on finding brands that use eco-friendly materials. The brands featured in this article prioritize the use of sustainable fabrics such as deadstock leather, recycled plastic, glass, wool, cashmere, polyester, and metals. Additionally, some brands use biodegradable natural materials like organic cotton, hemp, straw, and semi-synthetic lyocell.
One material that is worth mentioning is acetate, which is a renewable and theoretically biodegradable material used as a greener alternative for items like sunglasses frames.
Certifications
Certifications play a significant role in the selection of sustainable fashion accessories. The brands featured in this article hold certifications such as Leather Working Group, GOTS, Fair Trade, and OEKO-TEX® 100. These certifications ensure that the products are produced in an environmentally and socially responsible way.
Supply Chain and Labor Practices
Transparent and local supply chains are essential for ethical fashion production. The brands featured in this article prioritize transparency and local supply chains. Some brands also hold certifications such as Certified B Corp and Fair Trade.
Green Business Practices
Sustainable fashion accessories are made even more eco-friendly by brands that implement green business practices. Many of the brands featured in this article are certified carbon neutral, work to keep supply chains small, offer lifetime warranties, or have programs to responsibly repair, recycle, or donate old accessories.
Inclusivity
Size inclusivity may not be as pressing of an issue when it comes to eco-friendly accessories, but several woman-founded and/or Black-owned brands are represented here. These brands prioritize inclusivity and diversity in their product lines.
Community & Charitable Giving
Several brands featured in this article are members of 1% for the Planet, plant trees, or have programs to support our environment by donating to relevant organizations. Giving back is an important aspect of sustainable fashion, and these brands are committed to making a positive impact.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON SUSTAINABLE ACCESSORIES
Sustainable fashion accessories are not only fashionable but also environmentally and socially responsible. In addition to the brands featured in this article, local and online thrift stores offer a veritable paradise of unique, one-of-a-kind accessories. Scoring secondhand accessories is the best way to save money and save our planet.
Overall, it is important to be a conscious consumer and make informed decisions when it comes to fashion. By supporting sustainable fashion brands, we can make a positive impact on the environment and society.
