Why are sustainable / ethical clothing brands so boring?

[athena53]

I'm glad Jade started this thread because I also try to buy clothing sustainably made by people who are paid decently, which rules out most of the products made in Asia. I have a top and a dress from Amour Vert, both in a flattering, clingy knit so definitely not shapeless. I've also gotten a clingy knit dress in a bright print from Karen Kane (made in USA but maybe they don't worry about sustainability in selecting dyes).

You're right about most of the colors; when I saw the Amour Vert catalogue it seemed to have a lot of dull, unflattering colors and maybe that's because they're using dyes from natural sources. No problem with buying a few neutrals, though; I can combine them with other, more colorful things in my wardrobe. One of my other "responsible" clothing practices is to buy classic styles and wear them till they fall apart. It means that I rarely buy clothes and I have a closet full of things I can wear.

[Ttark]

<spits out coffee> Probably drives a Subaru Forester also. Big Grin

Nah, they're probably driving Priuses (Prii?) they were sold on the impression that they're "saving the Earth", unaware of how much natgas/uranium/coal/whatever is being burned to generate the power used to charge it.

I was once on another board where one user (a mechanic) mentioned this bit. About once a month he'd get a Prius being towed to the garage because it broke down. About 90% of the time he'd find the gas gauge on "E". Typical customer reply: "but it's an hybrid, it's not supposed to need gas." Brilliant.

I have a neighbor who lives in bland clothing like the OP was after, drives a Pen^H^H^HPrius, is a food-priest vegan and is seriously one of the most boring people you'd ever want to meet.

[likealady]

I don't "get" Everlane and completely agree their clothing is bland and shapeless. I'd rather shop at Uniqlo if I want boxy clothing, at least they have some interesting prints. Last time I was on Everlane's site I noticed all their shoes are pointy, no variation in toe shape. I think it's probably just what's "hipster" right now.

FWIW, I don't often buy new clothing, but what I have I wash delicate cycle with Woolite or some other delicate detergent. Anything with spandex or specific fabrics gets hung up to dry. It can be time-consuming, but my clothing lasts much longer now- just gotta make sure the husband doesn't touch the laundry.

[jade408]

Well I just found some “ethical” pants that look cute and at least have a slightly bigger size range. I ordered a pair.

A bit more interesting/practical than regular work pants.

https://lezethelabel.com