For fashion lovers that use simple brands like Zara, I want you to know that there are other options out there. Ones that are more ethical, sustainable, and achieve the same look at the same price point.
Sure, we all know how fast-fashion retailers function. They embody the latest trends at affordable prices, tease new products on social media, and before you realize it, you are in a circle of trendy pieces that’s really hard to get out of. Trust me, we have all been there.
Overconsumption is part of the problem. We always want something new. We buy it, then we wear it rarely or most likely – never. But it’s not such a big deal because we “only spent 10 bucks”, right?
Plenty of brands follow this exact business model – they give you the lower price your heart (and wallet) desire. However, they don’t use sustainable practices. What does that mean? It means that you don’t want to know their factory policies, how they treat their workers, and what’s actually going on in the supply chain before that cute sparkly top hits stores.
Don’t worry, here at STYLE BY SAVINA, we are coming to the rescue!
Realizing that cheaper stuff = more expenses since most humans tend to do it often and in big piles of unnecessary clothes (hello, annual sales), I’ve rounded up a list – not with high-end fashion brands, but with ones that offer design-forward staples and affordable pieces.
You will hear some of them for the first time, and that’s OK. Once we dive deep, they will not only broaden your style horizons with effortless looks and product quality, but they will also make you never go back to the cheap fashion conveyor belt. Simply because you will already have your personal style elevated. No matter if you hit the streets of New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or your local neighborhood.
No, Gretchen, on Wednesdays we don’t wear pink. We wear new designs at reasonable prices. So which brand is similar to Zara but better? Let’s find out!
Scroll down to find your sustainable alternatives to brands like Zara.
It is possible to have ethical, high-quality pieces without spending a lot more. These are the shops you need to know if you love Zara:
1. ARMEDANGELS
The perfect denim pieces are right here…
Since day one, Armedangels stood against traditional (read: unethical) industry choices and opted for sustainable, transparent policy – in terms of everything. Most of their products would cost you less than a dinner in Paris. I’m not kidding. No need to check your bank balance every five minutes, hoping for a miracle. Just check armedangels.com.
2. THOUGHT CLOTHING
Clothing, with a thought…
‘Sustainability should be a joy’ is Thought Clothing’s tagline. Should be indeed! To be honest, every super soft and comfortable piece from their collections feels like Christmas morning. Plus, *literally* every item can be mixed and matched in hundreds of outfit combinations and effortless looks. After all, it’s true; You can look great and look after the planet at the same time.
3. EVERLANE
My eternal love…
Everlane is the Ben Affleck to my JLo-self. No matter how many times I get past it, I always come back with something new to explore and adore. On a mission to make the dirty business a lot cleaner, the brand is your go-to destination if you love classy, timeless styles that will undoubtedly stand the test of time. Think of stunning blazers, white tees, and whatever else your soul desires. If you’re looking for classic brands like Zara but more sustainable, Everlane is your place.
Related Post: 14 SUSTAINABLE JEWELRY BRANDS TO BUY NOW AND LOVE FOREVER
4. OMNES
Daring yet affordable…
The first time I came across Omnes, I was like ‘WTF, sustainable? At this price?’. That’s when I realized – it’s all in the wrong mindset, people. Sure, sometimes you have to invest extra $$ in a skirt/top/pair of jeans, but the big change starts with small steps. They are a great brand that is Climate Positive, and although carbon offsetting is not the answer, they are dedicated to consuming less and consuming better. If you are into slip party dresses or wild prints, look no further.
5. MATE THE LABEL
This is your new mate…
You name it. Clean? Yes. Organic? Hell yes. Ethical? Sure. Women-centered? Yes, and that’s awesome. Plastic free? Absolutely! Circular? Yeah. Local? Can it become even better? Whatever you need to fill the capsule wardrobe of your dreams, Mate The Label has it. I’m in love with their sweats sets! I could put them on and watch Netflix for the rest of my life. I meant, blog work, I can do blog work for the rest of my life.
6. COLORFUL STANDARD
The best explosion of colors you have ever seen…
Before deleting it, I must have written the darkest explanation of fast fashion in our brightest section up to here. Colorful Standard is for people who… well, have colorful standards. Expressing your mood through colors has been around for a while, so if you suddenly feel the urge to do so, let’s go. You are happy? Get the Organic Oversized Crew in burned yellow. You don’t know how you feel? Try cloudy gray. You are part of the Ticketmaster vs. Swifties drama? Soft lavender, without the haze.
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7. PACT
Classics and more classics…
When the brand name is PACT, you know its team must have made one. PACT’s people believe the planet and the people should always come first in fashion. From classic knitted cardigans to neutral outerwear, their product range is a great place to rediscover slow fashion and fall in love with it. Yup, it’s a bit pricey compared to others, but worth it. So worth it.
8. BODEN
This one is for the risk-takers…
Let me ask you a strange question. Harry Styles in his 1D era, or Harry Styles now? In case you lean towards the second option, you must love colors. Boden is the perfect place for everyone who believes minimalism is in cuts and silhouettes, not colors and patterns. It’s the place where effortless style meets the high street. I’m in love with the blazers and wide-leg pants. And if that makes me wrong, I don’t want to be right.
9. UNIVERSAL STANDARD
Style and fit for every BODY…
Maybe you are into fabrics? Supposing you understand what Peruvian cotton, luxurious Italian wool, and French satin-back crepe mean, Universal Standard is the place to go. Whether we take into consideration denim or intimates, each piece in their catalog compliments your body and is available in sizes 0-40. Talk about inclusivity.
10. BAUKJEN
A thought for your wardrobe, a thought for the planet…
There are a lot of ways to define Baukjen. None of them would be enough. The brand works for change and cares about the environment. Besides the charming dresses and functional belts, you can go into full-sustainable mode and rent a piece for the next big event. You can also buy something from The Pre-Loved Collection. 50% of net proceeds go to a selection of women’s charities!
Another MUST-READ: THE BEST TRENCH COATS TO BUY NOW AND WEAR FOREVER
11. GROCERIES APPAREL
Literally “plant-based” clothes…
Groceries Apparel is one of the very few businesses that shed light on what’s really happening in the fashion industry. It just goes to show that there are affordable brands like Zara that care about the Planet and the People. Each piece is crafted in their own factory to ensure that standards and values are fully executed. Most of them are sports-y and give a cool understanding of what casual wear is nowadays. Trust me, no one would believe you when you tell them the shorts you are wearing… are made of carrot tops, pomegranate rinds, or avocado seeds.
12. & OTHER STORIES
They can stand the test of time…
Staying true to its well-known name, & Other Stories loves telling stories through style. The kind of stories that, no matter what the storyline is, always ends with timeless designs. The brand would replace Massimo Dutti and other high-end brands as your favorite if you love classics but are also not afraid of taking risks when it comes to fashion. Recently I’ve had my eyes on the bright red Boxy Alpaca Knit T-Shirt. I know it’s not really my POV, but a girl can dream!
13. ARKET
Simple styles you will wear every day…
ARKET is another great option (I mean GREAT) because the brand already uses 90% sustainable fabrics and is devoted to making its non-commercial usage completely reusable and recyclable by 2025. In full compliance with the Swedish take on beauty and lifestyle, ARKET is all about everyday wear that makes you feel comfortable and sexy.
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14. COS
A new definition of cool…
The team behind COS is interested in the story – the beginning, middle, and beyond of everything they make. That’s why they are fully transparent. In terms of production, people, and the environmental impact, they are trying to calm down – way before Selena joined Rema for the eponymous song. A lot of COS’ recent pieces are unisex as well! Another cool way to break the status quo.
15, REFORMATION
Saving the best for last…
I have always loved Reformation, and one of the reasons why is this tagline – “Being naked is the #1 most sustainable option. We’re #2”. A bit cocky, but definitely not far away from the truth. I know you want to look great for that wedding, that meeting at the office, or that long-overdue meeting with your BFF. Reformation does too. They have high standards and are already making the reformation happen through trendy styles.
There are a lot of fashion trends and different brands. However, if you want wardrobe staples at low prices without compromising high quality and wish to wear them for a long time, it’s time to switch up your game.
Stop going to the popular destination (AKA your favorite fast-fashion brand) for on-trend pieces. Try independent brands and every other response to instant fashion. Repeat after me. Small steps, small steps, small steps. Show me your picks on socials (@SavinaOfficial).
This post was all about brands like Zara.
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