Whether it’s using (or reusing) sustainable materials, keeping production local, or donating proceeds to a good cause, these six brands make us feel good about fashion.
Over the Horizon dress, Christina Karin ($209). 312-550-5335; christinakarin.com
Local designer Christina Karin’s pieces are produced through sustainable means and make an impact both sartorially and philanthropically. A portion of sales is put toward V-Day, an organization that aims to end violence against women and children in third world countries.
Chicago native Samantha Sleeper keeps her designs earth-conscious: this vlazer (vest/blazer, a Sleeper signature) got its bold cobalt color by being dyed in-house.
Rocky Eco-Fleece hoodie, Alternative Apparel ($54). Trunk Club, 325 W. Ohio St., 312-801-7200
One of Trunk Club’s top-selling items—it’s irresistibly soft—this hoodie uses Alternative Apparel’s signature Eco-Fleece, a fabric made from both organic and recycled threads.
Leather and agate necklace, Love Heals ($329). Green Goddess Boutique, 1009 W. Armitage Ave., 773-281-5600
Everything at Green Goddess Boutique is eco-friendly and fashion-forward, but we especially love the jewelry by Love Heals, which is crafted with consciously mined metals. The brand also plants ten trees for each design sold.
SR signature sweatshirt, Stix and Roses ($148). Sararose (by appointment only), 773-654-3421
Chicago designer and boutique owner Sararose Krenger has expanded her Bamboo Little Black Dress collection—which is made from eco-friendly double-lined bamboo Lycra jersey—into an entire bamboo wardrobe. This cozy logo sweatshirt is perfect for kicking back.
From recycled zippers to flax linen, Groceries Apparel is eco-friendly in everything it produces. This spring, the brand comes to Chicago mainstay Sofia.