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You might already buy Fairtrade coffee and chocolate, but what about fair trade clothing? Choosing a fair trade clothing brand can help protect both workers’ rights and the environment. Read on to discover some of our favourite fair trade fashion brands doing a world of good while looking great.
First thing first: Fairtrade or fair trade?
There are several fair trade organisations around the world that provide guidance, support, and certification for brands that want to operate in a fair way.
Fair trade refers to the general movement, which encompasses many different organisations with the shared aim of supporting producers and protecting workers’ rights and the environment. Fair trade describes a brand or an individual product that has been certified and labelled by an independent organisation because it meets specific standards.
Fairtrade, on the other hand, specifically refers to the certifying and labelling organisation Fairtrade International, which is the peak body for 18 country-based Fairtrade labelling organisations. Each of these certifies products, allowing them to display the famous Fairtrade logo. On top of that, brands can choose to belong to organisations such as the Fair Trade Federation and the World Fair Trade Organisation.
Why is fair trade important?
By buying these products, you are helping to alleviate poverty in developing countries, ensuring that workers are being paid fairly, are working under humane conditions, and have sufficient labour rights, as well as encouraging sustainable methods of production.
Here are our top picks for fair trade clothing brands rated “Good” or “Great” in our directory.
