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Everybody looks cooler in a denim jacket, it’s just a fact. And double denim has made a solid comeback in the last few years, which we love to see… unlike Justin and Britney’s questionably iconic head-to-toe denim at the 2001 MTV Awards, but we won’t talk about that.
The ultimate wardrobe staple
Cringe-yet-innocent fashion moments aside, denim jackets aren’t only stylish—they’re durable, great for layering, and match just about anything. Pair your jean jacket with a slip dress and some boots for subtle cowgirl vibes, or, yes, with actual jeans for a power move.
Whether you like them lightwashed or embroidered, they’re a fantastic staple for any wardrobe. Buuuuut there’s one problem: most denim jackets you’ll find at your local mall or fast fashion chain store are made with conventional cotton, AKA one of the thirstiest fabrics on the planet. That’s where more sustainable denim jackets come in, and their hero material: organic cotton.
While organic cotton’s reputation has been on somewhat shaky ground in recent years owing to issues with certification legitimacy and transparency in supply chains, there’s no denying true organic cotton it’s a step up from conventional cotton for people and the planet. Organic cotton farming practices avoid using harmful chemicals while aiming for environmental responsibility and the use of fewer resources, which is good news for the fields and the farmers.
Your best bet for a more responsible cotton is Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified organic cotton, which can be found in a lot of the options below. Fair Trade certified cotton garments also help to guarantee the health and safety of workers in the supply chain. Even better, look for recycled or second hand options on your hunt for the perfect wardrobe all-rounder.
From the unisex undyed jacket, to the classic lightwash jacket, and the belted denim jacket, there are options aplenty. So, without further ado but just a little to-do, here are our favourite more sustainable denim jackets to rock year ’round.
