The Earth Edit: 8 Sustainable Fashion Trends That Led The Way In 2024
Sustainability in fashion is no longer a fleeting trend; it has become a lifestyle choice for both consumers and designers. The year 2024 has seen the rise of innovative, eco-conscious practices, proving that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. From repurposed materials to local craftsmanship, these trends are shaping the future of fashion.
The Earth Edit: 8 Sustainable Fashion Trends That Led The Way In 2024; Photo Credit: Pexels
The year saw many brands and apparel designers who believed that it was their responsibility to bring sustainable clothing to the forefront and their innovation didn't disappoint at all. From Levi's Water<Less Jeans To Adidas Recycled Polymer T-shirts, each innovation piqued the curiosity of people and forced them to rush to the stores to get their hands on it. Here are eight sustainable fashion movements that stood out this year.
1. Upcycling: Breathing New Life Into Old Clothes
Upcycling has emerged as a creative solution to fashion waste in 2024. Many brands are transforming discarded clothing into unique, high-end pieces, reducing the demand for new raw materials.
Consumers, too, have embraced this trend. Platforms like Zalora Malaysia have gained popularity, encouraging people to purchase pre-loved items and contribute to the circular economy. With upcycling, the message is clear: fashion can be both stylish and sustainable.
2. Plant-Based Materials
Innovative plant-based materials are making waves, replacing traditional animal-derived or synthetic fabrics. Vegan leather made from pineapple leaves, cactus, and mycelium (mushroom roots) has gone mainstream, thanks to top brands launching their season collection entirely made out of sustainable materials.
Additionally, fabrics derived from banana fibres, hemp, and even orange peels are being used to create breathable, biodegradable garments. This shift to plant-based materials has significantly reduced the carbon footprint of fashion production, signalling a new era of green luxury.
3. Responsibly Sourced Materials
The Earth Edit: 8 Sustainable Fashion Trends That Led The Way In 2024; Photo Credit: Pexels
Responsibly sourced materials prioritise the well-being of the environment and the people involved in their production. In 2024, many fashion brands focused on sourcing materials like wool, silk, and cashmere from ethical suppliers who ensure humane treatment of animals and fair wages for workers.
For instance, brands like COS, Vero Moda and more are offering ethically sourced materials on e-commerce platforms like Zalora Malaysia. This trend emphasises traceability and accountability, allowing consumers to make informed choices about what they wear.
4. Slow Fashion
The Earth Edit: 8 Sustainable Fashion Trends That Led The Way In 2024; Photo Credit: Pexels
The slow fashion movement continued to grow in 2024, challenging the culture of overconsumption. Instead of chasing fleeting trends, consumers are investing in timeless, well-made pieces that last for years.
On the consumer front, the idea of creating a capsule wardrobe- a small collection of versatile essentials gained momentum encouraging buying less and creating plenty of fashionable pieces. Slow fashion encourages mindfulness, proving that less is more.
5. Recycled Materials
Recycling took centre stage in 2024, with many brands repurposing waste into new fashion. Materials like recycled polyester (made from plastic bottles) and regenerated nylon (from discarded fishing nets) have become staples in sustainable collections.
Brands like Adidas are pioneers in this space, creating stylish, durable garments from materials that would otherwise end up in landfills or oceans. This approach not only reduces waste but also lessens the demand for virgin resources, proving that fashion can be both innovative and eco-friendly.
6. Zero-Waste Designs
The Earth Edit: 8 Sustainable Fashion Trends That Led The Way In 2024; Photo Credit: Pexels
Designers and apparel suppliers are embracing zero-waste design principles, ensuring every piece of fabric is used in the creation process. Pattern-making techniques are being reimagined to minimise fabric scraps and turn leftover materials into stunning patchwork creations. This year, zero-waste fashion became a symbol of innovation and responsibility, inspiring consumers to rethink the way clothes are made and disposed of.
7. Lower Impact Production Processes
In 2024, the industry saw a significant shift towards production methods that minimise environmental impact. Water-saving dyeing techniques, renewable energy in factories, and innovative processes like 3D knitting have become the norm for sustainable brands.
For example, Levi's introduced denim collections made using their Water<Less technology, reducing water usage by up to 96% in the finishing process. By adopting these eco-conscious methods, the fashion industry is paving the way for a cleaner, greener production cycle.
8. Animal-Friendly Fashion
Animal-friendly fashion continued to grow in 2024, with a rise in alternatives to animal-derived materials like leather, wool, and fur. Innovations such as bio-fabricated leather (lab-grown) and plant-based substitutes have provided cruelty-free options that mimic the look and feel of traditional materials. Animal-friendly fashion proves that compassion and style can coexist, challenging the outdated norms of luxury.
As 2024 comes to a close, these trends have set the stage for a greener, more ethical future in fashion. The journey towards a fully sustainable fashion industry is far from over, but the progress made this year proves that change is possible. With collective effort, we can redefine what it means to be fashionable in the 21st century - where sustainability is the ultimate style statement.
1. NEXT Pinafore Layer Dress
2. COS Balloon Mini Dress
3. COS Elasticated Wide-Leg Trousers
4. COS A-Line Denim Midi Skirt
5. COS Wide-Leg Drawstring Denim Trousers
6. Upcycle4Better Denim Backpack
7. Chanel Pre-Loved Chanel Stall Shawl Tweed Pattern Silk Bordeaux Multicolor
8. COS Embroidered Shirt Dress
9. ONLY Tina Sleeveless Pleat Top
10. COS Striped Brushed-Mohair Crew-Neck Jumper