Everyone loves denim, whether it’s sustainable denim or not. A material that was born and raised in the US, denim jeans have grown at the same rate as American hegemony across the globe, coming to epitomise the freedom loving, cowboy spirit.
However, times have changed and now there are serious questions being asked about the viability of denim in the future, especially when it comes to how sustainable or unsustainable it might be. Luckily, there are some sustainable denim options out there which mean that buying new eco blue jeans need not be something you do with a dirty conscience. One such option being our special Ocean Denim!
Why Does Regular Denim Have Such a High Eco Impact?
Denim is one of the most popular fabrics in the world, loved for its durability and timeless style. However, the production of denim has a significant environmental impact, from the high water usage to the chemical dyes and finishes used. This article aims to shed light on the importance of sustainable denim and provide tips on how to find eco-friendly denim options that care both for you and the planet.
When it comes to denim production, the process starts with cotton cultivation. Traditional cotton farming is notorious for its heavy pesticide and water usage, contributing to pollution and water scarcity. Additionally, the dyeing and finishing stages of denim production involve hazardous chemicals that are harmful to both the environment and the workers involved. But don’t worry, because denim production processes are undergoing a sustainability revolution…
What Steps Can be Taken to Make Denim More Sustainable?
- Choose organic and GOTS certified cotton: Look for denim made from organic cotton, which is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilisers. Organic cotton farming promotes biodiversity and protects the health of farmers and surrounding communities. Additionally, choosing GOTS certified cotton ensures that any product made from it must consist of at least 95% certified organic fibres.
- Choose low water impact cotton: Denim production requires a substantial amount of water, from cotton cultivation to the dyeing and finishing processes. Look for brands that implement water-saving techniques, such as laser technology for distressing and ozone washing, which significantly reduces water consumption. Additionally, some brands invest in innovative dyeing methods that require less water and are free from harmful chemicals, such as e-Flow technology which we at TWOTHIRDS have used on past eco-friendly denim garment collections.
- Choose recycled denim and upcycled denim: Another sustainable option is to choose denim made from recycled or upcycled materials. This reduces the demand for new raw materials and minimises waste. Some brands even offer denim recycling programs, where customers can return their old jeans to be transformed into new garments. One of our favourites is MUD Jeans.
How is TWOTHIRDS' Ocean Denim More Eco Than the Rest?
TWOTHIRDS, being a sustainable fashion brand, has taken significant steps to create eco-friendly denim, our Ocean Denim collections standing out as examples of our commitment to sustainability. Here's why this special brand of sustainable denim is more eco-friendly than traditional denim:
- Recycled materials: Here at TWOTHIRDS we use a blend of recycled cotton and virgin organic cotton in many of our sustainable denim jeans, dresses and skirts. This reduces the need for virgin materials, saves energy, and diverts waste from landfill sites and incinerators (that’s a good thing!).
- Low water impact washes and finishes: The production of our extra eco-friendly denim has in the past involved advanced water-saving techniques, such as e-Flow nanobubble technology, which provides blue washes for sustainable denim jeans but without the use of water. We are also now working hand-in-hand with Recover™, to create eco-friendly denim that is partly or even mainly derived from recycled post consumer clothing – something that for a long time has been difficult to achieve for even the most dedicated sustainable fashion brands.
- Eco-friendly denim dyes: TWOTHIRDS prioritises the use of eco-friendly dyes made from natural and low-impact materials. This ensures that harmful chemicals are not released into the environment during the dyeing process.
New Sustainable Denim Pieces in Our 2024 Spring Collection
We always endeavour to offer a range of stylish and sustainable denim jeans for both men and women. From classic straight cuts to trendy wide-leg styles, there's a pair for every fashion preference. These eco-friendly jeans are not only sustainable but also comfortable and built to last. Women should check out the likes of the Nakholmen!
No sustainable fashion wardrobe is ever complete without an eco-friendly denim overall. These sustainable one-pieces are often made from the same eco materials as our jeans and feature timeless designs that can be worn year-round. They are a versatile addition to any outfit, and make for especially good transitional pieces, bridging the gaps between the seasons. Women should check out our highly sought-after Borden.
Nothing beats a sustainable denim dress or eco-friendly denim skirt, for a feminine touch that’s at once stylish and ethical. Our new Spring Collection boasts pieces that are perfect for those who want to embrace ethical fashion without compromising on style. Eco denim dresses and sustainable skirts like the Replot are purposefully designed with flattering silhouettes, and are durable to boot.
Denim Can Be Eco, as Long as Consumers Do This...
Denim doesn't have to be synonymous with environmental harm. By choosing sustainable denim, consumers can make a positive impact on the planet while still enjoying their favourite fabric. Remember these key points when searching for eco-friendly denim:
- Look for eco denim made from organic cotton.
- Opt for brands that implement low water impact washes and dyes.
- Consider recycled denim and upcycled denim options.
- Support brands like TWOTHIRDS that prioritise sustainability in their denim production.
- Rent or lease sustainable denim jeans instead of buying brand new products.
Together, we can make a difference and ensure a more sustainable future for the fashion industry and society at large. Choose sustainable denim and wear your eco-friendly blue jeans, dress, jacket, skirt or overalls with pride!
