Jeans are one of the most ubiquitous fashion elements in the world, the current value of the world jeans trade is in excess of $50 billion US dollars. Like many clothes, the jean manufacturing process leaves much to be desired in regards to ethical treatment of workers and environmental sustainability of the fabric.
Considering jeans are made of cotton, one of the biggest consumers of water and pesticides in the farming world, fair trade and organic jeans need to break through into the mainstream.
Thankfully there are a few fashion houses that recognise the importance of making fair trade jeans. Companies like Hug, Kuyichi, Loomstate, Nudie Jeans and People Tree are all leaders in the industry and provide ethical alternatives while still retaining a fashionable edge.
Loomstate have a range of fashionable jeans in various styles and colors. They range in price from $160-$180, depending on the style and can also occasionally be found on ebay. They are beautiful looking jeans and it is a credit to the company that they are on the forefront of this industry.
Nudie Jeans have recently signed up to the Fair Wear Foundation, a group that is working to improve working conditions in the textile manufacturing industry. Nudie Jeans have always approached their business with a responsible and ethical bent, by providing organic options and donating funds to human rights organisations, but this move adds extra credibility to their dealings with suppliers.
Nudie jeans have a large range of high fashion jeans available and take their product seriously.
Hug, Kuyichi and People Tree are all based in the UK and stock beautiful fashion jeans that can also be found in overseas locations.
Fair trade clothing company Fair Indigo also have a pair of jeans available in stonewash or overdye (darker).
