In part two of this collection, I will discuss conscious consumerism in the clothing and apparel industry. Believe me, I know how difficult it is to resist a BOGO sale at Forever 21 or other major disposable product stores. However, the support of unethical production in these companies can be attributed to loopholes and corruption in the fashion industry.

In the day, age, and pace American industrialization is at, it is nearly impossible to find clothing that is affordable, attainable, diverse, and American-produced anything. What needs the most attention when being conscious is the product’s production quality. Outsourced and imported products are not necessarily taboo (as said, they are almost inevitable). Being aware of the companies that manufacture these products and taking part in supporting the ethical ones can make a more conscious consumer.

Of course there are obvious do-gooder companies like TOMS and Everlane. However, there are some popular companies that do outsource their production in an ethical fashion.

1. Target

2. Ann Taylor and The Loft

3. Columbia

4. Burberry

5. Gildan

6. Levi’s

7. Vera Bradley

8. REI

9. Puma

10. Adidas

11. Cotton Incorporated

These companies, among many others, are part of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. By browsing their list of members, consumers can be made aware of companies that are held to standards that do not harm the economy or the environment.

When companies unethically outsource their manufacturing, retailers can make prices incredibly cheap. These products generally do not last very long. When consumers support these companies and their products, it only fuels the bloated banks of these unethical retailers.

Consumers who purchase higher quality products from sustainable companies get longevity out of their purchases and support companies that do more for the economy and the environment. Spending more at once for products with longer wear makes more economical sense than spending less more often on things with very little wear to them.