Best basics (for you, the Earth and garment workers)

Basics. The foundation of every wardrobe.

What are basics, you ask? Basics are the neutrals, the tanks, tees, long sleeves, denim, sheath dresses, trousers and undergarments that enable you to feel confident and put together. Investing in quality basics will immediately elevate your wardrobe and enable statement pieces (and YOU) to shine.

As an informed consumer, I want to buy basics that are well-made of quality, sustainable materials, and produced by companies that provide ethical conditions for their workers. And of course, I want them to be cute!

I’m sharing my top choices for companies that produce basics ethically out of sustainable materials. There are so many companies doing great work - this is a small selection and I would love to hear your favorites below! PS I’m skipping denim and undergarments in this post — if you want more on those, see my denim post or this Good Trade article.

Kotn - a Candian company committed to making quality garments from Egyptian cotton that is sourced sustainably and produced ethically. A certified B-Corp, this company makes all the basics at a very affordable price point.

Bassike - an Australian company committed to treating people and the planet with respect, this company makes high-quality basics that pay dividends in price per wear. I love their Bassike originals line as well as the organic jersey line.

Everlane - currently soaking up the limelight for transparent production and pricing, this company makes small quantities of all the basics. I highly suggest buying an item when you see it and love it because it won’t last long.

Pact - sustainable fashion for the whole family here. This company makes all the basics that everyone will love at a price point that everyone loves.

Alternative Apparel - for those looking for more fashion-forward basics, this company is approachable and affordable, with sustainably produced basics.