Wear the Change: Building a Sustainable Closet
In today's world, sustainability has become more than just a buzzword—it's a necessity. With the looming challenges of climate change, pollution, and waste, fashion has a critical role to play in creating a more sustainable future. The mantra "quantity over quality" is increasingly being recognized, especially when we focus on more ethical, mindful consumption that prioritizes long-term impact over short-term trends. Buying less but choosing better is key, as it promotes a more sustainable way of living while still maintaining our style and individuality.
O'Brien's Clothing Co. has aligned itself with this vision by carefully selecting brands that not only excel in fashion but also take responsibility for their environmental and social footprints. The brands they stock, including Alessandra, Brax, Elk, Humidity, Loobie's Story, Mela Purdie, Monari, Once Was, POM, Rollie Nation, and Madly Sweetly, embody the core values of sustainability, ethical production, and transparency. Keep reading to learn how you can be more sustainable this 2025!
This 'Sunshine' knee-length dress made from a linen blend is not only stylish but also a conscious choice for those who prioritize sustainability. The fabric combines two eco-friendly materials: linen and Tencel, both known for their minimal environmental impact and sustainable production processes.
Linen is made from the flax plant, which requires very little water and pesticides to grow compared to other fibers. Flax is a hardy plant that thrives in cooler climates, and its cultivation is relatively low-impact. After harvesting, the flax is processed to extract the fibers, which are spun into linen fabric. Linen is biodegradable and can be recycled, making it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their ecological footprint. Additionally, linen is durable and gets softer with each wash, which extends the life of the garment.
Tencel, also known as lyocell, is made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, primarily from eucalyptus, beech, or spruce trees. The production of Tencel uses a closed-loop process, meaning the solvents used to dissolve the wood pulp are recycled, reducing waste and water usage. This process is far less harmful to the environment compared to conventional fabric production methods. Tencel is also biodegradable and has a silky texture, making it comfortable to wear while being environmentally responsible.
Together, linen and Tencel create a beautiful, breathable fabric blend that is not only soft and comfortable but also a sustainable choice for fashion. By choosing this dress, you're supporting the use of renewable resources and contributing to the reduction of textile waste.
In the fashion industry, the production of sustainable materials is often seen as a key area for change. Focusing on quantity over quality in the early stages of sustainable fabric production (e.g., producing more plant-based fibers, recycled textiles, or eco-friendly synthetics) can help drive down costs and make these materials more accessible to a broader range of brands and consumers. The more these materials are produced, the more economies of scale can make them affordable, encouraging a shift away from conventional, environmentally harmful materials like virgin polyester or cotton.
In this case, prioritizing increased production of sustainable alternatives could eventually lead to greater market acceptance and widespread adoption. While the quality of each individual fabric might vary early on, the overall shift in material sourcing can push the fashion industry towards greater sustainability in the long run.
Finally, on the demand side, encouraging a change in consumer behavior is critical. While sustainability in fashion often emphasizes purchasing high-quality, durable pieces, it’s important to also prioritize mindful consumption—not over-buying and producing less waste. Encouraging consumers to buy more consciously, rather than excessively, can lead to a shift in buying habits and result in lower overall consumption in the long run. By focusing on quantity in terms of the amount of sustainable garments bought rather than the quality of each piece, the industry can move toward sustainability through smarter consumption patterns.
Introducing the Viv Stripe Shirt, your ultimate go-to summer blouse that blends style, comfort, and sustainability. This contemporary striped shirt is crafted from 72% cotton and 28% viscose, offering a lightweight and breathable feel perfect for warmer days. The oversized fit, dropped shoulders, and classic shirt collar exude effortless, casual chic, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
Sustainability Meets Style
What makes the Viv Stripe Shirt even more special is its thoughtful composition. Cotton and viscose are not just soft and durable but are also eco-conscious materials when produced responsibly.
- Cotton: Sourced from the fluffy fibers surrounding cotton plant seeds, this natural fabric is renewable, breathable, and biodegradable. Its production has evolved with sustainable farming practices that focus on minimizing water and pesticide usage.
- Viscose: Derived from natural wood pulp, viscose is semi-synthetic but still eco-friendly. It has a silky feel and drapes beautifully, making it a favorite for stylish and comfortable clothing. Many viscose fibers are made from fast-growing, renewable resources like bamboo or eucalyptus, further reducing their environmental impact.
Together, these fibers create a fabric that’s soft on your skin and kind to the planet.
The Haki Dress is a t-shirt dress reinvented with a conscious touch. Crafted from 100% organic cotton jersey, this piece is made from materials grown without harmful pesticides, helping protect soil health and reducing water waste during farming. Organic cotton also offers breathability and comfort, making it perfect for balmy summer days or layering with lightweight jackets.
But the sustainability doesn’t stop there:
- Solar-powered production: The factory manufacturing the Haki Dress sources up to 50% of its electricity from rooftop solar, lowering its carbon emissions and energy impact.
- Unique prints: The organic cotton used for yardage prints makes every garment one of a kind, showcasing eco-conscious artistry in every piece.
- Built to last: With its buttery soft fabric, functional side pockets, and timeless A-line silhouette, the Haki Dress is designed to be a durable, go-to piece you’ll wear again and again—embracing the “quality over quantity” ethos of sustainable fashion.
The Athena Dress blends sustainability with sophistication. Its lightweight 55% Linen and 45% Rayon composition combines the natural texture of linen with the smoothness of rayon for a breathable, flowy feel—perfect for hot summer days or styled up for events.
Here’s why it’s a sustainable choice:
- Linen fibers: Linen is one of the most eco-friendly textiles, made from flax plants that require minimal water and energy to grow. Plus, it’s biodegradable at the end of its lifecycle.
- Timeless design: The Athena Dress features classic details like button-through styling, 3/4-length ruffled sleeves, and a self-tie belt—ensuring it stays in style for seasons to come. This reduces the need for trend-driven purchases, promoting a more sustainable wardrobe.
- Reduced waste: Thoughtful design elements like in-seam pockets and contrast piping add functional and visual value, ensuring you’ll reach for this dress repeatedly.
Why Choose Sustainable Fashion?
When you choose pieces like the Haki and Athena Dresses, you’re supporting brands that prioritize eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient production, and long-lasting quality. Each dress not only elevates your wardrobe but also contributes to a more sustainable future.
Pair the Haki Dress with casual sneakers or sandals for an everyday look, or dress it up with a lightweight jacket for summer tailoring. Style the Athena Dress with tan sandals or wedges, letting its elegant details shine. Both dresses are versatile staples that prove you don’t have to compromise on style to embrace sustainability!
