woman sitting on the floor in stockings
Roundups

Sustainable Tights and Eco Friendly Stockings

Sustainable fashion is not just a trend, it’s a necessity. The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world, and a typical pair of stockings or leggings is no exception.

Stockings and hose save us during winter months, can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to an outfit, can save us from blisters during a work out, and can provide compression to aide circulation. It’s hard to believe stockings started as a fashion choice for noble men in the 15th century.

Tights, stockings and similar garments are usually made from a variety of materials such as nylon, polyester, cotton, silk, or wool. They come in different styles such as sheer, opaque, fishnet, and patterned, and are available in different colors and thicknesses.

When we think of stockings or hose, we often think of them as simple and unassuming clothing items. But the truth is that the production of these seemingly innocent garments involves a host of harmful ingredients and practices.

Why is it important to look for sustainable hosiery?

One of the main issues with stockings and leggings is the use of synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester. These materials are derived from fossil fuels and are not biodegradable, meaning they will sit in landfills for hundreds of years. Not only that, but the production of synthetic fibers releases harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Another issue is the use of harsh chemicals in the dyeing and finishing processes. These chemicals can be toxic to both workers and the environment, and can also end up in our waterways and oceans.

Finally, there’s the problem of fast fashion and overproduction. The fashion industry is notorious for its constant need for new trends and styles, leading to an excessive amount of clothing being produced and discarded. This not only contributes to environmental pollution but also to the exploitation of workers in developing countries.

How to find sustainable stockings?

So what can we do to make sure the stockings or leggings we wear are made in a sustainable way? Look for stockings or leggings made from natural, biodegradable materials like organic cotton, linen, or hemp. Also, opt for brands that use low-impact dyes and have transparent supply chains.

Look for certifications like Fair Trade, GOTS, and OEKO-TEX, that can guarantee that the product you’re buying is ethically and sustainably made. Most importantly, buy less and invest in quality clothing that will last longer. Some sustainable tights brands include features like reinforced toes that keep your stockings in use as long as possible.

The best sustainable stockings and tights

There are several ethical and sustainable companies that produce stockings and leggings. Here are our faves:

Thought Clothing

Thought Clothing sustainable tights

This UK-based company uses sustainable materials such as organic cotton, bamboo and hemp in their clothing line. They also have a strong commitment to ethical manufacturing, including fair trade practices.

Wolven

Wolven eco friendly yoga pants

For all your tights and yoga needs, Wolven is the place to go. Made out of recycled plastic bottles, these tights are super soft and comfortable, sweat wicking, and need fewer washes to stay fresh than competitors. They also strive for inclusive sizing, and definitely include a wider range than most yoga brands.

Under Protection

Under protection eco friendly tights

A certified B Corp, this brand uses Tencel, recycled materials, banana fiber and more in their hose and other clothing. The extensive sustainability section on their site breaks down their efforts.

People Tree

People Tree sustainable leggings

This UK-based brand is a pioneer in sustainable and fair trade fashion. They use organic cotton, Tencel and other sustainable materials, and their clothing is made in fair trade certified producers.

The next time you reach for a pair of stockings or leggings, take a moment to think about the impact their production has on our planet. By making conscious choices about what we wear, we can help make the fashion industry more sustainable for future generations.

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