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Sustainable Fashion

9 Australian Fashion Brands Doing Resale, Take-Back & Clothing Recycling

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


Brands that will take back your old clothes to recycle

Citizen wolf Circular

Citizen Wolf doesn’t do resale (yet), but their Circular program is a solid take-back system that ensures your old custom-fit tees and staples never go to landfill. Send them back when they’re worn out, and they’ll be responsibly recycled.

Patagonia Worn Wear

Through Patagonia’s Worn Wear program, you can send in your used Patagonia clothing and gear for store credit — up to 25% of the original retail price. Items are assessed, then either resold through the Worn Wear platform or recycled if they’re no longer wearable.

You can post them in or drop them off at select stores.

RecycleSmart

RecycleSmart partners with local councils to pick up your unwanted clothing (and a bunch of other hard-to-recycle items) right from your doorstep. Book a collection through their app, leave your items out, and they’ll do the rest.

Upparel

Upparel runs a mail-in program for clothing and textile recycling. You book a collection, pack up what you’re done with — including damaged clothes, odd socks, or fabric scraps — and they sort it for reuse or recycling They’ll even send you credit to spend with partner brands.

Need a fix instead?

Plenty of these brands offer repairs too. Head to our repair directory for the full list of who’s mending what.

Know a brand we missed? Let us know — we’ll keep this list growing.

Australian fashion brands with resale or take-back programs:

  • Assembly Label – Re-Worn
  • Kowtow – Relove
  • Spell – reSpell
  • Lorna Jane – Preloved
  • Nudie Jeans – Re-use
  • Citizen Wolf – Circular
  • Patagonia – Worn Wear
  • Upparel & RecycleSmart – Clothing recycling




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Sustainable Fashion

Sustainable Black-Owned Clothing Brands to Support in 2025

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence


| All products featured on The Wellness Feed are independently selected by our editors for their environmental and ethical impact. However, we may earn an affiliate commission when you buy something through our retail links. |

I vividly remember the moment I heard Juneteenth had become a federal holiday. Or, rather, I should say, I remember how I felt – joyful, relieved, and most importantly, seen. Even while celebrating July 4th or Suffrage Day, as an African American woman, there’s an undeniable pang knowing that both holidays do not commemorate my freedoms. I’ve often felt disheartened at how parts of my history felt sidelined rather than celebrated as joyful moments in American history. So, in 2021, when Juneteenth became a federal holiday, I was overcome with joy by the progress my country was making to celebrate a day of freedom that had long been sidelined and forgotten.

Juneteenth marks an important chapter in American history. This holiday commemorates the end of slavery in 1865 in the United States and celebrates freedoms 48 million Americans enjoy today of. As a new holiday, the rollout of celebratory festivals, concerts, and barbecues has been… slow. Despite being mandated as a day that most businesses are closed and some cities hold parades, it’s still a new holiday many are confused about how to celebrate. So, as a business owner myself, I’ve sought to celebrate and support other African Americans who have overcome systemic racism, bias, and discrimination to chase their dreams to start, grow, and sustain their business. 

As our nation progresses towards celebrating the freedoms of all people, celebrating and supporting Black-owned sustainable brands is an important step towards ensuring that, like other parts of our history, they too are celebrated, not sidelined or forgotten.

The Importance of Supporting Black-Owned Sustainable Brands

As consumers, we have the power to help support and sustain brands. When we use our dollars to buy from Black-owned businesses, we’re supporting communities that have for decades had to withstand overt and subtle forms of bias when it comes to funding, contracting, and scaling our businesses. So, until parades and festivities on June 19th become as ingrained in our culture as other freedom-celebrating holidays, I will make it a day to support Black-owned brands that have a strong emphasis on sustainability and social justice.

Jade Swim is part of 1% for the Planet and uses Oeko-Tex certified fabrics.

Supporting Black-owned brands isn’t just about fashion. It’s about ending inequalities and promoting fairness in the business world. When these brands focus on sustainability, they add another layer of positive change. The number of Black entrepreneurs in eco-fashion is growing. But systemic barriers make it harder for Black entrepreneurs to succeed. Discrimination, lack of funding, and limited access to resources put them at a disadvantage. Supporting these brands helps break down those walls, promoting fairness and equity. Backing these brands helps create more diversity in sustainable fashion and sends a message that everyone deserves a seat at the table. 

Studies show that Black-owned small businesses generate billions in revenue, yet they remain underfunded and overlooked. When consumers choose to support these brands, they help grow the economy and create more jobs. Every purchase becomes a statement — encouraging more inclusiveness, diversity, and representation in the fashion world. It’s more than shopping; it’s about building a future where Black entrepreneurs thrive.

Black-Owned Sustainable Clothing Brands 

Now, for the fun part. Let’s talk about Black-owned clothing brands.

Brands with official sustainability certifications are leading the way. They pack transparency into every step— from sourcing to production. Gracemade’s selection of Parisian-chic essentials are made from natural materials and ethically made in Los Angeles. Jade Swim is a part of 1% for the Planet and ensures that all items are made in Los Angeles and shipped in 100% recycled or biodegradable packaging. LemLem is sustainably made in Africa and has seen its designs amplified through collaborations with larger brands like Puma. 

Tips to Shop Fashionably & Sustainably 

  • Check for eco-certifications like GOTS or Fair Trade 
  • Read about the brand’s sourcing and manufacturing practices 
  • Look for transparent companies that share their supply chain details 
  • Support brands that give back to local communities

Eco-Friendly Shoe & Accessory Brands Making Waves

Sustainable footwear often uses recycled rubber, plant-based leathers, or natural textiles. Ahimsa Studios is one of these brands, using zero-waste production methods to reduce waste and pollution. Brother Vellies makes shoes that blend traditional craftsmanship with eco-friendly practices. Sarep + Rose prioritize sustainable materials and fair wages, making style and ethics go hand in hand. 

Other emerging brands use recycled fabrics, biodegradable textiles, and ethical supply chains. Mifland Leather Goods, for instance, uses recycled and ethically sourced leather to create timeless pieces. Goodee is a marketplace for ethical and sustainable goods for your home. These brands are gaining recognition for their eco-conscious approach and innovative designs.

How to Choose Sustainable Leather Goods

  • Look for shoes made from recycled or natural materials 
  • Pick brands committed to eco-friendly practices 
  • Support Black entrepreneurs dedicated to innovation 
  • Be mindful of durability; invest in quality pieces that last

Ethical Jewelry To Love Now & Forever

Yam is a NYC-based jewelry brand that offers made-to-order jewelry with fair trade metals and eco-friendly packaging. They create accessories that last beyond trends and respect workers’ rights. Valerie Madison is Seattle-based brand offering heirloom pieces sourced from recycled gold and ethically-sourced gemstones. 

Investing in quality, timeless pieces means fewer items end up in landfills. Black-owned brands are making jewelry and accessories that are built to last. These pieces give style and substance, not just fleeting trends.

Tips to Buy Eco-Conscious Jewelry

  • Check if metals are recycled or ethically sourced 
  • Avoid brands that don’t share their sourcing details 
  • Choose minimalist designs that can be worn for years 
  • Support brands that give back to communities

Eco-Conscious Beauty & Personal Care Brands Owned by Black Entrepreneurs

The legendary British makeup artist launched her eponymous brand, Pat McGrath Labs, and is stepping into sustainability with eco-friendly packaging and cruelty-free ingredients. The brand focuses on products that make you look as amazing as the models she preps for runway shows and protects nature.

Innovative packaging reduces waste and uses less plastic. Brands that evolve their packaging stand stronger in the eco-beauty movement, making sure beauty is safe for everyone and the environment.

Tips to Find Eco-Friendly Beauty Products

  • Look for organic, cruelty-free labels 
  • Choose brands with recyclable or biodegradable packaging 
  • Support those committed to social and environmental impact 
  • Read ingredient lists for natural, non-toxic options

Shopping Resources

if you want to find out about Black owned clothing brands and more to love, use directories like Official Black Wall Street or The Folklore. Look for certification platforms like Good On You that verify eco-claims. Being informed makes your choices more powerful. Many brands partner with local organizations or run community programs. These collaborations amplify impact and help build more equity in fashion.

Supporting Black-owned, sustainable brands in 2025 is one way to celebrate the freedoms of Americans and create a more equitable and eco-friendly world. Our choices as consumers can spark real change. By shopping consciously, we shape the future of ethical fashion—one stylish, sustainable piece at a time. My intentional this Juneteenth and every other is to continue this mission and watch how our impact grows.




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Women's Fashion

Write an title about: Purple Clothing Was Once Forbidden – Here’s How to Wear it Like a Queen – Fashion For Real Women

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence



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During Easter break 1856, 18 year old William Henry Perkin stumbled across a way to make synthetic purple dye.

A student at the Royal College of Chemistry, he’d set up a crude lab in his apartment so he could continue his research during the break.

His goal? 

To create synthetic quinine.

Quinine had been used to treat malaria for centuries.  But since it was derived from a tree that only grows in Peru, it was labor-intensive and costly to produce.  Industrial England demanded a cheaper alternative.

After one of his experiments, Perkin was cleaning the lab beaker with rubbing alcohol when he noticed a purple residue.  As a chemist who also dabbled in painting, he was immediately intrigued.

The new color, which he called mauvine, launched the synthetic dye industry – and brought the “color of kings” to the masses.

These days, it’s one of the most popular clothing colors, particularly for women.





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Women's Fashion

Review – Short Story Petite Clothing Subscription Box

by Lina Clémence
written by Lina Clémence



*This post was created in partnership with Short Story.

There’s a new petite clothing subscription box in town, specially curated for petite women! If you’re petite and have ever tried a clothing subscription service, you may have run into the problem of a real lack of options in your size. A few years ago, I worked briefly as a stylist for one of the major subscription box companies where I saw firsthand how they lacked actual petite sizes for their clients, despite advertising them heavily. It was very frustrating as a stylist to see so many dissatisfied clients who specially asked for petite clothing and ended up receiving only one, or absolutely none, just due to a complete lack of inventory.

So when the petite subscription box, Short Story, reached out, I was excited to see someone stepping up to serve this market! Below is my experience using the service, and if you’re interested in trying them out yourself, this referral link will waive your first $25 styling fee.

Not sure if this service is for you? You may find this petite clothing visual helpful.

The Process

How Short Story Box Works:

  • Sizes they carry: 00P – 18P
  • Styling Fee: $25, which is credited toward any items you decide to keep
  • Returns: 5 days to try on and decide. Prepaid return envelope included
  • US only at this time

After signing up, you will be directed to take a Style Quiz which is where your budget, sizing, fit, and style preferences will be noted. Along with questions about your height and the usual sizes you wear, you can also further dial in on your personal style by noting typical fit issues, general style and color preferences, and even pieces you’d rather not receive. There’s also a note section where you can leave more detailed information. A petite stylist will use these answers to pick items specifically for you.

I admit I am a picky customer, so I was very curious about what my stylist would choose for me. I asked for clothes only (no shoes or accessories), and kept my color preferences very neutral.

Box Arrival

The items arrived in a branded soft pink medium-sized box. Take note of this in case your living situation requires less enticing packaging (you may need to redirect packages to a work, paid mailbox, or friend/family address). Inside, the clothing items were nicely folded, stacked, and wrapped in tissue. An insert includes a note from your stylist, a list of the box contents, and an itemized price list. A large pre-paid envelope is included for any returns.

The Pieces

Try-On Review

First, A Little About Me:

I am 4’11” tall, short-waisted (longer legs, short torso), narrow on top, and curvier on the bottom. I usually wear an xxs/00 on top, and am somewhere between a size 24/25/0 on bottom. Being so short and also having a short torso means petite sizes will ALWAYS fit better on me. I really need those shorter proportions when it comes to necklines, lengths, rises, armholes, sleeves, hems, etc. I often get away with regular clothing sizes through styling tricks or embracing oversized fits, but when it comes down to it, if I can find an item I love in a petite size, it’s what I’ll reach for and will ultimately look better on me.

Ok, let’s see what my petite stylist picked for me:

Items:

  • 24/7 Knot Front Tee – petite size XS
  • Kyle High Rise Slim Fit Ankle Skinny – petite size 0P

These first two items are both in petite sizes and definitely in my style wheelhouse. A high-rise grey wash distressed skinny is always welcome in my wardrobe, and a knotted drop shoulder stripe tee is fun mix of classic with an edge. Note the perfect petite proportions: the cropped tee ends right at the waist, the high-rise is proportioned to my frame, and look at that perfect ankle length on this petite jean.

Items:

  • Blake Fitted Cardigan – petite size XSP (fits like XXSP)
  • Kyle High Rise Slim Fit Ankle Skinny – petite size 0P

Same petite jean, but now let’s look at this cardigan. Also in a petite size, this fitted cardigan follows my figure and hits at the perfect spot on my wrist. After so many years of wearing loose and oversized top layers, it’s nice to have something a little more fitted and short to pair with this season’s wide and baggy bottoms. In fact, I already wore this cardigan on a trip to Vegas where it paired much better with a pair of wide-leg pants than the oversized fits currently in my closet.

Items:

  • Colette Contour Bodysuit – petite size XXSP
  • Kyle High Rise Slim Fit Ankle Skinny – petite size 0P

Ok, this bodysuit is something I was really interested in trying. In my “about me” above, I noted that not only am I pretty short, but I also have a short torso. This means that even petite proportions on tops can end up a little long on me, making things like one-piece bathing suits or bodysuits very difficult to find. Not only does this petite bodysuit fit, but it’s also a nice thick fabric that makes going braless a possibility. Very excited about this gem! I won’t show you the full bodysuit because I’m not about to put photos like that of me on the internet, but as you can see it’s a nice smooth fit (it would bunch if the bodysuit were too long for me).

Items:

  • Colette Contour Bodysuit – petite size XXSP
  • Porto Striped Ponte Pants – petite size 0P

Pants are always a tough thing for me to find so I wanted to have my stylist include a pair for me to try. This petite pair has a nice bit of stretch and good rise. I prefer my ankle lengths a tad shorter than this, so I’d end up getting these hemmed if I were to keep.

Items:

  • Texture & Thread Front Knot Jacquard Top – non-petite size XXS
  • Porto Striped Ponte Pants – petite size 0P

Here we have the single item sent to me not in a petite size. As soon as I tried on this top, I could immediately feel the difference in fit. The sleeve and length could both stand to be a tad shorter, but let’s be real…I wear way more oversized proportions than this on the regular so I definitely recognize the petite-friendly fit of this item.

Final Thoughts

My main curiosity when it came to the Short Story subscription box was just how many actual petite clothing items they’d be able to send me. Turned out, 5 of the 6 pieces sent to me were indeed an actual petite size, evident by the good fit and proportions. The one item that was not a petite size ultimately felt a little “off” especially after trying on so many properly proportioned items just before it, but still qualifies as quite petite-friendly in my book.

From my personal experience, Short Story gave a much better hit rate of actual petite-sized items than what I saw from similar services and is worth a try if you are a true petite and enjoy the idea of subscription box personal styling. You can give Short Story a try with the first styling fee waived through this link.



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