By Lola Connelly
Having been ‘World Vegan Day’ on 1st November, it is no better time to investigate the idea of a vegan coat. As you can guess, these jackets have no animal product of any kind. Whether that is fur, leather, feathers or even wool.
A vegan and ethical lifestyle shouldn’t result in a difficult search finding the perfect jacket.
Even if you are not a vegan, purchasing an vegan (and ethical) coat can make positive changes. It is important to remember, these ethical brands are transparent within their practices. And even admit to not being ‘perfect’. However, compared to fast fashion retailers, these ethical brands have come a long way towards making a difference. With a vast collection of different trends and sustainable materials, style and ethics is not an issue!
Raincoats
Raincoats are your classic go-to for the wet (and snowy) season. And if you live in the UK like me, this jacket is pretty much needed all year round. Whether you are going to your local corner shop or strolling in the woods, you desire it for one thing.
To keep you dry. It it generally easy to find traditonal vegan raincoats. However, PVC or PTFE is a common toxic solvent saturated within traditional raincoats.
It does not biodegrade and releases hydrofluoric acid during production. As a result, this causes environmental damage, as well as harm to the workers. On the positive side, here are a couple of brands replacing the toxic solvents and materials with sustainability.
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Thought
Crafted within this mustard yellow and waterproof coat, is 100% organic cotton and 100% recycled polyester. Thought recognises the responsibilities towards local communities, eco systems and the environment. And encorages those to “live more thoughtfully”. They also use vegan glue.
LangerChen
This urban design is the perfect transition jacket for those cold rainy days. With a detachable hood and taped seams, the conscious German label is well known for their timeless looks. Their ‘Made in China’ label does not come from mass production. But rather, a fair and ‘family-run’ company of Jiaxing.
The Duster Jacket
Worn all year round, the duster jacket is a timeless and elegant staple for your wardrobe. As a matter of fact, you don’t even have to worry about what you are wearing underneath. Particularly once coupled with a scarf and boots.
Made from leather, cotton or polyester, this has become an adaptable and easy to style jacket. Regardless, these materials are not as sustainable (or vegan) as much as we would like.
Surprisingly, linen was the original material for duster coats in the 1800s! As a biodegradable and sustainable material, it is no wonder brands are starting to use it again.
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ThokkThokk
To wear as a jacket or blazer, this feminine and asymmetrical hem contains 100% lyocell (TENCEL). With energetic prints and striking graphic designs, this is where energy meets ethics. In fact, every piece is sustainable, fair and vegan. And is even PETA vegan approved.
Love And Confuse
The whole range at Love and Confuse uses the material linen, and is even cut, sewn and made to order to reduce waste. Linen is a breathable and moisture wicking material, meaning this duster coat can be worn during the winter and summer months.
The Corduroy Jacket
There is no mistaking of the ridged, velvet fabric of corduroy. Its visible pattern gives an eye-catching uniqueness, adding texture and rich colour.
Not only is corduroy currently in style, but it is perfect for the winter. Corduroy is traditionally formal in style.
Yet, there is no mistaking these jackets are seamless with every outfit. Creating that timeless vintage look. Below are some sustainable corduroy jackets.
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Twothirds
Made from 100% organic corduroy, this is Twothirds first Corduroy jacket. Pair the jacket with less textured trousers and a roll neck jumper to complement the jacket further. Longevity is at the heart of Twothirds, created through timelessness (thoughtful design) and quality (production).
Whimsy+Row
Based in LA, Whimsy+Row’s mission has been to “provide ease and elegance for the modern, sustainable woman”. This corduroy jacket is no exception. For pieces to be flirty and effortless, only the best eco fabrics are provided.
The ‘Denim’ Jacket
An essential which everyone needs in their wardrobe is the ‘Denim jacket’. During the late 40s, the denim jacket became one of the first
unisex items of clothing.
The perfect time for both women’s liberation and sexual freedoms. Being styled with almost anything, denim is like a blank canvas to transform and layer your look.
Whether paired with dresses or trousers, it can be the finishing touch within any season. Denim production is detrimental towards environmental and human damage. In this case, here are some sustainable and organic denim choices.
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Boyish
With cropped batwing sleeves, oversized pockets and zigzag stitching this is the vintage denim jacket for that 90s look. Within this jacket we have 70% organic cotton and 30% GRS certified recycled cotton. This helps reduce water usage and their carbon footprint. Designed in Los Angeles, Boyish focuses on leaving as “little impact on the earth as possible.”
Armedangels
Armedangels loves beautiful, comfortable and fair products. And if you’re looking for a denim jacket which isn’t blue, this dark and unisex jacket provides that ‘grunge’ feel for any occasion.
The Utility Jacket
Like the denim, the utility jacket has many pairing combinations. Working with a dress or skirt or jeans and a t-shirt, the possibilities are endless.
Furthermore, the utility jacket is very functional, with its many pockets and adjustable fit. When you are in a rush, this is the perfect jacket to complete your outfit.
Polyester is a common material for the utility jacket. When it comes to sustainability however, hemp and organic cotton is the way forward!
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Tentree
Designed to keep you warm all season long, this workwear flannel gets softer with each wear. All due to the 100% organic cotton. Known for their outside products and a belief of protecting and preserving the world, ten trees are planted with each sale. Already having planted 30 million, it is now their aim to plant 1 billion trees by 2030. Not only is Tentree ethical, but also inclusive to all body types.
Back Beat Co.
Described as the “perfect jacket for all your needs” Back Beat Co provides laidback vibes for everyday wear. As well as infusing old school turf ‘n’ surf skate culture. The material within this jacket in particular contains 60% hemp and 40% organic cotton, and is also based in LA.
The Padded Jacket
Whether sliding down the snow-covered slopes or bracing the icy cold winds in the city, the padded jacket will keep you toasty warm.
During these last few years, we have seen a rise of popularity to the padded jacket. It has now become a fashion statement, rather than a winter essential.
Filled with down feathers and insulated with synthetic fibres such as polyester, traditional padded jackets are a problem to both the environment and animal rights.
With this in mind, here are brands which are both vegan and made from recycled materials!
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Finisterre
Down-free, windproof and water resistant, this is Finisterre’s most sustainable ‘Nimbus’ to date. UK based Finisterre was originally created for British cold surfers, now the functional designs are for the lovers of the sea. The collection of apparel and insulated jackets contain recycled plastics and organic cotton. Creating functionality and sustainability through style and identity.
Ecoalf
Made entirely from recycled fabrics, the ethical Spanish brand provides high quality clothing. Ecoalf has already recycled more than 120 million plastic bottles into beautiful and unique pieces. And developed over 300 fabrics. Check out their current movement #becausethereisnoplanetB.
The Classic Black
What can go wrong with a classic black coat. Whether you’re opting for the sophisticated or stylish, these jackets will go with anything.
Rather than buying a new jacket every season, commit to wearing it as long as possible.
If you are on a budget, black jackets are the way to go as they will not go out of style, and they’re not stain magnets.
With the prominence and popularity of the teddy coat, a 100% recycled PET (rPET) is the vegan way forward. Rather than virgin synthetic material or wool.
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Komodo
Made from recycled PET, this fleece will keep you warm and ethical. And above all fearless. Komodo aims to create clothes which look great, whilst also protecting and nurturing the planet. Komodo believes that the little things and small changes to our lifestyle can have a huge and positive impact to the future.
Mila.Vert
On the more luxury side, this casual but elegant organic cotton coat will complement any outfit. As desirable and sustainable, these fashion items represents a story of empowerment and being kind to yourself and to others.
No matter the upcoming winter weather or occasion, these jackets can be styled and layered to your choosing. And they are all ethical and vegan! Let us know in the comments which jacket is your favourite.
Lola Connelly
Lola is a Media and Communications graduate from Newcastle University who is highly passionate about sustainable and ethical fashion. She is also an enthusiastic photographer and avid film lover.
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