T-shirts are the perennial wardrobe staple: they transcend season and trend. To help you navigate the ever-expanding world of eco-friendly tees, we’ve scouted out the territory for you.
The 10 shirts in this round-up are all sustainably manufactured and possess the three must-have qualities of anything worthy of calling itself a t-shirt: softness, comfort and durability.
The Sustainable Edition tee from American Apparel has the contoured comfort that screams "buy me in 20 different colors". Temptation might get the best of you; the organic jersey cotton shirts are available in up to 40 hues, depending on availability.
It’s classic, it’s cotton, it’s conscious. The Lucy tee by under the canopy is a safe bet with a basic, modern fit.
This Eco Heather V-neck by Alternative Apparel is a blend of organic cotton, recycled polyester and natural rayon. Extra points for low-impact dyeing.
Glo 4 Life offers a darling series of screen printed tees in 100% organic cotton. I couldn’t resist the ‘urban vermin’ series with its cute, minimalist pigeon. The tees are also available in blank solid colors.
ONNO‘s bamboo tees feel like a mix of silk and cashmere and have the added benefit of naturally inhibiting odor.
Edun Live’s "Eve" tee was inspired by none other than the first maternal (mitochondrial) ancestor of all humanity. The tees are 100% African cotton, and are part of Edun’s mission to create jobs in developing villages.
Jonano gives a sheer, sexy version of a v-neck tee. Ideal for layering and available in a pallet of mineral hues, these shirts are guaranteed to be manufactured without sweatshop labor.
The Stewart & Brown Organic Pima Cotton Tee is perfect for those times you want an embellished version of a classic. The ribbing and detail are perfect to dress up jeans.
For an ultra-feminine take on the tee, try the bamboo scoop neck by sameunderneath.
I couldn’t resist this long-waisted, tissue knit organic cotton tee by Kate. Available in Poppy, Earth, Black and White, it just might become the new four-corners of my summer wardrobe.
What’s your tried-and-true eco-tee?