Shopping sustainably in Cape Town is more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle choice that aligns with ethical values and environmental consciousness. As a responsible traveler, I also try to shop sustainably wherever I am. This was sparked by a discussion during my studies in Germany back in 2015, I recall a conversation sparked by a classmate’s excitement over fast fashion giants like Primark and H&M. It was then that our facilitator, Max, urged us to watch the eye-opening documentary, “The True Cost,” which shed light on the exploitative practices rampant in the fashion industry. You can watch it for free on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwp0Bx0awoE
Witnessing the devastation of fast fashion, I decided to shift my shopping habits toward sustainability.Today, I try to make mindful choices, opting for thrift finds, mending my clothes, repurposing clothes, embracing clothing swaps, and supporting brands committed to ethical practices. In my hometown of Cape Town, a burgeoning hub of sustainable fashion, several brands stand out for their dedication to eco-conscious production and social responsibility. Here are a few sustainable brands trying to produce and or sell clothing that leaves no harm in its wake.
Float Apparel
Float Apparel, a brainchild of two friends, epitomizes the essence of sustainable chic. With diverse styles, Float Apparel aims to float seamlessly between fashion trends while remaining steadfast in its commitment to environmental preservation and fair labor practices.
Website: https://www.floatapparel.co.za/| Contact form: https://www.floatapparel.co.za/pages/contact-us| Instagram: @float_apparel
Hemplove
Hemplove, is a proudly female-owned brand, that weaves together a tapestry of timeless designs with an eco-friendly twist. Rooted in a love for Africa, HempLove crafts each garment with care, using hemp-based fabrics for a lower ecological footprint.
Website: hemplove.co.za | Email: chris@hemplove.co.za / larablevi@hemplove.co.za| Tel: Chris Adams: (+27)718925730 / Lara Blevi: (+27)794668444Facebook: @hemploveza | Instagram: @hemploveza
Mad Dogs
For those seeking comfort without compromising on style, Mad Dogs has been a steadfast ally since 1993. Their durable cotton goods, bursting with vibrant hues and playful patterns, offer a refreshing alternative to the disposable culture of fast fashion. Their clothes only use cotton without artificial blends, making the brand stand out from the crowd. They stock unisex, and kids’ apparel. They also collaborate with local celebs and in 2022 they collaborated with TEARS animal shelter an organization I used to work with. All in all Mad Dog is a fun exciting brand that is trying to make a difference in the world.
Website: maddogs.co.za | Email: info@maddogs.co.za | Tel: 011 083 8542
Facebook: @MadDogsGear | Instagram: @maddogs_clothing
WWF Shop
In a world where every purchase holds the power to effect change, the WWF Shop stands out as a beacon of sustainability. Beyond its iconic panda logo lies a treasure trove of thoughtfully curated apparel and products, each bearing the mark of eco-consciousness and a commitment to preserving our planet’s natural wonders. The proceeds of the sales also go to protecting wildlife and crucial habitats.
Website: shop.wwfsa.org.za | Email: shop@wwf.org.za | Tel: 021 657 6600
Facebook: @wwfsa | Instagram: @wwfsouthafrica
Afraid of Mice
Rounding out the list is Afraid of Mice, a boutique haven for lovers of luxury and vintage fashion. Offering a curated selection of pre-owned designer pieces, Afraid of Mice invites customers to embrace the concept of circular fashion, extending the lifecycle of coveted garments with every transaction. Afraid of Mice has a physical store at 99 Harrington Street, Cape Town and they also communicate via their Instagram account. At the time of writing this post, their website was inactive.
Email: sales@afraidofmice.com | Tel: 021 683 1716
| Instagram: @afraidofmice
Whether you’re browsing the racks or clicking “add to cart” online, these sustainable fashion brands in Cape Town offer more than just clothing—they represent a movement towards a more ethical and eco-friendly future. So, the next time you embark on a shopping spree, consider the impact of your choices and opt for brands that align with your values. After all, fashion isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about how you wear your values with pride.
Thank you for reading
Nikkidiscovers 