By following these tips, you can incorporate sustainable clothing into your wardrobe and contribute to a greener future. Remember, small changes in our shopping habits can make a big difference in creating a more sustainable fashion industry.
# What is Sustainable Clothing?

### Why sustainability is important to Tom James and how we are staying committed

By: Kim Keller, Clothier - Dallas, TX

April 22, 2024

What is sustainable clothing? It's a growing trend in the fashion world that aims to lessen the environmental and societal impacts of clothing production. Sustainable clothing involves the utilization of eco-friendly materials and manufacturing practices that prioritize social responsibility. Understanding sustainable clothing is essential for consumers seeking to make informed decisions about their wardrobe.

Here at Tom James, we are proud to offer sustainable clothing options that don't compromise style or quality. Our garments are made from environmentally friendly materials and produced with ethical manufacturing standards. With our clothing, you can dress responsibly while maintaining your unique style.

## Diving Deeper into Sustainable Clothing

Sustainable clothing has seen a surge of interest in recent years as a top choice for eco-conscious fashion. But what does sustainable clothing entail? Let's delve into its definition, key principles, and the benefits it offers.

Sustainable clothing refers to the production of apparel using environmentally friendly practices and materials. It takes into account the entire lifecycle of a garment, from raw material sourcing to manufacturing, distribution, usage, and disposal. The goal is to minimize environmental damage, conserve natural resources, and promote fair labor practices.

Understanding what sustainable clothing is involves recognizing its core principles:

### Ethical Sourcing:

This emphasizes the use of responsibly sourced materials like organic cotton, hemp, or recycled fibers. It ensures fair trade and supports the farmers and workers involved in the production process.

### Waste Reduction:

This involves reducing waste throughout the supply chain, which includes minimizing fabric waste during production, promoting recycling and upcycling, and encouraging consumers to make thoughtful choices.

### Energy Efficiency:

This strives to cut down energy consumption during manufacturing and transportation. Brands that practice sustainable fashion adopt practices like using renewable energy sources and implementing energy-efficient practices to shrink their carbon footprint.

### Durability and Quality:

This champions the creation of durable, high-quality clothes designed to last. By investing in long-lasting pieces, consumers can reduce the need for frequent replacements and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.

Choosing sustainable clothing reaps numerous benefits. It helps to preserve the environment by reducing pollution, conserving water, and protecting ecosystems. Additionally, it fosters social responsibility by ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for garment workers. By supporting companies that promote sustainable fashion, you can contribute to positive changes in the fashion industry.

## Materials Used in Sustainable Clothing

What is Sustainable Clothing?

The materials used in sustainable clothing play a crucial role in decreasing environmental impact and promoting ethical practices. So, what are sustainable clothes made of? Let's take a look at some of the main materials used in sustainable fashion:

### Organic and natural fibers

Organic and natural fibers include organic cotton, hemp, linen, and bamboo. These fibers are cultivated without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals, making them healthier for the environment and those involved in the production process.

### Recycled materials

Many brands that promote sustainable clothing now use recycled materials like polyester, nylon, and even plastic bottles to create new garments. By reusing materials that would otherwise end up in landfills, sustainable fashion helps reduce waste and conserve resources.

### Sustainable fabric options

The fashion industry is constantly evolving, and so are sustainable fabric options. Innovations such as Tencel, made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, and Piñatex, a leather alternative made from pineapple leaf fibers, are gaining traction. These innovative fabrics offer sustainable alternatives to traditional materials without compromising on style or quality.

## Production and Manufacturing Processes in Sustainable Clothing

At Tom James, we are devoted to advancing sustainable clothing through our production and manufacturing processes. We stress the importance of fair trade and ethical production practices, as well as reducing our carbon footprint and minimizing water and energy consumption.

When it comes to fair trade and ethical production practices, we guarantee that all our clothing is produced in factories that prioritize their workers' well-being and fair treatment. Our manufacturers adhere to stringent labor standards and provide safe working conditions. By supporting fair trade, we contribute to workers' and communities' empowerment.

We are also committed to reducing our carbon footprint in clothing production. We actively seek eco-friendly materials and production methods that minimize environmental impact. From using sustainable fabrics to implementing energy-efficient technologies, we strive to make sustainable choices at every stage of the manufacturing process.

We also prioritize efforts to minimize water and energy consumption. We continuously explore innovative solutions and practices to reduce water usage during fabric dyeing and finishing processes. We invest in energy-efficient machinery and systems to decrease our overall energy consumption, thereby contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

By prioritizing fair trade and ethical production practices, reducing our carbon footprint, and minimizing water and energy consumption, we are proud to offer sustainable clothing options at Tom James. We believe that style and sustainability can coexist, and our commitment to responsible manufacturing is at the core of our mission.



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We serve busy, successful professionals by meeting them in their homes or offices, on the go, or wherever Is convenient.

## The Impact of Sustainable Clothing

Sustainable clothing plays a crucial role in addressing some of the significant challenges faced by the fashion industry today. By focusing on reducing waste and pollution, promoting social responsibility, and preserving ecosystems and biodiversity, sustainable clothing aims to create a positive impact on both society and the environment.

A key aspect of sustainable clothing is the reduction of waste and pollution. Traditional fashion practices often contribute to environmental degradation through excessive use of resources, high levels of waste generation, and harmful chemical emissions. In contrast, sustainable clothing emphasizes the use of eco-friendly materials, responsible production processes, and recycling techniques to minimize waste and pollution.

Sustainable clothing also promotes social responsibility in the fashion industry. This involves ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for garment workers, supporting ethical sourcing practices, and fostering transparency throughout the supply chain. By prioritizing the well-being of workers and communities, sustainable clothing contributes to a more equitable and inclusive fashion industry.

In addition to that, sustainable clothing plays a vital role in the preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity. The fashion industry has historically been associated with deforestation, water pollution, and habitat destruction due to the extraction of raw materials. Sustainable clothing, on the other hand, seeks to minimize these impacts by utilizing organic and renewable fibers, implementing sustainable farming practices, and supporting conservation efforts.

By choosing sustainable clothing, you not only make a fashion statement but also contribute to a better future for our planet and its inhabitants.

## Integrating Sustainable Clothing into Your Wardrobe

Incorporating sustainable clothing into your wardrobe is a superb way to impact the environment positively. By making eco-friendly fashion choices, you can reduce your carbon footprint and support ethical practices in the fashion industry.

When shopping sustainably, consider the materials used in the clothing. Look for organic cotton, hemp, or recycled fabrics, which have a lower environmental impact than conventional materials. Also, check for certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or Fair Trade labels, which ensure ethical production practices.

Building a capsule wardrobe is an excellent strategy to incorporate sustainability into your closet while still looking stylish. Choose versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. Invest in high-quality garments that will last longer, thereby reducing the need for frequent replacements. By focusing on quality over quantity, you can minimize waste and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.

By following these tips, you can incorporate sustainable clothing into your wardrobe and contribute to a greener future. Remember, small changes in our shopping habits can make a big difference in creating a more sustainable fashion industry.

## Where to Buy Sustainable Clothing

At Tom James, we firmly believe that fashion and sustainability can coexist. Our clothing is designed to provide stylish options while minimizing environmental impact. We are committed to offering garments that are not just fashionable but also ethically produced.

From sheep to suit, we maintain complete control over the entire clothing production process operating in only the finest facilities. All of our custom clothing is manufactured in our own factories, allowing us to ensure ethical practices every step of the way.

Over the years, Tom James Company has acquired many of the manufacturing authorities in custom clothing like English American, Oxxford Clothing, Holland & Sherry, Individualized Shirts, and more ( Click here to see the full list of our brands). Owning these manufacturers and being vertically integrated ensures a steadfast commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. For instance, our shirt factory in Perth Amboy runs on 100% solar power, and the boilers fueling our mill in Santiago, Chile, are powered by recycled chestnut shells sourced from local farms.

When it comes to quality and craftsmanship, Tom James is unmatched. To ensure that our clothing is made to last, each garment is meticulously crafted using the finest materials and techniques. Our skilled artisans pay attention to every detail, ensuring that each piece meets the highest standards of quality. Tom James clothing is constructed with durability in mind, reducing waste and the need for replacements.

We are dedicated to promoting sustainable fashion and we understand the importance of reducing waste and minimizing our carbon footprint. That's why we carefully craft each garment to uphold our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. By choosing Tom James' sustainable clothing, you make a positive impact on the environment without compromising on style. Dress confidently, knowing that your outfit is in alignment with your values.

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### WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

"Women's custom suits! What a treat to get clothes that really fit, and to have the opportunity to choose everything yourself...the fabric, the cut, the lining, the pockets, the buttons...everything! Nets out, over time, to a wardrobe full of favorites. Much easier to get dressed for work in the morning."

casto jane

vp, engineering technologies at Ecolab

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#### Rebecca Garsys

###### Tom James of Minneapolis

"I really like the convenience of having fittings in my home and a wardrobe tailored perfectly and at a price that is comparable to what I used to buy 'off the shelf'. "

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VP Con Agra Foods

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###### Tom James of Omaha

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