You've probably experienced this scene before: You're in a shop (or online), you come across a stunning item, and then you see labels like: "Eco-responsible", "green", "ethical", "natural", "conscious collection"... But what do all these words really mean? And above all: can we trust them?
Welcome to the jungle of organic and ethical labels . A jungle where some are as solid as an oak , and others… as hollow as a marketing slogan. In this article, we'll help you see clearly , understand the main reliable labels , and make informed choices for cleaner, fairer, and more conscious fashion .
Why are labels important?
In the age of greenwashing , any brand can call itself “green,” “eco-friendly,” or “sustainable”… But without a reputable label , these words are worthless. Certified labels are there to provide a framework, verify, and guarantee. They act as ethical safeguards . They attest that a brand's commitments are not just smoke and mirrors, but real practices verified by independent organizations .
In short, a reliable label equals a concrete commitment. And for us, responsible consumers, that's a superpower.
🏷️ GOTS (Global Textile Standard) - The leading label for organic cotton
It's THE benchmark label for organic textiles. A GOTS -certified garment guarantees that:
- at least 95% of its fibers come from organic farming (for the "organic" label),
- No pesticides, GMOs or chemical fertilizers were used.
- The dyes and treatments are non-toxic .
- The social conditions of workers are respected: no forced labor, no child labor, decent working hours, freedom of association…
In short: GOTS guarantees that a garment is both organic AND ethical , from seed to seam.
🏷️ OEKA-TEX Standard 100 - The anti-toxin label
This label does not guarantee that the fabric is organic, but it certifies that the garment does not contain any substances harmful to health .
- Tested against heavy metals, phthalates, formaldehyde, etc.
- A good point for sensitive skin, babies , or allergy sufferers .
- But be warned: it says nothing about the environment or working conditions.
In summary: a useful additional label , but not sufficient on its own to guarantee ethical clothing.
🏷️ Fair Wear Foundation - Respect for Workers
This label focuses on a single aspect: the social conditions of production .
- No forced labor,
- no exploited children,
- decent wages,
- right to security and to unionization.
Fair Wear partners with brands to improve factory conditions , particularly in Asia. It's a great way to ensure your garment wasn't made using harmful methods.
🏷️ PETA-Approved Vegan - No animal-derived ingredients
This label guarantees that no animal products have been used :
- no leather,
- no wool,
- no silk,
- no animal-derived glue,
- and no animal testing.
It is very useful for people who want to combine ethical fashion and vegan convictions.
But be aware: this label does not guarantee an ecological or fair trade garment . It only certifies the absence of animal products.
🏷️ Bluesign® - for cleaner production
This label is very common among sports and outdoor brands. It certifies that manufacturing processes minimize environmental impact .
- Reduction in water consumption,
- limitation of chemical substances
- energy savings .
A good label if you want technical clothing, but it's not a social label .
And what about the other labels? What to think of "green", "eco", "responsible"...?
Many brands use vague, unregulated terms. Expressions like:
- "conscious collection"
- " eco -responsible",
- "green touch"
-
"sustainable",
… mean nothing without proof or certification .
If you don't see any real label , stay on your guard: it might be greenwashing .
Ethical fashion is like a language
You need to learn to read the signs , to distinguish reliable labels , and to ask brands questions . And the good news is: once you understand the main labels, everything becomes clearer. You gain confidence , consistency , and decision-making power .
At Mythweave , all our garments are made from GOTS-certified materials , respecting human and animal ethics . Our designs are woven with meaning, and our fibers with values 🌿
Want to learn more about our commitments? Visit: https://mythweave-official.com/pages/nos-valeurs-et-engagements-pour-mythweave