9 Sustainable Denim Jackets For 2024
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A well-fitting jean jacket can transform your style, layer your look, and of course, keep you warm. However, denim production can be costly in terms of environmental and human damage. Most cotton used in denim is grown with toxic chemicals, which many farmers are forced to pick in unsafe working conditions. Once the cotton is sourced, thousands of gallons of water are needed for production. Fortunately, there are better alternatives.
Instead, we can choose sustainable and organic denim. While the price-point is higher, it’s because we’re investing in practices that align with our values: fair labor and local production, responsibly grown and sourced materials, upcycling and recycling, and carbon-neutral shipping. Plus, authentic, well-designed denim can last a lifetime, so it’s well worth the investment.
We’ve selected our favorite jackets below, but if you’re looking for something more affordable, shop for pre-loved jackets! For secondhand and vintage gems, we recommend apps like Depop, Etsy, eBay, or Poshmark. Check out these tips for thrifting online and our advice on how to shop for vintage denim. Wear your new find with confidence! ✨
1. Quince
Sustainable Materials | 100% OCS-certified organic cotton
Size Range | XS–XL
Price | $49.90
Quince is committed to producing high quality garments that are sustainably made and affordably priced. This classic lightweight denim jacket is made with 100% organic cotton (no blends here!) and is certified OEKO-TEX Standard 100, meaning no hazardous chemicals were present in its development. If you’re looking for that staple denim jacket that matches everything, Quince’s got you covered!
2. ÉTICA
Sustainable Materials | Refibra TENCEL, recycled & biodegradable materials
Size Range | XS–L
Price | $158–$228
For trendy denim jackets that are thoughtfully designed and ethically made, ÉTICA is your go-to. You’ll find authentic premium denim pieces in a number of flattering silhouettes for your perfect aesthetic. We love this vintage inspired jacket with its adorable puff sleeve! ÉTICA uses responsible practices when sourcing materials and works hard to exceed Fair Labor standards through providing their employees with a living wage, health benefits and free meals.
3. Amour Vert (AGOLDE jackets)
Sustainable Materials | Organic cotton
Size Range | XS–XL
Price | $198
Finding that quintessential oversized denim jacket that’s reminiscent of nostalgic times can be tough to find. Fortunately Amour Vert has answered our prayers! This charming slouchy denim jacket is made by AGOLDE and is crafted with non-stretch organic cotton–it also comes in 3 gorgeous shades. Beyond looking effortlessly cool, you’ll find your denim jacket carefully wrapped and shipped using only compostable and recycled packaging.
4. Patagonia
Sustainable Materials | Organic cotton, TENCEL Lyocell, hemp
Size Range | XS–XL
Price | $179
Patagonia is a pioneer in sustainable outdoor fashion and prioritizes transparency when it comes to how and where its clothing is sourced. This Fair Trade certified company uses sustainable materials and provides traceability details so you know exactly how and where your clothes are made. For an outdoorsy vibe, this workwear denim coat is not here to play! Made with tough hemp denim that’s low impact on the environment, this jacket is highly abrasion-resistant for peace of mind when on the job.
5. ABLE
Sustainable Materials | Sustainable denim, Lyocell
Size Range | 2XS–3X
Price | $150–$180
ABLE employs artisans from around the globe and pays far more than just “living” wages to help sustainably lift people from poverty. The brand’s Merly Jacket is handcrafted in Mexico and like all its denim—it’s made with sustainable cotton, Lyocell and 100 percent recycled water throughout production. This timeless fit and distressed feel gives you a serious edge.
6. Everlane
Sustainable Materials | GOTS-certified organic cotton, Roica® V550 yarn
Size Range | 2XS–XL
Price | $88
For a jean jacket that’s well fitted, the perfect length and made with microplastic-free dye, look no further than Everlane. Made with organic cotton and one of the world’s first stretch yarns that’s free from harmful chemicals, this innovative denim jacket is about to be your new best friend. Throw on some sunnies and an oversized tote bag for the cutest and easiest outfit pairing!
7. Warp + Weft
Sustainable Materials | Responsibly sourced cotton
Size Range | XS–3XL
Price | $78–$98
The family-run team behind Warp + Weft has been in the denim business for more than thirty years, meaning they know a thing or two about the perfect jean jacket. A classic American style with a twist, these denim jackets are sustainably made with cotton denim–and come in a number of colorful washes, including lavender and bone. Best of all, we love that this brand offers inclusive sizing on its denim jackets through 3XL.
8. Sézane
Sustainable Materials | GOTS-certified organic cotton, recycled poly
Size Range | 2XS–3XL (US 2–14)
Price | $145–$210
These beautifully crafted denim jackets from Sézane are made with 100 percent organic GOTS certified cotton. We love the small touches–like wide pockets, round pleats, cropped options and stylish buttons. This French-based brand also prioritizes eco-friendly and ethical production, recycled packaging, and giving back through DEMAIN, its philanthropic initiative.
9. Levi’s
Sustainable Materials | Sustainable cotton
Size Range | 2XS–4XL
Price | $89.50–$248
For most of its denim, Levi’s sources cotton from sustainable farmers and leverages water-efficient practices. Their jackets are sustainably made with 100 percent cotton and most styles have an oversized, extra-relaxed look which is ideal for layering. With versatile pieces for all and responsible production, it’s clear why Levi’s has been a household name for decades.
Featured image from AGOLDE via Amour Vert
