How do we feel about spandex vs. Elastene, respectively?

No idea which to buy over the other. So i recently switched to 90%, “pure” plant based fabric and organic cotton activewear and underwears. One of the organic cotton brands I’ve been specifically eying for some time and been willing to start buying from was Mate the Label! Mate’s activewear is all, only spandex-based regarding that small, non-cotton stretch percent. However, i have been seeing some bad news about Spandex generally. And Reddit’s flood of responses about “spandex being WORSE than even polyester,” or other comments purely antagonizing spandex, has really been driving it out for me. That’s the problem with Mate’s choices.

Now on the other hand, id you ask me why I was open to their activewear specifically in the first place, I’ll say it’s actually because i assumed the spandex would help with better form-fitting and, is better quality and durable enough. Whereas, elastene, probably to assume not so much. I think spandex doesn’t feel as cheap either. But like i said, some people just say that spandex is more toxic—it’ll even shed much more microplastics and easily. This also makes it bad for the environment, then.

Don’t know what to think about all this. I rly wanna try Mate now and keep it consistent, purchasing most of their, activewear pieces, especially a legging from them, since they make nicely, comfortably-fit durable activewear perfect for gym sessions and versatile workout sets. Their bras and some tops are, low impact usually, but it’s not like i go over that or medium-impact ever anyway. But which one is actually better between the two stretch inseams?? Which one is generally cleaner and last in the long run, without shedding too much? Should I ever opt for less spandex or just the elastene? Also, i know already that bio based elastene and maybe spandex exist too, I just mainly know of the brand Pangaia. They’re great! Focuses mainly on sustainability and planet health! However, they are WAYy too high-end. I cannot afford more than one of their pieces.

But real quick to add, for a comparison: Mate’s cotton-spandex ratio is 92% with 8%, other brands can be the same exact, but some others are 94/95% with 5%.

Submitted April 8, 2026 at 11:41AM by Physical-Dog-5124 https://ift.tt/smNhxTl

Weekly Thrift Haul Thread

Because the most sustainable clothing is what already exists, show off your thrifted pieces here!

Submitted April 8, 2026 at 11:01AM by AutoModerator https://ift.tt/nZY1rvg

The woman who made your bag will never see this. But her story deserves to be seen.

https://ift.tt/NukiFL7

Submitted April 7, 2026 at 11:23PM by maleemaindia https://ift.tt/5We6uQX

the wonder of nettle fibres

https://ift.tt/ZwMhnis

Submitted April 7, 2026 at 07:21AM by walkinglantern https://ift.tt/Sbfcj5O

Is made‑to‑order fashion worth it? I’d love honest opinions

Hi everyone, I’m a freelance designer and recently opened a small online shop where I sell clothing with graphics I create myself.

I decided to go fully made‑to‑order: no stock, no overproduction, no waste. Every piece is printed only when someone buys it.

The result is that the items are unique, colorful, and high‑quality, and the environmental impact is much lower than mass‑produced fashion.

But here’s the challenge: this approach makes the final price higher, and so far… that means zero customers.

I’m curious to hear from people who care about sustainability or who run small creative projects:

– would you personally pay more for a made‑to‑order, unique, piece?

– or do you think this model is too niche to survive?

I’m not trying to sell anything here — I genuinely want to understand if there’s a conscious community out there that values this kind of approach.

Any insight is appreciated.

Lio

Submitted April 7, 2026 at 06:09AM by Traditional-Mall7475 https://ift.tt/DAz0IVh

Recommendations for natural fiber investment pieces for women

Looking to see if anyone has recommendations for decent natural fibers for women's underwear, pajamas, pillowcases, etc. Like silk, etc

Submitted April 6, 2026 at 11:38PM by swtxsmilex https://ift.tt/uC0nxdX

Sustainable brands directory c/o Good On You

https://ift.tt/cfkSzR3

Submitted February 5, 2022 at 05:01PM by livsndesigns https://ift.tt/Xpa3xRH

Would love to get some feedback

Hi, I’ve been working on a platform (Niche by Nature) that’s focused on making circular fashion more accessible — and I’m currently close to launching.

From a consumer perspective, I’ve always felt like:

• Circular options are hard to discover

• It’s difficult to know what’s genuinely better vs greenwashing

• Most platforms still push overconsumption, just with a “sustainable” label

So what I’m trying to build is something that:

• Helps you discover more intentional, non-mass-produced pieces

• Gives some visibility into the impact of what you’re buying

• Encourages circular behaviour (not just buying more, but reusing/returning over time)

On the backend, we’re working with recycled textile suppliers, textile sorter, circular packaging, and trying to build a system where items can come back into the loop instead of ending as waste.

I’ve just redesigned the website and added early access/waitlist features, but before I move forward, I’d really value perspectives from people who actually care about sustainability:

• Does this feel genuinely useful, or just another “sustainable” concept?

• What would make you trust (or not trust) something like this?

• What’s missing from your ideal sustainable shopping experience?

Here’s the link: https://www.nichebynature.com/

Open to honest feedback — even if it’s critical. I’d rather fix things now than later.

Submitted April 6, 2026 at 06:31AM by Scared_Attorney4688 https://ift.tt/fDV5EbY

I upcycle denim and clothes and turn them into art 🙇🏾‍♂️🪡

https://ift.tt/JZhTMbS

Submitted April 6, 2026 at 06:04AM by SSJevanJr13 https://ift.tt/jr97SF6

Where can I get belt buckles online?

obviously ethically made ofc. my style is more 2000s emo/hardcore and such. I just want a cute one to add to my wardrobe. I already have a belt. I look on the second hand market but they are so flooded with alliexpress drop shippers, especially depop. it's exhausting.

Submitted April 5, 2026 at 10:26PM by ghostinthemirror_x https://ift.tt/aChPsyo