At Change of Clothes, we are dedicated to empowering consumers to make informed choices about their fashion purchases. Our ethical rating system evaluates brands based on their transparency, use of sustainable materials, ethical labour practices, and environmental initiatives. This comprehensive approach ensures that we highlight brands making genuine efforts to mitigate their impact on people and the planet.

The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental degradation and human rights abuses. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions and remains one of the primary sources of microplastic pollution. Moreover, the garment supply chain is often plagued by poor working conditions and unfair labour practices, as highlighted by Human Rights Watch.

We believe that consumers have the power to drive change. By providing transparent and reliable information, we aim to encourage brands to adopt better practices and help consumers make ethical choices. Our rating system is designed to shed light on these issues and support a more sustainable and just fashion industry.

Our rating system evaluates brands across four key categories: Transparency, Sustainable Materials, Ethical Labour Practices, and Environmental Initiatives. Each category is weighted based on its significance, with transparency, sustainable materials, and ethical labour practices each contributing 30% to the total score, and environmental initiatives contributing 10%. Here’s all the factors we consider when rating:

Transparency

• Importance: Transparency is crucial because it allows consumers to make informed decisions and holds brands accountable for their actions. Brands that openly share information about their supply chain, labour practices, and environmental impact receive higher ratings.
• Assessment: We look at whether brands disclose detailed information about their manufacturing processes, sourcing practices, and working conditions. Third-party evaluations such as the Fashion Transparency Index and certifications like B-Corp and Fair Trade Certified play a significant role in our assessment. Brands that publish comprehensive reports, including third-party audits and certifications, score higher.

Sustainable Materials

• Importance: The use of sustainable materials is essential in reducing the environmental footprint of fashion. Brands that use environmentally-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and Tencel are rated more favourably.
• Assessment: We evaluate the proportion of sustainable materials used in a brand’s product line. Third-party certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), OEKO-TEX, and Cradle to Cradle Certified are considered. Brands that prioritise renewable and low-impact materials, and those that are certified by recognised standards, achieve higher scores.

Ethical Labour Practices 

• Importance: Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and workers’ rights is vital in an industry known for exploitation. Ethical labour practices are a cornerstone of our rating system.
• Assessment: We examine brands’ labour policies, including their adherence to international labour standards, the presence of worker unions, and measures to protect workers’ rights. Certifications such as SA8000, Fair Trade Certified, and membership in organisations like the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) are considered. Brands that actively promote fair trade and engage in initiatives to improve working conditions are rated higher.

Environmental Initiatives

• Importance: Environmental initiatives, such as reducing carbon emissions and implementing waste management programs, are crucial for mitigating the industry’s ecological impact.
• Assessment: We assess the extent to which brands have implemented environmental programs, such as carbon offsetting, renewable energy use, and recycling schemes. Certifications and memberships in organisations like 1% for the Planet, Carbon Trust Standard, and the Higg Index play a role in our evaluation. Brands that demonstrate a commitment to reducing their environmental impact score higher.

Consumer pressure plays a significant role in encouraging brands to adopt ethical practices. The Clean Clothes Campaign reports that public campaigns have successfully pressured brands to address issues like union busting and unfair labour practices. By providing clear and accessible information, we aim to amplify consumer voices and drive industry-wide change.

At Change of Clothes, our mission is to promote a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry. By evaluating brands based on transparency, sustainable materials, ethical labour practices, and environmental initiatives, we aim to empower consumers to make informed choices. Together, we can drive positive change and support brands that are committed to making a difference.

Discover how we’re pioneering a movement towards sustainability and ethical practices in the fashion industry. Our mission is to connect you with brands that value the environment and human rights just as much as you do.