Ethical, sustainable, fair trade, eco-friendly or green – whatever the buzzword of the minute might be, deciding what to wear and where to shop is becoming more and more confusing. With all this terminology knocking about, socially and environmentally aware consumers may find themselves becoming stressed while getting dressed.

But don't despair – making an informed decision isn’t as difficult as it might appear. Here’s our guide to ethical fashion available online from Oxfam.

First things first
Before you start flashing the cash, have a look through your wardrobe – it’s surprisingly easy to get a new look without costing the Earth... cut it, sew it, patch it, restyle it and wear it again. Or clear out all those items that don’t fit or flatter and donate them to Oxfam and replace them with a few choice pieces...

Even the grassiest of grass-route activists need to update their wardrobe every so often. Buying second-hand is a great way to keep your look fresh without putting more strain on the planet associated with clothing production. Fortunately, this is a market that Oxfam has had covered for over 60 years through our network of high street shops and more recently online. From vintage to designer brands, buying second-hand from Oxfam means you can look great, and do your bit for the environment at the same time.

No. 1: Fair Trade
A growing number of fashion retailers are working with Fair Trade producer groups to create catwalk style with the assurance that producers are getting a fair price and good working conditions. Buying Fair Trade fashion allows you to update your wardrobe with all of the latest trends and promote good social and environmental standards in all phases of garment production. Fair Trade items can be spotted by the IFAT label, all People Tree products are made by producers who are part of the global network of Fair Trade Organizations (IFAT).

No. 2: Fairtrade
The same label that you have seen on coffee and tea can be applied to the commodities including the cotton that we wear, ensuring that the producers get a better deal and a sustainable livelihood. For a product to be labeled with the FAIRTRADE mark the developing country producer group must meet international standards set by the Fairtrade Labelling Organisation (FLO). Demand has grown exponentially for Fairtrade cotton but we’ve got some at Oxfam, check out selected People Tree products and our Oxfam T shirts.

We all know about the benefits of Organic carrots but what about Organic clothing? Organic clothing is made from materials that are raised or grown without the harmful use of chemical pesticides or herbicides. In addition to the environmental benefits, growing organic means farmers don’t suffer the ill health associated with exposure to agro-chemicals and contamination of groundwater supplies. Have a look at our organic cotton jeans made by Ascension.

Unlike a commercial retailer, buying your clothes from Oxfam means that 100% of the profits will be dedicated to fighting poverty. From developing projects that put poor people in charge of their lives and livelihoods, to putting pressure on world leaders for real lasting change, Oxfam needs your support.