10 Japanese Brands Blending Tradition and Sustainability in Fashion

Researched, prompted, edited, and published by Soraima on March 25, 2025

Japan's sustainable clothing movement is a significant trend in the fashion industry, driven by environmental awareness and responsible consumption.

It features eco-friendly materials, innovative production techniques, and ethical labor practices. Japanese designers use organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and natural dyes, while production methods focus on minimal waste, employing zero-waste pattern making and upcycling.

This reduces the environmental impact and fosters creativity in design. Japan's cultural heritage contributes to this movement, with traditional crafts like indigo dyeing and sashiko stitching integrated into modern fashion.

Consumer awareness is growing, supported by initiatives educating the public on the impacts of fast fashion and benefits of sustainable choices. Japan's sustainable clothing movement addresses global environmental challenges and showcases its unique blend of tradition and innovation, making it a key player in global fashion.

By merging centuries-old craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, Japanese clothing brands are reshaping the concept of responsible fashion.

From organic fabrics to upcycling initiatives, these companies prioritize sustainability without sacrificing style or quality.

Below, we highlight ten of Japan’s most prominent sustainable clothing brands, their websites, and the unique practices that make them champions of eco-friendly fashion.

1. People Tree

• Why They’re Sustainable: Founded in Tokyo in 1991, People Tree is a pioneer of fair-trade fashion. The brand uses organic cotton, Tencel Lyocell, and other sustainable fabrics, partnering with artisans and farmers worldwide to ensure fair wages and sustainable livelihoods. People Tree became the first fashion company to earn the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) label in 2013, setting a gold standard for ethical production. Learn more

2. Uniqlo (Fast Retailing)

• Why They’re Sustainable: Known for its minimalist basics, Uniqlo has embraced sustainability by incorporating recycled polyester, organic cotton, and a clothing recycling program. By collecting used garments for reuse or repurposing and focusing on durable designs, Uniqlo reduces waste and earned the top spot in Japan’s 2023 Sustainable Brand Index. Learn more

3. Ashuhari

• Why They’re Sustainable: Ashuhari champions slow fashion with timeless women’s clothing made from organic cotton. Produced locally in Japan, the brand focuses on durability and comfort, encouraging long-term use over disposable trends, thereby minimizing its environmental impact. Learn more

4. Kapok Knot

• Why They’re Sustainable: Kapok Knot reimagines outerwear with kapok, a plant-based alternative to down that’s biodegradable and cruelty-free. Manufactured in Japan, the brand ensures supply chain transparency and reduces emissions through local production. Learn more

5. Takarajima Senkou

• Why They’re Sustainable: This Fukuoka-based workshop hand-dyes clothing using natural pigments sourced from Japan and Asia, avoiding synthetic chemicals. Using organic cotton and supporting artisan communities—like India’s Living Blue project—Takarajima Senkou merges sustainability with cultural heritage. Learn more

6. Maito

• Why They’re Sustainable: Maito combines tradition and innovation by crafting garments from organic cotton and plant-based dyes. Its 3D knitting technique minimizes fabric waste, while local production in Japan ensures ethical labor practices and reduces the carbon footprint. Learn more

7. Tennen

• Why They’re Sustainable: Since 2018, Tennen has offered 100% biodegradable clothing made from natural fibers like organic cotton and hemp. With a plastic-free ethos and local manufacturing, its designs naturally decompose, supporting a circular fashion economy. Learn more

8. Nest Robe / CONFECT

• Why They’re Sustainable: Rooted in Japan’s "monozukuri" (craftsmanship) philosophy, Nest Robe uses natural materials like linen and organic cotton. Offering repair services to extend the life of garments, the brand reduces waste and promotes slow fashion principles. Learn more

9. FROMSTOCK

• Why They’re Sustainable: FROMSTOCK breathes new life into discarded clothing by dyeing it black and redesigning it for resale. With 60% of its materials salvaged from items destined for landfills, this upcycling approach directly tackles fashion waste. Learn more

10. BRING

• Why They’re Sustainable: BRING promotes a circular economy by recycling polyester from used clothing into new basics. Its fabric recycling program and local production minimize resource consumption, making it a leader in sustainable textile innovation. Learn more

Why Japan Leads in Sustainable Fashion

Japan’s sustainable clothing brands excel by incorporating eco-friendly materials—such as organic cotton, kapok, and recycled polyester—while championing ethical practices like fair trade and local production.

Many brands blend traditional techniques, such as natural dyeing, with modern innovations like 3D knitting, creating a perfect balance between heritage and progress. Their emphasis on durability, repairability, and upcycling reflects a broader cultural shift away from fast fashion toward mindful consumption.

The Future of Fashion Starts Here

These ten companies prove that sustainability and style can coexist. Whether you’re drawn to People Tree’s global fair-trade ethos or FROMSTOCK’s inventive upcycling, there’s a Japanese brand for every eco-conscious wardrobe.

Visit their websites to explore their collections and join the movement toward a greener fashion future.