It’s not always easy to know which brands are ethical, so it’s great when you can visit a store where you know everything in it will be. But before we get into that, what does shopping ethically even mean? Basically it means a product that is made from cruelty-free and fair trade items which can cover anything from food to clothing (and all that’s in between).
So, if you’re interested in making some feel-good purchases, we’ve put together a list of the most ethical shops in Sydney.
The Cruelty Free Shop in Glebe
Just as the name suggests, everything in here is certified cruelty-free and vegan. Started by founder Jess Baily from her bedroom, you can stock up anything from vegan foods to cosmetics to household cleaning products.
Studio A, Crows Nest
Supporting artists living with intellectual disability, this online shop sells limited editions of the artists’ work. There’s a range of items, from totes, tea towels and artworks to choose from, costing between $30-$250 per item.
Spunky Bruiser, Darlinghurst
This Sydney-based brand is the creation of Rebecca Frost and Christian Orso who hand make all the garments using recycled materials. Throughout the process they consider the environmental impacts at each stage of production, so you know that every item you purchase won’t have put a heavy footprint on the earth. The shop is located on Foley Street.
Milk & Thistle Boutique, Erskineville
Since launching in 2006, Australian designer Danielle Atkinson has become well known for her well constructed, easy-fit garments which are entirely designed and made in Australia. There is both an online store and flagship store in Newtown, Sydney.
Reverse Garbage, Marrickville
The team at Reverse Garbage take someone’s trash and turn it into treasure – or they’ll help you do it yourself. It’s a great initiative and everyone is welcome to shop or learn how to reuse and recycle unwanted items themselves.
Wild Forager, Freshwater
A blossoming store of homewares and blooms, this is the love child of two sisters whose underlying objective is to be kind to the earth. That’s why you’ll find brands that share their vision across a wide range of products like furniture, decor, eco-friendly wellness products, jewellery, treasured objects, vintage pots, plants, and more.