As California advances regulations around microplastics, Everlane stands as a blueprint for the next era of sustainable fashion. The brand’s Recycled Collection highlights products made from certified recycled polyester and nylon—materials that reduce dependence on virgin plastics, conserve natural resources, and minimize the ecological burden of extraction.
While materials form nearly 60% of a product’s environmental footprint, Everlane has committed that by 2025, 100% of its fabrics will be recycled, organic, renewable, or responsibly sourced. The company’s internal Preferred Materials Standards evaluate fibers based on greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, chemical safety, and traceability. This system guides the brand in making more informed sourcing choices.
Everlane applies a precautionary principle when addressing synthetic fibers, aiming to reduce microplastic risk by limiting synthetic use from the outset. Their strategy includes collaborating with leading research institutions to refine mitigation practices—both within supply chains and in final products.
Currently, the brand reports strong progress:
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96% of polyester and nylon used is certified recycled.
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Less than 10% of overall material use is synthetic, with half restricted to durable categories such as outerwear, bags, and footwear. These items require little to no washing, lowering the chance of microplastic shedding.
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100% of packaging is free of virgin plastic.
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90% of virgin plastic has been eliminated from the supply chain.
Compared to industry benchmarks, Everlane’s progress is significant. Globally, only 0.3% of textiles are recycled (Circularity Gap Report – Textiles), while 87% of synthetic fiber production relies on virgin inputs (Textile Exchange, 2024). Packaging, too, remains largely virgin plastic, with 45–55% worldwide still made from it (Ellen MacArthur Foundation).
Everlane’s approach reflects over a decade of radical transparency and forward-looking sustainability, far exceeding the reactive measures seen in many emerging brands. Their work offers a case study in leadership for the industry, particularly as policy discussions around microplastics gain momentum in California and beyond.
For deeper insights, Katina Boutis, Everlane’s Senior Director of Sustainability, is available to discuss the brand’s strategies. She can share lessons from Everlane’s transition to recycled synthetics, explain the rationale behind reducing synthetics to rarely washed products, and assess the potential impact of California’s upcoming policy on fashion and related industries.
