Ethan Nouble
Ever find yourself drowning in a sea of clothing brands, unsure which one truly captures the essence of California style? It’s a fashion jungle out there!
We get it – the struggle to curate a wardrobe that screams California cool without sacrificing quality is real.
Fret not, fashion seekers! we’re here to guide you through the sun-soaked landscape of California clothing brands.
In this review, we’ll explore the most popular & sustainable California brands that not only embody the Golden State spirit but also deliver on style, comfort, and that undeniable West Coast charm.
Outerknown (Malibu, CA)
- Best-selling items: shirts, sweaters, chinos, and pocket tees.
- Price range: $$
Outerknown, founded by surfing legend Kelly Slater, isn’t your average clothing brand. They’re proving that eco-conscious choices don’t have to compromise on fashion.
One of the things that makes Outerknown truly special is its use of “preferred organic fibers.” These carefully selected materials are chosen for their positive impact on the planet, aligning with the brand’s mission of responsible and eco-friendly fashion.
A prime example of Outerknown’s dedication to sustainability is their S.E.A. Jeans Slim Fit.
Buck Mason (Los Angeles, CA)
- Best-selling items: T-shirts, coats, jeans, bombers, and pants
- Price range: $ – $$
Founded in 2013 by Erik Allen Ford and Sasha Koehn, Buck Mason has become synonymous with redefining modern American classics. This brand thrives on simplicity and quality, delivering wardrobe essentials that effortlessly stand the test of time.
Meticulous attention to fabric selection is a hallmark of Buck Mason. The result? Garments that exude richness and uniqueness. High-quality materials and tailored fits contribute to a comfortable and stylish experience for the wearer.
Ozma of California (Los Angeles, CA)
- Best-selling items: crops, tops, wide-leg pants, and dresses
- Price range: $$$
Founded in 2015 by designer Heidi Baker, OZMA draws on 15 years of industry experience.
Born out of a desire to redefine success on its terms, the brand emphasizes sustainability and quality in every garment.
Additionally, the OZMA Sisterhood bandana stands as a symbol of giving back, with 100% of profits supporting causes focused on equality, human rights, wellness, and education. Additionally, OZMA commits 1% of profits to these causes through various initiatives.
Christy Dawn (Venice, CA)
- Best-selling items: dress, cardigans, sweaters, and accessories
- Price range: $$ – $$$
The Christy Dawn website features special pieces, new arrivals, and a farm-to-closet section. Dive into regenerative alpaca, explore a glossary, read their journal, or find the perfect gift through the gift card section—a holistic experience that goes beyond mere shopping.
For those seeking a tangible experience, Christy Dawn’s physical store at 1337 Abbot Kinney Blvd, offers an in-person shopping adventure from Monday to Sunday. It’s more than a store; it’s a space where the brand’s ethos comes to life. *
John Elliot (West Hollywood, CA)
- Best-selling items: printed tees, silk shirts, hoodies, and sweatpants
- Price range: $$ – $$$
John Elliott’s early fascination with skate culture, basketball, and clothing was deeply rooted in his Italian immigrant grandmother’s legacy.
A skilled seamstress, she imparted the art of sewing to her daughters, laying the foundation for a future designer. Inspired by the rise of independent labels in his hometown, John envisioned creating designs that could resonate globally.
John Elliott’s dedication and talent have not gone unnoticed. Winner of GQ’s Best New Designer of the Year award, he debuted his runway collection for the Fall/Winter 2015 season in New York, subsequently showcasing eight times at NYFW.
Whimsy + Row (Los Angeles, CA)
- Best-selling items: jumpsuits, wide-leg pants, dress, jackets, and coats
- Price range: $$
Whimsy + Row doesn’t just create fashion; they contribute to meaningful causes. Supporting organizations such as One Tree Planted, People Tree, Global Fund for Women, and many more, the company fosters a community dedicated to giving back through beach cleanups, tree planting, and volunteering.
With a focus on limited runs and local production, Whimsy + Row has minimized its carbon footprint, ensuring unique, waste-free pieces. Whimsy + Row goes beyond traditional recycling also by repurposing fabric scraps into stylish accessories like bandanas, bucket hats, and scrunchies.
Amour Vert (San Jose, CA)
- Best-selling items: blouses, crops, sweaters, and dresses
- Price range: $ – $$ – $$$
At the heart of Amour Vert’s philosophy is a deep commitment to a sustainable future. From artisan-made elements to responsible supply chains, the brand embraces pure and low-impact materials, conscious packaging, and circularity.
Amour Vert effortlessly merges the sophistication of European fashion with the relaxed charm of California. This fusion creates a unique aesthetic—Parisian chic blended with California cool—that sets the brand apart in the realm of sustainable fashion.
Each piece embodies a distinctive style born from these diverse influences.
Patagonia (Pasadena, CA)
- Best-selling items: jackets, sweater jackets, sweater vests, and puff vests
- Price range: $$
Patagonia has earned widespread acclaim for its unwavering dedication to sustainability and ethical business practices. The brand goes beyond delivering high-quality products, prioritizing the creation of positive and memorable experiences for its customers.
Headquartered in Ventura, California, the brand was founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973 and has since become a global icon synonymous with durability, sustainability, and a commitment to ethical practices.
Pact (San Francisco, CA)
- Best-selling items: women’s briefs, leggings, bikinis, dresses, and cardigans
- Price range: $ – $$
Founded by Brendan Synnott with a lofty goal, PACT strives to create the comfiest clothes globally without compromising the well-being of the earth or its people. The brand takes pride in producing clothing that treads lightly on the environment, using organic cotton that significantly reduces water consumption.
Reviews consistently highlight the positive aspects of PACT, praising its eco-friendly packaging, excellent fit, and responsive customer service. PACT extends its commitment to sustainability to the realm of kids’ clothing. Using organic cotton that is non-toxic and gentle on children’s skin, providing environmentally conscious options for all age groups.
LA Relaxed (Los Angeles, CA)
- Best-selling items: dresses, shirts, mocks, tanks, and pants
- Price range: $ – $$
LA Relaxed takes pride in its commitment to sustainability, weaving an eco-friendly thread through every facet of its operations. Certified sustainable fabrics with transparent and verified supply chains are at the heart of the brand’s ethos.
The organic cotton used by LA Relaxed is GOTS certified, and other materials like Lyocell and Modal adhere to the stringent standards of TENCEL™ certification, ensuring environmentally friendly choices.
Mate the Label (Los Angeles, CA)
- Best-selling items: sweatshirts, sweatpants, biker shorts, tanks, and tees
- Price range: $ – $$
By sourcing and producing garments in close proximity, MATE the Label embraces a holistic approach to responsible fashion, aligning its practices with a commitment to environmental consciousness.
Kayti O’Connell Carr, the visionary founder and designer behind MATE the Label, plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s sustainable ethos. With a clear mission, MATE strives to provide people with essentials that are clean from seed to skin.
James Perse (Beverly Hills, CA)
- Best-selling items: jackets, cardigans, hoodies, and sweaters
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$
James Perse’s aesthetic is often described as “quiet luxury.” It offers a sophisticated, understated style that resonates with individuals seeking quality without the need for ostentation.
Beyond the soft cotton feel and neutral tones, the brand places a strong emphasis on social responsibility.
Maintaining high standards of corporate integrity and ethical behavior in all aspects of its business, James Perse ensures that every piece aligns with a commitment to ethical practices.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to ethical practices, timeless designs, or local manufacturing, California’s fashion landscape has it all. Now armed with these 12 brands, choose the one that resonates with your values and elevates your personal style journey.
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