Alternative Apparel, Winston-Salem, N.C., has named Earthleisure™ the most important clothing trend for decades to come.
This fusion of athleisure and sustainably made apparel will challenge both customers and manufacturers to do better, aim higher and be more accessible, according to the company. Alternative also has met its 2020 pledge to convert all virgin polyester used in its fabrications to recycled polyester.
“Our product collection offers style, pricing and a company behind it dedicated to sustainability – historically you can only get two of the three,” says Michael Johnson, director of marketing for HanesBrands Printwear. “What we are doing with Alternative is challenging that mindset. You shouldn’t have to compromise. We are looking at every single aspect of our products.”
With this new focus on sustainability, the brand has introduced its new Alternative Tri-blend Collection, where the team made sure that all three yarns were eco-focused, using TENCEL™ Modal fibers, U.S. grown cotton and 100% recycled polyester. In addition to TENCEL Modal fibers and 100% recycled polyester, U.S. grown cotton is known as one of the most sustainably grown cottons in the world using less water and pesticides.
The new collection features four styles, one unisex and three women’s silhouettes, in a mix of core colorways and elevated earth tones. In addition to the unisex crew, women’s styles include a classic crew, muscle tee and racer tank.
“Eco-awareness continues to grow,” Johnson says. “Earthleisure is about casual, comfortable clothing that we can all be proud of – from better materials to responsible manufacturing. It’s made with our planet and people in mind. With Earthleisure our goal is to revolutionize athleisure by forging everyday style and softness and help our customers with their environmental footprint.” — D.S.