Yes, Monki is a fast fashion brand. As part of the H&M Group, its business model is built on rapid production cycles, trend-driven designs, and affordable pricing that encourages frequent purchasing and high turnover.
While the brand has made some commitments to using sustainable materials, its ethical practices regarding worker wages and supply chain transparency are severely lacking. Its sustainability efforts are overshadowed by the sheer volume of clothing it produces, leading many to consider its initiatives a form of greenwashing. Here's what you need to know about Monki's practices.
Monki embodies the fast fashion model through its speed, scale, and focus on fleeting trends. Its operations are designed to get low-priced, trendy items into stores as quickly as possible.
Monki's ethical record is mixed, showing awareness of its responsibilities but falling significantly short in key areas like worker wages and supply chain transparency.
Monki manufactures primarily in countries like Bangladesh, India, and China, where labor rights issues are common. Reports from organizations like Fashion Revolution have highlighted problems in factories supplying the H&M Group, including unsafe conditions and unpaid wages. Factory workers in Bangladesh producing for the group earn around $180-$200 per month, which is far below the estimated living wage of $350-$400 needed in the region.
While Monki publishes a list of its suppliers, it fails to provide access to detailed factory audit reports, corrective action plans, or specific factory-level data. This lack of transparency makes it impossible to independently verify the working conditions or confirm that its code of conduct is being enforced, hindering genuine accountability.
Monki uses some animal-derived materials like wool and leather but does not have PETA-Approved Vegan or other robust animal welfare certifications. The brand offers vague statements about sourcing from suppliers that follow responsible standards, but it lacks the specific policies and transparency needed to ensure animals are not harmed during production.
Monki’s sustainability efforts are marked by aspirational goals that are not yet backed by substantial action. Its progress is slow, and its core business model fundamentally conflicts with principles of sustainability.
Monki states that around 30% of its materials are from more sustainable sources, including organic cotton (GOTS certified) and recycled polyester. However, this means the vast majority - 70% of its collections - still relies on conventional, resource-intensive fabrics. While its goal is to reach 100% sustainable materials by 2030, its current slow pace raises doubts about its commitment.
The brand provides very little data on its environmental performance. There is no publicly available information on its carbon emissions, water usage, wastewater treatment, or chemical management. This significant lack of data makes it impossible for consumers to assess the true impact of its manufacturing processes.
Monki operates a take-back program for recycling used garments in some stores, but the initiative has a limited geographic reach and lacks transparency on what happens to the collected clothing. The brand doesn't widely offer repair services, and the short lifespan of its trend-focused products contributes directly to textile waste.
Monki shares the H&M Group’s goal to become "climate positive" by 2040, but its progress reporting is vague and lacks third-party verification. It is not B Corp certified or aligned with major accountability frameworks like the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), indicating a gap between marketing claims and verified achievements.
Monki promotes an image of cheerful inclusivity, but its operational practices do not live up to its marketing. The brand's efforts in sustainability and ethics are superficial changes that fail to address the systemic harm caused by its fast fashion business model.
Monki earns a 'D' grade for ethics. The brand fails on the most critical aspect of labor rights: paying its workers a living wage. This failure, combined with a severe lack of transparency into its factory audits and conditions and its weak animal welfare policies, demonstrates a commitment to compliance over genuine ethical leadership.
Monki receives a 'C-' for sustainability. While its public goal to use 100% sustainable materials by 2030 is a step in the right direction, its current rate of only 30% is underwhelming. This rating is further brought down by a complete lack of transparency on its environmental impact and the fact that its high-volume production model is inherently unsustainable.
If you're seeking brands that offer fun, trendy styles without the massive ethical and environmental footprint, consider these more responsible alternatives.
Thought offers stylish, contemporary clothing made from organic and recycled materials like hemp and Tencel. As a certified B Corp, it guarantees fair labor practices and transparent supply chains, offering a similar aesthetic to Monki with far stronger ethical credentials. Prices are comparable, with dresses ranging from $40-$60.
Shop now at thoughtclothing.com
A true pioneer in ethical fashion, People Tree is Fair Trade certified and ensures living wages are paid across its entire supply chain. It exclusively uses GOTS-certified organic cotton and other sustainable materials to create timeless yet fashionable pieces that are built to last.
Shop now at peopletree.co.uk
Known for its "Radical Transparency," Everlane shares detailed information about its factories and cost breakdowns. It offers minimalist basics and fashion pieces made from materials like recycled cashmere and organic cotton, with a strong commitment to quality and ethical production.
Shop now at everlane.com
Though known for outdoor gear, Patagonia's casual wear offers durable and sustainably made options for everyday style. As a certified B Corp and Fair Trade leader, the brand prioritizes repairs, activism, and using recycled materials, actively fighting against a throwaway fashion culture.
Shop now at patagonia.com
This brand offers trendy, affordable fashion with a conscience, rivaling Monki's prices while maintaining Fair Trade standards. It focuses on using eco-friendly materials and ensures supply chain transparency through its certification with the Fair Wear Foundation.
Shop now at peopleandplanet.co.uk
Yes, Monki is part of the H&M Group, which also owns other well-known brands like & Other Stories, COS, and Weekday. Its fast fashion business model, production standards, and sustainability targets are heavily influenced by the group's overarching corporate strategy.
No, there is no evidence that Monki pays a living wage anywhere in its supply chain. Reports show workers in key manufacturing countries like Bangladesh earn wages far below local living wage standards, and the company has no time-bound commitment to close this gap.
Monki reports that currently around 30% of its materials are sourced more sustainably, such as organic cotton or recycled polyester. The brand has a goal to reach 100% by 2030, but progress remains slow.
