No, Odd Muse is not a fast fashion brand. It operates on a slow fashion model, releasing curated seasonal collections rather than chasing weekly micro-trends.
The brand demonstrates strong commitments to ethical production and sustainability, though there is room for improvement. With transparent supply chains, PETA-approved vegan status, and a focus on eco-friendly materials, Odd Muse positions itself as a responsible choice for consumers. Here’s what you need to know about Odd Muse's practices:
Odd Muse's business model is fundamentally different from the high-volume, rapid-turnover approach of fast fashion. Its core practices prioritize quality and longevity over speed and disposability.
Odd Muse has built a strong ethical foundation with significant transparency and third-party verification, although there are areas where it can still improve.
Odd Muse sources from factories in Portugal, Turkey, and India and publishes a detailed supplier list on its website. It adheres to strict codes aligned with SA8000 standards and conducts regular third-party audits through organizations like the Fair Wear Foundation. While wages are above local minimums (e.g., ~$100–$125/month in India), they fall short of a universally recognized living wage, which is estimated to be around $200/month in India.
The brand demonstrates a high level of transparency by publishing supplier lists and audit reports. As a certified B Corporation, Odd Muse meets rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
Odd Muse is a PETA-approved vegan brand, meaning it does not use any animal-derived materials like fur, leather, wool, or exotic skins in its collections. It focuses instead on plant-based and cruelty-free materials such as organic cotton and Tencel.
Odd Muse has integrated sustainability into its core operations, from materials sourcing to end-of-life considerations, backed by clear goals and credible certifications.
Approximately 65% of Odd Muse collections are made from sustainable materials. Key fabrics include GOTS-certified organic cotton, Tencel from sustainably sourced eucalyptus (FSC-certified), recycled polyester, and hemp. This focus on eco-friendly fabrics significantly reduces the brand's environmental footprint.
The brand's manufacturing partners use water-saving technologies and eco-friendly chemicals that adhere to OEKO-TEX standards. Some facilities are partially powered by renewable energy, helping to reduce carbon emissions. Shipping is also offset through verified carbon credits.
Odd Muse promotes product longevity through repair services and customer care guides. The brand has a take-back program for recycling or refurbishing worn items, although participation is currently low as it's still in its early stages. All packaging is made from recycled paper and biodegradable materials.
Odd Muse has set ambitious targets, including using 100% sustainable materials by 2025, reducing GHG emissions by 50% by 2030, and achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. Progress is tracked in annual sustainability reports, and the company is both a B Corp and Climate Neutral Certified.
Odd Muse is a genuinely solid choice for consumers seeking fashion that aligns with their values. It navigates the space between accessible and ethical well, though it's not without areas for improvement.
Odd Muse earns a B+ for its robust ethical framework. Its B Corp status, supply chain transparency, regular third-party audits, and PETA-approved vegan commitment are commendable. The primary area for improvement is bridging the gap between current wages and certified living wages for all workers in its supply chain, which keeps it from earning a top grade.
The brand scores an A- for its comprehensive sustainability strategy. With over 65% sustainable materials, a Climate Neutral certification, clear emissions reduction targets, and a focus on circularity, Odd Muse is a leader among its peers. To reach a higher grade, the brand could increase transparency by publishing hard data on its water usage, chemical management, and progress toward its goals.
If you appreciate Odd Muse's blend of timeless style and strong ethical commitments, here are some other brands with similar values worth exploring:
Known for its chic, feminine aesthetic, Reformation uses a high percentage of sustainable materials like Tencel and recycled fabrics (~85%) and provides detailed "RefScale" reports on the environmental footprint of each garment. A majority of its production is based in the U.S. to ensure fair labor.
Shop now at thereformation.com
A pioneer in ethical fashion, People Tree is a verified member of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) and uses nearly 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton and other sustainable materials. They partner with Fair Trade artisans to create classic styles while empowering communities.
Shop now at peopletree.co.uk
Esteemed for its minimalist, durable designs, Eileen Fisher is a B Corp that utilizes organic and recycled materials extensively. They have a leading take-back and resale program called "Renew" and are deeply committed to circular design and fair labor practices.
Shop now at eileenfisher.com
While known for sneakers, Veja applies an extremely high ethical standard to its entire supply chain. The B Corp uses organic cotton, Fair Trade rubber, and innovative recycled materials, all while ensuring full transparency and paying producers significantly more than market rates.
Shop now at veja-store.com
A B Corp and Fair Trade Certified brand, Patagonia is an industry leader in both activism and sustainability. They use a high percentage of recycled materials, offer lifetime repairs to discourage overconsumption, and donate 1% of sales to environmental causes.
Shop now at patagonia.com
Odd Muse pays its garment workers wages that are above local legal minimums and conducts regular third-party audits to ensure fair working conditions. However, in some regions like India, these wages do not yet meet certified living wage standards, an area the brand is actively working to improve.
Odd Muse occupies a premium or 'accessible luxury' position in the market, with prices higher than fast fashion but more affordable than traditional high-end luxury. Its pricing reflects its investment in quality, sustainable materials, and ethical manufacturing practices.
The brand focuses on eco-friendly fabrics, with approximately 65% of its collection made from sustainable materials like GOTS-certified organic cotton, Tencel, and recycled polyester. As a PETA-approved vegan brand, it strictly avoids all animal-derived products.
