Why are sustainable jeans often more expensive, and is it actually worth it?
“What?! That much for a pair of jeans?” I sometimes hear in the shop. And you know what, I get it. We’ve all become so accustomed to thirty-euro jeans that we have to shift gears when we see €130 on the price tag. But then I usually ask this (perhaps slightly cheeky) question in return: “how can a pair of jeans actually be that cheap?”
It’s very simple: Someone always pays the real price. If it’s not you, then it’s the maker. (In some cases a child...) Or the river into which the chemical dyes and other junk disappear. Or the cotton farmer without fair pay. And that feels so wrong and off to me that I don’t want to be a part of it anymore. That’s why it’s very simple for us, and at Natur-el we only choose brands that actually do it right, from production to fit. Period.
What makes sustainable jeans different?
Well, it’s not just about the ‘organic cotton’ label. (Because even that doesn’t always mean much... ever heard of greenwashing?) It’s actually about the whole story behind it. We only work with brands like Dawn Denim, Lanius, and Armedangels. These are sustainable brands that look beyond profit. Dawn, for example, makes their jeans in their own factory in Vietnam under safe conditions, with fair wages and transparency down to the fiber. Every garment has a QR code that lets you see who made it and how. Beautiful, right?
Lanius chooses production in Europe, with soft fabrics, luxurious details, and a fit that you just have to respect. And Armedangels? They combine sharp style with a no-nonsense approach to sustainability. Everything is right, down to the packaging. And I LOVE it!
Most of our jeans are, for example, GOTS certified, so you know the entire production chain is sound. How do you know if it’s GOTS certified? Very simple: we always write it down, you can even filter for it in our webshop by now. Because we understand that you don't like greenwashing, and don't mind spending those extra few cents, but it has to be done properly. Fair enough, right?
And what about the fit of your sustainable jeans?
I understand that question, and I can only say: these pants feel wonderful. Really. Not just because of the fit, but also because of the story that finally DOES add up. I wear a size 40 myself, and the sustainable jeans from Dawn fit me perfectly in a size 30. By the way, the denim dress from Dawn is my new favorite — cool, feminine, and comfy. Lanius also fits true to size, Armedangels a bit tighter in the waist. But whatever you choose: these pants don’t sag, don’t pinch, and stay looking good, even after many wears. And believe me, once customers have them on, they almost always say: “Oh... yes, I get it.”
Are you in doubt about the size? Then it’s always a good idea to read our extensive descriptions for every garment. We try everything on for you and describe how your new sustainable jeans fit.
And now for the big question: is that higher price worth it?
For me? 100% yes. Because you wear sustainable jeans for years. They get better with time. And you know that no one was harmed in the making of them. That feels good on your skin and in your heart. And that is worth something too....
And what about the maintenance of your sustainable jeans?
We have a few great tips for you, the most important of which is: LESS IS MORE! So: washing less is better. It’s better to just hang your jeans out to air. Wash them cold, use little detergent, don’t overload the machine, take them out immediately. That way, they’ll last for years.
Extra tips? Watch this video I made especially for you. And also carefully read our laundry guide that you receive with every purchase. And if you really don’t know what to do, just give us a call :-)
Still in doubt?
Just come and try them on. Then you’ll feel the difference. We’ll help you with sizing advice, styling, and an honest story. We are here for you, online and in our shop in Rotterdam. And believe me: once you’ve felt a truly good pair of jeans, you’ll never want anything else.
Frequently asked questions about sustainable jeans
Why are sustainable jeans more expensive?
Sustainable jeans cost more because fair wages are paid, safe working conditions are guaranteed, and they are made with organic or recycled materials. Fast fashion often cuts corners on these points, but with brands like Dawn Denim, Lanius, and Armedangels, the entire chain is correct.
How long do sustainable jeans last?
A good pair of sustainable jeans will last for years. They don’t sag, they hold their shape well, and often they even get better the longer you wear them. With proper care (washing less, cold washing, gentle drying), you can sometimes wear your jeans for ten years.
Are all organic cotton jeans automatically sustainable?
Not necessarily. Organic cotton is a good start, but sustainability is also about fair production, the use of safe dyes, and transparency in the chain. A GOTS label shows that the entire process is correct, from cotton field to finished product.
What is the difference between sustainable jeans and regular jeans?
Regular jeans are often made from conventional cotton, dyed with chemicals, and produced in factories with low wages and poor working conditions. Sustainable jeans use organic or recycled materials, avoid harmful dyes, and are made under fair conditions.
How can I recognize sustainable jeans?
Look for labels like GOTS, Fair Wear, or PETA Approved Vegan. Check if a brand explains where and how it is produced. At Natur-el, we always write this next to the products, so you know exactly what you are buying.
How should I wash my sustainable jeans?
Wash as little as possible, cold, and with little detergent. It’s better to hang the jeans outside to air rather than washing them often. Extra tips can be found in this video about washing denim and in our laundry guide that you receive with every purchase.
Are sustainable jeans also comfortable?
Yes! Customers often say they fit better than regular jeans. They fit nicely, hold their shape, and feel softer due to the use of natural fibers. Plus, you wear them with a good feeling, and that shows.
