Sustainable scarves are the ultimate wardrobe must-have! Whether you’re dressing up for a night out, layering up for a chilly day, or just looking for that one accessory to pull your outfit together, eco-friendly scarves have you covered—literally.
Feeling a little too basic in a simple tee and jeans? Throw on a scarf for an instant style upgrade. Rock it as a headscarf for those bad hair days, or wrap it around your shoulders like a shawl when the evening chill sets in.
Heading out on a brisk autumn morning? Wrap a wool scarf snugly around your neck to keep the cold at bay. Want to add a pop of color to that neutral winter coat? A bright, patterned scarf can do the trick. Scarves are not just for bundling up, either. Lightweight scarves made from fabrics like organic cotton or linen are perfect for warm-weather layering, offering sun protection while adding texture to your outfit.
However, if you’re like me and have sensitive skin, what you wrap around your neck matters just as much as how you style it. Finding organic eco-friendly scarves made of hypoallergenic, natural materials is the only way to go. Many conventional scarves are made with synthetic fibers that can irritate sensitive skin, especially when mixed with harsh chemical dyes or treatments.
That’s why it’s so important to invest in sustainable knitwear brands that create eco-friendly scarves with natural, breathable fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, linen, or wool that are gentle on your skin and easy on the environment. Bonus point if you opt for fair trade scarves, handcrafted responsibly in safe factories that pay above living wages.
So, before we jump into the list of sustainable scarves brands, let’s first discuss how you can evaluate the safety and eco-friendliness of your new cold-weather accessories.
Why Sustainable Scarves are a Better Choice?
Fast fashion encourages the idea of cheap, trendy items designed to be worn a few times and tossed aside. The fashion industry churns out over 100 billion garments annually, and much of that ends up as waste. Shockingly, 85% of all textiles are discarded each year, creating a massive amount of pollution and waste.
Most scarves you find in fast fashion stores like H&M or Zara are made from synthetic fabrics like polyester or acrylic—materials that come with a hefty environmental price tag. Polyester, for example, is derived from fossil fuels. Its production releases a ton of greenhouse gases, and every time you wash a polyester scarf, it sheds microplastics into the water system. These tiny plastic particles eventually end up in the ocean, harming marine life and infiltrating our food chain. Synthetic fibers are responsible for 35% of the microplastics polluting our oceans. That’s a lot of waste for a cute accessory, right?
Aside from the environmental concerns, non-sustainable scarves can come with their own set of health risks. Many of the fabrics used in fast fashion are treated with chemical dyes and finishes that can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. Formaldehyde, which is often used to make fabrics wrinkle-resistant, has been linked to respiratory issues and skin sensitivity. When you think about wrapping these materials close to your face and neck—the most sensitive parts of your body—it starts to sound less cozy and more concerning.
The Best Eco-Friendly Materials for Scarves
Organic Cotton Scarves
We all love cotton—it’s soft, breathable, and easy to wear. But organic cotton takes this comfy classic up a notch. Unlike conventional cotton, which soaks up tons of water and pesticides during farming, organic cotton is grown using natural processes that minimize environmental harm.
Organic cotton farming uses up to 91% less water and produces 46% less CO2 emissions, making it a much greener option. Plus, it’s grown without harmful chemicals, so it’s kinder to your skin and to the farmers who grow it.
Tencel (Lyocell) Scarves
Tencel, also known as lyocell, is like the eco-friendly fabric star of the moment. Made from sustainably harvested wood pulp—usually from eucalyptus, beech, or spruce trees—it’s produced through a closed-loop process that recycles water and solvents, making it super eco-conscious.
Tencel scarves are incredibly soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking, meaning they’re comfy to wear year-round. One of Tencel’s standout features is its ability to blend beautifully with other materials like organic cotton or hemp, offering durability and that silky feel we all love.
Plus, Tencel is biodegradable, so you can feel good knowing that when its time is up, it won’t linger in a landfill for centuries.
Recycled Fabric Scarves
Want sustainable scarves that are really good at multitasking? Recycled fabrics, like those made from post-consumer plastic bottles or upcycled textiles, give old materials a new life. Recycled polyester, for instance, is often made from discarded plastic bottles that are broken down and spun into fibers.
This process saves energy and reduces plastic waste, turning trash into a wearable treasure. Recycling fabrics keeps tons of waste out of landfills and cuts down on the need for virgin materials, reducing both the demand for resource-intensive production and the environmental footprint of your scarf.
Just remember: even though recycled polyester is eco-friendly, it’s still a form of plastic. To keep it truly sustainable, wash it sparingly and use a microfiber filter to catch any tiny particles that might escape during washing.
Sustainable Wool Scarves
For those who love natural warmth, wool is a timeless, sustainable option—when sourced responsibly. Wool is biodegradable, durable, and naturally insulating, making it a perfect choice for winter scarves.
However, not all wool is created equal. Look for wool from farms that prioritize animal welfare and sustainable land management.
Certifications like the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) ensure that the sheep are treated humanely and the land is managed sustainably. Merino wool, in particular, is a great option for scarves because it’s lightweight, moisture-wicking, and oh-so-soft—none of that itchy wool feeling you may have experienced in the past.
The Best Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Scarves in 2024
1. Everlane
If you’re on the hunt for a luxuriously neutral scarf that pairs with everything, Everlane has you covered—literally! Their Cashmere Scarf is crafted from a blend of recycled Italian cashmere and wool, wrapping you in warmth and sustainability. The brand partners with an Italian mill to give a second life to discarded cashmere, which helps reduce carbon emissions by over 90% compared to virgin cashmere. By working directly with factories, Everlane keeps prices fair without skimping on quality. Soft, stylish, and sustainable—what more could you ask for?
Price: $48
Sustainable Materials: Cashmere, merino wool, alpaca wool
Ethics: Transparent Pricing, ethical production, organic materials Toad & Co
2. Toad & Co
Toad & Co is the ultimate destination for sustainable wool scarves! Ready to bundle up in style without the itch? Scarves made from the non-mulesed wool offer all the warmth you need with none of the discomfort. Blended with nylon for added durability, these scarves are designed to last season after season. Plus, they naturally regulate heat and resist odors, making them perfect for chilly days. With a ribbed stitch for a cozy feel, you can wrap yourself up knowing you’re making a sustainable—and super comfortable—choice!
Price: $87
Sustainable Materials: 55% Non-Mulesed Wool, 45% Nylon
Ethics: Earth-friendly bluesign® or OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 fabrics, Reusable and Recyclable Packaging, ToadAgain resale clothing program, ethical manifacturing
3. KOTN
When it comes to sustainable organic cotton scarves, KOTN’s soft, stylish, and itch-free designs are a great investment. Kotn has you covered with their 100% Egyptian Cotton scarves, ethically crafted right where the cotton grows—in Egypt. These sustainable scarves are super soft, easy to care for (just toss them in a cold wash), and perfect for any season. What sets Kotn apart is their close relationship with over 3,700 smallholder cotton farmers in the Nile Delta, ensuring sustainable growth for both their business and the local community.
Price:$65
Sustainable Materials: 100% Egyptian Cotton
Ethics: Certified B Corporation, GOTS Certified, OEKO-TEX® Certified, sustainable fabrics, fair trade, charity donations
4. ASKET
The raved-about sustainable fashion brand from Sweden is the mecca of luxurious, organic eco-friendly scarves for women and men. The Cashmere Wool Scarf, woven and hand-cut in an artisanal workshop in Italy, combines 45% cashmere and 55% recycled wool for a luxurious feel that’s gentle on both your skin and the planet. If you need a cozy beanie, the Ribbed Wool Beanie is made from 100% traceable merino, offering warmth, elasticity, and durability to last through many winters. Wrap up in these eco-friendly accessories and face the cold with comfort and style!
Price: From $115
Sustainable Materials: 45% cashmere and 55% recycled wool or 100% traceable merino wool
Ethics: GOTS Certified, zero compromise garments, full transparency, lifecycle responsibility, take back program
5. Nui Organics
Looking for a versatile winter accessory? Nui Organics’ eco-friendly scarves are here to keep us warm and cozy. This classic rib snood is your go-to for instant warmth and style. Slip it on over your favorite sweater to transform a crew neckline into a polo neck, keeping your head, neck, and ears toasty. Made from 100% RWS merino wool, it’s not just soft—it also helps regulate body temperature, wicks away moisture, and resists odors. With its generous sizing and stretch, this snood will keep you warm and comfy for years, making it the perfect companion for active nature lovers.
Price: From $20.95
Sustainable Materials: 100% RWS merino wool
Ethics: GOTS Certified, OEKO-TEX® Certified, Bluesign® Certified, ethical manufacturing, FSC Certified recyclable paper bag packaging
6. Last Chance Textiles
Stay effortlessly chic while cozy with this stunning Silk Noil Scarf. Made in Mumbai, Maheshwar, and Jaipur, India, these sustainable scarves are perfect for breezy days or wrapping up in warmth when the temperature dips. Because they are naturally dyed with turmeric and indigo by master artisans, these beauties are one-of-a-kind.
Price: $90.91
Sustainable Materials: Silk noil yarn
Ethics: Handmade, Women Owned, ethical manifacturing, donations
7. Baabushka
Hand-knit in Santa Cruz, California, this 100% sustainable wool scarf is as cozy as it is chic. Made from ultra-soft 19-micron wool, it’s lightweight yet warm, perfect for keeping the wind at bay or draping elegantly to frame your face. The rich texture and tonal variations come from the hand-dyed premium wool, giving it a unique and luxurious feel. Slip it on and tuck it into your outerwear for instant warmth and style—this cowl is your go-to for staying snug and stylish all season long!
Price: $100
Sustainable Materials: Wool
Ethics: Handcrafted, Made in USA, Women Owned
8. EcoconLINEN
EcoconLINEN is one of the best sustainable scarve brands on Etsy. This 100% premium European stonewashed linen scarf is handmade using OEKO-TEX 100-certified fabrics. The soft, breathable linen has a natural crumpled look that stays chic even after a machine wash, and it comes in a variety of modern colors—like the refreshing Light Mint. Whether you drape it casually or wrap it up for a little warmth, this scarf keeps things effortlessly cool and comfortable.
Price: From $33.66
Sustainable Materials: 100% European stonewashed linen
Ethics: Handmade, small business, meet OEKO-TEX 100 standards
9.NoosConcept
Move over, cashmere—yak wool is here to steal the spotlight! Soft, silky, and luxurious, this premium fiber offers a cashmere-like texture with a featherlight feel. Sourced from yaks in Mongolia, these sustainable scarves are designed to keep you as warm and dry as the yaks themselves, with incredible breathability and quick-drying properties. Perfect for long outings, sustainable yak wool scarves are also anti-microbial, so no need to worry about odors even after heavy wear.
Price: $151.37 Sustainable Materials: 100% organic and undyed Mongolian yak wool. Ethics: Handmade
These were the most sustainable scarves from ethical brands
When it comes to picking the best sustainable scarves, you’ve got options that are both stylish and ethical. Whether you prefer the soft touch of organic cotton, the silky feel of Tencel, or the warmth of sustainable wool scarves, each of these eco-friendly materials offers a way to stay cozy while reducing your environmental impact. So, the next time you add a scarf to your collection, remember: that a little thought goes a long way in keeping your style and sustainability all tied together.
