5 Responsible Brands from Germany
Germany has long been a hub for thoughtful design and precision craftsmanship, and its fashion scene is no exception. Over the past two decades, a growing number of German labels have taken sustainability from buzzword to business model, leading the way in transparency, ethical production, and circular thinking.Here are five standout responsible fashion brands from Germany that are truly walking the talk.
1. Armedangels
Based in: Cologne
Best for: Timeless basics with a strong activist streak
Armedangels is arguably Germany’s most recognisable ethical fashion brand, and for good reason. Since launching in 2007, the Cologne-based label has made transparency, fair wages, and climate action central to its mission. All collections are made with GOTS-certified organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell, recycled fabrics, and innovative materials like EcoVero™.
They also maintain close partnerships with their suppliers and share detailed information about where and how their clothes are made. Armedangels was one of the first fashion brands in Germany to go fully climate-neutral and continues to invest in regenerative practices and circular design.
2. LangerChen
Based in: Munich / Shanghai
Best for: Outerwear made to last
LangerChen is a masterclass in minimalist, high-quality outerwear made under socially responsible conditions. Founded in 2013, the brand operates its own GOTS-certified factory just outside of Shanghai, where it guarantees safe working conditions and fair pay.
LangerChen focuses on low-impact fabrics like organic cotton, TENCEL™, and recycled fibres, and avoids the use of harmful chemicals. Their coats and jackets are not only timeless in design, but also engineered to perform, warm, breathable, and built to last for years.
3. Dawn Denim
Based in: Berlin / Saigon
Best for: Ethically made denim with a bold personality
Dawn Denim takes the concept of “fair” seriously. The brand owns its SA8000-certified factory in Saigon, where workers receive living wages and access to ongoing training and development. Every pair of jeans comes with a QR code so customers can trace the production journey down to the individual tailor who made it.
They use organic and recycled cotton, limit water usage, and are constantly improving their washing and dyeing techniques to reduce their environmental impact. Bonus: Dawn Denim’s styles are modern, flattering, and packed with attitude.
4. Lanius
Based in: Cologne
Best for: Elevated, feminine silhouettes and natural fabrics
Founded by Claudia Lanius in the late ‘90s, Lanius is one of the pioneers of sustainable fashion in Germany. The brand blends ethical practices with an elegant, contemporary aesthetic, think soft knits, flowing dresses, and beautifully tailored trousers.
Lanius places a strong focus on environmentally friendly materials like organic wool, cotton, hemp, and vegan alternatives. They also work with long-standing partners in Europe and Asia, prioritising craftsmanship and social responsibility. Every piece feels considered, both in design and impact.
5. pinqponq
Based in: Cologne
Best for: Minimalist backpacks and streetwear with a sustainable edge
pinqponq brings clean, contemporary design to backpacks, accessories, and streetwear—without compromising on ethics. Founded in 2014, the Cologne-based brand is all about function-meets-fashion, offering sleek, modular pieces that fit seamlessly into urban life.
Sustainability is at the core of everything they do. All pinqponq products are made from 100% recycled PET bottles, and the brand is a proud member of the Fair Wear Foundation. They’re also PETA-approved vegan and certified climate-neutral, taking meaningful steps to reduce their environmental footprint from material sourcing to packaging.
Whether you're looking for a travel-friendly backpack or a minimalist hoodie, pinqponq proves that sustainability and style can go hand in hand.