Looking for cotton clothing made in the USA?
Whether you’re searching for 100% cotton or cotton blend, conventional cotton or organic cotton clothing for men, women, children, and babies, the good news is we’ve found many great products that fit just what you’re shopping for!
American Made Cotton Clothing
I’m tired of clothes that itch my skin or are just plain uncomfortable. Nylon? I don’t want it. Microfiber? No thanks. Polyester? Ugh.
Instead, give me clothes that are made literally from the ground up: cotton. Cotton is a natural, breathable fabric that’s buttery-soft and feels great against the skin. Whether I’m wearing cotton socks, and cotton tanks or I’m buying cotton organic baby clothes for the little people I adore, I’m a firm believer in this incredible fabric.
Why Wear Cotton?
Cotton is one of the few natural, sustainable fabrics from which apparel is made. Many American apparel manufacturers embrace a production process that involves using less water and producing fewer carbon emissions than other sources.
The textile industry, generally speaking, is notorious for using chemicals that harm humans and the environment in almost every way possible. Whether we’re talking about the air, earth, water, or individuals, this sector alone makes up over 10% of global carbon emissions.
When you choose to buy cotton clothing from one of the USA companies listed below, you’re choosing non-toxic fabrics and dyes, shorter shipping distances, and some of the highest quality apparel in the fashion industry. These sustainable fashion brands fully embody caring for the planet, its people, and its products.
What to Look for in Cotton Clothing
For the best quality cotton clothing, look for sustainable clothing brands whose cotton bears a Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification. This certification ensures no toxic chemicals are used in the making of the cotton.
Some of the companies are also certified B corporations which reflects their efforts as sustainable businesses. They meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance related to human and environmental care. Certified B corporations also provide transparency on charitable giving, supply chain practices, and input materials.
Reasons for Buying Made-in-the-USA Cotton Clothing
Reasons abound for buying cotton clothing made in the USA. I will highlight a few of the most important reasons:
- Cotton clothing made in the USA uses sustainable practices. This means the cotton grown doesn’t harm the soil or air, especially as we consider future generations who inhabit the planet.
- Water consumption is reduced.
- Fewer emissions pollute our air.
- Business owners practice safe and fair labor laws toward their American workers.
What About the Supply Chain?
The supply chain supports these reasons. Those $5.00 cotton t-shirts remain part of the traditional supply chain where cheap labor and chemical-laden cotton travel across the ocean in fuel-sucking cargo ships. These supplies get transported from a dock to a warehouse and then to a retailer and finally to you. Makes me wonder how much it cost to make that t-shirt in the first place. Plus, simply put, the traditional supply chain harms our planet.
The American supply chain, on the other hand, runs this way: American farmers grow the cotton, and a nearby mill turns the cotton into fabric. Fabric is shipped to homes or small businesses where American garment workers painstakingly create the garments at a living wage. The garments are then shipped to you. Shipping requires fewer miles. less energy, and less time, therefore having a low environmental impact.
As we continue to feel the effects of COVID, inflation, and trans-continental transportation deficits, it becomes clearer that American-made is the better choice for cotton clothing.
Looking for organic cotton sheets for your bed? Sheets Made in the USA: The Ultimate Source List includes organic options!
What About the Price?
After looking at numerous companies’ websites that make and sell cotton clothing in the USA, I conclude that several things are true:
- American-made cotton clothing is more expensive than fast-fashion cotton clothing; however,…
- You’re getting much better quality clothing that helps all of us. That $20 fast-fashion top might last you a year or two, but a $60 cotton top made in America will last you forever.
- These companies offer a variety of ways to shop and save.
One way to save is to sign up for their newsletters. Doing so automatically provides a discount.
Follow the companies on Facebook or Instagram, where they post giveaways and new product launches.
Another way to save money on your purchase is by shopping the sales tab on their website.
Some of the companies offer free shipping.
Shop on important holidays where you’ll discover some of their deepest discounts.
As it’s said, when there’s a will, there’s a way. Let’s be willing to buy American-made and then find the best way to support our American workers.
Without further ado, let’s check out our sources!
Cotton Clothing Made in the USA
This list includes both standard cotton and organic cotton clothing selections made in America.
American Giant
American Giant resolves to “make things better” and “make better things.” This company makes better hoodies, jeans, t-shirts, and more, while valuing people over profit. This company provides military discounts, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping on orders of $100 or more. American Giant makes and sells basic pieces like hoodies, t-shirts (this brand is very popular with its t-shirt!), and sweatpants for men and women. The men’s Sawbuck Chino, made in El Paso, Texas, caught my eye. These are 98% cotton twill and 2% lycra for a little stretch. While looking online, I noticed American Giant currently has a great sale on both men’s and women’s t-shirts, indicating this company tries to provide lower price points. It also makes other non-cotton products in the USA. Finally, American Giant has exclusive brick-and-mortar stores across our country.
Amour Vert
Luxe label Amour Vert cuts and sews many of its women’s garments in San Francisco, working exclusively with sustainable fabrics and nontoxic dyes to make its clothing in small batches. Once upon a time, everything was made in the USA, but that’s no longer true, so be sure to read the product’s description. Most of these offerings are made from fabric blends that include organic cotton. I like the special touches the Odilia Reverie Slub Tee reflects, with its sleeve pleats and strong crew stitching.
Blue Canoe
Blue Canoe has been providing women’s apparel made from organic fibers since 1989, and exclusively in the USA. Located in the San Francisco Bay area, it manufactures a full line of eco-friendly clothing and lingerie. Known primarily for its organic cotton and bamboo blend fabrics, Blue Canoe also makes 100% organic cotton panties in several cuts and styles. Shown is the 100% organic cotton bikini in black that’s also offered in nude and white. You'll also find select styles of Blue Canoe panties and bras on Amazon.
Christy Dawn
Christy Dawn makes classic, never-go-out-of-style clothing using organic cotton and deadstock fabric. This company also uses natural and organic dyes on its cotton, implementing a sustainable approach with its sourcing. Christy Dawn continues to be highly involved in the running of her business and answered many of my questions via email. Her apparel is gorgeous and long-lasting. Pictured is the Shannon Blouse, made from 100% regenerative cotton and printed with organic dyes. It, like many of the company’s offerings, is made in Los Angeles. Note: Not all Christy Dawn products are American made, but those that are are clearly labeled.
City Threads
City Threads manufactures cotton and organic cotton clothing for kids in Los Angeles from start to finish. This means the fabric is knit, dyed, cut, and sewn all in facilities within LA. City Threads apparel is sensory friendly. Most of the styles have no irritating fasteners, like zippers and snaps. Also, 100% of the bottoms are made with elastic waistbands that are covered with soft, non irritating fabrics. City Threads clothing is available in sizes from newborn to age 16.
CottonMill
Like many of the businesses we list, CottonMill started as a one-person dream to help supply the marketplace with well-made cotton apparel made with USA cotton. Some of the selections are made by our Canadian friends, but I’ve provided a link to nearly 200 products made in the USA. You’ll find not only CottonMill brands but also brands CottonMill works with to supply just about any type of clothing you need that's made from cotton or organic cotton. CottonMill is located in Pennsylvania and works with American companies Sea Breeze, ICanToo, Thousand Mile, SOS from Texas, Sun Moda, and Earth Creation.
Emerson Fry
Honestly, if I could buy one of everything from Emerson Fry, I would! This company truly honors its customers with care and attention while also using the most eco-conscious fabrics and processes, including cotton. Emerson Fry products are made to order in small batches. While the brand makes its incredible fashions in several fabrics, it definitely uses organic cotton to make some of its offerings in Los Angeles. Pictured is the Carolyn Funnel Neck Sweater in a navy stripe, made with organic cotton.
Related: Made in USA Sweaters We Love
Goodwear
Goodwear has been making its clothing in the USA since 1983 and has a cult following for its super-soft t-shirts. Their best seller is the heavyweight cotton crew neck, made from 100% US-grown cotton. It comes in 12 different colors. You'll also find hoodies, shorts, sweatpants, long sleeve shirts, and more. Everything is American-made from domestically-grown cotton (and some hemp selections) to the spinning of the cotton, the making of the products, and the delivery of Goodwear clothing. The company also is very attentive to its customer care.
Grown and Sewn
Grown and Sewn founder Robert Wesley Magness worked as a design director at the eponymous Ralph Lauren company. After 10 years, he struck out on his own and made quite the name for himself making men’s apparel that should last pretty much forever. The clothing Grown and Sewn makes reflects the company’s made in USA commitment. Most notable is the re-imagined and beautifully constructed khaki, Magness’ longest-running offering. Named the Foundation Canvas Pant, it comes in seven colors and a variety of sizes. The canvas is made stateside from 100% cotton. You’ll regret stopping at one pair! Also, check out Grown and Sewn’s amazingly soft tee shirts and button shirts. Visit Grown and Sewn at its flagship store in Tribeca, NYC, or shop online. These are simple, sturdily built, and smartly tailored garments, made in the USA.
Hackwith Design House
Minnesota-based Hackwith Design House makes everything in-house by its talented team of sewers. Using a made-to-order business model, the company finds limited run fabrics to make its clothing from several different fabrics, including cotton. These fabrics are sourced from a local, family-owned fabric store so that Hackwith cuts down on waste while also supporting its local economy. Shown is the Modernist Jacket in 100% cotton. The jacket, made from rust stripe fabric, displays a blazer-style collar and swing-style cut, making it a lovely feminine selection. Hackwith Design House currently provides free shipping on all domestic orders. If you like what you see, buy it, because these limited run selections won’t last!
Hanky Panky
You’ll love the beautiful sleepwear, bras, panties, camis, and lingerie Hanky Panky makes in New England. It’s best known for its game-changing, famously comfortable thongs, but no matter what you choose, you’re getting undergarments and loungewear that’s meticulously made. Shown is a pair of 96% organically-grown Supima® Cotton high cut French briefs with just a touch of lace. The body and crotch are made from cotton with a soft, elastic trim on the leg. You’ll also find other panties, nightshirts, and bras made from cotton.
Harvest and Mill
Everything Harvest and Mill makes comes from 100% USA organic cotton made exclusively for this company. This Berkley, California company sells amazing men’s and women’s organic basics that include cotton t-shirts, shorts, sweatpants, socks, and joggers. Its 100% organic cotton jogger pants are remarkably breathable, super soft, and naturally flexible. Featuring two large pockets, cotton cuffs, and a drawstring, they're perfect for lounging in, exercising in, or running errands in style and comfort. Receive a discount when you buy packages of several items.
Karen Kane
When you shop Karen Kane, you’re supporting a company whose management team consists of 70% women, and 75% of its employees come from underrepresented populations, receiving more than minimum wage compensation. You’ll also get 20% off your first order when you subscribe to receive emails. Not everything Karen Kane offers is made in the USA, so be sure to read product descriptions. Not everything the company makes is made from cotton, either, but you’ll find several cotton options as well as cotton blends. This company has been around for decades and knows a lot about style and quality. Pictured is the cotton-blend Plus Size Piper Pant that’s available in black or white and, of course, made in the USA. You’ll find wardrobe essentials in standard sizes and petite sizes, too. Finally, Karen Kane is a distinguished certified b corp.
LA Relaxed
Located in Los Angeles, California, LA Relaxed makes incredible clothing selections made from plant-based fibers, including GOTS-certified organic cotton. This company is as much about its workers as it is about protecting the environment, as it cultivates a collaborative, well-paid workplace. LA Relaxed uses deadstock fabric, meaning new but leftover fabric from textile mills, keeping the fabrics out of landfills. LA Relaxed also builds its business on limited runs, making small batches of its items that won’t end up in landfills. I’ve seen some beautiful clothing on this website, such as gorgeous velvet dresses for the winter and colorful, sleeveless mock necks. Note: Not everything LA Relaxed makes is 100% cotton; some fabrics are cotton blends. Be sure to read the product description to ensure you’re getting the type of fabric that you want. Pictured is the organic heirloom jogger made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton. It comes in espresso, lilac, and glacier blue.
Purakai
PuraKai makes 100% organic clothing in California, near Culver City that’s slightly east of L.A.’s famous beaches. This father-daughter duo donates a portion of their company’s proceeds to ocean conservation. PuraKai makes a long sleeve cotton t-shirt, pictured, that comes in three colors. You can also shop for other men’s and women’s clothing made from cotton and recycled fabrics.
Reformation
When you shop Reformation, you’re buying sustainable fashion. Because this company wanted to be a force for good in the garment-making industry, it built its own factory where management creates a safe, healthy, and fair working environment. You’ll find Reformation stores throughout the USA, or you can shop online. Check the product descriptions to ensure you’re buying products sustainably made in Los Angeles. Reformation’s Muse Tee is an eco-friendly stretch rib fabric made with 97% organic cotton and 3% spandex. It comes in 10 different colors and patterns. Its cap sleeves make it easy to dress up or down.
Royal Apparel
Discover tanks, tees, joggers and leggings, and yes, infant and kids clothes made from cotton, organic cotton, or cotton blends at Royal Apparel. This company creates and sells timeless pieces, often as private labels for celebrity swag or Fortune 500 companies. You, too, can purchase on their website! Shown is the Organic Infant One Piece that comes in 17 different colors. It’s GOTS-certified and made with 100% combed ring-spun organic cotton. And of course, it’s made in the USA! Royal Apparel is an eco-friendly company that continues to expand its brand; it’s HQ’d in Long Island with other facilities in Pennsylvania.
Schott N.Y.C.
The original designer of the motorcycle jacket, Schott NYC started in 1913 in Manhattan. These—and other—jackets are now fashioned in New Jersey, and the company today is run by current generations of the Schott family. While the company has expanded its line to include other clothing options, including cotton selections, for both men and women, I have to show off one of its original Motorcycle Jackets, pictured. It’s made of chrome tanned cowhide on the outside with a 100% cotton flannel plaid lining on the inside. You’ll also find plenty of 100% cotton t-shirts made in the USA on the Schott NYC website. Note: Not everything Schott NYC makes is American-made, so be sure to read each product’s description.
Solid State
From a North Carolina town rooted in a 250-year textile industry history, Solid State uses local materials and manufacturers to meticulously make its premium-quality clothing, including its cotton apparel offerings. Specifically, Solid State uses 100% US-grown cotton to make some of the very best men’s and women’s t-shirts on the market. They’re naturally-dyed, super soft and made to last a very long time.
Spiritex
Spiritex’s process begins and ends in the Carolinas, from the cotton spinning all the way to the sewing. You can read all about its American-made system on its website. Shop men, women’s, and children’s apparel on its website, where you’ll find plenty of styles. Located in the Asheville area, this company truly embodies the spirit of the sustainable textile industry. Pictured is the Twirl Dress that comes in sizes 12-18 months up to girls medium. It’s made from 100% organic cotton.
Todd Shelton
Todd Shelton manufactures exclusively in the USA. This company is a well-known and respected men’s clothier that makes its Jim Dandy Oxford shirts in the USA from cotton grown in Portugal. Choose from 10 colors and patterns to enjoy the comfort of cotton every day at work. Todd Shelton’s tee shirts are made from the same natural materials.
Zkano
Zkano sources organic cotton in Lubbock, Texas to make its amazingly soft cotton socks in Fort Payne, Alabama. Fort Payne was once known as “the sock capital of the world,” and Gina Locklear runs her family-owned business in this town where she was raised. Find kids, women’s, and men’s socks in all lengths and colors. Zkhano will quickly become your go-to brand for cotton socks.
Enjoy more related articles from USA Love List!
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- Made in USA T Shirts: The Ultimate Source List
- Made in USA Men’s Fashion Dress Shirts & Polo Shirts: The Ulimate Source List
- American Made Organic Products for a Healthier Lifestyle
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I’m looking for designers that only use materials 100% sourced in American, but this list includes companies that either use imported material or products actually made overseas. Whether I’m looking for products made from cotton, wool or linen, this site seems to disappoint me. Why call it The USA Lovelist, when it doesn’t have companies that really do use fine American apparel using material being produced through our textile industry? I would really appreciate a response, because this is something I’m very passionate about.