Labels
Let’s begin at the neck of our garments. A few years ago, we set out to source sustainable labels for the necklines and side seams of our tees. After some research, we partnered with a manufacturer who produced tear-away neck labels and satin side seam labels made from recycled polyester. That was our first big step toward sustainability.
Then, in March 2022, at a Fair Trade event, our team met the inspiring Starfish Project, an organization dedicated to supporting, training, and empowering women. They were able to create our labels using both recycled and fair trade materials—a true double win! Today, that small tag in the neck of your SportyJerseyStyle shirt represents freedom and dignity for the women who make it.
Trims
What are trims? They’re the finishing details that elevate a garment. For example, the drawcords and twill tape used in our fleece products. Both trims are made from 100% recycled polyester, helping divert waste away from landfills. Just grab a SportyJerseyStyle fleece and look at the neckline—you’ll see twill tape adding structure and detail, all while being eco-conscious.
Buttons
Our buttons also tell a sustainability story. Initially, we sourced recycled plastic buttons from Italy and selected a textured brown-and-clear design that struck a balance between modern and natural. Later, our supplier offered us the chance to create custom recycled buttons—now featuring our brand tagline: “Feel Good. Do Good.” Each button is a small reminder of the positive impact behind our garments.
Zippers
Finding the right zipper wasn’t easy. At first, it was difficult to source bulk, low-minimum, commercial-grade zippers. Then we discovered Oceanworks, a company that partners with YKK to turn ocean plastic into zippers. We made the switch immediately. Today, every zipper on our full-zip and quarter-zip fleeces is crafted from reclaimed ocean plastic, giving waste a new life.
Packaging
For years we ordered packaging on a case-by-case basis. Then we committed to sustainability and partnered with Eco-Enclose, a Colorado-based company producing recyclable and reusable poly mailers and bags.
In addition, we reuse every box we can. When you see a “Recycled Box” sticker on your order, that means the box has already made one journey—from our Haiti facility to our Kansas City warehouse—before arriving at your door. This practice saves thousands of boxes each year. We’ve also eliminated plastic fillers and switched to paper tape instead of plastic.
Finishing Touches
We want your items to arrive looking their best, while also telling their story. Together with Starfish Project, we developed recycled paper hang tags that explain the positive impact of our garments, provided free to retailers. If a garment contains recycled materials, we add an extra tag highlighting that feature. We’ve also designed sustainable packaging for small accessories like stickers and pens, making them perfect for thoughtful add-on sales.
Fabrics
And of course, the core of our mission is in our fabrics. At SportyJerseyStyle, we continue to expand our line of apparel made from sustainable, responsibly sourced textiles. Explore our fabrics page to learn more about how every choice we make is designed to be better for people and the planet.