Sales of ethical clothing have more than quadrupled over the past five years as British consumers focus on fair trade, according to new research.
Data analysis group Mintel said that the ethical clothing market is now worth £175 million, with increasingly stylish designs and a growing awareness of production methods making ethical clothes more popular.
Katrin Magnussen, senior retail analyst for Mintel, said: "Growth in ethical clothing is being driven by consumer demand for fairly-produced and sustainable goods.
"Cotton T-shirts and other casual wear formed the basis of the ethical clothing market from its early days, but times have changed and there is now ethical clothing of every type being designed - from lingerie to eveningwear and genuine high fashion and glamour.
"Real choice in styling and quality and truly fashionable designs have been vital in the market's development."
She added that the demand for ethical clothing was being met by independent stores and an increasing number of major high street retailers and supermarkets.
Yet despite the increase in sales of ethical clothes, many people still remain unconvinced about the trend.
Around a third (35%) of the 2,000 British people surveyed throughout November 2008 said they have no interest in ethical clothes, with 11% doubting the credentials of ethical labels.
A quarter of respondents say they would purchase ethical clothes if they could afford them, and 20 per cent complain about lack of availability.
