If you’ve come across this post while searching for sustainable alternatives to Anthropologie, you probably already know why they are a problematic company (as well as Urban Outfitters, which owns Anthro, Free People, BHLDN, and Terrain. Ugh.). From their abysmal rating on Goodonyou to claims of racial profiling in stores (and racism in the workplace) to lack of transparency in production and their CEO’s disconcerting political donations, to finally straight up ripping off independent artists for years (this latest instance involves indigenous owned Orenda Tribe), there are many reasons one might feel just a little icky about supporting Anthro.
It’s ironic of course that Anthropologie, Free People, and Urban all cater to more progressive minded shoppers, who love their globally “influenced” style and easygoing vibe. In the midst of various greenwashing techniques, they do partner with independent artists–just, I suppose, the ones they’re not stealing from. (And no, I’m not asserting that the exposure this provides for an artist is something one could even consider turning down.)
Many of my peers know at least some of this to be true, but if it’s not Anthro’s captivating branding drawing them in, it’s this thought that there is definitively no other option for those who desire this so extremely coveted look. But given the fact that these brands succeed by ripping off other artists’ designs, I do know there indeed are options.
So, if you love Anthropologie home decor, but not their ethics, this post is for you. The caveat is that there currently isn’t one single marketplace to get all of the dreamy home decor AND fashion Anthro fans love. But there are some that offer one or the other (decor or fashion, and we’ll get to fashion in another post soon!), and other indie designers to fill in the gaps. So yeah, it’s definitely harder to curate, but it IS a worthy option, to choose three or four of these shops rather than the URBN empire.
Let’s begin with 10 home decor alternatives for Anthropologie… Edited October 2022 with new shops… Enjoy!
Archive New York, who we’ve mentioned before as a great spot for conscious maximalist decor and ethically made rugs, is a beautiful stop for handwoven artisan home goods as well as vintage & market finds.
White and Orange Kitchen Towel
wallflower is a brand created by eco club founders Jennifer and Angela (me!). It’s a small online boutique dedicated to objects, makers, and spaces that inspire. Perhaps not everything (we’re a bit quirky and we love it!), but many of our home decor selections follow a similar aesthetic. (If you choose to visit our shop, thank you in advance!!!)
We have a collection of design-inspired coffee table books
As well as a selection of handmade and ethically sourced decor and tabletop goods such as these porcelain plates, woven table runner, and candle holders. Shop all here!
Our next sustainable alternative to Anthropologie, Canada-based Baba Souk is a beautifully curated online store for Moroccan made decor and rugs, kids decor, art, and lots of lifestyle goodies that make great gifts. They’re totally the refined boho look that Anthro offers, except you know, authentic.
Terracotta Sabra Silk Cactus Pillow
Turquoise Sabra Silk Pillows – Handmade from Morocco
Goodee is an inclusive global marketplace where good design and good purpose intersect. They have such a large selection that not all of it vibes with Anthro… but the fact that they do carry pretty much every category Anthro has when it comes to lifestyle & décor, makes it a great alternative.
Eperara Siapidara Set of Twelve PET Lamps
New York based Pillowpia is a mecca of gorgeous, sustainable pillows and soft goods. With cozy neutrals accented by pinks, blues, and orange hues, you can achieve the Anthro look with a conscience.
Look at these gorgeous pastel pillows!
Besides the pillows, I’m also obsessed with these gorgeous placemats.
Australia based Koskela is a quality homeware and furniture shop. Everything in their design-forward catalog is made in Australia. (Note, only the decor is available for international shipping, the larger items are available Australia-wide.)
Minna Cartographer Pillow from Koskela
Better World Arts Cushion – Mitjili Napurrula from Koskela
Social enterprise Minzuu offers a gorgeous, extensive variety of globally inspired homewares from baskets and vases to bedding, bath, and entertaining. Their overall brand has a sophisticated, somewhat minimal look to it, so it doesn’t scream Anthropologie at first glance. But as you look through their selection, you find so many colors and textures to curate that sustainable, yet maximalist home. Learn all about their process on the Minzuu blog.
Side note: I wanted to mention that Minzuu and a handful of the other sustainable decor shops featured here carry baskets, pendants, and accessories like the coasters above from social enterprise Kazi Goods. They offer many accents that fit the Anthropologie look, and I love how the different shops curate from their selection.
Australian home decor brand Pampa is known for their textiles, rugs, and other sustainable goods. Their pieces are made by artisans in Argentina, and they ship worldwide. While they do carry some luxury pieces, a lot of their prices are comparable to Anthro, and even better if you consider how long each item will last.
We came across Tribe by Sonal on Instagram right before writing our conscious maximalism home decor piece, and I think we just have to include them in every guide we write from here on out! Tribe by Sonal is a curated collection of both US and internationally crafted goods made from sustainable and recycled materials in mesmerizing patterns, cozy textures, and playful colorways. New collections launch monthly so be sure to sign up for Sonal’s email list for updates!
Coral Pink Moroccan Floor Poufs
Faded Pink Moroccan Cactus Silk Pillow
Macrame Planter Set Black + Blush + Green
St Frank is a design-driven luxury home goods brand featuring only artisan and ethically made goods. They’re on the pricier end of the companies featured here, but offer custom made decor and textiles, a vintage collection, one-of-a-kind objects, and a virtual styling service. Did I mention they offer wallpaper?!
Blush Daisy Suzani Throw Pillow
Pink Diamond Huipil Lumbar Pillow
Where do you shop for ethically made home decor? I know there are plenty of bloggers with their own lists of sustainable alternatives to Anthropologie, but I felt many of them struggled a bit to match up the actual style of their products. Super important to the Anthro shopper, I know! I hope these provided a few new-to-you options.
ELIZABETH BLANTON says
I look forward to learning more about ethical and substainable products.
Susan says
Angela, as you continue to reiterate in your article that Anthropologie is ripping off other artists, where is your proof ? Not once did you state how you received that information (friends?).
Facts are lacking in this article.
Angela Hamilton says
Hi Susan! Thanks for reading. Did you click the links in the intro to this article? They are highlighted in green. There are 6 of them all to separate articles – should be all the sources you need to make your own decision, right in the first few sentences of my post 🙂