While teaching ethical fashion in NY for several years, I created my own definition of ethical fashion in hopes of creating a common language:

ETHICAL FASHION CRITERIA by Carmen Artigas

Design quality products for longevity, considering their entire lifecycle and environmental impact.
Source textiles and materials prioritizing social and environmental responsibility throughout the value chain.
Implement transparent sourcing and manufacturing practices, offering consumers clear information about product origins and processes.
Ensure fair and safe working conditions, along with fair compensation and protection of workers' rights.
Avoid toxic chemicals and pesticides, opting for certified organic or environmentally friendly materials.
Use resources efficiently, investing in clean energy alternatives, and minimizing waste throughout production.
Engage in responsible marketing and packaging practices, opting for sustainable and recyclable options.
Protect animal rights by avoiding animal products and testing.
Implement restorative and preventative measures, such as recycling and upcycling initiatives.
Approach business with circularity criteria, designing products for reuse or recycling and promoting circular business models.

Recommended:

Embrace circularity criteria in your business approach, designing products with reusability or recyclability in mind, or adopting circular business models like rental or resale. Ensure materials are safe for users and the environment at the end-of-life stage.
Develop criteria for diversity, equity, and inclusion, promoting equal representation and opportunities for all in the fashion industry. Consider cultural sensitivity to prevent PR scandals.
Increase awareness among staff and consumers through workshops, training programs, and awareness campaigns, empowering them to make ethical fashion choices.
Support local economies and reduce environmental impact by sourcing and manufacturing locally.
Establish recovery systems for products by collaborating with recycling initiatives like I:CO.
Communicate environmental and social commitment transparently through reporting, labeling, and other channels.
Invest in innovation and research for sustainable fashion, exploring alternative materials and production methods.
Promote transparency beyond sourcing and manufacturing, disclosing the environmental and social impact of the entire product lifecycle.

ETHICAL VALUES:
Trust & Honesty
Integrity & Responsibility
Respect & Treating People with Dignity
Give credit where credit is due
Fair Wages & Good Working Conditions
Transparency and Traceability in the Supply Chain
Sustainability and environmental responsibility
Equality and non-discrimination
Cultural sensitivity and diversity
Animal welfare and ethical treatment of animals
Community engagement and development
Health and safety of workers and consumers
Innovation and creativity
Continuous improvement and accountability