As the temperature begins to rise and flowers start to bloom, we are reminded that it is time to pack away those heavy sweaters. With 2006 behind it, it is time to embrace 2007 for all of its possibilities. The growing environmental movement continues to draw attention from people of all walks of life. Helping the planet in a myriad of ways, some as simple as what you choose to wear, can help to make a difference (adding to the Earth’s health as well as your own).

 

Buying fashions made with sustainable fabrics and produced with fair labor practices helps you not only look good, but also gives those that grew and made them better overall lives. Pounds and pounds of pesticides are sprayed on conventional cotton crops just to grow enough for one t-shirt. These chemicals are absorbed into the soil, along with being inhaled by the field workers and farmers. Substances like these don’t wash out, so they will be continually absorbed by your skin each time you wear your favorite top. It is no surprise that organic cotton has become one of the most popular eco-friendly fabrics, though there are a host of other influential ones: bamboo, hemp, corn, soy, hemp, coconut.

 

To help get you started on a healthier, greener wardrobe, I’ll introduce you to some of the best online stores that sell eco-fashions and accessories. It is notable that sustainable fabrics do cost more than conventional ones, but that is translated into less chemicals, longer durability, and support for a just enterprise.

 

  • TheGreenLoop.com: this is one of largest green fashion retailers on the web, hands down. Started by one inspired woman in Oregon, each brand in their store employs conscious practices – from sustainable fabrics and low-impact production to recycling and investing in renewable energy methods. Men and women will both find goods to compliment their own personal style. Their official blog is a keen source for what is new on their site and why it is worth your money.
  • OrganicAvenue.com: not just a destination for style, this site offers housewares, raw food info, and health books. If you happen to live in NYC, they also host cooking classes and healing retreats that you should give a look. Categories for men and women are available, with a diverse selection of well-known eco-brands. Like most sites, they also have their own blog, which alerts readers to new items in their online store, as well as unique perspective on current environmental news and issues.
  • Hempest.com: helping bring industrial hemp back into the market, this web & traditional store is a key source for eco-style. Boasting three locations in Massachusetts, one in Vermont, and one in California; Hempest is one of the few businesses that have been able to make the transition from online to in-person shopping. As the name suggests, all of the items are made in-part or whole from hemp. Despite the traditional notion of the fabric being itchy and uncomfortable, that has all changed. In terms of variety, this is one of the best stores on the web.
  • HipAndZen.com: a passion for beauty and nature lead one Mill Valley, CA women to start this destination. The easily browsed website is just one of the draws of this great store, along with a mix of goods you can’t find elsewhere, and a handy product key, helping highlight each item’s green qualities. Their blog is also a good source for eco-info, as well as a sweet little discount code.
  • Pangaya.com: though only selling items for women, this site is worth a visit (and a purchase). Selective in terms of brands that are available for sale, sustainability and fashion are the two things this retailer cares about the most. Subscribing to their blog will help to keep you updated on some of the most eye-catching green news.
  • BTCElements.com: Summer Bowen’s lifestyle store has been drawing positive attention ever since it “opened”. The store’s blog gives an inside view into her life and what it is like to run a green business. A little something for everyone is the best way to describe the items themselves. Anything bought here will enhance your home and your wardrobe; no effort involved.

[Scans can be seen here]