Eco concerns are changing fashion, but will it be sustainable? Eco minded people are increasing in size and some say are becoming a distinct part of the fashion profession.  I feel this is not a trend, but a social change, especially by young people. Organic purchases have incredibly increased 130 % over the last 4 years. What makes a product seen as Eco? First, what is in the fabric content, is it organic or sustainable? Keep in mind how much carbon footprint is used to ship the product around the world.  How and where is the product made, and is there a fair trade alternative.  Many shoppers, for many reason, are examining the values of the corporation they are buying products from. Shoppers are becoming more aware of how their buying actions affect the planet and many want companies to produced with as much green components as possible.

The some choices you can make when you go out to shop;

Buy organic Cotton rather than regular cotton. Regular cotton is harvested after a chemical defoliant strips the plants leaves and do not forget the bleaching dyes contain heavy metals. Organic Cotton is grown without any pesticides or chemicals and all dyes are made from a vegetable base.

Choice Bamboo. But be aware that it is still difficult to manufacture. On the positive side it is a very hardy renewable resource and the finished product is silky smooth.

Hemp is now used to create all kinds of products from purses to shirts. It was once worn to make a statement. For example, Woody Harrelson, an outspoken environmentalist and famous actor was one of the first to wear hemp clothing. The beauty of this plant is that it grows quickly and requires small quantities of water. It also produces oxygen.

Soy cloth uses the byproducts production. It is durable and strong, easy to care for(no dry cleaning) and is close to wool in its warmth retention. Plus it can be easily recycled.

Some well known fashion designer houses who are incorporating green into their product lines are  Stella McCartney, Theory, Edun, Paul Hardy, Carrie Hayes to name a few. You can check out companies such as

www.ecoganik.com    www.gracecello.com     www.ecochoices.com

I have a great t-shirt that I got from www.missionplayground.com

I also love my 2 t-shirt from www.twice-shy.com