Sunday, December 19, 2010

Go Green - Wear Organic Clothing

Green clothingImage by m-c via FlickrBy Rajkumar Jonnala

Before talking about organic clothing, let us have our facts clear. All over the world, people are growing conscious of the environment and their own health. With pollution everywhere around them, people are growing green. This implies living close to the nature by avoiding pollution and doing everything they can to protect the ecology and the environment.

When people talk of the word green, the first thing that comes to mind is food as people think that food is what affects them directly. What they conveniently forget is the fact that there are other things that can adversely affect their health as well. One of these is their clothing that remains in close contact with their skin.

Ordinarily produced clothing material comes in contact with all sorts of pesticides and other toxins such as dyes and other synthetically produced materials. It is easy to understand the hazards of such clothing on our skin, which is the largest organ of our body. This is one reason why people today prefer organic clothing over ordinary clothing that is man made and contains many toxins.

Now that the need of natural clothing is clear to us, let us see actually what organic clothing is. Clothing that is made from organically produced material implying produced through agricultural practices that do not make use of pesticides and other toxins is called organic clothing. Some of the products that are grown through these practices are cotton, wool, hemp and even bamboo. Clothes that are made from such products are all natural and free from the harmful products that are grown using pesticides and other chemicals. Even the dyes that are used to provide different hues to these clothes are all natural made from herbs and plants.

If you are using organically grown products, you can be sure of two things. For one, they will not cause any harm whatsoever to Earth, water and air, and secondly they will not do any harm to those who wear them. You just cannot imagine the incalculable harm caused to earth and water resources when the pollutants and toxins from apparel making industries are released in water resources.

When you opt to wear organic clothing, you are sure that it is not going to do any harm to your body. Bigger satisfaction arises from the knowledge that these clothes have been produced in consonance with the laws of the nature without harming the environment and ecology. Already the present population is reeling under the harmful effects of global warming and all the pollution that we are causing. Then why not make a beginning towards cleaning the mess we have ourselves created?

Sensing the needs of the people, more and more manufacturers are making such clothes and are doing brisk business. These clothes are no doubt more expensive than ordinary clothing, but people wear them with pride and satisfaction. Especially for babies who have very delicate and sensitive skin, people are making a conscious effort to buy organic clothing that lets their skin breathe and not develop any skin diseases.

Rajkumar Jonnala is a Freelance Writer who writes about how you can use Organic clothing, natural dyes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rajkumar_Jonnala
http://EzineArticles.com/?Go-Green---Wear-Organic-Clothing&id=5565265
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Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Vintage Fashion for Women

True Value Vintage ClothingImage by dooq via FlickrBy Ceri Heathcote

Vintage fashion refers to styles which have been recycled from previous eras, and there are vintage outfits to suit any interests, from the 20's through to the 80's. Vintage has seen a major revival over the last few years, and is a trend which will keep your style unique and timeless. Many of the recent catwalk shows have showcased vintage trends, with top designers creating wondrous replica designs.

Some tips to remember before you go looking for any vintage items of clothing, is to consider what exactly you are looking for. Are you interested in a classic piece from the 1920's, or maybe the hippy style from the 1960's is more up your street. You also want to think about why you are buying your vintage clothing, whether it be for a special occasion or just for the sake of collecting a unique piece of clothing. Knowing exactly what you want is half the battle to finding the perfect vintage outfit, and there are looks to cater for all needs.

The next thing to think about is where you are going to find your vintage clothing. As vintage has become so popular lately, you will often find a lot of niche vintage markets, where you can pick up a piece of unique clothing at an inexpensive price. There are many shops on the high street which also have a collection of vintage pieces, although you may have to pay a bit extra for these.

When shopping for vintage, you really have to be patient, as it may take some time before you find the perfect item, and it can be a lot more complex than the clothes shopping you are used to. The beauty of vintage clothing is that it is a trend which is timelessly fashionable. The fabrics and patterns are unique, so have a good feel of these in order to determine which clothes will make you feel most comfortable.

Always try the clothing on before you purchase it and be aware of it's condition. It can range from being in mint condition (just like new) or good condition (some repairs needed). If you feel a bit weary of trying second hand vintage clothes on, then wear your other clothes under it, to get a feel of what it looks like and if it suits you. It may also be an idea to take someone along with you when you're out shopping for your vintage clothes. As long as it's someone who will give you an honest opinion. If you are working from a tight budget, then it's a good idea to look at replica designs, as these are usually a lot more affordable.

Current fashion trends tend to mix up vintage with a more modern look, which will streamline your look, and make it more wearable for all different occasions. You may want to wear vintage with a popular key trend for the season, as this will keep you looking stylish, but will also give your look a unique edge.

This article was written by Ceri Heathcote for Vintage Fashion Fair London. Vintage Fairs are a great way to shop for Vintage in London and are a fun alternative to the shops for vintage clothes in London

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ceri_Heathcote
http://EzineArticles.com/?Vintage-Fashion-for-Women&id=5450369



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Why Choose Vegetarian and Vegan Shoes?

A pair of shoes in the Sindhi tradition from N...Image via WikipediaBy Ceri Heathcote

Vegetarian or vegan shoes are made using materials that are not derived from any animal products. This will include leather and even the glue that is often used to fix shoes together and is made from animal bones.
People wear vegan and vegetarian shoes for a number of reasons. For some it is part of a lifestyle choice which is combined with a preference for not eating meat either due for ethical or animal welfare reasons.

For others it is more about the environmental impacts that are associated with the rearing of animals whose skins are used to make the leather and the tanning of the leather which uses a cocktail of damaging chemicals. For some people the choice of vegan shoes is about the choice to live a more healthy and chemical free life.
If you choose to wear vegan and vegetarian shoes you can be sure that animal will have suffered in any way in order to produce your shoes.

But aren't synthetic alternatives to leather damaging to the environment?

Yes many synthetic alternatives to leather have a significant environmental impact which includes the use non renewable resources (oil) to make them, the pollution caused by their manufacture and their inability to bio degrade at the end of their useful life. Whilst these alternatives may be acceptable for those who don't wear leather shoes purely because of animal welfare, it is difficult to say whether the different aspects of their environmental impact adds up to more or less than that of leather. If you want to ensure that you are choosing the most eco friendly vegan shoes you should look for the completely natural alternatives to leather. Specialist manufactures of ethical shoes make natural and bio degradable vegan shoes in a variety of materials including cork, natural latex, coconut husk and organic hemp.

So are vegan and vegetarian shoes as long lasting as leather shoes?

It depends on the type and style of shoe and the material that it is made from. It will also depend on how you look after the shoes. Hemp is incredibly strong and a good alternative to leather for casual shoes. It is also breathable and can be dyed many different colours. If the shoes are manufactured well and looked after they should last well.

Do vegan and vegetarian shoes look as good as leather shoes?

This is all about individual taste. Many people like the look of leather and there are some leather alternatives that look almost identical to leather. However these are usually synthetic and so not great for the environment. Other alternatives to leather include wool, hemp and cork can be made into beautiful, stylish and fashionable shoes. There are plenty of styles available so you should be able to find some that you like the look of.

Vegan and vegetarian shoes are a great way to minimise your impact on the environment provided that you choose natural alternatives. You should shop around for great styles that are good to look at, hard wearing and long lasting.

This article was written by Ceri Heathcote. Ceri is a fashion writer with a particular interest in ethical and eco fashion. She enjoys writing about a variety of topics from vegan shoes and natural footwear to sustainable accessories.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ceri_Heathcote
http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Choose-Vegetarian-and-Vegan-Shoes?&id=5151360





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Are Vegan Shoes the Most Eco Friendly Option?

Non-leather Chelsea boots made by Vegetarian S...Image via WikipediaBy Ceri Heathcote

People may choose a vegan lifestyle for a variety of reasons including health, the environment and animal welfare. Vegans do not eat or buy any products that contain any animal products. A vegan lifestyle involves finding alternatives to many of the everyday items that many people take for granted including clothes and shoes. Many shoes are made of leather which is not acceptable to vegans, they are also glued together. Glue is made using animal bones.

In many ways the vegan lifestyle is good for the environment and a sustainable way of living. The rearing of animals has a carbon footprint which contributes to global warming so not eating meat or using leather cuts reduces the individuals carbon footprint. The leather used to make shoes is also usually tanned using very toxic chemicals which cause pollution and health risks to those working in the tanneries. Then there is the glue that is used to make many shoes, again its manufacture causes pollution and damage to human health. So in some ways vegan shoes are a sustainable and eco friendly option.

But as with most things, there is also another side to the story. Whilst non leather shoes can be better for the environment, synthetic alternatives can also be damaging. The process used to make synthetic materials is usually energy intensive and uses non renewable resources (oil). Synthetic shoes are also non biodegradable so once their useful life is over they are usually disposed of and contribute to the growing problem of landfill.

So what are the alternatives?

It is possible to find vegan shoes which are eco friendly sustainable and satisfy the needs of a vegan in terms of not containing animal products. Completely natural and sustainable materials are the best option as they will biodegrade and are also renewable. Recently materials like coconut husk, natural latex, hemp and cork have been used to make shoes which look good, are strong, durable and allow the feet to breathe. Not only are these natural alternatives better for the environment but they are also usually more comfortable and kinder to your feet.

Hemp can be dyed a variety of bright colours which look stylish and on trend. Cork is the bark or a tree native to Portugal and can be harvested without damage to the tree. It makes is great for a quirky and natural looking shoe. Shoes can be stitched together instead of using glue which not only looks great but makes them strong and hardwearing. A pair of shoes that is made to last is also the best choice for the environment as it ensures minimal impact and less waste.

This article was written by Ceri Heathcote. Ceri is a fashion writer with a particular interest in ethical and eco fashion. She enjoys writing about a variety of topics from vegan shoes and natural footwear to sustainable accessories.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ceri_Heathcote
http://EzineArticles.com/?Are-Vegan-Shoes-the-Most-Eco-Friendly-Option?&id=5190343



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Go Retro Luscious - Get Trendy In Retro Style!

Saturday Toys Men's Clothes Series - Men Suit ...Image by shaun wong via FlickrBy Stewart Wrighter

Remembering the 70's era, the first thing that comes to mind is men's wear. Home decor and furnishing of any modular house was a big hit of that time. Honestly, men's retro style is never outdated. It is one style where you feel far out and tripping. Those funky disco shirts, leisure suits and vibrant polyester disco pants were always a treat to watch. All thanks to the retro era, people living in average modular homes now have a dressing sense.

For a lot of you guys, showing up in every get together in formal clothing is no fun. It gets so freaking boring. Get a break, change your attire. The next time you show up in a party, dress up in retro style. Just by doing that, you can make the event a lasting memory.

Often, people get confused between retro and vintage style. Retro is mainly the post 60's style, whereas, vintage is pre 60's. When you plan to dress like that, choosing the right piece for your wardrobe can be a bit of a task. However, it is worth taking some time when you are adding style with every item you purchase.

Although retro is a whole world of style, you still need to keep up with the latest trends. This way, you will be able to update your look while adding style at the same time. Those skinny pair of jeans in dark wash is awesome for the fall. How about adding a nostalgic touch with 80's style throwback? Also the classic British-inspired hat will go well with your trendy jacket.

Besides, a retro bike jacket only tends to get better with age. You would not find anything like a conditioned aged jacket. This leather is slightly pricy but worth the investment of a lifetime. If you are a collector then try retro style jackets from the 60's or 80's for a similar silhouette.

Another fabulous piece that is never out of trend is denim. The fabric goes well with jackets, shirts or even jeans. From the past four decades, denim has been a clear winner because it lasts a long time and you will end up with good quality material that complements your retro style.

Mention of retro style is incomplete without cowboy boots or the 70's trainers. They make a great retro buy. It is hard to find them with the same retro style detailing but your best bargain is the filigree, cut-out styles. They are superior in style and make a comfortable wear. As for trainers, you have the freedom to pick bright colors and cool designs.

A retro style can be greatly accented with the right accessories. Again, it is hard to find the same old style anymore; you will still come across some pieces that can really complement your retro style.

As for the shopping spree, you need to be careful while buying clothes and accessories. Do not be tempted to purchase fake replicas. The item you purchase should have the retro style and must perfectly match your taste. Once you feel good, looking good comes naturally.

Stewart Wrighter has noticed an increase of modular homes being built because of their low cost. He and his wife are considering a modular house to use as a vacation home.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stewart_Wrighter
http://EzineArticles.com/?Go-Retro-Luscious---Get-Trendy-In-Retro-Style!&id=5480445


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Pucci Fashion Rocked the 1960's and Beyond

Hi everyone,

Here's a fascinating post from one of my colleagues, Retro: Kimmer. I strongly recommend having a close look at Kim's blog - it has a huge amount of great information on the cultural history of the twentieth century, with a particular focus on the 60s and 70s. Kim's blog is at: http://www.retrokimmer.com/

Rising out of the ashes of European fashion after World War II, Emilio Pucci brought a spectrum of carefree colors to the rationed continent. His sportswear beginnings lent a casual air to his work, a welcome relief from recent austerity and a new meaning to the term "resort wear." The swirling freestyle patterns and fluid fabrics he used became internationally recognized and desired, copied by many but rivaled by few.

To read more, go to: http://www.retrokimmer.com/2010/12/pucci-fashion-rocked-1960s-and-beyond.html

Celebrity Fashion Icons

Cropped screenshot of Audrey Hepburn from the ...Image via WikipediaBy Caren Grant

Fashion changes with every passing season but fashion trends set by certain celebrities remain unaltered over the years making a fashion statement and is worshiped and mimicked long after they are gone setting a unique style.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Large black sunglasses famous as "Jackie O" glasses. Her style includes tailored look A-line dresses. She portrays a timeless sense of style, simplicity and femininity. She often wore a simple three strand pearl necklace and a pair of gloves, accentuating her looks. She used fashion resources from Chanel, Givenchy, Christian Dior and Oleg Cassini.

Audrey Hepburn

Audrey's wardrobe in Breakfast at Tiffany's needs mention in the way it has influenced fashion. Pearls, ballet flats, oversized black sunglasses; and over the top hat, presenting an elegant style during the 60s which is still followed today. The charm of a simple black dress and a set of pearls is never out of style.

Grace Kelly

The "Grace Kelly Look" is still in vogue. The Princess of Monaco emphasized simple lines and soft pastel colors. She had the classic look - soft, subtle and understated. The rectangular crocodile 'Kelly Bag' launched by Hermes soon became a fashion statement and is still in fashion today. Fashion icons of today such as Victoria Beckham and Paris Hilton are often spotted sporting the famous Kelly Bag.

Fashion blogs give loads of suggestions on different styles, whether from the past or modern. Take fashion icon Victoria Beckham wife of soccer player David Beckham, famous model and celebrity model is a trendsetter of her own fashion line whether the drape neck shift dress or the latest A-line zip on dress famously called the "VB zip on"

Celebrity fashion icons truly stand the test of time adding newness to the fashion wardrobe for the generations to follow, remembering their contribution both in the cultural and social world.

Caren Grant is an expert on fashion sharing her valuable views on celebrities and their style, to know more on celebrity fashion visit http://www.praptifashion.com.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Celebrity-Fashion-Icon&id=5443977


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How to Find Your Perfect Thigh-High Boot

MiniskirtImage via WikipediaBy Mathew M Taylor

The thigh-high boot was a fashion hit of the 1960s but has recently made its way back onto the catwalk and into the high street store, meaning that anyone who is anyone will be sporting a pair of the very own thigh-high wonders during this Christmas season.

During the 1960s thigh-high boots made their appearance on the catwalks under the signatures of top designer brands who launched the leather and vinyl thigh-high boot for their collections. The thigh-high boot worn with the classic mini-skirt of the era was a common combination that oozed style and pizzazz.

After accepting a rather negative vibe for a good 30 year period, when the thigh-high boot was considered to be more of a trashy garment than a chic accessory, this 1960s hit has come back with a vengeance in recent years, hitting the catwalks again in 2009 and threatening to remain popular as the cold sets in towards the end of 2010.

The important matter surrounding the thigh-high boot for any fashion-conscious woman reading this article is how to wear it and how to wear it well.

Follow the following tips outlined below in order to select the right kind of boot for you and to combine your boot choice with an outfit to match and flatter, whatever the occasion...

*The Busy Woman*

If you are on your feet all day and you have to rush from place to place without stopping even for a bite to eat, then you should really invest in a pair of flat heeled boots that are going to allow you to do all that you need to do without making matters more difficult. Flat-heeled boots worn over the thigh can look fantastically cool and natural when worn with a loose and long cardigan or a pair of skin tight jeans.

*The Office Girl*

If you are in the office every day, wearing tailored clothing including tapered skirts and shirts that reveal your sexy waist line, then you should think about opting for the office girl thigh-high which might come in a slightly softer material, like suede, but that would definitely obey the medium-sized heel rule. You want a style of boot that is going to complement your structured office clothes line, but that is not going to be so dressy that you look as though you have come to the office directly after going out to a club the night before. Classy but business-like is the effect that you need to aim for, so experiment a little with different kinds of materials, fabrics and colours. A soft grey could be a good option for the office.

*The Sports and Leisure Lady*

Why not take a leaf out of the Prada fashion book and wear a pair of thigh-high boots with shorts. Keep the shorts baggy and not too short in order to avoid looking trashy in this combination and you'll find that you have the perfect outfit for a weekend out about the town, having coffee with friends or even going to the local football match with your boyfriend. You'll look young, hip and fresh wearing boots in this manner.

*The Classic Female*

Hark back a little to the past and take inspiration from the 1960s, fashioning yourself a vintage look by wearing your thigh-highs of any heel height with a mini dress of your choice. If this idea doesn't take your fancy then wrapping up warm this winter in a huge, voluminous, over-sized coat to match and accentuate those newly purchased boots could be the style that you have been searching for. Let's face it, when it gets cold in the city who wants to take off their jacket anyway? Buy your boots and your winter coat as a pair and be the talk of the town when you enter any bar at any time of day.

Mat Taylor writes on the fashions of the 60s and 70s including thigh high boots of then and now

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mathew_M_Taylor
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Find-Your-Perfect-Thigh-High-Boot&id=5450942


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Vintage Fashion - Return Of The Retro

Leisure Suit Convention(4)Image via WikipediaBy Cheryl Ross

Retro Fashion is back and how! This is an age where we see the return of the retro fashion era. Gone are the days of modern clothes and accessories because according to the fashion gurus, the buzz is that Vintage is the "in" thing in the fashion circuit. With the "old is new" setting in people are busy giving their wardrobes a retro make-over.

Vintage fashion is the fashion that people used to follow in the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Everything about that age was big and bright and way over-the-top. In-order to go for the hard-core retro look you first need to choose a particular era because each era had a distinct fashion. You can even go for the all-in-one retro look by picking prominent fashions from each period and combining them to get a revolutionary look.

You can also create your own fashion trends by mixing and matching fashion pieces from the past and the present. This will give a personalized image to your fashion sense. You can even choose to include the one item which stood out in every era into your closet because this will prevent you from overdoing it.

Some of the famous style-statements from the past are listed below:

  • Tweed Jacket from the 1950s.
  • Polyester-leisure suit from the very famous disco numbers.
  • Psychedelic patterns or hippie designs.
  • Butterfly-collared button down shirts.
  • Bell-bottom polyester pants fitted at the waist.
  • Unisex platform shoes.
  • Peasant skirts
  • Grunge clothing or rock-star fashion
  • Tuxedos from the 70s
  • Bold flapper dresses.
  • Elaborate hairstyles
  • Winged eyeliners very bold
  • Heavy-duty accessories.
The retro fashion was larger than life. It is cyclic hence it keeps coming back. Retro fashion is a great way of paying homage to the memories, incidents, or people of the past. It is almost safe to say that according to the fashion blog retro is the new modern.

Cheryl Ross is a pro in giving fashion related tips and advises. In this article she has revealed to us the growing trend of retro fashion which is soon catching up with people like wild fire. For more details visit this fashion blog http://www.fashionfunda.net/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cheryl_Ross
http://EzineArticles.com/?Vintage-Fashion---Return-Of-The-Retro&id=5449090

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A Passion for All Things Paisley

Paisley designImage via WikipediaBy Davinia Vitrac

Paisley makes for a refreshing look, this is a rather absurd statement of me to make when you consider that the paisley print actually originated as far back as 3000 years ago from Indo-European cultures. In Britain it is represented in Celtic art, but this disappeared after the rise of the Roman Empire. In India however it flourished in many different art forms.

Very few people know that the popularity of paisley in more recent times (from the 18th Century and beyond) is down to a small town of the same name that sits 4 miles west of Glasgow, Scotland. On our recent visit to Edinburgh for our photo shoot we couldn't resist making a pit stop at Paisley to find out more about the prints that we love so much!

The town of Paisley in Scotland became quite renowned in the 17th Century, similar to many other small towns in Scotland for its principal industry of weaving. Paisley produced simple fabrics such as lawns, silks and muslins. This heritage and the skills acquired over decades laid the foundation for what would become Paisleys most famous product - the Paisley shawl.

The paisley shawl was in fact an imitation of a garment that was brought to the UK from the East India Company in the mid 18th century. The paisley shawl became very vogue but the Indian versions were expensive and in very short supply. The shawls were quickly copied by British manufacturers and reworked, the original Indian designs were also modified to meet European taste and of course to allow for mass production! For 70 years the fashion of paisley shawls thrived and the term 'paisley' became established and recognized worldwide.

Our personal love for all things paisley could have its routes back in the 'Summer of Love'. I wasn't actually born at this time but if they ever invent a time machine I am going there! It was during the late 60s and 70s that paisley once again became extremely popular, this is thought to be a direct result of the heavy influence of the Beatles.

The Beatles made a spiritual pilgrimage to India in the late 60s, during this visit John Lennon was so inspired and affected by the cultural experience that he had his Rolls Royce painted with the paisley design that he associated with India. Around this same time Fender guitars made a pink paisley version of the telecaster guitar, perhaps this was a salute to the Beatles. Prince in more recent times also paid tribute to the Rock and Roll attributes of paisley when he called his record label Paisley Park Records, named after his song of the same name.

So what do these crazy swirling teardrop or tadpole patterns actually represent?

According to Valerie Reilly the curator of the shawl collection at the Paisley Museum there are many interpretations and theories behind the paisley design:

"Some people think the motif is a mango, others a Chinese dragon, others half of the yin-yang symbol. We prefer the idea that it represents the growing shoot of the date palm, which was a "Tree of Life" in that region of the world, important for food, shade and building materials. Gradually the symbol came to represent growth and fertility."

When admiring the array of beautiful shawls at the museum one cannot help but hear Valerie's final words lingering as the swirls and teardrops take on new meanings. One cannot help but feel the influence of the erotic east but for now the interpretation of this unique design loved by aristocrats, nobility, and rockstars alike, through the many decades, remains in the eye of the beholder.

If you have the opportunity to visit Paisley we highly recommend that you visit the Paisley museum where you will find the 'Finest collection of paisley shawls in the world'!

Davinia Vitrac is the owner of http://www.thedressinggown.com and a lover of paisley! TheDressingGown.com is an online boutique specialising exclusively in ladies dressing gowns. Inspired by the 1950s screen sirens of yesteryear TheDressingGown.com has one single mission - to bring the essence of femininity back into the world of ladies dressing gowns.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Davinia_Vitrac
http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Passion-for-All-Things-Paisley&id=5445245



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Fair Trade Clothing - Style Meets Substance

FairtradeImage by soundslogical via FlickrBy Joan Rasch

Fair trade clothing is not commonly found in stores, but the concept is gaining popularity with consumers who are mindful of affecting change through our spending choices. By purchasing clothing that is made under Fair Trade conditions, we directly impact the lives of producer communities around the globe. Fair Trade clothing offers a high-quality and fashionable alternative to the mass-produced garments that are made at low costs by paying the producers unlivable wages.

Mass-produced items dominate our life ... from the clothes we wear to the food we eat, and the methods of this mass-production take a heavy toll on our health and on the health of the environment. In order to maintain low production costs, manufacturing units rely on cheap raw materials and even cheaper labor. Competitive trade has given rise to the use of cheap labor that is available in developing countries in order to manufacture the products at a fraction of the cost that it would be in a developed nation.

While some of the price disparities can be attributed to the differences in currency values, most of the difference is because of the availability of surplus and cheap labor. The result for manufacturers is maximum profits for minimum investments. For consumers, the result is that we get accustomed to unrealistically low prices which do not take into account the costs of this exploitation, in terms of human and environmental health.

This is where the concept of fair trade takes an entirely different approach. Fair trade companies are committed to equality rather than exploitation, and preservation rather than degradation. These trade products are made in healthy working environments and the producers are paid a fair and livable wage for their work.

The high quality, natural raw materials used in this trade production are healthier for the environment, the people making the products, and the people using the products. Further, many fair trade companies also reinvest in the producer communities through micro-finance, education, and health care programs.

There is often a misconception that fair trade clothing is expensive and not stylish. While the increased costs of production do result in a slightly higher price for consumers, the benefits are well worth it. Firstly, the product is made with textiles that are often hand-woven, hand block-printed and hand-embroidered. This means that great care and artistic skill has gone into making each piece, resulting in a garment that has far more value and exclusive style than what is typically available in the market. It also means that each piece is made of components that are hand-crafted by artisan communities, providing them with a sustainable livelihood and ensuring that their craft will be passed down to future generations.

By purchasing fair trade clothing you directly help to keep these artisan communities intact and self reliant. You help to make the world a better place, while also making your wardrobe more exciting!

This article has been written by an expert working with Sevya, an organization that sells fair trade clothing and wholesale fair trade products made by artisan groups in India.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joan_Rasch
http://EzineArticles.com/?Fair-Trade-Clothing---Style-Meets-Substance&id=5443382



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Wednesday, December 1, 2010

The Story Behind Ugg Boots

Classic short UGG boots worn by young girl - O...Image by UggBoy♥UggGirl [ PHOTO : WORLD : SENSE ] via FlickrBy Melissa Jain

If you're looking for chic footwear to pull together any ensemble and make it shine, look no farther than the Ugg Boot, with a sheepskin out layer ... some faux, some not, with a layer of warm fleece on the inside, and a thick sole. These fashionista accessories are believed to have been created either in Australia, or New Zealand, where the term "Ugg" is a generic labeling of the boot itself, and not the brand name, like many would likely surmise.

Used by fighter pilots in the First World War, at blisteringly cold altitudes, Uggs are designed to keep your feet warm in the harshest of circumstances, fashion statement or not. So while the boots may be a relatively recent find for the rest of the world, they had long been used and known colloquially by our friends down under, though we can't pinpoint exactly who invented them. We do know that mass production of them has been going on for over half a century, though...making Uggs slightly retro as well!

At first, exposure to Ugg boots in other countries was limited to the surfing crowd, who wore them to keep their feet warm after climbing out of the ocean from surfing. In the late 1970's, Uggs were popularized and being sold in the United States, garnering surfer Brian Smith, the proprietor of Ugg Holdings, a hefty profit.

Ugg boots are singular in their simplistic and striking design - primarily brown, though these days the colors can range from pink, to blue, to green. The stitching on Uggs are usually prominent, which actually add to the visually pleasing look. One of the great things about owning a pair of these boots is that the inner fleece draws moisture away from the feet, allowing them to stay at body temperature without cooling. This means that even in cold weather, a person can wear Uggs without socks and still have their feet remain warm!

The best thing about Ugg boots, though, is the fact that they can be found for low prices over the Internet. Shopping online can save you a lot of time and money; cash that could be going somewhere else instead of into the markup that retails stores are famous for charging. Online vendors aren't pressed to jack their prices to compensate for markup, so it's more than possible to find what you need for far less than wholesale price, if you're patient and willing to search.

So, if you want to be hip and stylish, log-on and search for a pair of Ugg boots before it's too late!
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