Showing posts with label Environmentally Friendly Clothing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Environmentally Friendly Clothing. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Are Synthetic Clothes Harming the Planet?

Clothing
Clothing (Photo credit: jvansanten)
By Judith Dannenhauer

If you take a look through your closet, you'll probably see a bunch of clothes with tags that have words like acrylic, polyester, nylon, and polypropylene.

These man-made fibers have slowly displaced natural fibers in our clothing, and most people don't think twice about it.

But it's time to wake up. It's time for consumers to become informed about the severe consequences synthetic clothes have on our planet.

Synthetic fibers are lauded for their affordability and versatility, but at what cost are we using these?

Here are some basic facts you need to first understand:

• Synthetic clothes are manufactured from man-made materials derived from chemicals.
• Coal, air, water, and petroleum products are used in the production of many synthetic fibers.
• The production of synthetic fibers creates pollution.
• Overproduction of synthetic fibers is damaging to the environment.
• Synthetic materials require far more energy to produce than is needed for the growth of natural fibers.
• When washed, tiny bits of plastic flake off of synthetic fibers (up to 1,900 flaked off fibers can come off a single piece of clothing per wash) and get flushed into the sewage system. These tiny bits of plastic find their way into oceans and shorelines, where marine animals ingest them.

Are Synthetic Clothes Bad for People Too?

It's pretty clear that synthetic clothing isn't the most eco-friendly choice, but does it pose any threats to our health? Consider the following:

Synthetic fibers off-gas harmful chemicals. Even though these chemicals are exhausted in minute amounts, you will still be breathing them in and absorbing them in your skin. Does this sound like a way to achieve optimal health?

Synthetic fibers also prevent your skin from breathing. Natural fibers found in eco-friendly clothing absorb and release perspiration, helping to ventilate your skin. Synthetic fibers don't breathe, so they block the skin in its attempts to detoxify itself, which can cause numerous effects.

Many people also experience skin allergies from exposure to synthetic clothes. If your skin gets irritated easily, and you have rashes and itching, there is a good chance it's from the clothing you're wearing.

The Advantages of Eco-Friendly Clothes

Eco-friendly clothes are the preferred choice for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Eco-friendly clothes offer a range of benefits.

• They are free from chemicals.
• They are free from genetically-modified seeds.
• They do not disperse any chemicals into the environment during their production.
• They are sustainable and 100% biodegradable.
• They are made from strong fibers that last, so you have to replace your clothes less often.
• They require less energy to produce than synthetic clothes.
• They are great for people with skin allergies and irritations.

Simply put, synthetic clothes affect the health of the entire planet. From the toxic manufacturing methods to the harmful disposal practices of these non-biodegradable products, synthetic clothes hurt the planet in many different ways.

Educate yourself on the benefits of eco-friendly clothes so you can do your part to help save the planet. Buy Adore Clothing and Cotton Clothing for Women online at: NaturalCottonClothing.Com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judith_Dannenhauer
http://EzineArticles.com/?Are-Synthetic-Clothes-Harming-the-Planet?&id=7071962

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Saturday, July 7, 2012

Fashion and Sustainability

The Earth flag is not an official flag, since ...
The Earth flag (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
By Barbara A Lopez

The universe of textiles is globally complex and extremely polluting. Converting fibres to fabrics requires a massive amount of energy, water, chemicals and land.

There is also a considerable amount of waste and emissions in the life cycle stages of production. The pollution is often unregulated and the impact is felt globally.

These impacts start at the factory and continue as the garment is shipped, used and finally thrown away. Understanding the sustainability of fabric manufacturing is critical to protect our wonderful planet Earth.

In order to be truly sustainable, designers must take into account the social and economic factors that impact the cultural diversity of a given society in the region where they are working and reawaken a new respect for clothing.

The manufacturers and the people who make our clothes are often underpaid and victims of social injustice. They are the precious threads of culture that could unravel if not considered.

There has been a shift in our society from mindless to mindful consumption Consumers across the globe are becoming more concerned about how their purchases affect the overall health and environment of our precious planet Earth and the people who inhabit it.

Building a new vision for fashion where sustainability is the highest priority is critical to our understanding of awareness and responsibility to our environment. Provoke, nurture and inspire people in a radically new and different direction. Re-imagine new ways to do business through a series of ground breaking collaborations. Imagine an industry using eco-clothing and textiles.

Eco-clothing textiles are those that inspire and communicate with the environment. We should mend, make do and repair. Remix and transform unwanted and obsolete garments through customization. Dismantle and reuse textiles from unused clothing. Explore the future of fashion by embracing repair and re-engaging communities in collaborations for repair.

I believe fashion of the future will have an emotional resonance. Few of us really need more of anything, so we will be looking for items that will touch us in some way. These are the deeply rooted vehicles of our identity. Progressive consumers that are passionate towards sustainable solutions are our thread towards a cleaner and less toxic environment for our future.

Designers fashion is more then just clothes, it reflects the way we choose to live our lives. Clothes are signs, symbols and expressions of our culture. They represent the way we feel about politics, activism and pleasure. Help build a new vision where fashion and clothing are fused with awareness and responsibility.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barbara_A_Lopez
http://EzineArticles.com/?Fashion-and-Sustainability&id=6965843

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Saturday, June 30, 2012

Where Is Your Organic Clothing Made?

English: Three female workers in Sri Lanka app...
Three female workers in Sri Lanka apparel industry (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
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By Adrian Desbarats

Many times I have been asked where my organic and eco friendly clothing is made.

When my answer includes places like China, Bangladesh and, India, the response I often get is negative and I can certainly understand.

Most people involved in the environmental movement prefer to "buy local" either to reduce the impacts resulting from transport or avoid supporting countries with less then ideal human rights records.

However, it is my opinion that this view, although based on a desire to create positive change, is not the path we should choose and following are my reasons:

Firstly, the apparel industry is buyer driven with demand for cheap, throw away fashion being the core of that demand. To meet this consumer demand, big corporations went overseas where labour laws are slack and wages are cheap.

Through this long association, the apparel industry is now fully entrenched in countries like China, India, Bangladesh, etc with close to 70% of all apparel imports valued at over 30 billion, coming into the US from the third world.

By demanding cheap, throw away fashions, we created this situation of exploitation in the third world. So, by turning our back on this industry through "buy local" are we not choosing to abandon already impoverished individuals who now rely on the apparel industry as a sole source of income?

Instead of abandoning these third world workers, we must support them. We must use our buying power to say no to child labor, no to wage exploitation, no to unsafe working conditions and yes to environmental sustainability.

By choosing to buy organic, fair trade clothing, we give these workers the environment they need to pull themselves out of the endless cycle of abject poverty, we give them and their children hope for the future.

This is why I support and fully endorse working actively with companies and individuals in the third world who are trying to clean up the apparel industry through adoption of organic and fair trade practices.

But what about the environmental cost of shipping these products overseas? There have been many LCA (life cycle analysis) done regarding the environmental impact of clothing manufacture and the reality is that less then 3% of the energy consumption of a typical piece of clothing can be attributed to transport.

So, have our efforts made a difference? Absolutely. A prime example would be Sri Lanka which is very much leading the way in the process of adopting organic, fair trade manufacturing. Over 300,000 persons work in the Sri Lankan apparel industry, 90 per cent of whom are women. Every small gain made in countries like Sri Lanka have a huge impact on these individuals.

So the question should not be - where is it made? The question should be - is it organic and fair trade?

Adrian Desbarats, the author, has a passionate desire for balance between nature and human needs. A biologist, he started FashionandEarth.com to provide Earth friendly, stylish fashions at affordable prices. Want to learn more about Fashion & Earth? Want to make a commitment to leading a more sustainable life style? Choose organic clothing and you'll make a positive difference in your life and our planet! Visit Fashion and Earth at http://www.FashionandEarth.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adrian_Desbarats
http://EzineArticles.com/?Where-Is-Your-Organic-Clothing-Made?&id=7135864

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Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Going Green With Vintage and Used Designer Clothes

English: The Community Closet Thrift Store
English: The Community Closet Thrift Store (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
By Ashley Balstad

Are you still trying to find the "look" for you? Are you trying to find a way to look good and express your individuality at the same time? Or is it just too costly to do so? Here are some answers to all of these questions:

The "Back in Time" Look

People have tried many different tactics to find what suits their style. Some have tried to look like they just stepped out of Hollywood. Others try to pull off the "I just rolled out of bed" look; but if you are looking for something that isn't too hard to keep up yet still stylish and appropriate for everyday life then you should think vintage clothing.

Vintage clothes take the simple beauty of nature and old styles and put them together. Vintage and retro clothing are based on styles of previous eras. A mainstream theme of vintage clothing is prints, specifically floral and animal prints. Accessories also use animals, flowers, and gemstones as their basis of design.

Many people today are concerned about "going green". Wearing vintage clothing is one way to do this. The act of buying vintage items means you are recycling them. Some people are concerned with the fact that reused clothing means that it is less durable.

This is actually false, in older times clothes were made to be more durable, which means vintage clothes will last longer and look prettier over time because they were designed to be wearable. Even if it is not your favorite style it's trendy, it's fun, and it's easy to pull off on a daily basis.

Not for you?

Some people like to stick to their comfort zone, and for many Americans that is designer clothing. A large amount of people want modern or contemporary looks, but cannot afford it. What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word say used? Most people would say old or dirty. However, used clothing isn't like that, if you know where to look. Used designer clothes are very popular today. People can get the fashions they want for the prices that they can afford.

Some can't stand the thought of stepping foot into a thrift store. Some feel that they are above thrift shopping. The common misconception is that they are messy and hard to find what you are looking for. Luckily, nowadays you don't have to. Online thrift stores are becoming more and more popular today.

Online shopping is beneficial because most of the time you can go straight to what you are looking for instead or going though racks and racks of unsorted clothing. Another advantage of online thrift stores is that you can find more items than you expected.

If you go designer clothes shopping in a mall you have to go into every store to view the different brands. With thrift shopping you can find all different brands in one place. Not to mention, you would spend half as much as you would buying designer clothes in a mall.

Don't know where to look?

If you are having trouble locating these great fashion finds, The Attic is a great place to start. They are a family owned and operated online thrift store that sells vintage clothing as well as used designer clothing. They are extremely affordable and highly recommended.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ashley_Balstad
http://EzineArticles.com/?Going-Green-With-Vintage-and-Used-Designer-Clothes&id=7056804

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Saturday, March 17, 2012

Canvas Bags - A Reusable, Recyclable, Eco-Friendly Natural Bag Option

English: ENVITOTE’s superior design is a styli...                                Image via WikipediaBy Steven Bernard

Looking for environment-friendly, biodegradable bags? Choose from those made of natural fiber like jute, cotton, canvas and non-woven. Among all of these, Canvas Bags are the most popular and preferred options. They are a low-maintenance choice when it comes to washability and durability.

They have soon taken over the choice of people who prefer the use of eco-rich, green bags. These carriers are any day less harmful then those non-biodegradable plastic bags consisting of chemical. Use of these organic bags will surely help in reducing the pollution levels.

Buying Canvas Bags is any day a wise choice when it comes to affordability and cost-effectiveness. With the growing rise in the pollution levels, these bags are fast becoming a popular choice. One can choose from a wide array of shape, size, texture, design and prints.

Make a style statement with this range of smart, trendy bags to look apart and stand out of the crowd. These are usually available in bright colors along with funny one-liners and texts. You can mix and match these along with your outfit to look stylish and elegant. Bags made of canvas are among the best recyclable bag options.

There are various styles available in Canvas Bags. This includes tote, burlap, sling, backpack, rucksack and others. Bags made out of canvas usually rank high in terms of user-friendliness and usability. They make a good choice when it comes to bearing the daily wear and tear routines or carrying many things at the same time.

These are any day a strong and cheap pick than their leather counterparts. They are not just chic but are also high in terms of quality. They are sure to add that element of class and sophistication to your look or attire.

Be it shopping or buying your daily grocery, canvas is just the right fabric. It's organic characteristic makes it a cheap option which is suitable for both hand wash as well as machine wash. Again, it very easy to remove tough stains from these bags which surely makes it a convenient pick among buyers.

One can find or buy these bags from every retail bag store or branded outlet. This kind of bag have been much in rage in the recent times as more and more people are opting for such natural bag substitutes instead of buying expensive shopping bags made of plastic material.

A bag made of canvas easily suits almost all kinds of dress and occasion. You can choose to buy accordingly from either tote bag or burlap bag. Canvas itself as a fabric is very versatile fabric and there is actually no limitations on the choice and range of such bag one can buy from.

For instance, if you are looking for a bag to carry sporting equipments, then a duffel bag made of canvas is surely an appropriate choice. Again, if you want to choose a bag for attending a formal event then a tote bag would suit the occasion right. There is absolutely no end to the variety one can select from bags made of the fiber, canvas.

Steven Bernard is a Journalist who writes articles on various online web topics and latest related ones on Canvas Bags and Tote Bag. Get to know more about such bags on our website http://www.littleearthgroup.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_Bernard
http://EzineArticles.com/?Canvas-Bags--A-Reusable,-Recyclable,-Eco-Friendly-Natural-Bag-Option&id=6931457
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Saturday, March 10, 2012

Organic Clothing Better For You And The Environment

English: Pura D'or Pure Organic CertificationImage via WikipediaBy Annabelle A Randles

Organic Clothing and The Environment

In order to get the organic certification organic clothing needs to comply with strict guidelines which restrict the use of chemicals, insecticides and pesticides. Chemicals used in conventional cotton and wool production can seep into the soil and ground water polluting the environment.

They also have adverse effects on biodiversity. Organic farming encourages more diverse land use providing better habitats where wildlife can strive.

- Organic Cotton is grown without the use of pesticides and insecticides that plagued conventional cotton production. Conventional cotton uses around 9% of the world's agrochemical pesticides, about 20% of the world's insecticides and 8% of the world's chemical fertilizers. Organic Cotton is also grown from non-GM seeds. Today a large proportion of conventional cotton (over 40%) is grown from GM seeds.

- Organic Wool is also produced without chemicals. Conventional wool uses pesticides and insecticides on sheep. Conventional wool is also heavily treated with many different chemicals to clean it and process it into a finish product. All those chemicals can pollute the environment.

Beyond the production of fibre, organic certification also ensures that the processing of organic clothing use eco-friendly processes and that the dyes are low-impact and do not contain heavy metals.

Organic Clothing and Your Health

As organic clothing is manufactured without the use of chemicals and pesticides it is generally better for your skin especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, eczema or dermatitis. Organic clothing is a better choice for babies and children delicate skin.

Cottonseed is a bi-product of the cotton production which is sold to the food industry (cotton seed oil is used in many prepared food) or as animal feed. According to EJF, it is estimated that as much as 65% of cotton production ends up in our food chain, whether directly through food oil or indirectly through the milk and meat of animals.

Organic Clothing and Animal Welfare

Organic wool is wool produced from sheep that are not exposed to pesticides, insecticides and antibiotics are restricted. Organic certification also ensures that the sheep are kept in good farming and humane conditions. They are allowed to graze freely on large pastures free from chemicals.

For Merino wool, museling (removal of wool and skin near the bottoms of sheep to prevent fly-strike) is forbidden in the UK but still allowed in Australia. It is a cruel practice which hurts the animal and is forbidden under organic standards.

Annabelle Randles is the founder of By Nature an online retailer based in London, UK specialising in organic and ethical products. http://www.bynature.co.uk

By Nature Organic Clothing collection can be found at http://www.bynature.co.uk/organic-clothing/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Annabelle_A_Randles
http://EzineArticles.com/?Organic-Clothing-Better-For-You-And-The-Environment&id=6846175
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Saturday, February 18, 2012

Turning Waste Into Clothes

Universal Eco Symbol                                   Image via Wikipediaby Annabelle A Randles

We have all grown accustomed to the notion of "recycling" yet the term "upcycling" is relatively new with its first recorded use in 1994.

Recycling is generally used to describe how materials or products are converted into lesser value products. On the contrary, upcycling transforms waste into new products of better quality or higher environmental value.

When applied to fashion, upcycling creates clothes from diverse sources including discarded products (such as plastic bottles or wood cuttings), waste from the textile or post consumer waste.

Turning discarded products into fabrics is probably the most surprising application of upcycling. Polar fleece is probably one of the most popular upcycled textile. While non-recycled fleece is made from petroleum derivatives, polar fleece can be made from recycled PET bottles. Light and warm, fleece is often seen as an alternative to wool. Easy to wash it is a great fabric for outerwear.

Lyocell fabric has recently gained popularity. Made from wood Lyocell is manufactured by dissolving the wood pulp with solvents to extract the cellulose fibre. Lyocell fabric is soft and silky yet very strong and easy to care for.

The manufacturing process is similar to Bamboo fabric but more environmentally friendly as latest developments in the manufacturing of Lyocell include closed loop production where solvents and by-products are recycled. Lyocell is also known under the brand name Tencel. Its high breathability makes Lyocell ideal for sportswear and underwear

Using leftover fabrics is also a great way to bring value, reduce waste and lower the environmental impact of the fashion industry. Overall textile waste (from consumers and fashion industry) is estimated at more than 1 million tonnes a year. Waste takes the form of off-cuts, leftover fabrics or discarded consumer clothes.

A few eco designers specialise in re-using those fabrics and turning them into new clothes. Because of the limited supply of each individual fabric, those clothes are generally made in small batches or even one-offs. This is of course to consumers looking for some exclusivity outside high street fashion.

Over the past decade, upcycling has become more and more popular due to the higher value of the end product, the lowered cost of reused materials and the environmental benefits of re-using waste. The textile industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. Aside from the chemicals used for growing conventional cotton, dying fabrics has a huge environmental impact.

Upcycling helps minimise this problem as fabrics are used "as is" without the need to be "grown" or dyed again. By reducing the use of new raw materials upcycling helps reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions generated by conventional manufacturing.

Reducing waste is one of the challenges of our civilisation. Yet there is no point in recycling or upcycling if consumers steer clear of their end products. Next time you are looking for clothes look out for upcycled labels. They might just surprise you.

5 upcycled fashion brands to look out for:

Who Made Your Pants
Do You Green by g=9.8
Worn Again
From Somewhere
TRAIDremade

Annabelle Randles is the founder of By Nature an online retailer based in London, UK specialising in organic and ethical products. http://www.bynature.co.uk

By Nature upcycled fashion and organic clothing collections can be found at http://www.bynature.co.uk/Organic-Clothing/Women

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Annabelle_A_Randles
http://EzineArticles.com/?Turning-Waste-Into-Clothes&id=6879309
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Saturday, January 28, 2012

What Is Fair Trade And Why Is It Important?

WFTO Fair Trade Organization MarkImage via WikipediaBy Joan S Rasch

Shoppers don't always know what is meant by fair trade. Yet retailers who carry these products are learning that people are quickly becoming informed. And, as this knowledge grows, so does the market. Still, many are left wondering exactly what fair trade is and why it is important to support it.

This article provides a quick synopsis of the concept and the reality of fair trade. Put simply, it is at once a social movement and a market-based method to help producers of goods in developing countries gain more favorable trading conditions. Sustainability is the goal, not simply to make money.

The certification process is an essential component. Producers must meet certain standards. For example, workers, farmers, whoever is engaged in the production of the product must receive payment of a higher price as well as receive decent, sustainable work conditions.

In effect, the goal of fair trade is to positively affect the lives of producers of labor and goods, and therefore attain higher social and environmental standards for these individuals and communities.

If the products carried by a retailer carry an official Fair Trade logo these products have met certain vital criteria. For starters, the standards dictate that employees must receive livable wages and these they must be able to join unions and bargain as a group - collectively.

Forced or child labor is not allowed, obviously. Moreover, specific fair trade standards require that a joint body is set up with representation from both management and workers. This collective body decides on how premiums will be spent to the benefit of employees.

In order for a producer to achieve certification the workers involved in the production of the product must be compensated fairly and their working conditions must offer them a good way to support themselves. Moreover, progressive methods need to be integral to the production process - progress needs to occur over time that impacts the workers positively.

Clearly there are many facets to the story behind these products. As consumers, it is vital that we learn to ask questions about where the products we use come from. We need to seek out such stories and choose to use our purchasing power consciously if we intend to help make a positive change in the world through our shopping decisions.

Fair trade products include clothing, coffee, produce, and an ever-increasing variety of other options. So, the next time you are out shopping, perhaps you can inquire whether these options are offered. You can truly impact other people's lives positively if you take the time to care.

Joan Rasch enjoys writing articles for businesses who are interested in wholesale fair trade products, scarves, bags, wholesale jewelry and clothing. Fair trade products are a result of an organized social movement and market based approach that strives to assist people in developing countries improve trading conditions and promote sustainability.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joan_S_Rasch
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Is-Fair-Trade-And-Why-Is-It-Important?&id=6832182
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Saturday, January 21, 2012

Why Is Eco Fashion, Fashion With a Conscience?

English: A T-Shirt made from Fairtrade certifi...Image via WikipediaBy Annabelle A Randles

Eco fashion is often believed to be plain, earthy and unattractive. Nothing could be further from the truth as very talented designers are working with innovative materials to create some great and trendy clothes.

What makes eco fashion different from conventional clothes is not their style but the fabrics it uses and the way it is manufactured. In a world of fast, cheap and disposable clothes, eco fashion brings us clothing made from eco textiles under fair trading practices.

Eco Textiles

Eco fashion uses eco textiles such as organic cotton or bamboo. Those fibres are kinder to the environment as they are grown without pesticides and insecticides.

Organic Cotton

Often known as the natural fibre, conventional cotton uses around 9% of the world's agrochemical pesticides, about 20% of the world's insecticides and 8% of the world's chemical fertilizers.

This is because cotton flowers are very prone to attacks from insects which has led conventional cotton growers to using those very high levels of chemicals as well as using GM cotton seeds.

A typical conventional cotton t-shirt uses about 150 grams of acutely toxic pesticides and insecticides.

The high levels of chemicals have disastrous effects on farmers health (such as cancer) and pollute the environment while affecting biodiversity. Chemicals can also enter the food chain as cotton bi-products such as cotton seed oil are used in many processed food.

Organic Cotton is grown without the use of pesticides and insecticides that plagued conventional cotton production.

While yields of organic cotton are generally lower than conventional cotton, organic cotton farmers do not have to buy expensive chemicals or GM crops.

Organic farming helps preserve biodiversity while sustaining a healthy environment for humans.

Bamboo

Bamboo fabric has become increasingly popular over the past decade.

Sustainable and versatile, bamboo is the fastest growing plant on earth and requires no pesticides or fertilizers. It requires little water and can grow in many different climates and terrains.

Bamboo fabric is incredibly soft and has a natural breathability keeps you comfortable and dry for longer. It is also highly absorbent (making it the perfect fabric for bath products such as towel and bathmats). Highly breathable with great thermo control properties it is ideal for sportswear.

Eco fashion is a great choice for people with sensitive skins as eco textiles tend to benefit people with sensitive skins such as babies, children, people prone to allergies, eczema and psoriasis.

Upcycled Fabrics

Eco fashion also uses upcycled materials such as wood, plastics or leftover fabrics to transform waste into clothes. By minimising waste, upycled fabrics have a lesser impact on the environment.

Tencel and Lenpur fabrics are made from wood. The wood pulp is turn into cellulose and then onto a soft and silky fibre. Tencel and Lenpur can be used on their on or blended with other fabrics.

Plastic Bottles can be recycled into fleece material which tends to be soft, lightweight, warm and comfortable.

Fabrics leftovers are also used to create new clothes and minimize waste

Fairer Manufacturing

But eco fashion does not only benefit the environment and our health. With fair trading practices it enables disadvantaged communities to earn a decent living far away from sweatshops that plagues conventional fashion. Different schemes/certifications exist around the world to ensure a fairer deal and that no child labour is used.

Two-thirds of this cotton is produced in the developing world where it is often subsidised creating unfair trading conditions. World prices on cotton are unstable and falling prices affect poorer farmers who strive to survive.

The Fairtrade Foundation provides a certification for cotton which support the world's poorest cotton farmers ensuring they have been paid a fair price for their crop. It is not the finished fabric or item of clothing but cotton itself which is Fairtrade certified. Others such as Transfair certify both ends of the supply chain: farms and factories.

Eco fashion is fashion with a conscience. So if you care about the environment, fair trade and animal rights, then it is time to become an eco fashion victim.

Annabelle Randles is the founder of By Nature an online retailer based in London, UK specialising in organic and ethical products. http://www.bynature.co.uk

By Nature eco fashion collection can be found at http://www.bynature.co.uk/eco-fashion/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Annabelle_A_Randles
http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Is-Eco-Fashion,-Fashion-With-a-Conscience?&id=6819729







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Saturday, January 14, 2012

Hemp Clothing - Your Second Natural Skin

HempImage by lux2night via FlickrBy Nadia Ruseva

Hemp clothing is strong, long lasting and doesn't wrinkle. It keeps the coolness of linen and has the softness of cotton.

If compared to cotton, hemp fibers are longer, stronger, more absorbent, more mildew and microbe-resistant as well as more insulative. In other words, hemp clothing will keep you warmer in winter and cooler in summer than cotton.

Apart from all these qualities, hemp is one of the most ecologically friendly plants. When grown organically, hemp fiber 'breathes' and is biodegradable. Briefly, hemp clothing looks great, feels good, and protects the planet, too.

From field to fabric - natural fiber clothing

Hemp is one of the most ecologically friendly fibers. Hemp plant doesn't need pesticides as it is naturally pest resistant. When hemp is grown in rotation, it has been known to reduce the pests in future crops. Hemp does not require herbicides, because it is grown so densely that other plants can't co-live with it.

Finally, hemp needs little or no fertilizers and it returns most of the nutrients it takes from the soil. All this makes hemp easy to be grown organically. On top of it, the plant grows between 80-120 days and adjusts to many climate zones.

From fabric to clothing - how hemp turns into organic clothing

In creating eco-friendly, organic hemp clothing, growing is only part of the job. Turning fiber into fabric and fabric into hemp clothing must also be done using processes that are healthy both to the individual and the environment.

Modern methods, however, mostly rely on chemical rather than mechanical processes because they save time and money. For hemp clothing to be considered organic none of the processes in creating hemp fabric should involve synthetic chemicals.

Hemp clothing can be dyed or stay with its "natural" color, which is simply the natural beige color of the hemp fibers after processing. That's why hemp clothes with a "natural" color can vary greatly in shades. By the way, hemp fibers are more absorbent to dyes and better screen out UV rays than cotton. This means that the color of hemp clothing fades more slowly than the color of cotton.

Finally, hemp can be made into many fabrics, including linen. When mixed with cotton, linen, or silk, hemp provides a sturdier, longer lasting textile of high quality and softness.

Is your hemp clothing really organic?

In case you want to know for sure if the hemp clothes you buy are really organic, look for an organic certification label. Because the National Organic Program standards apply to food only, you will not see a USDA Organic seal on clothes. Instead, look for the label of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). While other eco-labels for clothing and fabrics address raw materials, or chemical finishes, or labor standards, the GOTS certification is the ONLY one that addresses all of the processes.

Nadia Ruseva is a mom, who in search of some tips to raise her child healthy, found a whole new world of inspiration and ideas about how to be healthy and beautiful inside and out... about how to make a difference.

Her website I Prefer Organic is about healthy, natural, eco-friendly and organic alternatives to conventional products as well as tips, recipes and reviews related to organic and sustainable living, fair trade and vegan products.

Visit Nadia to have a chat, discuss a cause, share a view or just to look around for something interesting or inspiring.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nadia_Ruseva
http://EzineArticles.com/?Hemp-Clothing---Your-Second-Natural-Skin&id=6743820
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Sunday, January 8, 2012

Vegan Clothing Fashion Trends for 2012 - Ethical Fashion or Just Plain Hype?

The logo of the Vegan Society (UK), which asso...Image via WikipediaBy Tristan Black

What exactly do several a-list celebrities and passionate Hindu's have in common? They are living the vegan lifestyle.

More and more people today than in the past are opting for the vegan life-style as vegan clothing fashion research has reveal that turning into vegan is "cool", "hip", "sexy" and "trendy". This might be true however vegetable centered diet programs may also be extremely healthy, and a lot of people have opted to be vegan to benefit their own health.

Vegetarians possess reduced total body weights, low levels of cholesterol, low blood pressure levels, in addition to reduce rates of cardiovascular disease and diabetic issues. Style developments for 2012 demonstrate that vegan clothing is scorching hawt haut between vegans and non vegans alike. Vegan outfits are highly affected by acclaimed vegans for example Ellen Degeneres as well as Pamela Anderson.

In accordance wit market research this particular trend is here now to stay simply because a lot more people aren't just taking pleasure in the health advantages associated with a vegan way of life but additionally the ecological and ethical advantages too. "We are witnessing a real change from conventional vegetarianism to a more 'social, individual life-style option", "Vegans are not only looking for vegan clothing but also creating a statement using their budgets and having an influence on their friends around them, and merchants are being attentive!".

Merchants these days are including additional vegan clothing and ethical items inside their merchandise catalogs and of course if imitation could be the greatest type of flattery, you shouldn't be amazed to view veggie wordplay with items for example "tofurkey", a tofu item supposed to imitate turkey, or "Vegan fur", an animal free vegetarian synthetic leather/fur substitute.

So what exactly is the main difference from a vegetarian and a vegan anyhow? The lines are frequently fuzzy but the important variation is that vegans not just steer clear of consuming animal centered items, which represents your standard vegetarian, but also keep away from every animal produced items completely. But hang on, there is also a third classification of herbivores referred to as "Raw Vegans".

Raw vegans are just like vegan however they don't cook their food items. They declare that preparing food damages its vitamins and minerals and also the cooking procedure itself leads to the development and discharge of dangerous chemicals.

Who are vegans? Information for the market composition of vegans is tough to find nevertheless most vegans are between the ages of 23-36, 65% female 35% male, having a mean home earnings of $60,000. Vegans devote on mean 15 hrs on the web each week and many are participating in on-line social networking web sites, particularly Twitter, Facebook or MySpace, Google Plus, as well as Foursquare.

The developing issues with the atmosphere, personal well being and animal well being have created an outburst of need for vegan clothing and accessories by both serious vegans and non-vegans the same. Increasingly more merchants these days are progressively launching vegan products.

The reason behind the change is the fact that research has revealed that the single biggest influence a person might have on their planetary footprint would be to change to a vegetarian way of life. So if you're worried about your health, style, the earth, and the well being of animals, you might want to consider veganism.

Interested in learning more about the vegan life or vegan clothing? Click here: Vegan Clothing for more vegan fashion tips and vegan product reviews.

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Saturday, December 31, 2011

The Proliferation of Vegan Stores and Vegan Products Signal a Paradigm Shift in Fashion

The logo of the Vegan Society (UK), which asso...Image via WikipediaBy Tristan Black

Hard core vegans focus on a dieting regimen and life-style that will not cause injury to animals and the planet directly or indirectly via the processing of animal hides like leather, sheepskin, silk or wool. Vegans reject shoes or boots and garments created from animal derived goods.

At one time becoming "vegan" meant centering on what you had to lose in order to experience an ethical healthy way of life. At this time individuals are more conscious of what they're putting on, what supplies and chemicals have been used, and how it impacts the environment.

The rise of vegan fashions and vegan stores that sell cruelty free merchandise have led vegans and non-vegans alike to change their shopping habits. Only 10 years ago, shoppers looking for animal friendly products had to resort to large box retailers, considered ''vegan'' due to stocking synthetic material items in their product mix.

Today you'll find a plethora of nationwide chains, boutiques, on-line retailers, and eco-minded labels are encouraging consumers, even those merely flirting with a vegetarian eating plan, to acknowledge its precepts past the kitchen and into their wardrobes. Part of the cause for the surge in vegan stores is the fact that the vegetarian population have grown significantly in the past couple of years.

It can be estimated that as of 2011 there are 5.2 million vegetarians within the USA and Canada and approximately Forty percentage are vegans. Youngsters at this time are a lot more most likely to adopt to vegan fashion as they are growing up on the "reduce, reuse, recycle, and repurpose", also known as the 4R's mantra, and debates about global warming.

Ethical fashion items nowadays are durable and come in numerous styles and colors using plant based material, like cotton, hemp, or bamboo, synthetic plastic-like material such as rayon, and all-natural dyes. Vegan products have invaded all item categories and it is not uncommon to locate vegan fur jackets, sustainable bamboo iPhone and iPad cases, vegan boots, vegan purses, vegan belts, and also vegan suits.

These cruelty-free goods compete not simply aesthetically but also on price against conventional goods. The wide assortment of vegetarian product offerings is contributing to a quantifiable growth of vegan style resources.

To "go green" signifies to be cognizant of nature including animals. Regardless of whether you happen to be vegan or not, do your part to promote a green and eco-friendly way of life and take a stand against animal cruelty by getting vegan products. Should you really need to live a green lifestyle, shake things up and go hunt for vegan stores on the internet and around your city today.

If you are learning more about vegan stores, please visit eco3P. eco3P is your trusted source for vegan products, vegan product reviews, basically everything vegan.

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Saturday, December 17, 2011

Hemp Clothing - Your Second Natural Skin

The National Organic Program administers the O...Image via WikipediaBy Nadia Ruseva

Hemp clothing is strong, long lasting and doesn't wrinkle. It keeps the coolness of linen and has the softness of cotton.

If compared to cotton, hemp fibers are longer, stronger, more absorbent, more mildew and microbe-resistant as well as more insulative. In other words, hemp clothing will keep you warmer in winter and cooler in summer than cotton.

Apart from all these qualities, hemp is one of the most ecologically friendly plants. When grown organically, hemp fiber 'breathes' and is biodegradable. Briefly, hemp clothing looks great, feels good, and protects the planet, too.

From field to fabric - Natural fiber clothing

Hemp is one of the most ecologically friendly fibers. Hemp plant doesn't need pesticides as it is naturally pest resistant. When hemp is grown in rotation, it has been known to reduce the pests in future crops. Hemp does not require herbicides, because it is grown so densely that other plants can't co-live with it.

Finally, hemp needs little or no fertilizers and it returns most of the nutrients it takes from the soil. All this makes hemp easy to be grown organically. On top of it, the plant grows between 80-120 days and adjusts to many climate zones.

From fabric to clothing - How hemp turns into organic clothing

In creating eco-friendly, organic hemp clothing, growing is only part of the job. Turning fiber into fabric and fabric into hemp clothing must also be done using processes that are healthy both to the individual and the environment.

Modern methods, however, mostly rely on chemical rather than mechanical processes because they save time and money. For hemp clothing to be considered organic none of the processes in creating hemp fabric should involve synthetic chemicals.

Hemp clothing can be dyed or stay with its "natural" color, which is simply the natural beige color of the hemp fibers after processing. That's why hemp clothes with a "natural" color can vary greatly in shades. By the way, hemp fibers are more absorbent to dyes and better screen out UV rays than cotton. This means that the color of hemp clothing fades more slowly than the color of cotton.

Finally, hemp can be made into many fabrics, including linen. When mixed with cotton, linen, or silk, hemp provides a sturdier, longer lasting textile of high quality and softness.

Is your hemp clothing really organic?

In case you want to know for sure if the hemp clothes you buy are really organic, look for an organic certification label. Because the National Organic Program standards apply to food only, you will not see a USDA Organic seal on clothes. Instead, look for the label of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). While other eco-labels for clothing and fabrics address raw materials, or chemical finishes, or labor standards, the GOTS certification is the ONLY one that addresses all of the processes.

Nadia Ruseva is a mom, who in search of some tips to raise her child healthy, found a whole new world of inspiration and ideas about how to be healthy and beautiful inside and out... about how to make a difference.

Her website I Prefer Organic is about healthy, natural, eco-friendly and organic alternatives to conventional products as well as tips, recipes and reviews related to organic and sustainable living, fair trade and vegan products.

Visit Nadia to have a chat, discuss a cause, share a view or just to look around for something interesting or inspiring.

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Saturday, December 3, 2011

Ugg Boots Make Innovative Use Of Natural Materials

Pair of chestnut Ugg boots with jeans tucked i...Image via WikipediaBy Charlotte J Wilson

If there is one brand that has been able to stand the test of time purely because of its innovative use of natural materials like sheepskin and rubber, it has to be Ugg boots. This brand that came into existence in Australia created a flutter in the market when it introduced its range of boots made out of high quality sheepskin.

Consumers who were till then well accustomed to using top notch leather footwear now had something different to look forward to. The Merino sheepskin used to manufacture Ugg boots proved to be not only very durable but extremely soft and with excellent cushion qualities.

What distinguished Ugg boots from others apart from its use of sheepskin was the fact that consumers could wear them during both summer and winter seasons. These boots had wool whose outer part could be enveloped with generous fleece for that ultra soft feeling, while the inners could be covered with skin.

Merino sheepskin with its double faced attribute thus offered a thermostatic kind of setting whereby your feet remained very cosy and warm during cold winter but became cool during summer. Fleece helped in keeping out moisture and thus ensured that your feet always remained dry. The soles were made out of rubber and stitched firmly into the boots on the outside.

The use of such material naturally pushed up the cost of these boots but people were more than willing to pay the price given the exclusive benefits they could enjoy with Ugg boots.

It was not surprising therefore that these boots soon had many imitators who tried to introduce their own brand. Over the years, very few have succeeded in their endeavour as they have not been able to duplicate the effect and comfort Uggs have been consistently delivering to its consumers.

Ugg quickly realised that in order to maintain their competitive advantage, they had to bring out these boots in a whole range of colours and sizes. You thus had access to pretty attractive colours like blue, pink, chestnut, fuchsia and many others. Women found them ideal as they could now complement their attire with the right footwear and rest assured that their feet would remain well protected through the season.

The height of the boots introduced by the brand varied from ankle high boots to those reaching above the knee. Tall boots were always preferred by many women and since they were available in vibrant colours available, they were quickly snapped up.

Unfortunately, like most other successful brands, Ugg too have to face the scourge of duplicates and replicas flooding the market and wooing the consumers. These are made out of cheap pigskin or cowhide and if you are not careful when buying them, you could end up burning a hole in your pocket. Such products are also not good for your skin due to the spurious chemicals used in their manufacture.

It is therefore advisable that you do not look out for cheap Ugg boots, but pay more for the genuine article.

Charlotte Wilson has been sharing her experiences with various fashion brands and retail stores such as online shoes retailer Sarenza UK, through article writing for over 10 years. To view a range of fashionable footwear including the latest Ugg Boots collection, please visit the Sarenza website.

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Saturday, October 29, 2011

Vegan Shoes - The Idea Behind Ethical Shoes

Terra Plana Aqua Shoes, November, 2009Image by Maggie Osterberg via FlickrBy Indy M

The world is made up of many things, big and small. And they all have their part to play in the grand scheme of things. The Buddhist philosophy considers even the smallest living creatures, like a flower or an ant, to be intimately connected to the greater world. However, the harmony and grace which animals provide to the beautiful outdoors is now being harmed.

Various industries are now consuming resources at an alarming rate. A rate at which many believe is unsustainable. This is where ethical shoes come into the picture. Primarily a movement that was started by vegans, ethical shoes (or clothes for that matter) are items which are never sourced from animal products.

Additionally, production of such items revolve around sustainable practices with very limited harm to the earth itself.

The lifestyle of a vegan is one that takes all living creatures into consideration. They forsake not just food from animals, but leather and fur as well. While most clothes on the market are made from plant or plastic derived materials, there is a percentage that is still being sourced from animals. Chief among them is leather.

Fortunately, vegetarian shoes are now easily available everywhere and are produced from artificial materials which brilliantly imitate the appearance of real animal fabric

Today, vegan shoes are sold in a wide selection of styles and materials. The styles you may come across are not restricted to only day-wear functions such as slippers or tennis shoes. They also encompass a myriad of other activities and styles including hiking shoes, high heels, boots, and business shoes. As such, there is a vegan replacement for just about any sort of footwear you have in mind.

The best selling forms of vegan shoes today are ethical tennis shoes. They are hugely popular in America and are designed with function and comfort in mind. Essentially, they can also be used as casual sneakers. For that reason, they are some of the better vegan alternatives to casual day-wear.

If there is one form of footwear that fully makes use of animal derived materials, it is the common boot. From winter boots to fashion boots, leather is the preferred material alongside plastic derived materials. As such, this area is of extreme interest to those that produce ethical footwear. There are now great many alternatives that are just as good (or better) than real leather. Looks, functionality and durability are all maintained.

In the past, such shoes were always difficult to find. You had to order from a handful of specialty stores, usually by mail. With the advent of the internet, you can now choose from a wealth of ethical brands online.

For casual wear, Sole rebels make some of the best day-wear shoes on the market. For fancy women's shoes, Beyond Skin and Terra Plana are considered top notch companies that consistently produce stunning women's footwear.

Ethical shoes are always sourced from plant based materials such as hemp and canvas. Canvas in particular is used quite often as it is relatively cheap yet very durable.

We stock Vegetarian shoes, sandals and boots from top brand names like Terra Plana and Beyond Skin at our online store.

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Saturday, October 8, 2011

Bamboo Clothing Vs Organic Cotton Clothing

Bamboo Cathedral on the road to the Tracking S...Image via WikipediaBy Dagny McKinley

Those looking to get away from traditional cotton, and the pesticides, insecticides and general damage the growing of cotton does to the environment, have more options that just organic cotton. Alternatives to traditional clothing fall into two categories - organic and sustainable.

Organic clothing can be sustainable, meaning that the crop is grown without harmful chemicals (organic) and doesn't deplete the earth's health (sustainable). Likewise, crops that are considered sustainable, like bamboo, can also be organic. Note I say 'can,' this does not mean they necessarily are.

In order to keep soil healthy, organic farmers often plant a variety of crops that are complementary to one another, or they rotate where crops are grown so they don't deplete the soil of essential nutrients. Another method employed by organic and sustainable farmers is to encourage beneficial insects. This means they provide a habitat for birds that eat insects, or butterflies and bees that pollinate flowers.

As organic farmers know, having a balance of insects and the species that feeds on them prevents crops from succumbing to many bug infestations that can wipe out crops.

What does this all have to do with the bamboo that results in bamboo clothing? Bamboo is considered a sustainable resource. This means it grows rapidly, several inches per day, and when bamboo is harvested, it doesn't result in long-term damage to the area.

For example if an old growth forest is cut down, replacement of those trees could take several hundred years. With bamboo, harvesting can take place on a regular basis without wiping out the crop. Bamboo is similar to a weed. It grows quickly and can survive at almost any altitude and under many different weather patterns.

Bamboo is also considered a rain-fed crop, meaning we don't have to waste valuable water resources in order for it to grow. It simply survives off the rain it gets naturally. The roots of bamboo can help prevent erosion in soil sensitive areas and is a durable species, meaning it doesn't need pesticides or insecticides to grow.

People familiar with bamboo may think of bamboo flooring or bamboo housing, but not necessarily bamboo clothing. Is it comfortable? It really is. Bamboo as a textile is wicks away moisture, keeping the skin soft and dry, is breathable and silky soft. Bamboo can be found in clothing that ranges from bamboo t-shirts to skirts, yoga pants, jackets and more.

Be sure to check out bamboo clothing as an alternative to organic cotton clothing. You'll be amazed at the quality and comfort you find.

ONNO is a manufacturer of organic clothing, bamboo clothing and hemp clothing. ONNO believes in using sustainable and or organic fibers and is a socially responsible manufacturer. We use carbon offsets to balance out the transportation costs of our products. Find out more about ONNO.

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Friday, September 23, 2011

Why It's Better to Choose Organic Clothing

Organic cotton yarn.Organic Cotton Yarn - Image via WikipediaBy Lucy Tomkins

Organic clothes are made with fabrics grown and raised by organic standards. "Organic" generally means that no synthetics, hormones, antibiotics, pesticides, organisms that are genetically modified and other unnatural materials are fed to the product during the growing process.

Now, it is true that there may be some chemicals used after the material is manufactured, like dyes and preserving agents, but even when a few unnatural elements are used, these are minimal. For the most part, people can avoid exposure to chemicals and other unnatural substances when they wear organic clothing, and, while promoting their own health, they can support sustainable resources.

Clothing for Babies

The manufacture of organic clothing for babies has become a successful industry because babies' skin is delicate and sensitive. Organic fabrics seem to be more healthful for them. Indeed, some babies with extremely sensitive skin have had rashes improve while using organics instead of synthetic clothing and blankets.

Through the years, people have found that natural fibres, and especially cotton, are perfect for tender, baby skin. Now, with the escalating production of organic cotton, bamboo, wool, jute materials and more, people can purchase baby clothes that are even better for baby skin.

Chemicals and other unnatural substances can be especially harmful to babies as they develop. Many of these harmful ingredients can be easily absorbed through the skin, especially the skin of infants. The very reality of their smaller size makes the threat of these toxins greater for their body weight. Then, the toxins build up because the young system is not strong enough for rapid elimination of these substances.

Clothing for Sensitive Skin

Some people grow to adulthood and never outgrow their skin sensitivity. In fact, many adults have chronic skin conditions such as rashes, dry skin, and eczema. They may have had some medical treatment, but it has been unsuccessful.

They resign themselves to live with poor skin, but they find their skin is uncomfortable most of the time and only natural, breathable materials are tolerable. Organic clothes are significantly beneficial to such silent sufferers.

Eco-Friendly Clothing

Even when organic materials are treated in the finishing process with chemicals, these organic material manufacturers are careful to use proper storage and disposal of these substances. They are conscious of eco-friendly alternatives for dyes and fabric preservatives and use them whenever possible. Certainly, clothing labeled organic use fibers that are grown organically and little or no chemicals are added in the fabric finishing processes.

All humans, animals and the earth's environment receive much less exposure to synthetic chemicals because of the manufacture of organic clothes. Therefore, people, pets and the world can live more comfortably just because of this successful and growing organic fabric industry.

Find a wide selection of organic clothes for you and your baby online.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lucy_Tomkins
http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Its-Better-to-Choose-Organic-Clothing&id=5901853
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Saturday, August 27, 2011

A History of Eco-Fashion

Cover of "Green is the New Black"Cover of Green is the New BlackBy Adrienne E Estes

In the sixties, hippies donned tie-died shirts, long skirts and peace-sign accessories. The seventies were defined by polyester garments and sequined roller-disco outfits. The eighties and nineties...must we even reminisce?

Since then, an overshadowing trend of "fast fashion," cheaply made garments, most likely from third-world sweatshops, provided easy, cheap access to the trend of the season. Prices would be significantly low, making the purchase extremely tempting and most likely not regrettable, even if the dress falls apart after only three nights out.

A new era of eco fashion has been rising, shaping the way this current decade will be remembered in terms of style.

The idea of eco fashion began rising in the 1980's when concerns regarding chemicals in fabrics, such as flame-retardants and pesticides in the crops, came about. At the time, it meant chemical-free, and was mostly protecting us against fears for our own health and not so much our planet's deterioration. After the Chicago Tribune uncovered Levi Strauss's unethical use of sweatshop labor overseas in '92, eco fashion began to really take off.

Although it seemed big brand after big brand were being busted for the use of unfair, exploitable labor and ethical fashion was on the rise, the concept still triggered the image of an expensive, itchy burlap sack for a dress. It simply wasn't stylish.

As the years progressed, many designers began to take a stand for eco fashion, and produce lines of clothing that were stylish, organic and fair trade. It was a new generation of fashion entrepreneurs, creating something that was not only a new up and coming trend, but also a style that would morph its way into a timeless fashion that anybody, of any personal style and walk of life, could wear.

As small time designers began launching new eco fashion labels, big time designers also jumped on board. Designers such as Stella McCartney, Giorgio Armani, Gucci and Vera Wang have supported the eco fashion movement through use of sustainable fabrics and fair trade practices.

The way we have remembered decades in terms of trends in fashion, a new era of timeless style, eco fashion, is dawning on the horizon. More and more designers have switched to promoting sustainability and ethics, and keeping a whole-hearted commitment to the environment and the world around us. The way green is the new black, socially conscious clothing brands are the new leaders of the fashion industry.

Adrienne is a contributor at {r}evolution apparel, a sustainable clothing company for travelers and minimalists. She writes about sustainable fabrics, eco fashion designers and the process of creating a socially conscious clothing line.

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Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Why It's Better to Choose Organic Clothing

The National Organic Program administers the O...Image via WikipediaBy Lucy Tomkins

Organic clothes are made with fabrics grown and raised by organic standards. "Organic" generally means that no synthetics, hormones, antibiotics, pesticides, organisms that are genetically modified and other unnatural materials are fed to the product during the growing process.

Now, it is true that there may be some chemicals used after the material is manufactured, like dyes and preserving agents, but even when a few unnatural elements are used, these are minimal. For the most part, people can avoid exposure to chemicals and other unnatural substances when they wear organic clothing, and, while promoting their own health, they can support sustainable resources.

Clothing for Babies

The manufacture of organic clothing for babies has become a successful industry because babies' skin is delicate and sensitive. Organic fabrics seem to be more healthful for them. Indeed, some babies with extremely sensitive skin have had rashes improve while using organics instead of synthetic clothing and blankets.

Through the years, people have found that natural fibres, and especially cotton, are perfect for tender, baby skin. Now, with the escalating production of organic cotton, bamboo, wool, jute materials and more, people can purchase baby clothes that are even better for baby skin.

Chemicals and other unnatural substances can be especially harmful to babies as they develop. Many of these harmful ingredients can be easily absorbed through the skin, especially the skin of infants. The very reality of their smaller size makes the threat of these toxins greater for their body weight. Then, the toxins build up because the young system is not strong enough for rapid elimination of these substances.

Clothing for Sensitive Skin

Some people grow to adulthood and never outgrow their skin sensitivity. In fact, many adults have chronic skin conditions such as rashes, dry skin, and eczema. They may have had some medical treatment, but it has been unsuccessful. They resign themselves to live with poor skin, but they find their skin is uncomfortable most of the time and only natural, breathable materials are tolerable. Organic clothes are significantly beneficial to such silent sufferers.

Eco-Friendly Clothing

Even when organic materials are treated in the finishing process with chemicals, these organic material manufacturers are careful to use proper storage and disposal of these substances. They are conscious of eco-friendly alternatives for dyes and fabric preservatives and use them whenever possible. Certainly, clothing labeled organic use fibers that are grown organically and little or no chemicals are added in the fabric finishing processes.

All humans, animals and the earth's environment receive much less exposure to synthetic chemicals because of the manufacture of organic clothes. Therefore, people, pets and the world can live more comfortably just because of this successful and growing organic fabric industry.

Find a wide selection of organic clothes for you and your baby online.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lucy_Tomkins

http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Its-Better-to-Choose-Organic-Clothing&id=5901853
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Sunday, July 31, 2011

What Is All This Organic Clothing?

Green!"Green" Clothing - Image by marjoleincc via FlickrBy Jordan Flask

The word "green" is becoming more popular today than at any other point in history. Thus the use of means that are not environmentally friendly are a thing of the past. Even clothes are becoming more green.

As more people become conscious of the effect of chemicals on their bodies, the demand for these clothes will increase. Non-organic clothing is often made from fabric treated with chemicals, fabric created with chemicals or fabric from plants grown with pesticides.

Chemicals from clothing can cause or aggravate health problems, especially for those with asthma, allergies and other respiratory conditions. Health-conscious individuals seek to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals by opting for an organic type of clothing. While going green can be expensive, the long-term savings gained through improved health and peace of mind are immeasurable.

If you are just beginning to explore organic clothing, start with a few basic pieces. Because under garments are closest to the skin, it is logical to purchase under garments made from healthy fabric, and expand your organic wardrobe as your budget allows. Organic fabrics are comfortable and allow the skin to breathe, unlike synthetic fabrics, so you may find that you are drawn to these bits of clothing for comfort rather than health.

More retailers are carrying organic clothes, so you should have no trouble finding a varied selection to suit your personal style. Choosing to wear organic clothes also supports the environment by reducing the use of chemicals that invariably end up in our soil, streams, rivers and oceans. So, join the trend. The benefits of good health, physical comfort and environmental responsibility outweigh any expense involved in transitioning to organic.

At OrganicEdition.com we offer a great selection of Organic Baby Clothing. We also offer Organic Clothes. Visit us online http://www.organicedition.com/

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