You’re probably aware of eco-friendly initiatives like Fiat’s cute little 500e electric car and the appearance of LEED certified buildings across the world, but did you know that this green trend is present in the fashion world as well? We may not always think about it when we’re dazzled by the glamour and abundance of clothes at the nearest shopping mall, but how our clothes are made has a huge impact on our planet.
As the environmentally-conscious fashion market continues to expand, fresh and innovative labels are starting to stand out from the crowd. Stepping up to the plate are these five eco-chic fashion brands that will justify your next impulse shopping spree.
For those who like a little romance in their wardrobe, founders Britt Cosgrove and Maria Polo have created a brand that emphasizes a casual bohemian style, flowing silhouettes and delicate details. Collectively claiming a fashion education at Central Saint Martins, Vera Wang and Peter Son for Tommy Hilfiger, these ladies have some legitimate knowledge when it comes to pairing style with saving Mother Earth. SVILU uses organic fabrics and locally produced materials and was even given the top award at the 2013 CFDA/Lexus Eco Fashion Challenge.
If sharp lines and a minimalist aesthetic is your niche, Kowtow has exactly what you’re looking for. Bright colors, bold silhouettes and edgy patterns aren’t the only thing this label has to offer – it also uses cotton from 100 percent fair trade and organic sources.
If you’re worried about scathing looks from your animal-adoring acquaintances but you also hate the look of faux leather, fear no more – Freedom of Animals is an expert at creating elegant faux pieces that could easily pass for the real thing. The label uses organic cotton along with other materials (including water bottles) in a process that not only saves our furry friends, but also uses 70 percent less energy than many of its industry rivals.
Already highly popular around the world, this fast-fashion Swedish company has recently released a new line as a solution to the mass quantity of clothing it rolls out each year. The Conscious Collection has substituted the company’s previous material sources with local and sustainable fabrics. “We wanted great fashion with the added bonus of sustainable materials,” fashion expert Catarina Midby told the Daily News.
With these brands, combining your two passions – fashion and being environmentally conscious – has never looked so effortless.
