Judging from the major fashion designers joining the green movement, stylish clothes created from sustainable, nontoxic, vegan, or recycled materials aren’t just healthy–they’re hip. Here’s what to look for.
HEMP: The hemp plant is grown with few or no pesticides because it’s naturally resistant to insects, fungus, and other pests. Hemp fabrics have the feel of linen.
Ecolution.com
HempElegance.com
ORGANIC COTTON: One conventional cotton T-shirt requires nearly one-third pound of pesticides and fertilizers. Go nontoxic:
UnderTheCanopy.com
BlueCanoe.com
LoyaleClothing.com
AmericanApparel.net
Ecoganik.com
UnderTheNile.com
ORGANIC WOOL: This renewable natural fiber is chemical free. Sheep eat organic feed, graze on pesticide-free land, and are not treated with pesticides or hormones.
Ecowool.com
IndigenousDesigns.com
Patagonia.com
RECYCLED PLASTIC: Fibers made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic bottles are a soft alternative to polyester.
Patagonia.com
TENCEL: Made from the natural cellulose found in wood pulp (from tree farms), this fabric is comfortable and breathable with a texture like rayon.
UnderTheCanopy.com
Ecoganik.com
Rags to Reincarnation