Fashionably Eco-Friendly

Do you know how much the average American spends on clothes each year? According to Visual Economics, the typical American spends

nearly $2,000 on clothes- every year.

This high number is likely driven by the consumer mentality described in Story of Stuff, the desire to stay current with the latest products. We live in a society that thrives on the new trends of each season; thousands of dollars circulate an industry that encourages women to update their wardrobe. This cycle, however, produces detrimental effects on the environment by placing an increased demand on factories. These factories use large amounts of energy and produce significant amounts of waste.
There are a few ways one can make a positive impact in reversing this trend. The first is shopping at Goodwill and the Salvation Army. These thrift stores provide the opportunity to reduce waste by purchasing gently used items, as well as support those in need who are employed at these stores.

The other day, my friend Steph and I noticed a girl wearing an outfit that follows a recent tend, the jumpsuit.

We complimented her and asked where she got her outfit, and to our surprise, she replied "Oh it was my grandmother's". This is a perfect example of how trends recur, and how vintage stores and second hand thrift shops are a great place to find unique pieces. To many Americans, their appearance and wardrobe is of great importance. This is not necessarily an issue of vanity, but one of professionalism. For example, mindtools.com, a communication skills training website, noted that a picture is worth a thousand words; at an introduction, how you present yourself is that picture. The competitiveness of our society's job market demands that you dress well in order to

make a positive reflection of yourself and your employer. This can be accomplished without sacrificing style by exploring your options at vintage and second-hand stores.

Another opportunity to dress in an way that reduces environmental damage is purchasing pieces from eco-friendly designers. These designers produce looks made from biodegradable material. Often, designers will use bamboo fabrics and organic cotton for their designs. The website She Knows Living featured the "Top 15 Hottest Eco-Friendly Designers":

Beau Soleil

Sworn Virgins:

Linda Loudermilk

Stella McCartney (has an organic line)

Enamore

Gaiam

Alternative Apparel

J Brand Organic:

Levi's Organic Jeans

Organic By John Patrick

Loomstate:

Saint Grace

Eco-Ganik

C&C California Organic

Bodkin:

Other designers are innovating interesting ways to work with the environment. This Ecotech Solar Jacket, by Zegna Sport, has sleeves are complete with solar panels that convert energy that can be used to charge your cell phone or ipod, or power a heating system in the jacket!

These shoes by Timberland have soles made from recycled tires:

Timberland partnered with Green Rubber, a Malaysian company, to make these Earthkeepers Boat Shoes.

Other ways to make your wardrobe environmentally friendly:

1. Share clothes with your friends, roommate, siblings

2. Get creative with your wardrobe, get the most out of an outfit by giving it completely different looks. You can do this simply by changing up your accessories. This is a great way to take an outfit from day to night.

3. Check out yard sales in your area for great finds.

With these changes, we can join together to start changing the trends of the American mindset and protect the environment.

Kacey Stark