Green is the new black…or so it should be…

 

 Eco-fashion involves making clothes whilst considering the environment, health of consumers and the working conditions of people in the fashion industry. It’s obvious that the clothes we wear and the fabrics they’re produced from can cause damage to the world we live in, but how?

 

 

 As a consumer, my priority is to have well designed clothes, however, this usually involves the use of pesticides and chemicals to protect and bleach textiles. This can contaminate the environment. They can seep into the air we breathe and the food we eat… causing damage, not only to us but to our wildlife too, which is already rapidly disappearing due to the rise in global warming. Yes, it’s true; the world’s climate is changing due to the rapid increase in carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The fashion industry is part to blame, with 700,000 tonnes of textiles being sent into landfill each year. Rapidly filling up the already overflowing sites, it won’t be long until we swim through streets of rubbish. Not something I’d like to put my Milano Blahnik’s through!!

 

 

 

 Yet it’s a nightmare easily avoided – recycling old clothes could drastically reduce the use of landfill sites. By giving your old clothes to charity shops or recycling banks they can be used again or transformed into something new. In all honesty how many of your rejected clothes are really worn out? So, recycling is one way to help the environment. But what else can we do? I’m far to vein to stop shopping… but I could consider changing where I shop?

 

 

 

 The main source of power in the fashion world lies in the hands of the designers. Therefore it’s up to them to use their influence in the industry to work with sustainable products. Eco-fashion is on the up and with the increase in internet shopping eco-enthusiasts have access to thousands of products online. Here’s my top 3 list for eco-fashion:

 

 

 

 

{mosimage}* ecobtq – Trendy sustainable fashion and accessories much loved by Vogue. They provide a range of brands, creating something for us all. Visit them now in Harvey Nichols and Liberty in London, for every purchase over £5, £3.50 will be donated to charity. www.ecobtq.com

* enamore – All hand-made in England from hemp blended with silk/cotton and vintage prints. They provide a special range of lingerie, providing a sexy alternative to saving the planet. A delightful selection indeed! www.enamore.co.uk

* Sari – With stores all over London, they provide clothes and accessories made form recycled saris. The project was launched to raise money for children in developing countries. With an array of colours and prints it’s a must for us all. The only downfall is a slightly higher price tag, but one of a kind items compensate for the expense. A definite recommendation!

 

 

 

 So now there can be no excuses. Together we can all look great and still protect the world we live in! Eco-fashion is the ways forward… join me now in this global fashion revolution!  

 

 

 

By Laura Louise Frampton

Frampton_laura@yahoo.com