The usual process of developing fibers and materials is atrocious. It is extremely toxic, polluting, and sometimes inhumane. Natural cotton may sound pure and innocent as bunnies, but in the US it accounts for 25% of soil-contaminating insecticides to grow the fluff. Wool, another natural fiber, is processed heavily with toxic solvents. Some farms will inject sheep with hormones and antibiotics, and sometimes “dip” them in paraciticides. Baa-ad! All dyes, other than natural, to color materials often contain heavy metals in their chemical colorant.

So what’s new and good?
Sustainable and ethical fibers with exceptional quality.
If you haven’t bought an article made out of bamboo yet, run don’t walk. The soft, silkiness is an absolute luxury. Bamboo has the same dual insulating properties of silk, where it keeps you both cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The fibers’ porous microstructure quickly absorbs and wicks away moisture, making it a pleasure to wear close to the body.
Bamboo is extremely regenerative, it is the world’s fastest growing and pervasive plant. It is also extraordinarily strong, so much that it is naturally resistant to all bacterial and microbes, no pesticides or chemicals are needed in its entire growth cycle. It is easy to farm, so there is no cutting down of ancient sacred bamboo forests.

Other friendly fibers:
*Hemp has definitely improved its hand-feel lately. Like bamboo, it is strong enough to be produced sans pesticides.
*Wildcrafted silk, is produced organically allowing for more fiber purity, and without hurting the little critters that created it for us. The silkworms could not be happier about this whole movement.
*Unbleached organic cotton and linen are stripped of harmful processes, lightening the impact on soil and water supplies.
*Seacell is a new fiber derived from seaweed and bonded with wood pulp. The idea is that when you wear the garments, your skin slurps in the vitamins and minerals of the enriched seaweed.
*Recycled fibers. Patagonia, known for great outdoor gear and as a pioneer of eco-minded fashion, has been turning plastic bottles into high tech styles since 1993.

Using ethical fibers and materials is the start for fashion companies turning modus operandi greenus. Some pioneering designers are taking further innovative steps on the journey to eco-enlightenment. PrAna, a yoga, climbing and outdoor apparel company, has been recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency for their acquirement of wind power. Very apropos of a company whose name in Sanskrit means “Breath”. Though their Natural Power initiation, they have offset 100% of the electrical energy usage of its headquarters, over 400 of their retail stores, and all of the homes of their full-time employees. They have proudly prevented 22,112 metric tons of emissions -aka removing 4,787 cars off the road.

The inspiration for the industry comes from the companies that are walking the talk, demonstrating a true commitment to environmental protection and fair labor practices, not using clever marketing to look good. These companies continue to pave the way for other eco minded companies and industries to succeed while promoting social consciousness. If fashion is a reflection of our times, these beautiful and mindful styles created prove that industry and environment can co-exist.

Where to get the eco-fabulous styles:

LINDA LOUDERMILK- Perhaps you’ve seen one of her creations worn by Lesley Chilcott at the Oscars. The gown was made of bamboo and organic cotton. Lindaloudermilk.com

LOOMSTATE-Known for great fitting denim jeans for both men and women. Uses all organic cotton. Loomstate.org

NIOR- Sleek, sexy Danish design house that will only use organic fair trade materials. Nior-illuminati2

EDUN-rock star team of activist Ali Hewson, her husband Bono, and denim designer Rogan, manufactures this ultra cool line in Africa to help build sustainable communities. Edun.ie

CIEL –New line by Brit designer Sarah Ratty. Light, fanciful dresses and colorful knits. The whole line is made from recycled and organic fabrics. Ciel.ltd.uk

PANDASNACK- A pioneer of the luxury bamboo styles, they’ve got it down. Soft, featherweight t-shirts and knits for men and women. Pandasnack.com

MORAL FERVOR- Silky graphic knits, made out of 100% corn! Women’s only for now, but check in, men’s collection coming soon. Moralfervor.com

DEL FORTE- Premium organic denim line for women. The stylings are trimmed and embellished with recycled vintage fabric. Delforte.com

ANNA COHEN -Edgy, separates and sharp, minimalist streetwear. Organic, recycled and no dyes used! Her collection is entirely black, indigo, and natural. Annacohen.com

DOIE- Asia inspired silhouette tops for women, beautifully draped in bamboo fabrics. Doiedesigns.com

STEWART+BROWN -Known for their luxurious Mongolian cashmere. They are a member of One Percent for the Planet. Stewartbrown.com

PRANA-Wind mills and yoga. Prana.com