How to Dress 'Green'

There is a whole new generation of ecology-conscious material for clothing out there. And much of it feels even better than the synthetics!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Bamboo shirt

   Look for the latest fashions bamboo. Bamboo fabric is a natural textile made from the pulp of bamboo. It is light and soft like silk. But it breathes and easier to take care of. It can be washed like cotton, but don't use a fabric softener. The fabric is soft enough and fabric softener will inhibit the natural antibacterial of this comfortable fabric. Bamboo is more sustainable since not only does the plant grow quickly, but the fabric will eventually breakdown without any residual left-over waste material.

2. 
    
   Organic cotton long sleeved top

   Shop for men's and woman's styles in alternative cottons. The cultivation of ordinary cotton crops consume 25% of the pesticide usage in the United States. Alternative cottons are much softer and breathe better than conventional cotton. Strict regulations are enforced in growing the cotton crop with little or no toxins being used. This is better for the ecology and healthier for the wearer.

3. 
    
   Hemp dress

   Look for hemp fabrics in tops, pants, coats, skirts, hats and bags. These are processed by soaking and extraction from the hemp plant's stems not much different than the way it was done a thousand years ago in China. This all natural, biodegradable material often comes with a linen or canvas texture.

4. 
    
   Soy tank top

   Also remember the more familiar materials like wool and silk and try soy and flax fibers as well.

5. 
    
   Recycled plastic bottle swimsuit!

   You can even find clothing made from recycled plastic bottles! Here's a swimsuit!

6. These fabrics will cost you more to buy, but you will find some great textures and styles in materials that are good for you and good for the planet.

Resources

• Have a Feng Shui Fashion Swap Party

[vikki9]

on 8/17/2008 This is great. Maybe we can spend a little more on these Green fabrics, and buy fewer clothes (i.e. Reduce).
There is so much we get to re-think about now.

[dsarokin]

on 8/16/2008 Thanks so much for posting this. People think about greening their cars and detergents and such, but don't always consider their clothes. There are plenty of oppportunities, though, as your article points out.

[cincin1]

on 8/15/2008 Nice. I recycle, but I've yet to get into the eco-fabrics.