Would You Be Caught Dead Toting These 9 Eco Bags?
Sustainable design is often smart and sleek, but in an attempt to push the eco-friendly fashion envelope, it can go too far. Way too far.
We’ve picked out some of the most entertaining and wacky in eco bags for your viewing pleasure. And who knows? Maybe you’re the kind of eco diva who can pull off using one of them!

Righteous Fur
Wait… fur is now sustainable? According to designer Cree McCree, it just depends upon whose fur you’re using. In this case, it’s that of the nutria, a large invasive rodent. Native to South America, nutria were introduced to the US in the 30s, but since then have become an invasive species, threatening wetlands. So, buy a rodent bag, save an ecosystem.

Fab Firehoses
These bags (above) aren’t actually all that unattractive, but the material is beyond industrial chic. Elvis & Kresse‘s new Firehose line uses recycled British firehoses, which have subdued flames for around 25-30 years before making it to the purse stage of life. The green aspect of the bags doesn’t stop there; the bag liners are made from old fabric or recycled furniture upholstery and the bag labels are printed on old luggage tags.

Living Plant Bags
Even the greenest thumbs may not be up for the Woolly Vagabond living handbag, made from reclaimed leather and recycled plastic. The bag doubles as a potted plant, and while we do love most things multipurpose, it does raise the question: would bringing your potted plant along feel like a third wheel on a first date? Not sure it grows on you.

Repurposed License Plates
There’s a lot of good going on in the world of repurposing; what’s better than putting an item that would normally go to waste to good use? This little number – called MiniFlare Bag – is made from repurposed license plates, complete with a recycled rubber handle. But does the Swarovski crystal embellisment make this eco bling or an eco bust?

Haute Hair
For the ultimate in upcycling, turn to Australian artist Polly van der Glas, who made a full line of accessories from human hair and teeth. Careful though – with a purse like this you’ll be styling for two, better set the alarm clock a little earlier.

Killer Keyboards
For your inner eco-nerd there’s the Keyboard Purse, designed by João Sabino of Portugal. This would be my number one pick for the green bloggers out there; write intriguing eco posts by day, sport your trade by night!

It’s a Party!
Balloons aren’t the most eco-friendly (think turtles in the ocean who can’t distinguish between latex and real food), so what better use for them after they’ve turned a so-so birthday party into a killer one than a bag? Okay, maybe not. These balloon bags by designer Krizia Robustella were spotted in Madrid during Fall 2009 fashion week.

A Gorgeous Goal
You’ll be looking sporty and responsible with this reclaimed soccer ball tote. The perfect accessory for a conscious soccer mom? We’ve blogged this baby in the past, and we still aren’t convinced.

All Tied Up
No need for a business suit if you’ve got this clutch under your arm. Made of vintage men’s ties with an organic denim interior, this creative little clutch could be your key piece next time you need to show who’s boss. This one we might actually go for!
Which bag will you be sporting in 2010?
Photo Credits: Core 77, Green Muze, Littlearth, Polly van der Glas, Cree McCree, João Sabino, Fete LA, BTC Elements














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January 7th, 2010 at 6:09 PM
There has always been room for art in the fashion world, and these are no different. It would be fun if they were displayed as such, rather suggested for function, which does make us laugh. I seriously think there are enough purses and bags out there to not ever have to manufacture one again, green or not.
January 7th, 2010 at 8:15 PM
I love that Repurposed License Plate bag. The nutria bag is horrible!
January 7th, 2010 at 9:02 PM
If you have a hair on your clothes you can say “Its from the hair purse”.
January 8th, 2010 at 7:41 AM
I think the repurposed firehose bag and necktie bags are subtle enough in their design be considered fashionable.
But what do I know? I haven’t used a purse since high school. Waist purses are my friend!
January 8th, 2010 at 1:43 PM
Every time I look at that nutria bag I went to barf!!
Anna! You’ve given me nightmares!
January 8th, 2010 at 2:23 PM
That nutria bag is not as bad as the dried-out snake belt a friend once contemplated purchasing. Like, a whole snake. As a belt. Did I mention it was a snake belt?
January 8th, 2010 at 2:24 PM
Also, I have to say, lousy branding decision on the part of the taxonomist who named that thing nutria. It sounds like a wholesome women’s snack.
January 9th, 2010 at 7:53 AM
Oh my god. I think I’m eating nutria right now.
January 9th, 2010 at 11:18 PM
The nutria bag is a little sickening! Ick! I would prefer something from the fire hose line!
January 10th, 2010 at 11:34 AM
Yeah, it’s very Daniel Boone gone wrong.
January 13th, 2010 at 9:29 PM
That fur animal bag is totally nuts! Who would wear that?
John R. Carlisle
May 1st, 2011 at 6:26 PM
Talking about bags from firehose you should also mention German brand Feuerwear – the original inventor of this idea.
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