As if it were Lego for the modern woman, fashion designers are creating more with less and spurring sustainability as a result.

Let’s face it: We can be moody, fickle, and change is inherent to our human nature, right?  So, what if we could change the clothing we already own to be something completely new, without buying more?

Engineer-minded fashion designers are anticipating sustainability needs a wearers’ want for change–not in the sense of fleeting trends–but by making single garments that can intelligently change their shape to be multi-purpose and adaptable.

Multi-purpose clothing allows us as the wearer to participate in the shape of a garment, just like the designer did in making the clothing. It’s a playful concept with immense sustainable concepts woven in. The clothing is adaptable to the seasons and our style and sustainability, ultimately saving on resources, money and our time.

Check out three amazing eco-fashion designers that are playing with clothing that can change shape.

1. DePLOY

Haute couture sustainable fashion brand DePloy will make you look twice. Each garment the brand creates is smartly tailored to embody a seamless adaptability. A single piece can change shape in multiple ways without compromising the sophisticated needs of a modern working woman. The jacket shown above can be worn with long or short sleeves. “My aim is to make the fashion process less wasteful, more sustainable and more interactive,” says DePloy’s Bernice Pan.

2. Elementum

Elementum is “a concept of sustainable principles applied to clothing.” Made ethically in Peru, the seasonless collections are beautifully innovative in the way each piece can morph into something new. All designs can change shape to be worn as a scarf, dress, top, vest, and more. “It can cover your head, your neck, down till your feet. It can be worn flat, twisted and in layers,” says designer Daniela Pais, founder of Elementum. “The construction of the pieces is based on the total use of a piece of cloth in a tubular dimension, where minimum cuts provide maximum use.” Watch this great video of the collection in action.

3. Hayley Starr

Detailed oriented Hayley Starr sharpened her own mastery of pattern-making by perfecting 5 pieces that can be literally hundreds of ways. The feminine, multifunctional collection is phenomenal in it’s ability to change shape. Dresses can be strapless, tied like a halter top, or turned into straps, and all pieces are reversible. Hayley Starr uses only soft, wrinkle-free Modal fabric for a comfortable feel on any body type. All pieces are manufactured in California.

images from the brands

Related on Ecosalon

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The Ecochic Design Award: Challenging Fashion Designers To Cut Waste

What Exactly Is Eco-Friendly Fashion?

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Greenwashing is plenty common, from Tom’s Shoes to H&M’s Conscious Collection; companies take advantage of the fact that customers don’t take the time to research the supply chain of each brand, since ain’t nobody got time for that. There’s no equivalent to USDA organic certification for fashion, so how can you be confident you’re buying clothes that are in line with your values? Here are 7 clues you can use to tell if you garment is really sustainable; keep an eye out for them, and check out the many companies linked to below for an eco fashion crash course.  

1. Made in the USA

Supporting the domestic economy is key, especially when the outsourcing wave of the 90s was the way to go. When a brand makes their product in the US it is sustaining our domestic manufacturing community. Companies also have to adhere to minimum wages and more strict environmental regulation that reformers and activists worked to put in place. Often, if a company still produces in the US there’s a good story behind it too, and they want to share it with you. Are there still unethical companies making clothes in the US? Sure, but it’s a lot less likely, and we do have laws on our side here.

2. Ethical Production

There is often a disconnect between a garment and the hands that make it. The apparel industry is one of the only industries that cannot deflate its labor force through the use of machinery (the New York Times recently published a fun interactive graph of this phenomenon). A machine can’t sew a beautiful dress or make a great pair of shoes; you need human hands and heads involved. With that knowledge, it’s crucial that those that produced the clothes you wear wear paid a fair wage and worked in a safe environment. Companies that practice ethical production usually make it known on a garment’s hangtag or on their website.

3. Company Transparency

Now, I am not taking about H&M revealing their factory list, although yes, that was a small step for the mass market. I’m referring to companies like Honest By and Everlane who aren’t hiding anything, and they want to to know about it! Studio Jux owns a factory in Nepal, and each garment is given a number by which you can trace the maker of that piece (and even learn their favorite past-time) through their website.

4. Zero Waste

Companies like Stabel, Study NY, Titania Inglais, and Tabii Just are championing zero waste by respecting the materials they work with and not wasting resources that went into making the fabric go in a landfill.  Zero Waste Cutting techniques often a new level of creativity to already creative designs.

5. Clean Tech

No one textile is sustainable, because like all things in life, each have their positive and negative impacts. Organic cotton, although grown under strict regulations, is often still bleached, meaning a heavy chemical load after it’s been finished. Fabric made of bamboo and cupro is processed with toxins to transform the cellusoic (hard plant fibers) into the soft final product, and has to be called rayon. But Lyocell, also a regenerative cellulosic fiber (in english, meaning comes from a plant) derived from Eucalyptus trees, are processed with a petrochemical solution, but 99.5% of the cocktail is captured and reused, and uses little water in the process, proving some technology can really affect the environmental bottom line of a fabric. Keep an eye on what your garment is made of.

6. Supporting Artisans

Ever travel to another country and were googly-eyed by the native colors and craftmanship in their markets? Companies like Mercado Global, Blumera and Maiyet know no one does it better than indigenous artisans. When companies work with local artisan communities (rather than copy them) you can be sure your fashion is sustaining less represented communities.

7. You Love It

Stuck in a hypnotic trance in front of your closet? I know I was this morning. A sustainable garment above all is something you always grab first from your drawers. It’s your tried and true closet staples that you’ll keep, and make it last (almost) forever. And that’s the core of eco fashion.

image: Maiyet

The post 7 Clues To Tell if Your Garment is Really Sustainable: Eco Fashion Dissected appeared first on EcoSalon.

A new line of sustainable kids clothing is now gathering funding on Kickstarter. Find out how Nula Kids can simplify your life and your little girl’s closet.

There are lots of sustainable clothing brands out there, and plenty that offer organic, toxin-free options for the wee ones. The only problem is that while these high-priced alternatives may be better for us and the planet, they’re outgrown almost before we can say “aww!”

Friends Ashlie Kodsy and Erica Murphy firmly believe that living low-impact lifestyle means choosing fewer, longer-lasting items, so they decided to start a children’s clothing line for families who feel the same.

Nula Kids is a line of playful children’s garments (little girls only, for now) that are designed to grow with your kids for at least three years. Kodsy and Murphy spent more than a year researching different textiles for the line, finally settling on an organic cotton/hemp blend that is extremely long-lasting, sustainable fabric. The designs–simple tops, bottoms, and dresses–are a result of the designers’ love for vintage-inspired textile prints and playful, innocent children’s clothes.

While there’s no doubt that the outfits are adorable, I questioned how Nula Kids could really last three years on an active child. After all, clothes have come with adjustable straps and elastic waist bands for decades, but that doesn’t mean they can keep up with a growing child.

“Most designers include elastic in kids clothes for ease and comfort, but they are not designing styles that will fit for a long time,” explained Murphy. “We’ve worked to perfect the details of how each style fits (each one has gone through many prototypes) and added design elements to make sure they actually look good for three years. Our clothes do not look like they are two sizes too big the first year.”

Closer inspection reveals clever design elements that will allow your child to wear the same garment for three years without looking like they’re swimming in a hand-me-down, or squeezing into something that’s too small.

The waistband of the Lucy Shorts is made with button-hole elastic, which is more adjustable than a regular elastic waistband. In addition, the “paper-bag” style looks good, and intentional, even in the first year, when it’s going to be gathered at the waist.

The Addie Dress has add-on pieces that attach with hidden snaps to make the dress longer.

The Isabeau Jumpsuit has a one-inch wide elastic band at the bottom of the pants and clean finished seams on the inside. So, the pants are easy to cuff and look perfectly normal even when rolled several times. The pants hit at the ankle, so they will not drag the ground or wear thin at the fold lines.

Yes, Nula Kids still costs more than the average garment you could snap up in a Target clearance sale, but you’ve got to think, will that top or pair of pants really last your child three years? Probably not.

Want to see Nula Kids produce their first collection right here in the USA? Consider making a contribution to their Kickstarter project here.

Images: Nula Kids

The post Organic, Vintage-Inspired Kids Clothing That Fits For 3 Years appeared first on EcoSalon.

Offering the finest selection of stylish and sustainable clothing, accessories and more, online fashion retailers are getting eco.

Finding eco-fashion products can sometimes get a bit tricky and time-consuming, as most of us can’t find them at our local mall. Luckily, several online retail sites have popped up over the last few years, each offering a carefully curated selection of sustainable fashion that must meet specific criteria for environmental and ethical standards. The shops listed below are full of exclusive, affordable (and expensive), on-trend and super cute clothes that are good to the planet and the people making them.

1. BTC Elements

All of the items sold through BTC Elements are hand-selected, made in the USA by small designers and artists, and often one-of-a-kind pieces. Apparel, accessories and gifts made mindfully make up the collections on the retail site that “combines smart style with sustainability.” Featuring clothing from Raw Earth & Wild Sky, Ecozuzu, Sub Urban Riot, accessories made from recycled skateboards, bicycle inner tubes and jewelry made from upcycled tins, BTC Elements is the ultimate destination for unique items that are fresh, inspiring, environmental and ethical.

2. Beklina

Beklina offers an artfully curated collection of sustainable, designer fashion pieces that does justice to the amazing work of its featured designers. Established in 2006, Beklina has gained the title of original “eco boutique” by showcasing the arousing and influential collections of the strongest thinkers and creators in the fashion world today that marry their craft with the concept of sustainability. Find labels like ORGANIC by John Patrick, IVANA Helsinki, Pendleton Portland Collection, Lina Rennel among the selection of stylish, responsibly made and quality crafted items.

3. Clean Spirited

This online store offers a wide selection of items for men and women, as well as kids apparel, shoes, accessories, jewelry and home products. With more of a focus on casual wear and yoga garb, Clean Spirited features brands like Jonano, Alternative, 4-rth, KindLabel and Autonomie Project. Each product also has a rating based on a 5 Point Eco-Scale that includes: how natural the product is, whether it’s recycled, if it’s locally sourced or produced, Fair Trade and humanitarian.

4. DonnaDonnella

DonnaDonnella’s online store Green this Season showcases and sells sustainable fashion designs from around the world. Find designs from Black Noir, Camilla Norrback, edelziege, ecology, Outsider and Lindi Harrison in this community of like-minded designers. A large variety of styles and product types make this Amsterdam based online store a great spot for finding trendy, European eco-fashion.

5. Embodies

Embodies is a mecca of sustainable, eco-friendly fashion, accessories and art that showcase the amazing creativity that can blossom through recycling, use of natural materials and eco-conscious concepts. Always asking questions about the origins of the materials used, labor, manufacturing impacts and design processes, the store has chosen to feature brands like Alabama Chanin, Greenbees, Josh Podoli and Prairie Underground. If you’re in Larkspur, CA, make sure to check out the shop in person to see the amazing mannequins made from grasses, leaves and reclaimed materials.

6. Equita

With the aim of making responsible living practical and accessible, this online store offers a wide selection of fashion, lifestyle and apothecary items. “Essentials for ethical living” is the shop’s slogan, which is echoed in each detailed products descriptions.  When viewing a product you’ll learn the origin, manufacturing processes and ecological or ethical aim behind each item.

7. Fashioning Change

Launched in 2011, Fashioning Change is a revolutionary online eco-fashion resource offering stylish, high-quality brands that protect the environment, human health and human rights. Their  “Wear This, Not That” feature allows shoppers to find sustainable alternatives to their favorite mainstream brands, making sure that the better option is in the same price bracket as its polluting and labor rights compromising alternative. The platform is the most comprehensive resource for sustainable fashion, with great daily deals as a bonus!

8. Juno & Jove

Juno & Jove defines itself as “the premier shopping destination for the conscious consumer.” Launched in 2006, this online boutique carefully selects each of its items, making sure that they are at least one of the following: made in the US, contain organic fabrics, employ fair trade principles, locally sourced, vegan, handmade, recycled or repurposed. Never compromising on style, the store features (and beautifully photographs) brands like Feral Childe, Coclico, Edun, and Raleigh Denim.

9. Kaight NYC

Independently owned and based in the heart of New York City, Kaight is a pioneer of the eco-fashion movement. Featuring apparel and accessories from Amour Vert, Covet, Erin Templeton, Made with Love, Melissa, Nau, NinaZ, Sprout and many many more, this is a one-stop shop for a variety of ethically produced, eco-friendly and well designed products. Expertly curated, the Kaight selection is always fresh, new and on-trend.

10. Shift Boutique

The venture of Amanda Converse, Justine Copperanth, and EcoSalon’s own Amy DuFault, Shift offers an exclusive selection of clothing, shoes, jewelry, beauty and body care products and home accessories. As you’d expect the owners’ discerning eye for sustainable style ensures that all products are made from organic, eco-friendly and green materials. Find brands like Stewart & Brown, Olsen Haus, Elroy, Kelly B and Neu Aura through this Cape Cod based shop and online store.

Image: joan!ta

The post www.Wow: The Top 10 Online Eco-Fashion Boutiques appeared first on EcoSalon.

The Sustainable Apparel Coalition is bringing together apparel companies worldwide in order to form a responsible fashion industry for the future. 

Although sustainable, eco and ethical fashion have all become movements that most people are familiar with, does the majority of the world’s population have a green wardrobe? No. That’s where the Sustainable Apparel Coalition has stepped in to begin turning things around. Focused on creating  “an apparel and footwear industry that produces no unnecessary environmental harm and has a positive impact on the people and communities associated with its activities”, is the SAC mission states.  This non-profit organization is a collaboration with an impressive roster of worldwide apparel and footwear labels, making headway for a world where the clothes we wear give back to the Earth instead of destroying it.

Like it or not, brands like Nike, Adidas, JC Penney, H&M dominate a large percentage of closets, and aren’t going to disappear anytime soon. These large companies have immense power over the consumer market, and thus also have an immense impact on the apparel manufacturing process. They have the ability to change the current apparel industry into a sustainable one, but only if we as consumers ask them to. No matter how much industry power large companies may wield, consumer power will always trump it, because profit by consumption is the only incentive for production. The SAC is playing a part in fostering a transition to sustainability with their Higg Index, a tool for measuring the environmental and social performance of apparel products. This Index comprises questions that assign a sustainability score to each brand, accounting for factors such as harshness of chemicals used and waste created by production and transportation.

Since launching in 2012, the SAC has managed to bring apparel brands, retailers, suppliers and NGOs involved in the apparel and fashion industries to the Coalition. A list of more than 80 members, boasting names like Burberry, PPR Luxury Group (Stella McCartney, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, etc.) , VF Corporation (Timberland, North Face, Lee, Wrangler, etc.), H&M, Nike, REI, Patagonia, Gap, Target, Walmart and a number of fabric manufacturers are using the Higg Index to develop and tailor sustainable products that meet their individual business models, providing the SAC with feedback for the refinement of the tool.

The Higg Index allows companies to internally evaluate their materials, facilities, processes and end products based on varying environmental and product design choices. This Index is based on a life-cycle assessment from the sourcing of materials to manufacturing, packaging, transportation and final use of the garment. The tool is open-source, freely available on SAC’s website, allowing any type of apparel company to identify its rating for environmental responsibility and pinpoint specific areas of development. The tool also aims to improve the business value of companies by uncovering costly inefficiencies and heavy pollution-causing activities. For example, who knew that manufacturing plaid shirts results in half the fabric being wasted, just to get the correct pattern? Better design and pattern cutting techniques would be a realistic, cost efficient and environmentally friendly solution.

Currently the scores and feedback obtained through the Index are not to be disclosed to the public by any member or label using the tool, as the SAC is still in the process of validating measurements. Tim Gnatek of the SAC says, “We need to continue to develop the tool so that we are more transparent and responsible about the shared data. The scores will remain internal until they can be completely reliable, because we want the shared information to be meaningful.” Although some companies might see the results of the index as a marketing tool, the information imparted through them will have the ability to spur positive change. As Gnatek affirms, “the real point is for companies to be able to assess their impact and make decisions according to it. Right now companies can do that behind closed doors, excluding marketing strategies, in order to really identify areas of development and inform the direction of future progress.”

Inclusion of and collaboration with third parties will allow the SAC to develop credible measurements that are backed up by both industry insiders and outsiders. A new, online version of the tool is set to come out in the Fall of 2013, and will incorporate more measurements for social and labor impacts. Gnatek says public release of scores on the Higg Index is still a few years away, but could result in information shared on clothing tags, company websites or even apps. With global and widespread interest from apparel companies, the information provided by the Index will cause a significant change in the processes of the apparel industry. As transparency becomes a business strategy, brands will become much more active in connecting the dots within their supply chains, in turn offering more information to consumers that already have a desire to become more educated about responsible industry practices.

The efforts and mission of the SAC are definitely laudable, although a key point still looms in the background, casting a large shadow over all modern industries. The current business model is fundamentally flawed in its sole focus on profit over anything else. If resource protection, social well-being and mutually respectful, intelligent cultural development are not placed above profit, the apparel industry, as well as many other industries, will continue destructive production processes and spurring of obsolescent consumption behaviors. The sooner we demand industries that are built on information exchange and true respect for  everything with which we cohabit this Earth, the sooner we’ll spur these companies into genuinely progressive responses.

Image: Dov Charney

The post Fostering a Responsible Fashion Industry: The Sustainable Apparel Coalition appeared first on EcoSalon.

ColumnAn interview with designer Eileen Fisher.

Threads, seams, and sewing machines were familiar and fascinating for Eileen Fisher from a young age. Growing up with a mother who often handmade her brother and sisters’ clothing, Fisher enjoyed filtering through fabrics and selecting her favorites to be worked into her wardrobe. When she found herself more academically enamored by her college roommate’s interior design projects than her math major assignments, she knew design must be a part of her future and focus.

Organic cotton and cashmere cardigan

Fabrics Are Unforgettable

Fisher’s attraction and loyalty to fabrics stemmed from her early years, and has now evolved into one of the grounding forces behind Eileen Fisher, the brand. “You’ll notice we use a lot of the same fabrics over the years. We get really hooked on fabrics, we love the way they feel but we change the proportions to make them feel modern and to give women different ways to mix it up,” Fisher tells EcoSalon. Using this design approach allows women to buy consciously, adding to their wardrobe with staple pieces that will last, in style and quality.

It’s intriguing to realize that the design process for Fisher is integral to extending the lifetime of her pieces. “We’ve never used prints – we value rich color and textures in quality fabrics over patterns and prints. Avoiding prints helped me think about simplicity and how it worked – because when a garment is patterned, it becomes the ‘thing’ and can disguise poor quality,” Fisher explains. Instead, if the concentration is on investing in fabrics, garments will flourish and also maintain their versatility as prints and patterns tend to come and go instantaneously via the land of trends.

Linen and recycled cotton poncho and tencel dress

A Sustainable Mind

For Fisher, she believes her sustainable mind can be somewhat attributed to her roots. “Sustainability goes back to growing up in the Midwest. We didn’t waste things. I don’t like waste so I think clothes should last a really long time,” she says. Whether it be long-lasting, durable fabrics, or thinking more creatively in the way you style pieces, simple shapes make the Eileen Fisher world go ’round. Now a core value for the company, Fisher was inspired by the Japanese aesthetic through her various travels to the country.

“I was very interested in the kimono because for 1,100 years in Japan, people wore nothing but the kimono shape and I thought that was really interesting – what made it timeless, what made it last so long?” This simple art philosophy that has filtered down into Eileen Fisher’s collection is somewhat refreshing and calming amidst the world’s chaos.

Sheer silk georgette box-top with dolman sleeves and silk georgette cropped cargo

Design Without Borders

Global connections are undoubtedly part of the patchwork behind Eileen Fisher; with a team that sources wools from Italy, silks from China, collaborates with artisan groups in India, and develops fabrics in Japan, the accepting and open-armed nature of Eileen Fisher gives it an edge amongst the larger womenswear brands of today.

This spring Eileen Fisher will debut their first piece made in Africa – hand-loomed by a women’s collective in Ethiopia, and for Fall 2012, they will launch their first item made in Spain – artisanal natural-dyed merino knit gloves. In an effort to support the local American culture, Eileen Fisher also produces their garments in NYC and Los Angeles. Literally a quilted work of art, Eileen Fisher is a collage of global cooperative efforts that respect local techniques from the world’s artisans and producers.

The Peru Project

Directly in line with the acknowledging, thought-driven philosophy behind the brand, Fisher asked Julie Ribuner, the sweater knit designer who has been leading The Peru Project for the past few years, to take over for her and answer EcoSalon’s questions.

Born in 2005, this Project evolved out of an interest to boost Eileen Fisher’s use of organic fibers and materials. “After researching options, we turned to Peru because we saw an opportunity to participate in a holistic program – not only do they grow organic cotton locally, they spin the yarn and knit the sweaters creating a sustainable local story,” says Ribuner.

After instigating this venture with one iconic shape – the original box top in a simple reverse jersey stitch – Eileen Fisher has expanded the designs and production in Peru each season, due to their customers’ positive reaction. “Our work in Peru supports the local community – workers are paid fair-trade wages and they collectively reinvest capital into the community,” Ribuner adds.

The above video captures the authenticity and beauty of this project.

Hand-knit kneck warmer in yak yarn

Yak Love

Another fascinating project led by sweater knit designer Mimi Wong, is built around yak yarn.

“The sweater knit design team was captivated by the beautiful story of Yaks and the nomadic herders of the remote Qinghai-Tibetan plateau,” Wong says.

For these Tibetans, the yak is at the center of their livelihoods, providing them with fibers, shelter, clothing, milk, and yogurt, while also being used in farming and for transportation. With a body makeup designed to survive in frigid, high altitudes, these animals’ long hair and thick overcoat sheds naturally once each year in the springtime. This super-soft-cashmere-like fiber is then spun into yarn. For Eileen Fisher, they blend their un-dyed yak yarn with merino to maintain its luxe touch.

Wong tells EcoSalon, “We like using the fiber of Yaks as it also supports a vanishing way of nomadic lifestyle, traditions and community.”

Sheer silk georgette scoop neck box-top and silk Habutai tiered maxi skirt

Design For All Ages

Eileen Fisher appears to be taking on a younger edge as of late, but maybe it’s less about the garments, and more about the styling. “As a designer, I think my perspective can shift, but I hold onto the core values of simplicity, comfort, ease, versatility and being drawn to beautiful fabrics,” Fisher says.

Some of her designers have been working with the company for years and have a deep history, which according to Fisher, “blends with the new designers fresh out of school.”

In an emergence of design that is in-the-now and transcends time, Eileen Fisher’s cooperative design team seems to really be finding their groove in balancing these distinct angles.

Fisher tells EcoSalon that she consistently finds inspiration in the way different women in their office style the same garment, expressing themselves in an individual way. “For me personally, I have a daughter in college and she’ll take things from my closet, but when she wears them it’s completely different to how I would. We want the line to be intergenerational, to invite more women into the brand.”

Organic cotton knit box-top and tencel linen cropped cargo

Healing The Future Holistically

So what story does Eileen Fisher hope to share with the world?

“I guess it’s really thinking about eco and sustainability in a more holistic way,” Fisher says.

On a practical level, The brand offers wardrobe basics, like organic jeans and organic tees, or a pencil skirt made from recycled garments, but also luxurious silks that are made in a factory that uses fewer chemicals, less water, and less energy. However, for Fisher it’s about moving beyond simply being organic and integrating organic fabrics into your designs.

“It means looking at the supply chain and how companies can make a difference there too, from the factory workers all the way to the end customer. It isn’t easy, but we’re seeing how business can be part of lasting environmental solutions.”

When framed this way, the future of fashion from a holistic approach could prove beneficial for people and the planet. And we hope Fisher’s groundwork is something upcoming designers will embrace and continue to evolve.

The post THREADED: Eileen Fisher – Designing With Depth and Appreciation appeared first on EcoSalon.

Time and time again you hear it: “Eco-fashion is way too expensive!”

But is it?

Myths abound when it comes to sustainably designed clothing and accessories. Here’s what six designers had to say about it.

olsen Haus- Pure Vegan Shoes

As consumers become more aware of the impact of certain industries on the environment, they want to make better choices, and I can honor that people think eco products are more expensive, but they need to consider a few things:

1) The cost of organic, eco, raw materials is more expensive, so designers are spending more money to make a product that is better for the environment, humans and animals. These materials are more expensive because these companies/industries are not subsidized by our government.

2) As consumers become more aware of the power they have to change old, harmful industries, and the demand for eco products goes up, there will be more companies making better products. With more demand, there is more supply; the cost of raw goods will go down and this will be reflected in the final cost to consumers with a lower price tag.

3) Eco goods are generally better quality and are not mass-produced in countries with inhumane labour practices.

4) Lastly, the green movement is not only about the impact of activities upon the environment, but also a change in priorities of wants and needs. Materialism and consumerism is the path we have been on and it just isn’t sustainable on a physical or emotional level. Less is more and eco -friendly is better for everyone.

Mountains of the Moon

More than anything, I do my best to explain (without being preachy) why eco-clothing appears to be more expensive than conventional clothing. The process of creating truly green fashion involves expenses you don’t find when producing conventional garments.

Eco-fabrics are more expensive, low-impact dyes are more expensive, and manufacturing locally in the USA (rather than overseas) is also more expensive. Because of these factors, in order for a garment to produce any sort of profit for the designer or company, the price point may be higher. In the end, though, you get what you pay for.

Eco-clothing is often very well made, and eco-fabrics also have much longer life spans than conventional fabrics, so you aren’t purchasing disposable clothing. One of my biggest goals in design is to create pieces that are stylish, but also timeless – wardrobe staples that you’ll have in your closet for many years. In the long run, spending a little more for a few beautiful, key pieces that will last truly does save you money over continuously buying cheap pieces.

We also work very hard on our price points in an effort to keep our them reasonable. It’s more important to us to make our clothing accessible and available to as many people as possible than to make a huge profit. We want people to appreciate fashion, but also to realize the necessity of preserving our earth.

Oami Powers, designer of Judah Ross

We all love to look beautiful, and for most of us, we are trying to figure out how to do that on a budget. When times are tight, the lure of that cute, fashion-forward top going for $20 at H&M or Target can be overwhelming.

It’s important to try to look at the big picture, though. If you think about it, the amount of labor and energy that goes into each conventional garment we buy is kind of staggering. The crop is planted, nurtured, harvested. Then the raw material goes to a factory where it is processed and spun in yarn. The yarn is usually then taken to another factory where it’s woven into fabric, sent to a dye mill where it is dyed and possibly finished.

It’s sold to a manufacturer who must design, draft and grade patterns, create samples to test for fit & performance, cut and sew the garments, market, finish pack and ship. At each stage there are ordinary people who need to be paid for their labor, and the cost of raw materials.

The eco/sustainable movement is growing, but it is still very new and is a small part of the industry worldwide. Often, the raw material themselves are more expensive. It is a significant investment of time and money for a cotton grower to transition from a conventional to an organic crop. Raising sheep on organic pasture is more expensive than feeding them the non-organic option.

Processing the raw materials in a responsible manner often means that the mills and dye houses will need to alter existing machinery or buy new machinery, and add new waste treatment facilities. In order for worker conditions to improve all along the supply chain, factory’s cost of doing business will increase.

Because the demand for eco clothing is still a small proportion of the industry as a whole, they are often being made by smaller producers or they are a small part of a larger company’s production. Though it may cost us more to buy a hemp/silk dress than one made of conventional cotton, I think we can take some pride that a little portion of each of those dollars is paying a factory worker a better wage, or helping a factory treat the waste from their factory.

Do-Ni Shoes

If eco-clothing is expensive, just think of all the wasteland and oceanic deadzones that were created so we can have cheap and plentiful clothing. That is something no money can bring back.

Cost is a subjective thing. We don’t think twice about spending $200 on a pair of Nike sneakers, where the actual cost was $4.50, advertising cost $30 and profit margin 300%+. Yet a pair of shoes that costs the same, well made with honestly sustainable materials by an unknown designer, may be considered costly. Do we ever wonder why?

Perhaps if we each are more conscientious about our purchasing choices, even if it’s just one garment at a time, we can bring up demand, reduce cost and have the best of both worlds.

Feral Childe

Eco clothing absolutely costs more to manufacture than conventional clothing. The raw materials cost more. There’s only a limited supply of organic cotton. Extra processing to avoid nasty chemicals, waste and runoff all goes into the price of sustainable fabrics. Low-impact dyeing and printing costs more. Labor expenses are often higher for eco-clothing manufacturers, whether that means working with domestic contractors or with factories abroad who pay workers fair wages.

The profit margins are pretty slim in manufacturing and production volumes have to be high to negotiate pricing. It isn’t cost efficient yet to produce eco-clothing, but if more consumers choose to buy green we may see a wider range of price points in the near future. Buy eco now if you can, and it will benefit us all in the long run.

Cri de Coeur

Eco-clothing isn’t always that expensive, relative to similar designer brands.
Even so, the price tags aren’t come up with arbitrarily…every step of the production process adds its own cost to the bottom line.  For example, Cri de Coeur shoes are made in a socially responsible factory that pays fair wages.  Materials are high quality, so not only do they look and feel good, they’ll endure through many years of wear.  The shoes are made by hand, since the vegan materials don’t lend themselves to automated production processes that were developed for leather footwear.
It’s also important to keep in mind that the cost of a product isn’t solely what’s on the price tag.  Everything has a carbon footprint that it impacts upon our planet.  While buying the sustainable, organic or fair-trade product may be slightly more expensive in the short-term, it’s long term benefits are more than worth it.

Main image: Borman818

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