Truly Forward Fashion

I'm not sure if I've mentioned this before, but, I have decided to set my career goals in the realm of eco-fashion. I might not exactly be the poster child for a green life. Yet, the idea that something I plan to do for a living effects so many people and has such long-lasting effects makes me eager to be involved in environmentally conscious fashion (I've found that the fashion industry can be fast-paced, cut throat, and resultingly, quite wasteful).

I want to work for (and eventually create) a business that's rooted in fair trade practices and creates garments that are sustainable.

I initially had different plans for this post. I was going to cover my favorites from London Fashion Week. Instead, I chose to share with you the amazingly talented green designers that are moving fashion forward with fresh ideas sartorially and economically. Many designers had a chance to show their Spring 2010 collections at the GreenShows during New York Fashion Week! Below are a few of the inspiring looks that could have easily been shown in Bryant Park.

images via treehugger.com Gorgeous and sustainable look from Van Markoviec's Spring 2010 collection

Hand weaved (!) look from designer Tara St.James for the Study by Tara St.James Spring 2010 collection

Look from San Fran based Mr.Larkin label

Lara Miller Spring 2010

Bahar Shahpar Spring 2010

These designers prove that eco-fashion can be chic and cutting edge. An internship with any of the designers would be a dream!

On a related inspirational note: designer Tara St.James made it to fashion week thanks to the help of supporters. Check out the sweet video she made:

The Square Project from Jesse Benjamin on Vimeo.

It's easy being green as long as you're not the Grinch

Warning: Post a little random due to lack of sleep and eagerness to share information!

Okay, I'm writing a post to prove that I'm alive and have made it through not only 6 weeks of this quarter but nearly 2, count that, 2 years of college...alive!

I wanted to share a cool line of organic t-shirts (hence the title of this post). I was talking with my roomies about wanting a cool, comfy organic tee and I got an email from Generation Love within a few days! I love how you get an edgy, sexy feel from a laidback and eco-friendly staple. Here are a few of my favs: Stud Epaulets are divine!

that low sleeve and super open boat neck are elements I dream of in a t-shirt

that subtle elements like the studs, stitching, length, "not too tight-not to loose" fit make this tee great!

Check it at http://www.generationloveclothing.com

I have another great online store to share with everyone in a near future post.

Personal style posting has been deleted from my life this quarter because I mostly grab and go dress these days. So, I shall go to what's on file. Next post: my Dior jacket!

I finished the prom dress last week! Pictures soon? Maybe.

SCAD fashion show tickets on sale today. They'll be sold out in a snap, er, they are. Hopefully, I'll be volunteering and I will at least see the show from behind the scenes!

Okay, that's about it. Until next post, lovelies!

B

Turning another leaf

Today's photo: Earrings made by a friend of mine (Cat Lowery). A Christmas/Birthday present to myself. Symbol of another step of change.

The beginning of the new year approaches. I've obtained every January issue of the best fashion magazines, scoured them for the upcoming trends, dismissed what I found completely absurd, did a little shopping, and got really excited about what's to come in 2009.

I love leafs and leaf motifs in clothing and accessories, but these earrings are my symbol for turning over that new leaf (I know, how "last year!").

For me, that "leaf" is more than the stuff I failed at this year, but more serious efforts toward living more eco-consciously. Eco fashion is out there and I'm determined to spread the word. I'm no where near the poster child for living the most green, but I do TRY.

The most fun and easy way to start: consignment and thrift shopping. Seriously, there's no better feeling than coming home with a treasure that, with or without a few alterations, can be your next great look. I have consignment shop finds that I would have paid store price for but got away with a $2.50 price tag!

Be good! Be green!

Green is In: Looks from the Earth Day Festival in Forsyth Park

Green is the new black and, with festivals like today, the idea of eco-friendliness is getting a lot more stylish. The day was parfait for a festival honoring the earth with warm weather and sunny skies. Summer dresses and Chucks seemed to be the trend along with green. I saw lots of awesome t-shirts with sayings like, "Green is hot" or, my favorite, "Be eco-friendly, wear a dirty shirt" (complete with faux stains—I hope.)

The event and sartorial searching got me to thinking about the idea of organic and eco-friendly clothing. Magazines like Vanity Fair have published their green issues with photos of celebrities, activist stories, and spreads full of planet-saving (and stylish) fashion options. The catch of course is the prices. The idea of being environmentally conscious and uber-chic is great, but without a lot of cash, it's just a really great idea.
The idea is getting out though, and organic cotton tees are the dernier cri. They're Available at places like Target and American Apparel for fair prices. I also found some tips for "greening" one's closet from a site recommended by a friend. Check it out at: http://www.treehugger.com/files/2006/11/how_to_green_yo_12.php