Green isn’t a flattering color on everyone, but you don’t have to wear green to go green. Today, there are a multitude of options for the environmentally conscious consumer. You can dress your bed in organic sheets, clean your house with chemical-free products, opt for eco-tourism and recycled jewelry, and even purchase hemp collars for your dog. So why not work the green trend into your wardrobe as well?
I’m not saying you need to sport a bamboo shirt, hemp pants and vegan shoes 24/7, but you could start by introducing organic cotton to your closet. Unlike traditional cotton, organic cotton is grown using methods that have a low impact on the environment, and the production of it helps cut down on the use of toxic pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.
Many designers are jumping on the green bandwagon, and you don’t have to search too far to find a variety of eco-clothing retailers online that offer organic t-shirts and pants, grooming products and accessories made of recycled materials.
Here are some easy eco-friendly options to get you started:
Life’s a Beech
With excellent stitching and detail, and a material the gals won’t be able to take their hands off, the Crossover Hoodie from 4-rth is a versatile piece that fits like a glove. Handmade in Los Angeles from custom Modal fabric (natural fibers derived from Beech Wood), the hoodie is softer than cotton and more durable. The green zipper is sustainably manufactured, too! Comes in heather gray, blue and black. $64. www.4-rth.com.
99 Bottles of Beer…in my Backpack
Made from recycled plastic bottles, the Targus Spruce EcoSmart Backpack from Clean Spirited is designed to hold a laptop up to 15.6″ and has compartments for your iPod and other essentials. The case features nickel-free hardware and recyclable components, and its padded back and adjustable straps allow for a customized fit. $1 from every purchase is donated to environmental causes. $70. www.cleanspirited.com.
Bring Your Crew
Founded in 1992 on the premise that workers should be treated ethically and clothing should be durable, affordable and sustainable, Maggie’s Organics is a great place to start shopping for eco-friendly apparel. This Value Pak includes six pairs of socks (86% certified organic) made in the USA at family owned mills in North Carolina. Choose from white or black crew socks or footies. $30. www.maggiesorganics.com.
Hemp is for Hippies!
When you think of hemp, you probably think of marijuana. But the fact is, THC levels in industrial hemp are generally so low that no one could get high from smoking it (or wearing it). Soft and breathable, the hemp/organic cotton blend Migration shirt from Patagonia is light and airy for comfort in warm weather. Includes two chest pockets and subtle shirttail hem with splits at the sides. Comes in three colors. $59. www.REI.com.
Get Eco-Inked
Most guys are dirtballs, so mine as well wear the label! (Kidding! Sort of…) The Dirtball All Star Tee from Dirtball Fashion is crew cut and made of 65% recycled cotton and 35% post-consumer polyester. It’s also printed with water-based and thilate-free ink, making it 100% eco-friendly. Get this: Each shirt contains seven 16 oz. water bottles! Comes in black, blue, grey, red and white. $24. www.dirtballfashion.com.
Fruit of the Loom
Organic cotton isn’t just for tees! Show your bottom half some love with the 100% organic straight leg Fabian Chino pant from Loomstate, a company that was launched in New York City in 2004 as a casual brand dedicated to creating a demand for certified organic cotton using socially and environmentally responsible production methods. Colors include blue, brown, charcoal, green, khaki and stone. $156. www.Loomstate.org.