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"Eco-sneaks" made by Simple, made from hemp and recycled car tires.

We all know about ways to be eco-conscious with our food, trash, and transportation, but what about with fashion? There are many ways to be fashionable and environmentally friendly, too. Read on for some tips on truly “walking the walk”.

Green fashion step #1: Try some new fabrics.
So many pieces of clothing these days are made with cheap, synthetic fabrics that are harsh on the environment and your skin. Synthetic blends use a lot of chemicals and materials that leave an enormous mark on the earth, and can be uncomfortable to wear. So instead of reaching for the usual materials, think about what you’re buying and it will have a good impact on your body and the planet. Many items are now made from bamboo, which is softer than cotton and biodegradable as well. However, it’s not truly the best option when it comes to greening your wardrobe. Bamboo is chemically processed, and it comes from China and other East Asian countries, so shipping uses a lot of fuel. Instead, try organic cotton – it can be farmed right here in the United States and doesn’t use any harsh pesticides, which are bad for your body and the ecosystems in which cotton is farmed. Buying organic cotton not only feels good, but it also supports local, sustainable and natural agriculture, which is good for everyone.

Green fashion step #2: Be loyal to green companies.
We all have brand loyalty: whether it’s to restaurants, groceries, or fashion, knowing from whom you want to buy is easy and gives you security in your purchases. Next time you think about buying clothing from one of your “go to” brands, think about whether or not they are using environmentally friendly and socially just processes for manufacturing their clothes. Many clothing companies that produce cheap pieces are able to sell them for cheap because they use synthetic fabrics, harsh chemicals and child and/or sweatshop labor. There are many companies, however, that use quality and sustainably farmed materials, employ adult workers who earn fair wages, and practice fair trade.

American Apparel® (americanapparelstore.com), a company based out of Los Angeles, uses “vertically integrated manufacturing”, which means they oversee and control all levels of operation. It also means they don’t use sweatshop labor in other countries. All of their factory workers work an average American workload, earn above minimum wage, are adults, and are treated fairly. Additionally, the clothes are manufactured in the United States, which saves a lot of fuel from being burned from shipping. Their clothes fit well and are reasonably priced, and bonus – they sell items in organic cotton.

If you’re looking for some new kicks, try Simple® (simpleshoes.com). They have a whole new line of “eco-sneaks” which are made from eco-friendly materials like hemp, recycled plastics, and recycled car tires. They offer a wide range of styles, and are very comfortable as well. See the photo above for an example.

Green fashion step #3: Don’t shop ‘til you drop.
Being fashionable doesn’t mean you have to be wasteful. The next time you go shopping, think about what you’ve really wanted to add to your wardrobe before crazy. One of the biggest problems with the environment in America is consumerism. The more you buy, the more products you use, the more energy is used, and the more waste is produced. A simple key to becoming more environmentally conscious is by buying less stuff. Next time you go to the mall or your favorite boutiques, make a list of what you’re really out to get. Then when you get home, count however many items you purchased and take half that many out of your closet to give to charity. If you haven’t worn an item of clothing in the last six months, it’s time to get rid of it and give it to someone who needs it more. It’s easy – buy two new dresses for summer, give away an old dress you haven’t worn in a while. This will help lessen your impact on the earth and also save space in your closet. Take the clothes you don’t need any more to a goodwill store or another charity that takes used clothing.

Another green shopping tip: when you go out on a spree, eliminate the waste that comes with buying new products. For example, ask stores not to wrap your clothing in tissue paper unless it’s a gift, and carry reusable bags with you so you won’t be wasting more materials to cart your goods around. For a cute set of totes that can be used for any kind of shopping, visit loadmygroceries.com.