Give the Gift of Organic Sweaters

With the holiday season fast approaching, winter wear is a great gift idea, both to give and to receive. Many companies have started taking a green approach to warm weather clothing using organic cotton and other eco-friendly materials and practices to produce warm, beautiful sweaters for you and your loved ones. Eileen Fisher Eileen Fisher, the company known for their simple yet sophisticated clothes, have several sweaters made from organic cotton. Not only is their fabric made without chemical fertilizers and pesticides, but it is also sewn in a community workshop in Peru and sold as a fair trade product. That means that the people who make these beautiful sweaters are paid fair wages and work in good conditions. Check out the Knit High Collar Fair Trade Cardigan, made with organic cotton that’s “cashmere-soft.” This cardigan has a drawstring collar and a front snap closure. It also meets the Global Organic Textile Standard. Another chic look from Eileen Fisher is the Fair Trade Organic Cotton Knit Cowl Neck Top. Both of these sweaters are machine washable, and the cowl neck features kangaroo pocket and ribbed sleeves. Eileen Fisher definitely demonstrates the opportunities for big designers to make eco-conscious decisions. Patagonia Patagonia, known for their sportswear, is a company that has made a significant environmental commitment. In 1996, they made the decision to switch to only organic cotton for their sportswear items and they haven’t looked back! This season, they have the especially comfortable and fashionable Women's Gulf Island Hoody made from a blend of organic cotton and recycled polyester. With stripes adorning the neck, cuffs, hood, and hem, the Gulf Island Hoody is casual and exciting. Another great item is the Kamala Tunic made from a blend of organic cotton and a Tencel jersey knit, an environmentally sustainable textile. Available in White Chocolate and Condor Grey, this sleek style would be a great addition to any closet. As if these Patagonia sweaters weren’t green enough, both items can be recycled through the Common Threads Recycling Program. Aventura Another organic cotton gem is the Althea Sweater from Aventura. This boat-neck style is available in both Lipstick red and Midnight and is sure to become a hit. The thick stripes are flattering and stylish, and this versatile sweater can be either sophisticated or casual depending on accessories. So, from formal to casual, work to play, organic sweaters are a stylish and eco-conscious way to celebrate winter. Image credit: Eileen Fisher, Patagonia, Aventura

What a Well-Dressed Eco-Conscious Man Wears…

From hemp suit jackets and non-silk ties, an increasing number of men are exploring the constantly evolving selection of eco-friendly business attire and casual dressy ensembles. Let's take the shirt, jacket, and vest pictured above. Comprised of organically grown European hemp, this look is just one of the business and wedding wear options for men offered at Rawganique. Other choices for the well-dressed eco-conscious man include: Recycled Business Suits The eco-conscious man looking to dazzle at business meetings or make a decent first impression on a blind date may consider the selections at Bagir – a United Kingdom company that employs three different approaches to planet-friendly clothing:

• EcoGir Recycled suits are made from 100% recycled PET bottles, which help to lower the number of old bottles that end up cluttering landfills.
• With EcoGir Washables, limit the amount of CO2 and conserve water by embracing these machine-washing suits.
• Grown without the use of harmful chemicals or pesticides, EcoGir Organic suit jackets are 100% organic cotton.

Stores, like JCPenny, Casual Male Big and Tall, Brooks Brothers, The Limited, and Express, are known to carry Bagir. In the near future, look forward to Sears partnering with Teijin Fibers Limited to produce men's suits using recycled plastic bottles, wool, and polyester fibers. Fully machine washable and dryable, manufacturers will use about 25 polyethylene terephthalate (2-liter) bottles to generate enough polyester fiber to make one set of jacket and pants. Next, you can pair your suit with an eco-friendly tie, such as the Crow Clothing Men's Tie, which offers one-of-a kind patterns with off-kilter stitching and fun asymmetrical points. Hand-stitched, this one size fits all option comes in gray (97% organic cotton, 3% spandex) and black (100% organic cotton). Jaan J Non-Silk, Vegan Ties A good tie has the power to transform a casual looker into a fellow who 'cleans up pretty well.' With non-silk classic ties and eye-catching ascot ties, Jaan J produces pieces perfect for making a statement and decorating the upper body with luxurious elegance. The company produces non-silk tie patterns in crisscross, dotted, floral, stripes, solids, and geometric designs. Shown is the Southern Spain Summer Tie ($110), which also comes in a pink, light blue, and white color combination. The eco-friendly efforts, as well as the extensive variety of color and styles of Jaan J have earned a PETA Proggy Award in 2008. Recycled Cufflinks In the past, I've highlighted recycled cufflinks by Ward Wallau, but the well-dressed eco-man will also appreciate Jen Roder's work – a Philadelphia-based artist who creates each pair of Rotorcaps cufflinks out of recycled bottle caps and sterling silver. From Rolling Rock beer bottle caps to the Blue Moon design shown here, Roder allows men to display their personality while staying true to their green state of mind. Eco-Friendly Footwear for Men The world of eco-friendly dress shoes and other green footwear for men is expanding with choices in bamboo, hemp, recycled content, and natural rubber. For example, Clarks EcoSteps Wallabees uses renewable and recycled raw materials to create natural, eco-friendly leather. The lining consists of coconut hair – an ultra-renewable resource with nearly no impact on the environment. For a more dapper look, the French-made Mephisto Daciano oxford may cost $517, but the round bicycle toe, chic detail, and 100% natural rubber outsole provides a comfortable, shock-absorbing fit. Image Credits: Rawganique, Jaan J

Little Stork Delivery Bags – Organic + Luxury

Somewhere between shuffling to the hospital and holding your precious bundle of joy for the first time, the delivery bag plays an important role for expectant mothers. Some women pack their hospital labor bag months ahead of their due date, while others are lucky enough to receive a suitable starter as a baby shower gift. Offering an array of luxury, organic essentials for baby and mom, Little Stork combines vital toiletries and comfortable clothing with lifesaving products – a favorite amongst celebrities, like Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, and Elisabeth Hasselbeck. The ultimate selection in Little Stork Delivery Bags is appropriately called the "The Mother of All," which offers items for the birthing experience, hospital stay, dad, baby, and breastfeeding. During the birthing process, pull back your hair with ponytail holders or headband. Get your camera, journal (with pen), and folder for paperwork ready – all included in the package. Other brand names in the world of natural birthing products to expect, include:

• Motherlove Atomizer – Certified organic grapefruit, orange and lavender essential oils blend with distilled water for freshening the face during labor.
• PreggieDrops – Ease nausea and dry mouth during labor with individually wrapped flavor drops.
• EO Lip Balm – Organic oils, butters, beeswax and aloe work together to soothe dry mouth often present during labor.
• EO French Lavender Lotion – Mango seed butter, safflower oil, vitamin E, and lavender essential oil not only calms the body and mind, but also prevents cracked hands.

For the hospital stay, the bag includes items to keep mom organized and fresh, including lavender shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel. The Little Stork Nursing Nightgown Robe Set supplies a 100% organic cotton assemble with a small stork embroidered on the hem. Since the gown is cut to accommodate breastfeeding, oftentimes, a nursing bra is not required. The Little Stork Nursing Nightgown provides an alternative for recovering mothers who may need to spend an extra day in the hospital. Pamper sore feet with Daniel Green slippers – outfitted with a sturdy durable indoor-outdoor outsole. Dads aren’t forgotten with the "Mother of All" Little Stork Delivery Bags. With sweatshirt, socks, toiletries, razor, comb, and soap – he'll feel just as comfortable and prepared as mom. Topping off the assortment is Alba Tea Tree Deodorant and organic Alba Shaving Cream. If you haven’t chosen the perfect going home outfit for baby, Little Stork offers an organic Under the Nile cotton gown with nickel-free buttons and zippers. A baby hat accompanies the outfit, as well as a swaddling blanket. The delivery bag continues to equip mothers with essentials to make the transition into motherhood easier with supplies for nursing and breast pump mothers. A DVD highlights the finer points of breastfeeding. Two breathable cotton Bravado nursing bras provide extra support and help prevent infections. Additional breastfeeding accessories include:

• Soothies Breast Gels – It's not uncommon for the first attempts of breastfeeding or breast pumping to go awry. Treat bruised nipples will cooling gels that additionally protect the skin from bra friction.
• Motherlove Nipple Cream – Relieving sore nipples, Motherlove combines marshmallow root, calendula, olive oil, shea butter, and beeswax for a cream safe for ingestion.
• Lansinoh Breastpads – A lifesaver during the first few days after childbirth. With a more natural shape than other products on the market, Lansinoh provides a stick-on piece to enhance use.

Everything is neatly packed in a natural colored cotton canvas bag with your choice of a Sage, Pink or Blue Stork embroidered logo. The 'Mother of All' delivery bags costs $570. Other Little Stork delivery bag options include: Essential Delivery Bag ($160) – With Preggie Pops, EO French Lavender Lotion, Baby Hat, Motherlove Nipple Cream, and Lansinoh Breastpads. Original Delivery Bag ($260) – With Little Stork Nursing Nightgown, Daniel Green slippers, and Soothies Breast Gels. Deluxe Delivery Bag ($370) – With Nursing Nightgown & Robe Set, Preggie Drops, Baby Going Home Outfit, Bravado Nursing Bras, and Swaddling Blanket. Image Credits: Little Stork

Being Green in the Deep Blue: Eco-Friendly Swimsuits

Just because summer is dwindling down to a couple of weekend barbecues and last glimpses of the beach, doesn’t mean you still don’t have time to make good use of an eco-friendly swimsuit. However, trying to create a sustainable bathing suit is no easy pickings. Common materials used to add shape and style to your one-piece assembles and trendy bikinis include man-man wonders, such as Lycra and spandex. Fortunately, with the help of repurposed and recycled materials – it's easy being green in the deep blue. Aaron Chang International For the surfer girl at heart, Aaron Chang International offers a line of eco-friendly swimwear fashioned from recycled soda bottles made into polyester yarn. Within his collection, a natural element theme weaves in and out of his suits. Beyond the reversible style delivering the flexibility of a chameleon to the padded Classic Woody Cut Out One Piece with eye-catching cut patterns, Aaron Chang also sells high-quality prints of outdoor scenes. Kelly B Couture Featured on the green fashion show of 'The View,' the Kelly B Valentina Bikini is comprised of bamboo and organic cotton – offering a chance to stay true to the earth while still embracing a classic style. The organic cotton used in the swimwear line has been grown, processed and produced without the pesticides and other toxic chemicals. Choose a basic Amanda one-piece swimsuit (available in black or white) with the option to remove a halter strap. The Nadia Ring Bikini presents a fun and flirty look and only uses 8% spandex in its creation. Other Kelly B options include the Jenny String Bikini and the Tizi Cutout Swimsuit – offered in a vibrant yellow. Jungle Gurl Can you think of anything better than taking a cue from a former model turned eco-friendly swimwear designer? Jungle Gurl mixes alluring designs with minimal fabric use to create a line of bathing suits and bikinis that repurpose vintage fabrics with an international flair. Tap into your wild side with the Ginger Lulu (shown), which allows you to also fashionably prepare your baby for a day at the beach. The Keila offers artistic designs with fabrics and strings that tie around the neck and back. Anna Cohen Floating across the web, swimmers can still find a few Anna Cohen swimsuit designs despite her decision to explore 'another chapter in her life.' Mull over the sexiness of an eco-friendly string bikini or select the quick-drying Teal Triangle Bikini – originally constructed out of leftover fabric from the Olympic Speed Skating team uniforms. Cohen gave unwanted surplus mill-end fabrics a home of their own. The Portland-based designer additionally chose organic cotton and sustainable bamboo to bring her innovative styles to life. Niksters With bamboo rings, soy, and organic cotton materials, Niksters allows you to dazzle beachgoers with intriguing designs, such as the Heavenly, a white one-piece with Xcross crochet strings at the front and top. The Balance bikini presents a handmade crochet top that seductively ties in the middle of the back. Experience a monobikini (shown) against your skin with the Native Goddess – a classy heart shaped one-piece. Niksters also plans to add eco-friendly beach accessories, including necklaces, beach hats, and bracelets made out of natural materials. Other earth-friendly swimwear and companies to consider:

• Triumph: Awarded Best Environment Management accolades from Austrian Industry, Triumph blends eco-friendly ideas with green production processes when generating their swimwear line filled with striking prints, colors and cuts.
• San Lorenzo: Join Jhonatan Figueroa and Megan Spurlock – the two designers behind cutting-edge Brazilian cut bikinis with an eco-friendly, organic cotton twist. Don't forget to check out the belt-style bikini.
• Rawganique: The entire line of swimwear from Rawganique uses hemp to create comfortable and stylish designs, including swim trunks for men.

Greening Your Office Space

Back from maternity leave or starting a new job – why not take a step in an earth-friendly direction by greening your office space? From sticky note holders made out of recycled scrap steel to all-natural bamboo chair mats that create luxuriously sleek surroundings, Bambeco offers a variety of items to make an eco-friendly return or entrance into the workplace much easier. To find inspiration, consider some of the green office goods listed below: Recycled Cotton Desk Organizer What better way to increase your productivity than with enhanced organization? This stylish seven-piece desk set looks like fine leather at first glance, but is really constructed from recycled cotton rescued from the clothing industry. Jot important notes in the journal. Keep abreast on the latest news by storing periodicals in the magazine holder. Keep sharpened pencils at attention in an elegant holder. Available in black or brown. Price: $114.95 Rubber Wood Organizer There's nothing worse than sifting through the bottom of your desk for paper clips or looking for the disk containing essential information. Store all of your most important desk accessories in this organizer, which is made out of rubber trees – a sustainable, renewable natural resource that continues to create furniture and other products once all of the latex has been completely extracted. Rubber wood remnants destined for a life of waste are used to make the organizers. At home, this organizer doubles as a holder for recipe cards, photos, and sewing supplies. Available in Grey and Multicolored. Price: $120.00 Recycled Cardboard Desk Organizer Made of 100% recycled material and free of toxic chemicals or bleaches, this honeycomb cell structure is comprised of recycled cardboard. Try dressing your office with an eye-catching penholder that offers many different possibilities – from platter or bowl to fancy table-top decor. Thanks to lightweight fibers, this organizer offers a highly durable structure. Price: $31.00 Penguin & Rooster Recycled PETE Messenger Bag This funky and cool messenger bag is stylishly functional. You'd never know that it was made from 100% post-consumer plastic bottles. Perfect for those who love members of the feathered species, make your commute to the office a greener experience with this accommodating carryall. Store your cell phone and water bottle in the side pocket. Enjoy the adjustable, padded shoulder strap for ultimate comfort. Choose from blue, orange and olive. Price: $49.00 Recycled Bicycle Chain Bowl Want an irresistible conversation piece for the office? Consider the allure of recycled bicycle chains, which still have a great amount of life and use left. Offering a classic weave pattern with clean lines, this bowl provides an impressive centerpiece or nifty holder for your keys. Price: $86.00 Bentley Briefcase Attractive and stylish, this briefcase is handcrafted from reclaimed truck inner tubes and aptly named a 'Bentley' bag. Use it to tote your laptop or carry your important papers. Features include 1 ½ " wide adjustable and detachable seatbelt shoulder strap, handle, inside pocket, and two adjustable front spring hook closures. Price: $145.00 When looking to further green your office, don't forget to check out other products and goods offered at Bambeco – like the Recycled Cotton Photobox or a Root Table. Photo Credits: Bambeco

Journey Light: Stylish Diaper Bags for Green Parents

With a commitment to keeping the health of your little one, as well as the environment in mind, meet Journey Light and their first line of non-toxic, sustainable parenting gear and lifestyle bags. Catering to stylish moms (and dads), Journey Light products utilize hemp and organic cotton materials to create trendy diaper bags that also double as laptop carriers in some cases. One Small Change ($65) Seed (shown) Fashionable Portability With this 2-in-1 portable changing station and tote, on-the-go parents can easily handle the everyday needs of their newborn or toddler. Comprised of hemp and organic cotton, Journey Light uses low-impact dyes to add earthy oranges, browns, blues, and greens to their products. Compostable cornstarch serves as the basis of the foam pad that provides comfort during changes. Finishing off the total package in eco-friendly diapering is the first non-toxic, water resistant textile finish called NanoSphere, where parents can easily blot small bloopers with towels, and larger accidents are instantly spot washed. Peace of Mind ($140) Earth (shown) Roomy and Stylish With plenty of room, use the inside compartment for a small change or to store your laptop. Measuring 20" wide by 15" high with 15-inch shoulder straps, this selection also offers a roomy zipper pocket and three holders that cater to most water or baby bottles, and sippy cups. Delivering a Message ($120) Sunset (shown) Keeping Dad in Mind Use the generous pockets on the outside to carry essentials or the inside compartment for small changes or to store your laptop when needed. Additional features include three bottle holders, zipper pocket, and adjustable shoulder strap. Measuring 14" wide by 12" high, this tasteful messenger style bag makes the perfect unisex gift for a new dad. Photo Credits: Journey Light

The Greenest Tee on the Planet

What's better than relaxing in your favorite comfy tee-shirt?

Relaxing in your favorite sustainable comfy tee, of course!  

Deep in the heart of the humid south - Atlanta, to be exact - Clint Zeagler is serving up the hottest pecan pie you'll ever get your hands on.  Pecan Pie Couture isn't about dessert, however - it's the latest, not to mention trendiest, sustainable clothing line that combines "southern charm with high fashion flavor."

At Pecan Pie Couture, creating original clothing that looks and feels great is a priority - making these awesome tee shirts with the least possible impact on the planet is even more important.  It starts with organic cotton grown locally near their Atlanta shop.  Pecan Pie Couture designs their own cut and knits are prepared by the veteran crew of 14 at nearby Villa Rica Knitters.  

Each organic cotton tee is hand-stitched and hand-embroidered; natural dyes (turmeric, indigo, coffee, tea) are used during a traditional hand-dying process.  Some Pecan Pie Couture tees even feature authentic Native American beadwork - produced on the nearby Cherokee Indian Reservation in North Carolina.

Pecan Pie Couture tee shirts are one-of-a-kind creations - classic, 

sustainable clothing with just the right combination of chic style and southern sass.  Unfortunately, there doesn't appear to be a way to get your own slice of Pecan Pie Couture online - at least not yet.  The organic clothing line is available in a quickly-growing selection of department stores and fashion boutiques, currently including several stores in Georgia, as well as Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North and South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Ohio.  

Check out Pecan Pie Couture for the latest information on styles, upcoming events, and availability in your area.  

Photos via PecanPieCouture.com - top image featuring Aveda Natural Beauty Care at the Perimeter Mall in Atlanta; middle image by Brent Walker at the Revival fashion show; bottom image Pecan Pie Couture's 2008 launch at Bloomingdales, Atlanta.