KellyStyle:
Fashion is Going Green

If you watched the Oscars this year, you may recall Leo DiCaprio stating that the show had "gone green".

Green is a big movement right now and Hollywood and the fashion industry have jumped on the bandwagon. The fashion industry is starting to do its part to help the environment by using organic materials and sustainable fibers in new eco-friendly designs.

Here is a quick explanation of the terms:

• Organic clothing is made from natural fibers grown without the use of pesticides;
• Sustainable materials are made from the reuse and recycling of manufactured products.

Does this mean that if you wear organic or sustainable clothing, you will be considered a granola-eating tree-hugger?

Not to worry. The use of eco-friendly materials in clothing has become so mainstream that they are showing up in everything from high fashion to active wear! More and more companies are taking a closer look at ways to go organic. This makes wearing green eco fashion is a rising trend.

There are many benefits to buying and wearing eco-friendly clothing:

• Organic growing methods have a low impact on the environment because the production systems that farmers use replenish and maintain soil fertility and preserve the planet's fragile ecosystems.
• The products are made with renewable resources, have natural hypoallergenic properties, and are grown without herbicides or pesticides, which greatly reduces the use of toxic materials.
• It supports small farming communities around the world.

Organic/sustainable fibers include:

• Cotton,
• silk,
• wool,
• hemp,
• flax,
• burlap,
• and straw.

The clothing designs available today prove that consumers need not compromise their values for style!

Cropped angel-sleeve jacket by Carol Young, Edun dress at Nordstrom, Stella McCartney printed dress