Sustainable Style

We've all been blinded by the low prices of fast fashion without concern for the carbon footprint clothing manufacturing leaves behind. While I'm certainly not one to preach about the ills of the fashion industry or dissuade fellow style-hounds from low-price retailers, I do think Earth Day is the perfect reminder to be conscious about our impact on the environment - sartorial or otherwise.

The most eco-friendly shopping spree would involve bicycling to a local thrift store, but I don't have the patience to sift through rows of polyester. Instead, I'll opt for one of these gems:

(pictured clockwise, starting from upper left)

Made from organic cotton:
Loomstate, Nicolette Braided Dress, $128
Organic cotton & donates to the World Food Program:
Feed 2 Bag, $95
Made from reclaimed silver:
Toby Pomeroy, Silver Hoop Earrings, $165
Donates a pair of shoes:
TOMS, Canvas & Grosgrain Slip-on, $85
Made from recycled imbuia wood:
Camila Sarp, Wreath Cuff, $287

Reminder: Enter to win a set of Thomas Paul tea towels.

S.O.S.

I was touched by Melisa's post at The Lil Bee this morning - and I don't think she'll mind that I'm using her words as inspiration for today's message.

photo via The New York Times

I can't imagine the scale of the earthquake that rocked Haiti yesterday afternoon. I can't imagine the devastation that has ripped through the country. I can't imagine losing my loved ones in a similar disaster. And I certainly can't imagine not having access to the most basic necessities of food, water and shelter.

In yesterday's post, I mentioned how challenging it was to create an outfit for less than $100. But c'mon, that's not a challenge. A challenge is not having the resources to rebuild a country after it comes crumbling down around its citizens.

I'm echoing Melisa's plea. If you can, please donate money to the American Red Cross to help the relief efforts.

Many of us don't blink at spending $5 on a cup of coffee - I know I don't. Let's use that money for something great today.

Please share your suggestions to help the Haiti relief efforts.