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Perhaps you've noticed the growing number of food and cleaning products labeled as "organic" available to eco-minded consumers -- latest I've seen being Walmart and also reported in high demand here -- but, based on the Organic Trade Association (OTA) manufacturer survey (conducted in February and March of 2006) there seems to be an increased popularity among the organic fiber sales market, as well.
Fiber (linen and clothing) made up 21% of the total organic consumer non-food sales - $160 million with a 44% growth in 2005, to be exact.
I don't know about you - those numbers look awfully big for clothes typically thought of as being...um...not very stylish - but, I can't help wondering...is thinking-green...becoming the new black?!?
I keep a small vegetable garden out back - which my dog loves to dig up and is located right next to the kids' swing set - and do not use any pesticides. But, why should I buy eco-friendly clothing, such as organic cotton, if I'm not going to eat it?
Earth Friendly Goods (linked via: Practical Environmentalist) seems to feel that clothes produced otherwise can possible "hurt you" and explains it this way:
Anyone with psoriasis, eczema, allergies, asthma or plain old itchy skin can easily get skin-specific responses to fabrics and the chemicals used to produce or clean them. Call it uncomfortable, call it a rash, or call it contact dermatitis, more and more people are recognizing that clothes can hurt. What's more, it seems that the incidence of fabric-related reactions has escalated as the manufacturing of fabric has become increasingly chemically based.
Many of their products are made from hemp, but they also carry products made from bamboo, organic cotton, soy, flax, wool, and other earth- friendly resources.
Looking for an eco-friendly gift idea - how about their vegan wallet!?!
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The Splaff El Presidente Bike Tube Wallet is constructed completely from recycled bicycle inner tube. It features several pockets to accommodate credit cards, business cards, and identification. Earth conscious and durable, this vegan El Presidente Bike Tube Wallet will help you to save your pesos while you help save the environment.Was $32.00 - now on sale for $22.95
Marketing eco-friendly clothes is very hot, right now, and BTC Elements is a company that recognizes the many benefits of organic clothes shopping:
Mission Statement
BTC Elements provides sustainable products that are high quality and stylish, inspiring consumers to create an earth friendly and socially conscious lifestyle. We strive to channel the power of the consumer into a path that creates broad prosperity for the shopper, the producer, and the environment.
Fashionably Green -- part blog, part directory -- reports on the latest eco-friendly products and posts some summer savings at BTC Elements:
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I'm always on the hunt for basics with tailored cuts and this California Cap Sleeve by Stewart Brown is one. Pair it with your favorite breezy skirt or summer capris. Then wear them under your favorite power suit, cardigan or shrug in the fall.Made from 100% Organic Cotton.
On sale for $35 and available in four colors.
Okay - I agree with FG and am totally loving the organic cotton outfit - but, what do you have...that's earth-friendly...say, something with the least attractive-sounding name...like, hemp...that's comfortable, as well as fashionable...and does it come in pink?
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Fair Hemp's new light weight pullovers with hood and pocket are versatile - from cool spring nights to layered under winter jackets they’re useful year round.Constructed from 55% organically grown hemp and 45% certified organic cotton these hoodies will last as well.
[available at Good Hemp and Green Goods Company]
Uh-huh - okay, I'd so wear that - but...what about...um...BAMBOO!...in home furnishings looks mighty good. But, I just couldn't see wearing it...until I surfed through EcoDesign's site and found this super-sexy women's camisole:
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Our camisoles are 95% Organic Bamboo with 5% Spandex, and just perfect to wear alone or part of an ensemble.The camisoles feature a sexy spaghetti strap and are considered one of the most comfortable items in our bamboo line of tops.
[Also available in white, violet and indigo]
Our Bamboo clothing will never stick to your body or skin even on the hottest of days and will always make you feel cool under any conditions. Our T-shirts have much better moisture absorption and wicking than cotton shirts and are known for their breathability.
Another renewable natural resource is soy bean and is being touted as "vegetable cashmere" in a market where softness counts - baby clothes:
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Babysoy brings
