Paint the Town Green Issue #40

Earth-friendly duds aren't just for hippies anymore

By Stephanie Niedospial
Published: August 1st, 2009 | 12:00am

Everything seems to be going green these days, and fashion is no exception. Turns out some of our favorite designers are already dealing in sustainable style.

WHAT’S IN STORES?

For cool women who want to look good and do good at the same time, there’s Prairie Underground. Their clothes are comfortable, but also very stylish with exposed zippers, tufted collars, and carry-all totes. “When we first started selling the line, no one cared about organic or sustainable fabrications; it was almost a joke and certainly not a selling point,” explains co-owner and designer Davora Lindner. (prairieunderground.com)

HOLD THE GRANOLA

Lindner goes on to explain that many sustainable textiles have a humble appearance, which presents some unique design challenges. Hoda Mallone, Design Director of Eco-Ganik, overcomes these challenges by steering her collections far away from the granola designs typically associated with sustainable fabrics. “I wanted to give women the option of not looking like they’re going to yoga class while dressing eco-friendly,” says Mallone. (ecoganik.com)

KEEP IT LOCAL

“It’s no secret that this type of business can be very exploitive and superficial, and it’s always been a moral struggle for me,” said Victoria Chatziemmanuel, designer of Canadian label Grace & Cello. “The entire line is designed and made in our neighborhood because we believe in supporting our local economy,” says Chatziemmanuel, who believes the mode of production is just as important as the fabric and fit. (gracecello.com)