Calling it a combination of form, function, and style, the new men’s line is dedicated to the commuter.

The utility waistband  features both a u-lock storage, as well as a higher rise in the back so folks behind you don’t get a glimpse of your backside. It has a comfortable, stretch fabric for easy mobility and reinforced seams for extra durability.

Understanding that the days progressively warmer, they even enhanced the fabric with additional anti-microbial protection.

The black version of the jeans are cropped–so they don’t get stuck on your gears–and have a nonintrusive strip of reflective material to keep you safe when you ride. They’re also water resistant and dirt repellant.

These features are now found on the 511 Skinny Jeans in three washes: Indigo Best Rigid, Chinchilla Twill, and Black. And for the top half? They’ve done up the Levi’s Trucker Jacket, with similar features, in an Indigo wash. The jeans retail at $78; the jacket at $128.

According to Senior Designer JeWon Yu, “The Commuter Series started as a simple conversation of “I wish…” and “what if…” and turned into the realization that we could give more to those already donning our jeans and trucker jackets while trekking their bikes around town.”

Read more from Levi’s.

What’s important, though, is to note one key fact: it doesn’t mean wearing the same outfit day after day, and no, you didn’t have to buy it at the local Goodwill.

On the other side of things, you also don’t have to shell out a fortune for high eco-fashion; while it’s sustainable and gorgeous, some of our wallets just aren’t that savvy.

Here are our top ways to become more eco-fashionable. Feel free to add yours below!

Buy Less

Sounds obvious, doesn’t it? But we don’t necessarily mean spend less. Think of what you do day-to-day, and what you wear. If you work in the office, perhaps a few good suits and crisp shirts are what you need. If you are a teacher, invest in a couple key skirts, slacks, and sweaters. If you’re a fitness professional, spend it on high-quality sportswear. Purchase a few pairs of good shoes that’ll last you, and a nice jacket, too. Sure, we might pay more for the quality, but we aren’t wasting dollars on clothes that’ll just fall apart.

Say No to Sweatshops

Plenty of our shopping mall favourites can mass produce for one reason: the workers who slave for eighty hours a week… with pennies to their name. Support local designers, local merchandise, and those who take the time to make quality. Sometimes it is difficult to get the styles we love so much, so choose carefully… If you absolutely need those sneakers because they support your feet the best, get them, but then seek out a local designer for your office suit.

Look at the Label

Consider sustainable materials, such as bamboo, organic cotton, and recycled materials. Organic cotton, for example, is increasing in sales every year. Although bamboo and recycled materials can get a little more costly, organic cotton is popping up everywhere. Check out our article on vegan fibres for more details on sustainable fabrics.

Shop Online

There are loads of eco-driven online retailers that sell only eco-certified gear. One of our favourites is Wear the Earth. Each company on their website handpicked, often with Fair-Trade practices. Check out more awesome retailers and options in our Shop.

Recycle

If you don’t need it anymore, consider donating to a local charity, or giving it away to friends. Even better? Host a swishing party… you’ll score some great pieces, too! Just gather a group that have cleaned out their individual closets. Get them to bring their clothing, shoes, and accessories to the party host’s home and make trades! Done and done.

Make a Statement

If you’re in the spotlight, choose green garments to really bring the idea forth. Think about eco-friendly and organic wedding dresses; your guests will be dying to know why you look so good.

Regardless of what you do, each little change will make a difference. Whether you buy organic materials, give away old clothes, support local companies, or just do one of the three, little changes help… and you’re well on your way to becoming a little more eco-chic.

Image source

According to Ann-Sofie Johansson, the head of design for H&M, “It’s not just about organic cotton any more, the possibilities for creating a complete fashion statement with eco smarter materials are huge now. By designing recurring Conscious Collections we have the opportunity to show in a variety of ways what’s possible using more sustainable fabrics”.

H&M’s classic, fresh designs combine with their sustainable fabrics, making for the perfect wardrobe for your spring and summer season. The newest trends include neutrals and simplicity, with the little details developed into a chic fashion collection.

However, neutrals doesn’t mean drab. In fact, colour is more important than ever… Along with white, that innocent, pure hueless shade that goes with just about everything.

The collection is made up of flowing dresses, breezy tunics, windy skirts, shorts (mini and midi), and the blazer… Especially with the rolled cuffs. We love the added details, making it just that much more feminine. A touch of lace, a bit of romance, a drop of lingerie; it just makes it that much better.

The menswear line delivers more of a preppy look, embracing the blazer just like the women’s line. The classic white two-button blazer looks great dressed up or a little more casual, and collarless shirts go easily from the office to on the town. T-shirts are a little dressier with a beach-inspired feel, with that classic Henley detailing. Tailoring meets relaxed in the majority of the looks, bringing everything we love together in a single look.

Children’s wear is similarly full of nature’s colour, bringing that classic white in both the wardrobes for girls and boys. Tiered dresses, tops, skirts for the little ladies and t-shirts and jeans for the boys.

Concious materials include:

• Organic cotton: cotton that has been grown without the use of hazardous chemicals.
• Organic linen: linen that has been grown without the use of hazardous chemicals.
• Recycled polyester: polyester made from PET bottles or textile waste.
• Tencel: Silky, renewable material produced with minimal environmental impact.

Source: hm.com

Their mission is to educate, inspire and organize people to create justice and peace through nonviolence. We had the chance to chat with the founders of the company to see what drives them to fulfill this passion.

What led you in this direction to create BE LOVE?

We created Be Love to help us fund the Peace Education work that we do through our nonprofit partner Common Peace. Find designer 2012 prom dresses

Be Love has been a natural way for us to live our core beliefs.
This work allows us to be creative and express ourselves through inspiring and eco friendly production and design.

What is your most popular style?

All Be Love styles are our favorites, of course! So much of us goes into creating ones that we love. KamGi especially likes our long sleeve organic top in ocean blue with the Be Love design and Kyle digs the new organic charcoal T with the Peace Warrior design. (Note from ecoki: We love the simple, yet artistic, styles!)

Who is your ideal customer?

Our customers run the spectrum of old and young, male and female of all colors, shapes and sizes. Be Love attracts customers that love beauty and have a strong desire to buy and wear clothing that represents their core beliefs in environmental sustainability and nonviolence. Our customers support great work through their purchase of Be Love and this is very important to them.

What does the future hold for BE LOVE?

God only knows but we see a continuation of great new designs and purposeful products. We also look forward to growing peace studies and  activism around the principles of nonviolence to create positive changes in the communities we find ourselves in.

How do you live an eco-friendly lifestyle?

We think about the consequences of our actions and how they affect the earth that we will leave to our children grandchildren and so-forth.

We educate ourselves about the issues and challenges we face as people who are stewards of this planet.
We live simply so that others can simply live.

It doesn’t end there, though. We definitely recommend you check out their Peace Studies on their website. This is where we know that the company is driven to making a change, by providing easily attained resources at the tips of our fingers.

We also love that the crew at Be Love donates 10% of all sales to Common Peace, an organization that helps teach the principles of peace, nonviolence, and conflict resolution.  The rest of their profits go toward building nonviolence workshops and funding campaigns of non-violent direct action.

They say their t-shirts communicate a message of strength, compassion, and loving determination for peace and social justice. If that’s not enough, they look good, too.
Check them out at beloveforall.com

BE LOVE GIVEAWAY!

Congrats to debb for winning this giveaway! Please stay tuned for our next one. Communion dresses for girls on sale.

They run a sustainable business driven on a philosophy based on respect for the environment, workers, and themselves.

Through this, they’ve developed a line of beautifully-colored, 100% certified organic  cotton tees and tops. Each shirt is hued with low-impact dye, designed with earth-friendly messages about eco-related topics.

All Green Label Organic shirts are:

• 100% Certified Organic, made with soft Ring Spun cotton
• Developed with eco-conscious low impact dyes
• PVC-free
• Void of neck tags and pre-shrunk
• Made in the USA, as locally as possible * Sweatshop Free * Oeko-Tex 100 Certified

There are many designs to choose from, along with plenty of styles to fit the season. Crews, thermals, and long sleeved tops are available for men, women, and baby.

We especially love the eco-messages and simple designs – and know that your friends and family will, too.

Visit them at greenlabel.com to check them all out – and they’re offering free shipping until December 20th!

And that’s where Wear the Earth comes into play. Wear the Earth is an online boutique, selling organic, eco-friendly clothing. Run by busy mom Tiffany Parks, she took her years of retail management experience to move forward with an eco-driven website, while simultaneously raising her family.

The best part about Wear the Earth is the array of organic gear they sell And because organic fabrics are superior to conventional fabrics, you know you’re getting quality products.

Selling so much more than just clothing, Wear the Earth has something for everyone, as well as great gift options. From bedding to towels, baby items,  home and body products, accessories, and yoga gear, it’s almost impossible to shop here and leave without an order.

What’s even better, is that all companies involved with Wear the Earth are handpicked to ensure their own greenness, including Fair-Trade practices to planet-friendly dyes and fabrics. Baby item are bleach-free, organic materials are used and toxins and heavy-metals are not to be seen.

Instead, fabrics are naturally dyed with low-impact Oeko-tex 100 dyes, as well as clay, and materials such as hemp, organic cotton, soy, lyocell, and bamboo are used.

We’ve had the opportunity to review one of their organic sweaters, and we can definitely see what makes it so great!

The Organic Cable Sweater is manufactured from a blend of primarily bamboo with an addition of organic cotton, a perfect mixture for comfort and warmth.

With a flattering fit, the heather grey sweater features a textured cable design running vertically to create a long silhouette. The scoop neck can flatter on its own, or complements a collared shirt for a tailored office-look.

The lightweight, semi-fitted sweater is the bamboo-trademark softness that brings comfort to a whole new level. Days of scratchy wool are left behind, when you realize that you’ll only want bamboo-based sweaters at the heart of your fall and winter wardrobe.

The full-length sleeves and long waistband are perfect for those with longer arms and torsos, but the lightweight material allows you to roll up the sleeves or tuck in the hem without appearing bulky.

In short? Gorgeous, comfortable and versatile – and great for the planet, too.

We also love to point out when companies take the extra step towards sustainability, and the crew at Wear the Earth follow suit. Their packaging and shipping is minimal, using just enough to get the job done. She also spreads the eco-word around town on living a greener life.

In addition, they are approved by Green America, a non-profit organization set out to gather economic power to create a socially just and environmentally sustainable society.

Wear the Earth wears their heart on their sleeve, truly considering the environment in all that they do. From constantly re-evaluating their carbon footprint to offering accessible, organic options to consumers, we definitely recommend – and love – the goods that they offer.

Organic Cable-Knit Sweater

• 70% Viscose from Bamboo
• 30% Organic Cotton
• Available in grey
• XS to L
• $35

Check out all that Wear the Earth has to offer at weartheearth.com

Visit their blog at weartheearth.wordpress.com

Image courtesy of weartheearth.com

That’s exactly how it is with clothes from Dear Lil’ Devas, a clothing company based out of Toronto, Ontario.

It didn’t just start with a bamboo dress, however. With a  commitment to eco-friendliness, the crew at Dear Lil’ Devas combine high quality product with a love for nature. Owner and designer Rosie Connor was the brainchild of the company, after trying to develop loose-fitting, breathable yoga pants to move with her in her yoga practice.

It took a year to perfect the 100% cotton pants, but as soon as she did – word began to spread.

It’s now evolved to a traditional. unisex yoga pant in two styles and five colours. The trademark bottom keeps it roomy, contouring to any posture and any body. With a quick-drying cotton, its design is dedicated to our fast-paced lives.

The small company handcrafts each product from start to finish, so when we were asked to review one of their garments, we couldn’t refuse.

The Bamboo Dress is functional, comfortable, and stylish, all rolled into one. You’d never know that the material doesn’t carry any stretch Lyrca; but the combination of 70% bamboo and 30% organic cotton feels almost too good to be true.

The allergy-free materials skin your body with an essence that works with any figure. Bamboo’s naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal properties make it ideal for exercise wear, and because of its longer length, it allows yoga, bike rides, and hot, sunny days done with ease.

It’s modest cut makes it perfect for anyone, with wide straps and a medium-scoop neck. Bra straps are hidden, cleavage out of view, making it perfect for office wear, relaxing on the deck, or going out to your favourite dinner.

The light stitching near the bottom hem and around the sleeves and neck deliver a little monochromatic detail – just enough for that extra something – upon colours that correspond with nature itself. Earthy brown, green, and black provide a trio of choices to suit your basic style.

We also love their “Hangtagless” option, which means the piece of printed info usually attached to garments when they are purchased can be opted out of.  This makes for less manufacturing in the long run, for those who choose the option of going tag-free.

We love when companies practice what they employ through their product, and Dear Lil Devas is no different. They understand the low environmental impact of bamboo, because of its natural regrowth. They also ensure that all of their workers are involved with Fair Trade practices, meeting Oeko-Tex and ISO 14001 standards.

The bamboo yarn is derived from the cellulose of the bamboo, using an eco-friendly viscose process, similar to making paper. It’s then combined with 30% organic cotton yarn, and dyed with a  single jet-dyeing process to minimize any sort of impact, free of toxins and chemicals.

For a minimum time, Dear Lil’ Devas is offering ecoki readers a discount: upon checkout, enter DGBG1M to be entered upon checkout for 25% off your purchase!!! Offer expires September 30th, so act soon!

Dear Lil’ Devas Bamboo Dress

• $80.00
• Functional, casual and comfortable
• Made from 70% Bamboo, 30% Organic Cotton
• Eco-friendly practices
• Available in small, medium and large
• Available in brown, black, and green
• Made in Canada

The Ethical Fashion Forum (EFF) is an internet destination for sharing and supporting others in the same industry, while simultaneously sparking inspiration.

It’s open to designers, retailers, buyers, fair trade producers, manufacturers, NGO’s, fashion students and tutors, consumers, and anyone else with a fashion-forward mind. Their aim is to deliver a destination for shared practices, ideas, resources, communication and links across the industry.

The EFF is a non-profit organization, focusing on poverty reduction, education and the environment, in relation to the fashion industry.

Their vision is to develop a collaborative movement which will transform social and environmental standards in the fashion industry within a decade.

If you’re within the industry – from planting to purchase – be sure to connect to their site, get involved, or take advantage of their upcoming events, including a masterclass on producing overseas, and a seminar spotlighting Africa.

Visit them at ethicalfashionforum.com

Tees for Change’s designs each spread the word about living this kind of life, with messages sch as “chase dreams”, “live courageously”, “see balance”, “today matters”, and more. With options for women, men, and baby, there’s literally something for everyone, all passion-driven, spreading the word about looking, feeling, and doing good.

Founder Andreea Ayers began Tees for Change in 2007. Prompted by negative responses from friends and strangers regarding her upcoming home birth, she created a tee for herself with “Be Courageous”, that she wore during the home delivery. Soon after, her business was born, based around her belief in positive thinking and spreading the sustainable word.

We’ve had the opportunity to review “Choose Happiness”, in a vibrant cherry red that can’t help but make you smile.

The 70% bamboo and 30% organic cotton tee is made in fair-trade and sweatshop-free conditions. Organic cotton, which we emphasize for its high sustainability, is grown without pesticides and fertilizers – whereas the conventional form is one of the highest contaminated crops available. Bamboo, like we often mention, is renewable, fast-growing, and naturally pesticide free. It’s also 100% biodegradable, and hypoallergenic.

This combination allows for a luxuriously soft shirt that you can’t wait to wrap yourself in. The capped, unfinished sleeves give a flirty finish, and the lightweight material delivers a flattering fit on any body type. The comfort is unbelievable, making you wonder why the rest of your wardrobe isn’t outfitted in the whole line of message-sending shirts.

We always highlight when companies take a step further towards eco-friendliness, and Tees for Change is no exception. They’ve partnered with Trees for the Future to plant a tree for each and every tee-shirt or onesie that you purchase. This provides new life in Asia, Latin America and Africa. they’ve previously connected with other organizations, among them the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Global ReLeaf, and the Human Rights Tour.

We undoubtedly have decided that their tees offer ultimate comfort with a message you’ll want to follow. Definitely check out all of their goods at their website, teesforchange.com.

‘choose happiness’ bamboo jersey – $32.00

• made from 70% sustainable bamboo and 30% organic cotton
• Tees For Change logo on the back
• pre-shrunk and runs true to size
• fair-trade and sweatshop-free, imported
• available in sizes S (0-4), M (4-6), L (8-10) and XL (12-14)

teesforchange.com

The route will encompass sweet treats at Tea & Sympathy, a visit to DIY-clothing emporium Home Ec from the owners of boutique clothing shop ‘Flirt’, and a trip to Pixie Market to browse the up-and-coming designer offerings. The map will also include hidden gems such as the fabulous nail bar Hello Beautiful in Williamsburg, and luxury Italian apothecary Santa Maria Novella in Soho.

In true TOPSHOP style, people cycling around the city will be invited to take street style snaps of their cycling looks and enter them into a competition hosted by fashion authority site Chictopia.com. The competition will run over a month, and each week there will be five winners – four chosen by Chictopia.com users and one chosen by TOPSHOP. Each winner will receive a set of wheels!

In-store, customers will have the opportunity to have their picture taken by legendary nightlife photographer Nicky Digital in front of a street style backdrop. There will be a special Style Advisor team on hand to advise on how to look as good as possible on your bike and all the photographs will be uploaded onto Flickr and TOPSHOP’s Facebook page, allowing people to tag themselves and comment on their favourite images.

TOPSHOP will also be hosting an exclusive al fresco screening of classic film ‘Blow Up’ on 26th June at The Yard in Brooklyn. After the film there will be DJs, including Mia Moretti and Erin Lucas, dancing and drinks – plus a bike valet so winners can ride their bikes to the event. The only way to get a much-coveted ticket is by finding one of the winning tokens hidden around the store in the days leading up to the screening.

For further information please visit topshop.com/bicycleclub.

Image courtesy of TOPSHOP, featuring the prize (minus basket) that the winners will receive!

HTNaturals delivers just that, with its eco-friendly line that’s created “for the people”.

Their must-have wardrobe basics are designed from organic textiles, utilizing a variety of natural and recycled fibres. With certified and organic fabrics, they ensure that they are grown pesticide and herbicide free, and are Skal certified. These types of products also reduce or eliminate use of carbon, energy and pollution, use less water, and are often renewable.

Among these are our favourite materials, and its not hard to understand why. Bamboo is a soft and luxurious fabric, fast-growing and renewable, resistant to disease, and has a breathability that paramounts any other alternatives. Soy, which they dub as a “vegetable cashmere” is soft, easy to care for, and because it absorbs dye with ease, it can easily use less – thereby reducing the amount used to produce it.

Organic cotton, one of the most popular of eco-friendly alternatives, is one we’ve discussed before; the conventional version is one of the most pesticide-ridden crops worldwide, but the organic alternative stays chemical-free. Hemp, a favourite among our foodstuffs, too, requires no pesticides or chemicals, renews readily, and has a strength and durability that surpasses the rest. They also utilize recycled polyester (also known as polyethylene terephthalate or PET), the same that is used in pop bottles. Their strength adds stability for the aforementioned fibres.

But it isn’t just the fabrics that HTNaturals ensures are a better alternative; they also use non-azo dyes, the least toxic dyes available, nickel-free zippers, and recycled polyester tape.  And then it goes further with their bags, hangtags, catalogs and other printed material all made from recycled materials. Oh, and they use wind-powered computers, and a carbon-neutral company car.

At this point, its quite possible that it couldn’t get better. HTNaturals surely is the epitome of “green” companies, practicing each step that they preach. But then it indeed does get better, when we actually see what they develop.

We’ve had the chance to review their clothing – and we love them just as much as we love the company.

Women’s Foldover skirt

Perfect for everyday wear with a little flair, this mid-length skirt drops to just above the knees in a comfortable combination of organic cotton, soy and spandex. The small amount of spandex delivers just enough stretch for added comfort, whether you’re lounging on the couch, doing a Hatha yoga class, or running to the grocery store.

We especially love the foldover waistband, a flattering design for any body with extra comfort for days that you need it. The 3-inch slits on each side give a feminine touch – and can easily be dressed up with stilettos and a cute top.

Women’s V-Neck Tee

Silky smooth bamboo plays first fiddle in this v-neck top with extra touches that set it apart. The gathered neckline draws attention to a simple, but pretty, detail, complimented by a thick trim that complements your features, without showing too much. The classic fit drapes your body to fit your curves and enhance your figure.

The combination of bamboo with organic cotton and spandex is not only comfortable, but gives a bit of a stretch that gracefully falls in all the right places, sewn for a perfect fit.

The cap sleeves give a feminine finish, and the bright, rich colour possibilities deliver the best choice to fit your mood.

After perusing their clothing, take a look around their other info on their website which features more green ideas, with cool contests, a customer of the month, and ways to become a sustainable company or home like they are striving to be. (read more)

We’re excited to feature HTNaturals, as well as their parent company, Naturally Advanced Technologies, which is striving towards issues revolving around hemp and other fibres and its transformation into soft cloth. Check out the details here.

Going green is one thing. Making the effort to revamp your wardrobe is another. But harnessing a completely green company – one that has 100% planet-friendly practices – is another. And for that, HTNaturals is not only one of the best options, but also delivers high-quality, comfort, and fashionable essentials to take a step into sustainable style.

Foldover Skirt

• 57% Organic Cotton, 37% Soy, 6% Spandex
• Available in espresso, black, or print
• Sizes Extra Small through Extra Large
• $45

V-Neck Tee

• 67% Bamboo, 28% Organic Cotton, 5% Spandex
• Available in black, lemon, chili, lagoon
• Sizes: Small through Extra Large
• $42

Check them out at HTNaturals.com.

Since 2007, Sparrow Handbags have been dishing out designs based on the principle of sustainability, providing style and fashion in an animal-free alternative for the conscious consumer.

Each bag developed in their British Columbia studio is handmade with care and quality – and it shows. We have had the opportunity to review the “Judy“, a shoulder handbag that has loads to love.

A smaller version of their popular “Sophie”, we soon discovered its anything but small. Like my grandmother, I live out of my purse, fitting my Blackberry, camera, two notebooks, wallet, pens, pencils, lists, and everything else with ease. (Okay, it was getting a little snug after all that – but fit it, nonetheless).

The hemp linen bag is a ridiculously vibrant cherry red, a perfect compliment to dissipating any negative disposition. It’s fully lined with black hemp/cotton, giving a durable duo-layer that is resistant to tearing and can easily carry some heavier contents without any stress.

Sparrow Handbags uses two of our favourite materials: 100% organic cotton – which means it’s chemical-free with zero toxicity (we like that, read more here)  and  hemp, a renewable crop requiring no pesticides. They also utilize reactive, low-impact dyes and 100% solvent-free water-based inks, ensuring no harm on you, as well as the environment. No leather, fur, wool and silk to be seen.

We dig the zipper top – something that more handbags seem to be neglecting – ensuring all your contents remain intact. There’s an inside pocket, too, for slipping in your cell phone, a few cards, or a Larabar for an afternoon snack.

The Judy is a smaller version of the Sophie, but don’t underestimate its size! You can fit everything you need in this stylish over the shoulder handbag.

Little details – like the bold black contrast and the shiny side rings, add some extra flair.

We always like to highlight when companies and organizations take the extra step to practice what they preach. Sparrow Handbags is no exception. This vegan company also aims towards preserving our planet through various eco-loving efforts. They strive to minimize waste, reuse when they can, and donate extra material.

Reusing isn’t their only “R”, though. They also use recycled paper, and only print in small quantities and email when possible. Tetra boxes are recycled, too; the crew uses them in their handbags for the bag bottoms. The Sparrow team also uses local goods to reduce their carbon footprint, and feasts on plant-based fields to up the ante even more.

Sparrow Judy Handbag

• 100% SKAL certified Organic Cotton twill or hemp linen
• Fully lined; black hemp/cotton fabric
• Organic cotton batting layer
• Handmade in Canada
• 12″L x 9″H x 2.5″W; Handle, 17″L
• Available in white, natural, grey, black, yellow, red, blue, purple
• $98, available at Sparrow Handbags

Images courtesy of sparrowhandbags.com

Splaff Flopps has been around since 1997, their early days devoted to a mission to create a comfortable pair of sandals developed from recycled materials. Since then, the line has grown to hit other needs, in the form of belts, bags, wallets, guitar straps, and wrist bands.

As veterans in the recycled goods field, designers Cliff Drill and Craig Wallace have continued to develop quality, hand-crafted products that hail out of Baja, California.

We here at Ecoki have had the ultimate pleasure of taking their products for a whirl, and truth be told, the integrity that they strive for in their products distinctly recognizable. This is what we think:

Footwear: The Lazy Boy Natural Flip Flop

– Women’s, Natural

The Lazy Boy is the original, their classic cut that was first developed those years ago. The sole is created from recycled car tires, with straps from leftover bicycle inner tubes. And for the foot bed? You’ve the pleasure of 100% recycled rubber and foam encased in an all natural hemp fabric cushioning every step.

Their website says that they are tested by surfers, so they aimed for sandals that were strong and comfortable, as well as waterproof, slip resistant, and odorless.

These claims, we’ve so far discovered, are more than accurate, but we’ve also discovered a few things that make the Lazy Boy stand out from your average flip flops.

Ease of drivability: Some flip flops offer little give in bending for the brake and the gas in the car, or they’re awkward to maneuver as you try to switch between the pedals. Splaff’s straps hug your foot, making the sandal move  easily with each shift.

Durability: The recycled materials and industrious hemp combine to create a durable piece of footwear. They are heavier than most flip flops, providing a shoe that is sure not to fall apart after a single summery season. And because of their design, we’re pretty sure that, if they slipped off, they wouldn’t get swept away while wading in the water.

Aesthetics: They look cool. They look really cool. In fact, the second we slipped them on, we felt a lot cooler.

So, perhaps we’ve tested them in the chillier weather, and we don’t live near the ocean. However if the Splaff folks want to send me out to Baja to test them out with a surfing lesson, I’ll happily comply.

Comes in Men’s (sizes 6-13) or Women’s (sizes 5-10), Black ($46) or Natural ($50).

Also available in two open-two styles, the Gladiator and Hipster.

Bag: The Bhoga Messenger Bag

Their Messenger Bag is not unlike their Flopps in its eco-friendly functionality. With plenty of room for a couple binders and a laptop, this is the perfect school solution; or opt to stuff it with your essentials to use as an everyday addition to your body.

It’s constructed from 14oz. hemp canvas and recycled inner tubes, but its durability doesn’t end there. It is also lined with regrind vinyl to keep it moisture-free, no matter where and when you use it. And it can fit an awful lot.

The bag comes adorned with a front zipper pocket, perfect to stash your quick access items, like sunglasses, cell phone, and wallet, while keeping them safe from slipping out when you’re on the run. Two clips keep the large front flap closed, with tons of room to fit all your needs. There’s also a second zipper pocket under the top flap for even more secure storage, and a centre divider on the inside to keep your stuff organized.

But while you’re staying hip, you’re staying sustainable, too, with a durable, earth-friendly and practical bag. The bag measures 14 inches in height, 14 inches across, and 6 inches wide, and comes attached to a 44-inch adjustable strap made from your last inner tube.

They’ve also recently attached a couple strap for your yoga mat on the bottom, but if lugging around a yoga mat isn’t your thing, no problem: they’re a small adornment that offer no hindrence or takes away from your, well, really cool bag.

Available in brown, black or olive green. $70

Belt: Splaff Belt

The Splaff Belt is made of 100% recycled bicycle inner tubes, but it doesn’t look like you just took apart your tires then wrapped it around your waist. Instead, the belt, lined with a natural hemp fabric, is a perfect addition to your wardrobe. We love our thick belt, dotted with grommets, perfectly moldable without the stiffness that some belts leave. The grommets add some extra flair, and the contrasted stitching provides that a little extra soething. It’s waste for your waist. Ingenious.

It’s available in two styles and widths: a thin 1.25″ or thicker 1.75”, in a plain or grommeted style, with a silver or brass buckle (the brass isn’t available for the grommeted belt).

Available in thin, thick, grommets or not, and brass or silver buckle. $24 and $28.

We have to say that we absolutely love Splaff’s goods, and we’re pretty convinced you will, too. (And if they want to take us up on our surfing lesson request, we’ll be sure to let you know).

You can buy these great eco friendly goods at Amazon.com

Check out their goods at www.splaff.com

Want to learn how to surf? This or this or this will give you some tips. cheap stilettos shoes

Images courtesy of splaff.com

We talked about DreamSacks in our article DreamSacks surrounds you in a good night’s sleep, touching on their uber eco-friendliness, and the awesome ways they give back to the planet. We’ve received the opportunity to surround ourselves in their bamboo-based clothing, and frankly, we’re delighted.

This two-piece pajama set combines a wide-strapped tank top with an empire waist, with gathered seams and a flattering cut. The reinforced bust adds a feeling of security, while the softness of bamboo makes you feel as free as you did in your youth. It’s modest cut allows it to double as day-wear, while still enhancing a smooth silhouette. It swings just past the hips, with a loose flow.

The pants are cropped a few inches above the ankle, and have a comfortable elastic waist. No buttons, zippers, or drawstrings to disrupt your sleep or add unneeded materials.

In addition to its silky smoothness, bamboo is hypoallergenic and  breathable, resulting in pure comfort all night long. Micro gaps and holds in the fabric allow it to wick moisture from the body, keeping your body in peak condition while you sleep. And since it is bamboo, it means they are pesticide-free and a renewable resource, that quickly grows once it’s harvested (ready within 5 years), and increasing used as clothing, paper, and even flooring.

The pajama set is made from 95% viscose from bamboo (basically, bamboo fibre), combining a durable, sustainable material with a luxurious softness. It’s delicate sheen flows over your body, and the remaining 5% spandex allows for just enough leverage for added comfort on any body.

DreamSacks and BambooDreams have received the Oeko-Tex certification, which screens for any harmful substances present in textiles. Oeko-Tex provides a guarantee in the safety of their fabrics and dyes, providing a little extra assurance of their planet-friendly items.

Caring for them is simple: gentle machine wash on cold with mild soap, and lay flat to dry. (Or, like us, a quick hand-wash and dry outside in a few moments).

Continue with our review on their towels, highlighting their shipping methods.

BambooDreams Cleo Pajama Set

95% Viscose from Bamboo
5% Spandex

Available in Black, Lilac, Pool, Red, Storm Blue
$89.00
S-XL

Founded by Nancy and Larry Morgan, the couple taught at a small women’s college while living abroad in China. Having the clever idea to sew together silk sheets to use while they explored Asia, DreamSacks was born.

Nancy soon discovered that silk is easily compact, lightweight and thermodynamic, making it a perfect choice to bring amongst her luggage, which providing a soft cover to ensure a safe slumber  in questionable sleeping conditions. And being in China, she had the opportunity to visit factories first hand.

From there, DreamSacks soon developed into a flourishing company, both in travel accessories, bedding, clothing, and furniture. Developed from primarily silk, bamboo, and soy, their DreamSacks and BambooDreams products are luxuriously soft, made from renewable resources, and follow their eco-friendly practices.

DreamSacks is the epitome of certified Green Businesses, which is clear through many initiatives that they strive to uphold. Their actual business uses some of its energy through solar panels, and they work hard to conserve resources, reduce waste, minimize their pollution, and educate employees and the public. Paperless billing, using 100% recycled cardboard boxes, and packaging and shipping in compostable bags are just the beginning.

We’d love to applaud them so far, but there is so much more about their company. They even utilize an electric truck to drive from their warehouse to their building. Saving over 300 gallons of gas a year, it reduces carbon admissions and takes less power than a light bulb to recharge. (See EcoMotion for more information).

They’re also committed to other philanthropic initiatives, including support for Coaching for Hope, an organization that uses soccer to globally increase awareness of HIV and AIDS for youth. They also support Hawa Nan Women’s College, which provides advanced degrees Chinese women. Another initiative is Mercy Corps, who assist in helping develop communities, working amid areas such with increased poverty and  disaster.

The behind the scenes team developing DreamSacks and BambooDreams are Fair-Trade workers in China, and the Morgans make visits a few times a year directly to the factories, ensuring workers are well-cared for, working in a safe environment, and conditions are optimal. They truly cover each base.

Their original DreamSacks are a part of their travel line, and includes pillow cases, airline comfort sets,  as well as the original DreamSack with variations. Their BambooDreams highlights clothing (women, men and baby), bath items (towels and robes), and accessories (such as scarves, and a jewelry roll). They also feature authentic Chinese furniture, such as screens and benches.

We’ve had the opportunity to review two DreamSacks items: their BambooDreams Cleo Pajama Set (read review) and their BambooDreams Ribbed Towels (read review). While perusing our reviews, you’ll learn even more about the planet-friendliness of DreamSacks.

To visit their website, visit DreamSacks and to keep updated on their initiatives, check out their blog.

However, on the runways at Toronto Fashion Week, trench coats, scarves, tights and closed toed heels are all screaming out that fall is upon us in the fashion industry.

Amongst all the winter wear for the Fall/Winter 2009 season is an abundance of fur stoles, wraps, and trims. Designer Linda Lundstrom, who has worked in the Canadian fashion industry for the past three decades, was chiefly displaying fir for this upcoming season, but despite the appearance of her new line, Lundstrom is an environmentalist at heart.

The Lundstrom company, now being manufactured by Eleventh Floor Apparel Ltd, practices a ‘Green-Notes’ Program which gives preference to environmentally friendly fabrics and enforces recycling programs at their manufacturing and administrative facilities to reuse and reduce materials lost in production.

Lundstrom garments are also manufactured locally in Toronto, Canada ensuring quality, but also making another environmental impact by not outsourcing labour to foreign countries. This, then,  saves energy and creates less pollution in regards to transportation costs.

In previous seasons, such as Spring 2007, Lundstrom created an eco-chic Bamboo collection (Lundstrom, Green Carpet Series). Using bamboo in the production of clothing provides a biodegradable and natural solution to our necessary fashion fixes. Bamboo is also antibacterial with cooling properties, which is something that man-made fibres can’t boast.

Her recent line includes other Earth-friendly fibres, including: tencel lycocell, linen, silk, bamboo rayon and organic cotton.

It is interesting to see the marriage of sustainable options with fur-lined frocks. As opposed to fighting the force, we’re progressing into an unlikely combination where a blended harmony wins.

The traditionalist way to deal with fur at a fashion show is to, well,  throw blood and scream out murder. But we can learn from this: just stop for a minute and look for the designer who may have a soft spot for mother nature and  have a talent for making the faux – and fur – look fabulous.

Explore her fashion line at Linda Lundstrom.

Image courtesy of Linda Lundstrom.

Toronto-based company Truth Belts is owned by designer Renia Pruchnicki, who launched her very first belt designs back in 2001. Right from the get-go, Renia began with materials she was familiar with – and left the leather alone.

Lo’ and behold, her belts soon grew with popularity, and her reputation spread – and so did her product line.

Among her offerings are two categories of belts: Virtue and Vice. True to their names, the Virtue line aren’t leather look-a-likes and made with sustainable materials such as jute and hemp. The Vice belts are conscious clones that look and feel like leather itself – but made with polyurethane instead.

Their newest addition to their Vice belt line is the Angus belt. Built for both men and women, it’s slick enough for a suit, but casual enough for weekend wear.

Ecoki was given the opportunity to put the Angus to the test. We received the rich chocolate brown (it also comes in black), and the belt lives up to the leather-like name: alongside real leather belts, it was difficult to see a difference between the two versions.

It has a bit of a shine – not too much to make it flashy but just enough to give it some sheen – and doesn’t have that stiff, immovable feeling of a new purchase. And comparable to cheaper belts bought at your favourite retail stores? It doesn’t threaten to crack after a little wear and tear.

Two specific things we like most are the stitch size and the buckle. Having had belts in the past that have lost their stitching, we applauded their detail put into the manufacturing process, and the durability of the satin nickle buckle outshines many others in its high-quality design. (We also think that you could smash it against a window as a quick escape route, if ever need be. It’ll do the job just fine.)

“Truth” be told, It’s no surprise that Truth was named the “Best Leather Replacement Clothing Company in North America by Peta. With all of their other awesome duds – cuffs, tees, and necklaces – we think so, too.

The Angus
from Truth Belts (www.truthbelts.com)
Width = 28 mm / 1 1/8”
100% polyurethane
Available in sizes S-XL
$45.00 US / $45.00 CAN

Available from vegetarianbelts.com