Category — clothing

I am on a mission – a mission to build a more sustainable wardrobe. After gaining and losing weight during two pregnancies, periods of extreme workout, and periods of sheer laziness, I am finally at a place in my life where I am comfortable with my body. I know what looks good, looks bad, and what items I need in my wardrobe to meet my daily needs. From now on, I want to buy items that are comfortable, fashion conscious and functional, and most importantly made with materials and by companies that are socially responsible.

This will not be an easy mission. While there are plenty of great companies out there that are making clothing out of organic or other sustainable materials, my funds for clothes are almost non-existent. I’m keeping a shopping list and will share it regularly with you on the Tread Light Living blog. Next time I need a new dress or shirt, I will refer this shopping list. Hopefully you will too.

I might have found the perfect dress – “Diane” Wrap Dress by SPUN

Every women needs one dress that they can wear from day to night. This just might be the one. It’s a classic, sophisticated version of the signature wrap dress. Pair it with sandals, boots, or even high heels, this 100% organic cotton dress is pretty much perfect for any occasion. For more functionality, you can play it safe and buy it in black. But I am done with safe and thinking RED!

SPUN, designed by Sara Seumae of Seattle, was started to show women that organic clothing doesn’t have to be a luxury, it should be a choice. “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and sustaining our beautiful planet while allowing you to uphold your own personal style is essential”, says Seamue. I agree. I love the entire SPUN collection. The clothing is stylish, functional, and great wardrobe building pieces. You will definitely see more SPUN clothing on my shopping list.

To order the SPUN “Diane” Wrap dress or other pieces from the collection, visit Green Loop or Fashion Ethic.

Being a mother of 2 boys, I look forward to those nights where I can hang out with my gals, put back a few drinks, and forget about all my responsibilities.  Whenever I receive an invite to go to the Spa, watch chick flicks, play cards, or crafts with the gals, I am there.  Perhaps my favorite of all is the clothing swap.  There is nothing new about this concept – a group of women gather together and swap out their clothes with one another.  It is a great marriage between entertaining and recycling.  Plus it saves everyone money by trading their unused clothes rather than buying new ones. Here are some tips to get you started on hosting your own eco-chic clothing swap.

1. Set Guidelines – Invite your friends to bring 10 or more quality clothing items and accessories.  These items should be stain-free, well-made, and still in style.  I think the overall goal of the swap is for people to clean out their homes and recycle clothing items.  If you happen to find a few fantastic items along the way, it makes the swap that much better!
2. Atmosphere – Turn your living room into a clothing boutique. Set up a clothing rack with hangers and tables to place accessories and shoes.  This will create an inviting place to browse.  Not everyone is comfortable with just stripping down and trying on clothes, so you may want to set aside a place in your house for a private changing area.  Consider having your clothing swap in a room with lots of natural light.  Not only do things look better in natural light but you will also save energy by not using as many lights.
3. Food and Drink – Keep it simple and light.  Plan for some appetizers and one signature drink and/or wine.  To form your menu, go to the local farmer’s market and see what items are in season.  Planning a menu that is made with items that are local and in season is easier on the wallet, saves gas, and frankly taste better. To learn more about sustainable cooking and find some delicious recipes for your clothing swap, visit Sustainable Table – http://www.sustainabletable.org/home.php
4. Giving Back – Donate any items left over from the clothing swap to Goodwill, Dress for Success or another local charity of your choice.  You will aid these organizations in raising much needed funds for their programs.  Another idea is to plan your Clothing Swap as a fundraiser for an environmental organization.  Ask your guests for a small donation ($20 or so) to attend your Clothing Swap.  Solicit grocery stores and local markets to donate food for your recipes.  For a little more effort, you can turn your fabulously fun clothing swap into an event that will leave a positive footprint on this earth!