http://www.care2.com/greenliving/5-must-have-pieces-for-an-affordable-green-wardrobe.html
5 Must-Have Pieces for an Affordable “Green” Wardrobe
In this uncertain economy most of us are having to put off expensive purchases and clothes don’t always make the cut. However, with a few budget-conscious pieces you’ll be sitting pretty for years to come and always look pulled together.
Cozy Cardigan
We all have those “shlumpy days” when you want to run around in jeans and your old college T-shirt, you know the one you use to paint your bedroom and it clearly looks like it. Just throw on a great sweater! Cardigans can pull together an outfit and ensure you stay oh-so-comfortable while doing it. Look for a couple in bright colors and all-natural fabrics like wool, organic cotton or cashmere. These fabrics age well, get softer over time and are worth repairing should anything unfortunate happen. They look great with jeans, over a dress or with leggings and come in a variety of prices.
Jeans You Love
Expensive jeans seem ridiculous, “$100 for denim. Give me a break!” For everything else in your wardrobe, I’d agree with you but these are what a lot of us wear everyday. If you’re going to splurge, this is where to do it. Try on several pairs to find the ones that make you feel great. Dark washes are slimming and if you can find jeans with a little stretch, you’ll be picking up your kids in comfort. They’re an everyday staple so if you have to spend a little more you can justify it by knowing if they make you feel good, you’ll wear them often. There are many in the stores these days that use organic cotton and fair-wage labor. Levi’s has pairs for under $70.
Funky Accessories
Okay, I know “accessories” is more than one piece but they are too important to leave out. As you’ve probably heard “accessories make the outfit” and seeing how there are so many fun, affordable options out there it would be a shame to not to pay homage. My rule is to never pay more than $20 for anything “trendy” or “fun.” You can find fabulous pieces all over but my favorite places are thrift stores. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve walked away with a wonderful gem that adds just the perfect touch to an outfit. Easy to update with the changing trends, ensuring you’ll always feel and look like a million bucks. Handmade retail sites like Etsy are wonderful places to discover your favorite new designer and help an artist make a living. I’ve found wonderfully whimsical and unique jewelry here for a steal!
Comfortable Boots
Vintage, New or Cowboy–boots are the “must-have” footwear for anyone on the go. They go just as well with jeans or a dress and can be worn at home or work. They are comfortable and you don’t have to shave your legs. Okay, that last little bit was slightly revealing but I think you know what I mean. If you’re against animal products there are some wonderful and now affordable (yay!) vegan options. Also, boots are easy to polish or repair, even if you wear them everyday, they’ll still look stylish.
Sexy Wrap Dress
These dresses come in all colors, prints and sizes and are an absolute necessity when you’re having a “not-so-slim” moment. Something about the ingenious way they’re designed, the fabric falls onto your body highlighting your waist and pretty décolletage, while deftly camouflaging the rest. I own one in every color and they are my go-to item. Trust me ladies, you’ll feel very sexy. The Animal Rescue Site offers a variety of beautiful colors and with each Organic Cotton Wrap Dress purchased, The Animal Rescue Site will fund 28 bowls of food for animals living in sanctuaries and shelters.
More from Veronica Peterson (52 articles available)
related stories
-
(7 comments)
-
(4 comments)
-
(11 comments)
Robyn
Melissa
Deepak
Eric
Dave
Dr. Brent
Isha
Susan
Delia
Michelle
Wendy
Megan
Hilary
Ann
Judi
Ronnie
Kelly
Lily
Terri
Betsy
Cait
Andrew
Jana
Annie B.
Veronica
9 comments
add your comment »Cute cardigan!
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
Totally agree that eco fashion should not cost the Earth in any sense. That's why we just started new eco clothing brand Tribe Worldwear. 100% Organic. 100% Fairtrade. Many garments made using only wind and solar power energy. With 10% of profits going to eco charities buyers can recommend. For more details just visit www.tribeworldwear.com
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
From vests and jackets to skirts and pants, denim made from organic cotton is now available in all shapes and sizes. This is a good thing not only for your hips, but also for your health and the environment. The EPA says that conventional agriculture is responsible for 70% of all problems in U.S. rivers and streams. Additionally, conventional farming consumes about one third of a pound of pesticides and fertilizers to produce enough cotton for a single T-shirt. So, by purchasing denim (and other products) made from organic cotton, you’re doing a lot of good – and you’ll look good, too.
R4i卡
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
other obvious wardrobe greening...freecycling, vintage from the 2nd hand store (Salvation Army included)...I've found barely used shoes from Barney's for $5/pair (Barney's men's and Stuart Weitzman women's), an Armani tux (42L) for $15, a Kate Spade purse for $10, cashmere turtlenecks for $5-10...while it may be debatable whether the items were made humanely or not, there are the occasions when one can find something gently used for almost nothing
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
cool new fashion MUST HAVE
www.pickbay.com
Guitar Pick Holder Pendant
hottest gift for 2009 holiday season!
IN eco-friendly MatteBrass PICKBAY pendant......10/20/09
recycle those picks... make fashionista music...
www.pickbay.com
get the fashionista 2009 discount code at www.myspace.com/pickbay
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
cool new fashion MUST www.pickbay.com
hottest gift for 2009 holiday season!
eco-friendly MatteBrass PICKBAY pendant......
recycle those picks... make fashionista music...
www.pickbay.com
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
thanks...
Kabin
Konteyner,Prefabrik
mega kabin
Konteyner
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
safe and happy vegan shopping here at care2 http://my.care2.com/veganstuff
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
Its true in this recession time we have to control on our spending.. and some other tricks to look more smart.
anti cyber bullying
send green star | flag as inappropriate
why is this inappropriate?
Facebook account: