Fashion Trends --- Dressing For The Cause

'Socially Responsible' has become a buzzword like no other; between oil, conflict diamonds, and depleting natural resources, many designers feel that the earth can only give up so much, and many are working really hard to squash the myth that organic equals crunchy. What started with Al Gore's movie and the RED campaign at the GAP has become an all out phenomenon with celebrities leading the way. Instead of opting for typical diamonds, many are choosing to purchase conflict-free diamonds as a way to show that they are socially responsible. Turn on the television to any talk show, and one celebrity or another is discussing what they do to stay green. So, as a style conscience consumer, how do you stay fashionable while being socially responsible? Fortunately, designers have done all the hard work, so all we need to do is shop!

Choosing fashions and accessories made from recycled materials is a great way to do it. The amount of jewelry out on the market that is made from vintage baubles and recycled and antique pieces is amazing, and beautiful. Look at any new line for the summer or fall, and you'll see the market is flooded with it. These large and punchy pieces look great with shift dresses and the large handbags that are hot right now as well. Speaking of handbags, choose a faux leather bag from one of the many up-and-coming vegan stores as opposed to the standby leather handbag.

This season, and likely in the future, you will see many designers donating a percentage of their profits to climate projects or other environmental organizations. In addition, you will begin to see more and more products, including denim, being made from organic cotton, bamboo, corn polymers, milk and seaweed; it seems impossible, but it's happening. Many manufacturers are also striving to integrate production processes that eliminate PVC.

In Asia, designers have begun making woven handbags from recycled newspapers to help cut down on their waste issues. Here in the states, we see many top knit and crochet designers doing similar things, except with the plastic bags we all get at the market. If you're not ready to go quite that far, carry reusable tote bags in your car and use them at both the market and the mall; shop around to find the cutest in wicker handbags and you'll leave the store feeling like a million bucks. Many stores are also offering discounts, both on food and clothing items, if you bring your own bags. And let's face it, if there is a discount to be had, you ladies are sure to seek it out and use it!

Body care is also going organic and socially responsible. Face powders, bronzers and lip glosses are going to flower-based and paraben-free ingredients. Sunscreens, deodorants, lotions and oils line the shelves of all major department stores touting all-natural and organic ingredients. Reports on these products indicate that they work just as well, if not better, than the traditional products that we've used for so long. Not to mention, you get to flash that gorgeous smile knowing that you haven't coated your beautiful skin with chemicals.

As a whole, the fashion industry is moving in a more sustainable direction when it comes to producing their wares; as a result, many shoppers are realizing that being socially responsible doesn't mean that you have to sacrifice your personal style. You can feel good knowing that you are doing your part to help save the environment while still painting the town red in a totally fashionable way!