Fashion with a Conscience

Tuesday, 27 April 2010 10:50

Fashion takes on many functions, from expressing individuality to proclaiming status. And recently, it would be hard not to notice the growing trend toward social and environmental responsibility—a trend that seems to have trickled down from the Natalie Portman-types to the classmate sitting next to you.

By Hallie Wunsch

University of Florida student Shane Boyar, 20, was spotted on campus wearing Tom’s shoes, a brand well known for its efforts to provide one pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair sold. These donated shoes help protect children in developing countries from soil-transmitted diseases and allow them to attend school.

Shane’s accessories exhibit the same do-good attitude. His Falling Whistles necklace shows his support of the campaign to rehabilitate war-affected children in Congo and advocate for their freedom. (Boys who are abducted and too small to hold a gun are often given whistles instead, so that they might make enough noise to scare the enemy—but they are also often the first victims.)

If your passion is animal rights, veganchic.com offers a variety of shoes, bags and accessories that are “cruelty-free.” Even large corporations like New Balance have jumped on the vegan train, aiming to produce products without harming animals. And the Natalie Portman Collection, available at TeCasan.com, offers a vegan line that gives 5 percent of its profits to charity. Eco-trends are also on the rise, with plenty of options to choose from. Brands like Edun and American Apparel are offering organic materials, while companies like H&M, Levis and Gap have been coming out with fully developed eco-friendly collections.

Shane’s green style comes through in his organic American Apparel Jersey T, and is topped off by recycled denim. “I buy new jeans in the winter and cut them when it gets hot out,” he explains.
And we can’t forget thrift stores; a classic source of recycled fashion, providing us with timeless, affordable styles. Looking for green in Gainesville? Sandy’s Savvy Chic Resale Boutique, on NW 13th carries a variety of brands in both fashion and furnishing. Sandy’s accepts clothes you want to get rid of, and will bring anything else to charity for you.
Peaceful Paths Thrift Store, located on Main Street, accepts donations Tues.-Thurs., and is involved in providing counseling and shelter for victims of domestic violence.
Persona Vintage Clothing & Costumes is a favorite among Gainesville residents for clothing by local designers, as well as retro and vintage items. Persona is located downtown, putting outrageous hats, stunning Halloween costumes and antique jewelry all at our fingertips.

PLUS, we got you covered with the best eco-friendly beauty buys on the market!