Student Life

Eco Fashion

Instead of spending tons of money on a professional facial from a spa, try some cheaper homemade options.  (MCT Campus)

Instead of spending tons of money on a professional facial from a spa, try some cheaper homemade options. (MCT Campus)

It’s almost summer vacation, and that means time for relaxation and self-evaluation. You don’t think you’ve done that badly this year, but know there’s always room for improvement. After patting yourself on the back for planting a tree this past Earth Day and trying to save the world, why not continue the trend and do something good for your body and style?

Now, I am not the biggest recycler or activist for many things green, but some of these ideas are really great and would help you save! The world of green fashion and do-it-yourself beauty is now bigger than ever. Many beauty producers and fashion designers are working alongside material scientists and nature activists to bring you the coolest, safest way to dress up and help out. Here are some ideas for ways to be eco-chic in summer 2009.

Green Beauty

Have you ever considered using items from your refrigerator on your face? Instead of spending $40 to $80 on a facial at the nearest spa, treat yourself to one that is homemade. If you have sensitive skin, consider an oatmeal or egg-yolk facial. If you are seeking a microdermabrasion-type facial, consider brown sugar. For those of you with dry skin, try a yogurt facial. Here are some recipes that you can try.

If you don’t consider yourself a food chemist, try products already developed by scientists, such as Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Clay Mask or L’Occitane Verbena Body Salt Scrub, both featured in Elle Magazine’s May issue. After examining the ingredients for products found in beauty stores, I oftentimes find that I can probably make these items myself.

Green Fashion

Many designers, especially those featured in Ready-Made Magazine, are eco-conscious. While Stella McCartney is one of them, there are other lesser known green designers.

Initially, I wondered how designers could produce “environmentally friendly” clothing. Many of the items I wear are already made from cotton, which is found in nature, so it should be safe right? You’ve seen the feed bag tote bags around, but did you know Adidas has organic tees for working out?

Believe it or not, a great way to go green is through your gym clothes. French sportswear designer Sébola produced two lines consisting of 100 percent organic cotton and recycled polyester in 2008. Designer Doucette Duvall, who began creating new pieces from vintage fabrics, has even debuted some of its edgy collection on celebrities such as Rihanna and television shows such as “Gossip Girl” and the “Sex and the City” movie.

Yesterday’s Project Earth Day Eco Fashion Show in New York City featured young designers from around the area. With so many designer ideas that you can try on your own, it’s becoming more and more acceptable to be eco-conscious and still look great!

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