Affordable Ways to Add “‘Green” to Your Wardrobe

In this harsh economic climate, “green” shoppers are looking to save more than the environment; they are looking to save their money, too. A recent survey finds that consumers these days are unwilling to spend more on pricier environmentally friendly items. But just because some consumers are turning away from green products due to the price doesn’t mean that there aren’t affordable green alternatives on the market.

Companies like Payless ShoeSource are creating affordable green products — proving that it’s possible for innovative brands to give green a new look, a new price tag and wider appeal.

When it comes to eco-style, you can buy green, look chic and not break the bank. It just takes a little scouting. So for all those eco-enthusiasts who like to look as good as they feel, consider some of the tips below from eco-fashion expert Summer Rayne Oakes and her new book, “Style, Naturally, The Savvy Shopping Guide to Sustainable Fashion and Beauty.”

• Wear clothing made from organic cotton or apparel that uses natural-, water- or vegetable-based dyes. Many mainstream retailers are now incorporating organic cotton into their basic lines.
• Accessories — such as shoes, sunglasses, purses, wallets, jewelry, and other small items — are a good place to start if you’re looking to “green up” your wardrobe. Accessorize with jewelry pieces made from recycled glass and metal, sustainably harvested wood, or handbags constructed out of recycled vintage or consumer materials.
• Look for affordable green products like the zoe & zac footwear and accessory collection from Payless ShoeSource. This new line of affordable green and fashion-forward shoes, handbags and other accessories are priced less than $30 each and made from eco-friendly materials and components like organic cottons and linen, natural hemp and recycled rubber soles.
• When shopping, instead of plastic bags, use a reusable canvas or cloth bag for your purchases to help reduce waste.
• Even doing your laundry can be a greener experience. Use cool water instead of hot, and line dry your clothes to save money and energy. Also, use eco-friendly detergents and alternatives in place of the chemically intensive products.

When looking for ways to incorporate green into your wardrobe and fashion lifestyle it is important to remember that green chic is possible.

“The most common misconception about sustainable fashion is that it comes in one color and looks one way: neutral, boxy, baggy, shapeless,” says Oakes. “On the contrary! The best sustainable fashion is invisible.”

And now affordable, too.