Ten Things Every Woman Should Know to Style Herself Green

Is it possible to be both sustainable and fashionable? Can you put on a pretty face without putting on the phthalates? Is our disposable consumer culture ever going to change? If these questions plague your ability to run with wild abandon through Nordstrom’s glass cased hallways, you aren’t alone. Eco-alert women across the country are all asking themselves these same questions, and luckily, they’ve offered up some solutions to help you make a stylish step in the right—or rather, green—direction.

1. Second Hand is (and Saves) Green
Buying vintage and second-hand clothing puts the three Rs into practice: it recycles by making something used into something new; it reduces consumption and the demand for cheaply made goods; and it reuses precious resources. But the most rewarding R comes at the cash register—rebate! Second-hand clothes are almost always less expensive than new ones.

2. Repurposing is Resourceful
If I had the patience and time to sew, I would make all my own clothes (and grow all my own food, and build my own house, and make all my own beer, etc., etc.). But I don’t. However, I can make old clothes new by adding personalized accents, like using grandma’s old buttons to create a cute new tank top. With broaches, pins, or a few nips and tucks, learn how to improve upon imperfect thrift store finds and create unique stylish looks. 

3. Learn to Share
Your tired old coat could be your friend’s new winter wardrobe addition. To reduce the amount of new clothes you purchase, consider sharing clothes with friends or holding an informal clothing swap in your community.

4. Wear Green on Your Wedding Day
The big day can often result in big consumption, but it doesn’t have to. These green wedding tips will help you cut down on waste when heading to the altar.

5. When Giving, Give Green
Holidays and special occasions are often times when we buy things just because we feel we have to; as a result, we end up giving Zen gardens and beer chess sets. Instead, try choosing from these ten green gift ideas, or give something that will help a friend or relative become more environmentally savvy. And people always love to receive coffee, chocolate, and tea; just make sure yours is Fair Trade.