How can you go “green” and remain fashionable? How do you know a certain clothing company is actually organic or “green?” How can you seamlessly incorporate “green” style into your life?

Wanna know the answers???

Well, I had the wonderful opportunity to ask all of these questions to Eco-savvy entrepreneur, author, EarthSmart expert on NBC, host of a national radio show called Livin’ The Green Life, (and the list goes on and on)—Kim Carlson.

Kim has been working to preserve our planet for years (way before it was the “cool” thing to do). She is an all-around Green lifestyle expert that can speak to a myriad of topics, including: the workplace, parenthood, business, money, beauty, recreation and so much more.  Kim’s resume could probably wrap around this amazing planet that she (and we) adore so much! 

Kim Carlson Q&A

JW: How can I go “green” and still stay fashionable?
KC: You don’t have to compromise your style to go “green.” All you have to do is pay attention to the type of fabrics you’re wearing. There are several fabrics and mixtures of fabrics that work. For example:

Organic Cotton—which is actually softer than regular cotton. Non-organic cotton is the mostly pesticide intensive crop in the world, thus severely adding to pollution.

Tencel—This “green” material comes from tree farm trees--so it's definitely not synthetic. In the sustainability world, anything that isn’t made from petroleum is great. Polyester is an example of a material made from petroleum that you should try to avoid.

Alpaca Wool—This wool does not contain lanolin (a type of oil) like the wool from sheep, therefore, harsh chemicals aren’t needed to remove it. These chemicals can find their way into the earth and our water sources. Although, at the end of the day, any type of natural wools or fibers are better then synthetic.

Bamboo and Soy—These are two great sustainable materials due to their rapid renewal (aka they grow back quickly after being harvested), and their cotton-like consistency once processed.

JW: Are there any companies that do a good job in providing “green” clothing options?
KC: Walmart, Edun, Gap and American Apparel—just to name a few.

JW: How can you be sure that companies are truly providing “green” products?
KC: I have personally started a company called the EarthSmart Certified Sustainable program that will literally give a stamp of approval to companies that are authentically Green (click here for more info). But beyond that, you can make sure the company is question passes your own “sniff test.” Go to the companies website and do some digging. The more information the company gives about their green initiative the more genuine it is. Also look for a story of why the company is green. This will add to their authenticity and your peace of mind.

JW: Any further advice you can give us earth-loving fashionistas?
KC: Don’t be afraid to shop “green!” It’s more of a European mentality to shop for higher quality products, but that’s just what you’re doing when you take the earth into consideration when shopping. Green items are typically higher quality and they last much longer. You’re going to pay a little more, but its going to last you longer and most importantly—you’re part of the solution of protecting the environment!

…Also, consignment and second-hand shopping is making a come back! It's affordable and earth-friendly. It can also be seen as a badge of honor and very chic to mix vintage wears with your more modern pieces.

To learn more about Kim, her amazing initiatives and books, click HERE!
Plus, are you an EarthSmart consumer? Take this quiz to find out.

 

Need a little help getting started? Here ya go:

Eddie Bauer Bamboo Cardigan, $69

Edun Organic Cotton dress, $90

Tianello Tencel blouse, $102