I'm fairly new to the world of eco-friendly fashion and beauty, and must admit, that my prior reluctance to exclusively purchase eco-chic fashion and beauty products was due to the high cost. While the health and environmental benefits are both commendable and considerable, it was hard to squeeze the additional pennies out of my pinched pocketbook for eco-friendly "non-necessities". Fortunately, however, it seems that the popularity of such products is rising while the many of the price tags are decreasing.
As always, it helps to have a bit of retail guidance. I look to the Green Girl Guide for their great green advice. The Green Girl Guide is comprehensive Web site that covers a wide range of health and beauty topics including lifestyle and fashion. This site holds true to their claim of "putting the glam in green", offering a chic, stylish and - and often cheeky - approach to going green.
In my new life of green fashion and beauty, I've come across many terrific eco-friendly products - and others that didn't live up to their green claims. The following companies provide not only guilt-free green goods, but are widely respected and affordable.
Health and Beauty Products
1) Aveda
Aveda offers high quality beauty products and has long been closely committed to providing these products without harming the environment.
2) Aubrey Organics
Aubrey Organics boasts 100% Natural products including skin and hair care and makeup. They offer a wide variety of their products online; otherwise your local co-op or natural foods store may carry Aubrey products.
3) Kiss My Face
Although it's not a new name in the organic industry, Kiss My Face is a company that is striving to stay on top in the world of all natural beauty products. This growing brand is even featured at large retailers like Target.
4) Burt's Bees
Burt's Bees is more than just lip balm. They are committed to offering safe cosmetics and green products. From honey lotion to anti-aging cream, Burt's offers something for everyone.
Clothing
1) REI
REI is an outdoor clothing and gear superstore that offers a wide array of organic and natural clothing lines including Patagonia and Prana. Also committed to environmental education and conservation, REI is one retailer I regularly visit.
2) Levi's
Levi's now offers a specially formulated line of "eco-jeans", sold exclusively at the Levis Store. Always known for a great fit, you can now wear these jeans with a bit of eco-pride.
3) Banana Republic
Banana Republic's new green line of clothing offers gorgeous, contemporary looks made with eco-conscious and sustainable materials including bamboo, organic cotton and soy/silk blends.
So there you have it - beautiful, high quality and eco-friendly fashion and beauty products that won't break your bank account. And don't forget to have fun while sustainable shopping!