By Emma Grady
New York, NY, USA | Tue Feb 03 16:05:00 GMT 2009
Green Fashionistas take note: The days of dull, drab earth-conscious clothing are long over. Stylish green items are hitting runways around the world and we get to reap..er, wear the rewards. These five women's handbags—made of materials ranging from vintage leather jackets to recycled candy wrappers—will keep your fashion and your eco-sense in check, not to mention smarten up your look.
Need to clean out your closet? The average American throws out 68 pounds of clothing and textiles each year: Be creative and upcycle. You can even send in your old leather jackets to ReFind Orginals, in exchange for a one-of-a-kind bag.
Why We Like It: The bright and colorful Candywrapper tote and clutch line from VivaTerra is sweeter than candy, and we love that those counting their pennies can still indulge in the budget-friendly clutch.
Eco Factor: This soft, shiny, and sturdy laminated-foil paper bag is hand-woven from otherwise landfill-bound candy wrappers, food packages, and soft drink labels. VivaTerra will also plant a tree through Trees for the Future for every bag sold.
Size: Clutch: 9 inches long by 4 inches wide. Tote: 11 inches long by 14.5 inches wide
Where: VivaTerra
How Much: Clutch: $34; tote: $159 (currently on sale).
Image courtesy of VivaTerra
Why We Like It: The Black Plover by Ashley Watson is the perfect little black bag. These one-of-a-kind bags are complete with over-the-shoulder handles and a messenger strap, convenient for those who get around by bike.
Eco Factor: Each bag is made from vintage leather jackets bought from charity thrift stores, and fully lined with hemp cotton.
Size: 17 inches long by 18.5 inches wide
Where: Kaight Shop
How Much: $395
Image courtesy of Kaight
Why We Like It: Looking for a weekend bag? The Hemp and Silk Slouch bag from VivaTerra is your solution, with two exterior pockets for your cell phone and keys, plus both a blue and an ivory silk tie to fit your mood and your outfit.
Eco Factor: Made from sustainable hemp fabric, this bag's versatility ensures you won't get bored with it anytime soon.
Size: 27 inches long by 16 inches wide
Where: VivaTerra
How Much: $98
Image courtesy of VivaTerra
Why We Like It: Flexibility also rules with the Cream of the Islands bag from WeBe Bags. You can opt to add a zipper or make each unique bag reversible, perhaps to stow damp organic groceries inside.
Eco Factor: These recycled polypropylene flour bags are lined with remnant fabric, hand-sewn in the Grenadine Islands, and finished in the U.S.
Size: 18 inches long by 22 inches wide; shoulder drop 16 inches
Where: WeBe Bags
How Much: Currently on sale for $46
Image courtesy of WeBe Bags/H'Oat Couture
Why We Like It: Again NYC's classy purple clutch is a night-on-the-town essential and a great transition piece for your winter to spring wardrobe.
Eco Factor: It's made of dead-stock leather (left over from a handbag company that went out of business) and recycled fabric found in thrift stores and garage sales.
Size: 3 inches long by 8 inches wide
Where: Kaight
How Much: Currently on sale for $87.50
Image courtesy of Ecoist.com
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