Some call it beige, some call it off-white, some call it ecru, it is the natural color of fibers like linen, hemp and of course cotton, and for me it is always one of the best colors to wear in summer. Unlike bright, bleached white which for its strength needs to be carefully balanced and accessorized, natural white easily matches all kinds of complexions and hair colors, and it has that organic feel that brings to my mind the straw rolled up in the fields just after the harvest.
Last but not least, natural fibers and threads also make a lot of environmental sense if we consider that 20% of the global water pollution is caused by the treatment and dyeing of textiles.
EASYÂ CHIC
ph: Raven+Lily
I absolutely love these pants from Raven + Lily, their relaxed elegance and comfortable fit make them a must for the summer wardrobe. I like modern cut, with two strategic pleats to flatter any body shape, and the wide legs, because when it’s really hot and sticky, usually the last thing I want to wear are tight pants.
ECO-CRED: Hand-loomed by Kenyan women using local cotton. Fair-trade. Neutral carbon print.
AIRY PATTERN
Ph: Good Shop Cloth
Ideal to cover from the sun or the chill of the summer nights, this soft loose fitting top features scoop neck and caftan sleeves with scalloped trim. It is made of 100% pure Peruvian cotton stitched in a unique chevron pattern. Available at Good Shop Cloth
ECO-CRED: Fair trade. Natural cotton (no artificial pesticides). Natural dyes.
ABSTRACT ORGANIC
ph: Ecohabitude
Mesmerizing is the word I’d use to describe this dress by Autonomous Collections. Its abstract patterns layered with organic textures result in an cool maxidress. 50% linen, 50% cotton. Available at Hecoabitude
ECO-CRED: 100% Natural materials. No waste. Hand-made
NATURAL BLING
ph: Thread Harvest
In its simplicity the Ivana necklace is the perfect combination of ethnic flavor and sophistication. It is made with multicolored natural beads from coconut shells, on a black/gold copper chain and it is available at Thread Harvest.
ECO-CRED: Hand-made. Produced under the Starfish Project to help women victims of abuse in Asia.
AN EYE FORÂ A CAT’S EYE
ph: Blue Planet
Cat’s eyes sunglasses are one of the trendiest accessories this summer and Blue Planet is offering them in this great eco-friendly Tova model (more colors available). 100% UVA+UVB protection.
ECO-CRED: Sustainable bamboo hand-crafted frame. For every pair sold they donate one to a person in need.
LUSCIOUS SCARF
Ph: A Peace Treaty
In any season the scarf is a must have accessory of every smart travelers. This sophisticated handwoven scarf by A Peace Treaty won’t fail to impress the discerning eye thanks to its subtle pattern and the quality finishings. 60% silk, 40% viscose from India.
ECO-CRED: Slow fashion
GOLDEN STEPS
ph: The Root Collective
This is what I call the “cardinal slipper”, and it seems to be at the feet of all the trend setters at the moment. The Root Collective offers its Millie model in natural cotton weaved with a subtle gold pattern. The shoe is lined in genuine leather, soles are in leather with synthetic no-slip heel-cap.
ECO-CRED: Slow fashion. Fair trade.
