Even the most green people I know are often at a loss for buying affordable, eco-friendly clothing. Most conventional clothing retailers just haven't jumped on the eco-bandwagon yet. I see the occasional organic cotton t-shirt around but other than that, I have to seek out sustainable duds in specialty stores or online.
So I figured you would want to know about this new-to-me brand of people and earth friendly apparel from a company called Repair the World. Their clothing line is made from a specially manufactured fabric called Reparel that is a blend of recycled polyester and recycled cotton. They sell a lot of basics like t-shirts (including kid sizes) but also some really stylish tops and dresses like this lovely pullover...
Eco Strengths
- Polyester comes from post-consumer (a fancy word for used) plastic bottles.
- Cotton is recycled from cutting room scraps and textile waste.
- Since the cotton scraps are pre-colored, no other dyes are needed.
- Company partners with Friendship Bridge to support women-owned businesses in Guatemala.
Fav Products
The company sent me this pretty green longsleeved shirt (no, that's not me in the photo!) so I could see for myself what the fabric is like. Even though the shirt is a blend of 50% recycled cotton/50% recycled polyester, it feels like 100% cotton jersey to me. The shirt is super soft and cozy - one of my wardrobe favorites! And at $20, it is totally affordable.
Second Thoughts
There is some concern that recycled plastic may be contaminated with chemicals like BPA, PVC or triclosan. Although it is not impossible, the company does a good job of explaining how unlikely that is.
Buy It
Repair the World clothing is available online or at many retail locations around the country.
Of course there are plenty of other ways to green your wardrobe other than buying new clothing - but if you are looking for something new, I suggest adding Repair the World to your watch list.
Where do you buy eco-friendly clothing?
(Disclosure: I was sent a free Repair the World shirt in exchange for my honest opinion.)
Thanks for sharing! It is tough to find eco-friendly apparel and it's even harder to find "ethical" apparel. More than likely, though, this company is conscious about the ethical side, too. Love finding out about new sustainable businesses. :) Have you ever heard of B Corporations? If not, check them out. All certified B Corps meet a certain standard for social and environmental performance. :)
Posted by: Amanda Schoonover | September 20, 2012 at 12:03 PM
I have to admit a lot of the eco clothing I have found looks frumpy! I really like the gray top in the first photo. And your new t-shirt is very cute. It looks like this line has stepped up a notch or two. I like the name too-Repair the World.
Posted by: Lori Popkewitz Alper | September 20, 2012 at 07:13 PM
Yes - I am a big fan of B Corps Amanda!
Posted by: Micaela | September 21, 2012 at 08:08 AM
I know what you mean Lori - it's hard to find affordable + fashionable + sustainable all in one brand. I'm hoping Repair the World will continue to develop their fashion forward side!
Posted by: Micaela | September 21, 2012 at 08:09 AM
Repair the World® introduces a completely new line of clothing that will make your skin smile, and make the world happy. We call it Reparel.™
Posted by: Don | September 26, 2012 at 07:09 AM
Interesting and pretty clothes. I'd really like to see more choices, affordable choices, in organic cottons.
Posted by: Anne | September 27, 2012 at 08:44 PM