Fab Fair Trade Totes and Tips for Going Eco-Chic

When you think of eco-friendly fashion do you think hemp ponchos and Birkenstocks ?

Virginia Dooley and Nicole Jones are working to change this. Rising Tide Fair Trade is the collaboration of the duo whose passion for exotic textiles and a vision to bring stylish and sustainable products to the American market was launched in 2008.

The debut "Kantha" collection launched with the limited edition carryall bag crafted by Indian artisan women part of a fair trade co-op where they earn a living wage. The bags are crafted from luscious colorful vintage Indian quilts and cruelty-free dark brown suede. Look for future collections with textiles from Uzbekistan, Cambodia, Senegal, and Bolivia.

>> See Virginia and Nicole's top five tips for going eco-chic.

5 TIPS TO GET YOU ECO-FABULOUS
Virginia and Nicole founders of Rising Tide Fair Trade's share tips for going green with style.

1. Plastic bags totally suck. Besides being ugly, they NEVER go away. Lose the plastic bag and shop with a reusable bag. Aside from toting your Rising Tide Fair Trade carryall, try Envirosax for great printed bags that are an easy alternative to plastic grocery bags. Roll them up and keep one your everyday bag just as you would your wallet and keys.

2. Fair trade fashion is still evolving. It is often hard to find fashion that is both stylish and production friendly, so visit the website for the UK based company People Tree.  Get inspired by their eco-friendly and fair trade clothing line.

3. Do your homework. Fair trade and eco-friendly fashion is not always the most affordable. When shopping in mainstream or chain stores, check the store's report card to see how responsible they are. When boutique shopping, I tend to check the "made in COUNTRY" tag to learn about labor laws in a specific country. Check out Co-op America's and New Dream's guide for every purchase from the car you drive to the food you buy.

4.Think twice. We completely understand that feeling you get on payday to get a cute outfit for the weekend. But think twice before buying that gazillionth belt and summon your creative side to remake an old outfit. If it is time to replenish your wardrobe, focus on quality and not quantity.

5. Vote with your dollar. The power you hold with each purchase you make is also as important as who you vote for in 2008! By demanding higher standards with your purchase, you will support the growth of fair trade and environmentally friendly principles.