Eco-friendly clothing is becoming a fleeting fashion statement. And as Mother Nature bears the gift of sunshine and sustainable material this month, why not check out some New York stores devoted to styling the socially and environmentally responsible?
Sodafine
119 Grand St., Brooklyn
A store that combines art, craft and fashion, Sodafine boasts a D.I.Y. mentality and one-of-a-kind pieces from artists, in addition to vintage collections and lines that use "green" fabrics and sustainable labor practices. From little dresses made from hemp to Mother Earth-inspired recycled rings, you are guaranteed unique and innovative pieces.
Buffalo Exchange
332 E. 11th St.
This is the perfect place to find trendy pieces, big-name brands and classic closet staples for less. Buffalo Exchange offers a place for people to buy, sell and trade new and recycled clothing. And just by cutting back on the shopping and investing in more timeless fashions, you can save resources and energy and do a little more for the earth.
For special events in celebration of Earth Day:
Until April 22, swap your furs at Buffalo Exchange. Donate your real fur clothing — from coats to accessories — to Coats for Cubs. The furs will be sent to wildlife rehabilitation centers, cut to appropriate sizes and used to provide bedding and comfort to orphaned and injured wildlife.
On April 24, for every sale item purchased, $1 will be donated to the Humane Society of the United States's wildlife centers and their "Don't Trash Wildlife Campaign," advocating for the numerous animals that are injured or killed due to thoughtlessly discarded trash.
NatureVsFuture
Created by Nina Valenti in 2002, the line is inspired by the "constant struggle between nature and future, a pressure between organic forces and technological ones." A collection that practices green aesthetics and approaches, NatureVsFuture is designed for longevity and an eco-conscience. Sophisticated and sculptural, elegant and energetic and environmentally aware — it is organic futurism at its finest.
NatureVsFuture pieces can be found in various boutiques around New York:
Kaight: 83 Orchard St.
Lingo: 257 W. 19th St.
TG170: 170 Ludlow St.
Elegance: 1656 Coney Island Ave., Brooklyn
MooShoes
78 Orchard St.
Stroll the Lower East Side and visit vegan-owned business MooShoes. Browse sleek black oxford shoes for men, little gray heels for women, as well as a collection of accessories, outerwear and tops. It is the first cruelty-free store of its kind in New York City, and they even provide a roof for rescued cats that were adopted through local organizations.
Again NYC
Again NYC brings you bags and accessories made of repurposed materials. A percentage of the proceeds are also donated to environmental charities. The bags can be found at AuH20: 84 E. Seventh St., as well as online stores like thegreenloop.com, bagtrends.com, esty.com and shopmodify.com.
