Trends

Green fashion: 5 spring trends, 5 eco-friendly ways to wear them

We’re going green this season by giving 5 top spring trends an eco-friendly twist.

by : Ava Baccari- Apr 18th, 2013

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The only thing more rewarding than scoring a black and white Spring 2013 Balenciaga-inspired gown is tracking down its eco-friendly equivalent. But we did— and you can too!— with these 5 classic looks to add to your wardrobe this season, gleaned from the spring runways, only greener and in some cases, Canadian. Happy Earth Day shopping!

Green fashion: The emerald blouse

The statement: #greenpride

Spring 2013 runway inspiration: Pantone’s colour of the year emerald, which shone brightly in a lacey trench coat at Burberry Prorsum, and little green shorts at Michael Kors.

The eco-friendly look: Stella McCartney cotton-blend piqué shirt ($640), at net-a-porter.com.

Why we love it: The enduring sleekness of a crisp button-up blouse (a must-have this season in sleeveless) with the eco-conscious design of Stella McCartney, who famously weaves vegan and faux-fur pieces into her collections.

SLIDESHOW: Fashion trends 2013: Beautiful EMERALD ACCESSORIES

Green fashion: The white vegan leather bag

The statement: #ecobaglady

Spring 2013 runway inspiration: White quilted bag with black leather and gold-chained tassels at DSquared2; All-white lock and key handbag at Michael Kors.

The eco-friendly look: MATT & NAT vegan alter bag in cloud ($145), at mattandnat.ca.

Why we love it: This carryall bag is made from vegan leather and recycled nylon lining—and looks great when paired with denim and a crop top or mod-inspired skirtsuit this season. The Montreal-based line sources cruelty-free material—think cork, recycled plastic bottles, and vegan leathers—for its women’s and utility collections.

Green fashion: The faux-fur vest

The statement: #threepiecethis

Spring 2013 runway inspiration: Tuxedo-style at Jean Paul Gaultier; technicolour python and leather-embellished vests at Proenza Schouler.

The eco-friendly look: Gryphon metallic-coated faux fur vest ($138), at theoutnet.com.

Why we love it: Layered over your favourite spring dress (think a LWD) or paired with cigarette pants and sleek heels, the vest is your ultimate overall piece this season. This bronze faux-fur look stands on its own with a pared-down minimalist look.

Spring 2013 FASHION TRENDS

For more green fashion takes on Spring 2013 runway trends, read on to the next page…

Green fashion look: The black and white gown

The statement: #blackandwhiteandgreenallover

Spring 2013 runway inspiration: Structured flares for ball gown affairs at Balenciaga; flowing asymmetrical LBDs—with stark white accents—at Lanvin.

The eco-friendly look: H&M dress with a pleated frill ($99), from the Conscious Exclusive collection, at select H&M locations across Canada.

Why we love it: This slim, bustier-style dress is made with organic cotton and organza for a playful frill—a must-try statement this season. Buzz about the 11-piece eco-friendly formalwear line reached the red carpet earlier this year when Helen Hunt donned an eco-strapless gown by the fashion retailer to the Oscars.

SLIDESHOW: The WHITE SUIT spring fashion trend

Green fashion look: The recycled leather belt

The statement: #allwrappedup #everywheretogo

Spring 2013 runway inspiration: Knotted tan leather belts at Burberry Prorsum; white with silver detailing at Moschino.

The eco-friendly look: Erin Templeton OBI narrow leather belts in red, blue and grey ($48), at erintempleton.com.

Why we love it: These wraparound belts bend and tie into beautiful bows for a dainty and chic accent to a ladylike outfit. Bonus? The Vancouver-based designer uses recycled leather to create truly unique and classic pieces.