Pictured above: Bamboo and Organic Cotton Jersey Camisole and Pant- $90; Bamboo/Organic Cotton Knit Flutter Bed Jacket or Wrap – $72
Fall is right around the corner – I’m already fantasizing about colorful leaves, cool breezes, pumpkins and cinnamon. It’s my favorite time of year, and especially at this tail-end of summer when I’m still sweating most of the day, it can’t come fast enough. So, I’m already thinking about curling up with a book and a mug of hot cocoa wearing some cozy organic cotton and bamboo pajamas.
One company I’ve got my eye on is Sandmaiden, an Etsy.com seller who creates beautiful hand-dyed sleepwear, loungewear and fine lingerie that’s as beautiful as it is comfortable. They’ve also got some stylish basics like cowl-neck tops and great little dresses. Check out some of the gorgeous designs!
From left: Bamboo Lycra racerback tank – $42 + Gathered Tap Pant – $24; Bamboo and Organic Cotton A-Line Chemise with Belt – $66
From left: Soy and Organic Cotton Jersey Belted V-Dress – $66; Soy and Organic Cotton Jersey Maternity Tie Top – $48
If you haven’t already checked out Etsy.com, take a look around – never have I had such a happy online revelation as when I found this market where sellers offer handmade and vintage goods. It’s amazing what you can find there – and it’s the perfect place to do some eco-friendly holiday shopping! There’s truly something for everyone.
I LOVE that camisole at top left…I’m always looking for camisoles that will allow a deep-V neck to be worn with them and they are hard to find! Looks like that might be a tough fit if you were busty, but I’m not so it seems perfect!
08/25/08 » 7:48 am »
hi. i love the devotion you girls bring to finding the best eco products on this site, however the ever present mention of the “eco” bamboo materials really needs more research on your part. yes it is sustainable but have you looked deeper into the lack of certification of bamboo, process of manufacturing, which is heavily dependent on toxic chemicals leading to major health problems for the people creating this fabric along with the water needed. i would love to see an unbias post on bamboo fabrics on your otherwise lovely site.
08/25/08 » 9:41 am »
WOW. Was just reading about Bamboos issues…..take a look…..
While the bamboo plant has many uses and has quickly become a key source of income for many rural citizens of China, the issues behind the production of bamboo fabric have begun to surface. During a recent investigative mission, the Organic Clothing blog from Lotus Organics uncovered detailed information about how dangerous chemicals are used to transform the plant into liquid and then into fibres to be spun into fabric. These chemicals can cause a plethora of health problems and neural disorders for the manufacturing workers. With no Fair Trade certifications or sustainable production credentials, a developing nation like China rarely (if at all) uses systems to help control the production and disposal of those chemicals.
Seeing bamboo as a “greener” substitute for silk, many designers are clamoring to use it in their collection, including couture and everyday brands. This high demand has forced Chinese manufacturers to begin clearing out natural forests in order to plant more fast-growing bamboo. On top of this, many cultivators are starting to use fertilizers that wouldn’t meet U.S. organic standards in order to increase the yield of their plantations. Additional weeding and tilling of the land in turn leads to increased soil erosion in these areas.
Last but not least, China is currently the only manufacturer of bamboo fabric, making it impossible to look for an alternative, local source for this textile. While bamboo can be easily grown in many areas, there are no factories in North America that have the machines to chemically manufacture bamboo fibres. The Chinese have hundreds of generations of experience in growing bamboo – so far, a number of Americans have begun to try grow their own in their backyard, quickly finding that this tall grass can easily overtake all of their land.
Final thought
To buy or not to buy – that is the question. If you are planning on purchasing bamboo goods, the key is to look for some kind, ANY kind, of certification (though there is yet to be any kind of international standard for bamboo). The natural benefits available within the bamboo plant are wide, but a more sustainable manufacturing process is still needed to make this fabric truly green; til then, your best (and more eco) alternative is still organic cotton.
08/25/08 » 9:48 am »
Keetsa Mattress Store - Keetsa! Blog - Eco-Friendly and Green News » Blog Archive » Handmade and eco friendly clothing
[...] Source [Eco Chick] [...]
08/26/08 » 11:37 am »
Stephanie, great find, have you or anyone else on the blog actually WORN some of the sexy eco-friendly lingerie? I would be interested to know if it’s comfortable…um, that is my girlfriend would be interested in knowing!!
08/26/08 » 1:17 pm »
http://www.portfolio.com/cultu.....een-Enough
Saw this article the other day and immediately thought of you ladies!
08/26/08 » 6:14 pm »
ROMP, 7928 west 3rd street, LA 90048 for a complete glamorous lifestyle of Certified Organic clothing- http://www.romp.uk.com
Recently nominated for the RSPCA ethical Fashion awards- our collections show 1930’s style leather luggage, wrap Manhattan coats, skinny fitting leather jackets, denim, printed cotton tee shirt dresses and fabulous foot wear !
08/26/08 » 8:12 pm »
Thank you so much for putting us on to Sandmaiden. What a fantastic eco find. The items you chose to show are absolutely gorgeous and, amazingly enough, not priced through the roof. Rock on Eco-Chick.
09/05/08 » 12:07 pm »