Get Cozy in Autumn 2009's Luxest Eco Friendly Knits
If I spend a bit on any one piece of clothing this winter, it will be a gorgeous knit. I’ve found that over the years, the pieces I’ve kept the longest from the cold seasons have been sweater-dressing separates; a great wool dress, a chunky knit vest, fine-gauge tights from Germany, my favorite scarf. Below are top contenders for space in my closet.
I love a great red sweater, and this one from Stewart & Brown has a beautiful asymmetrical button-front and a cable knit throughout. I especially like the detail at the collar and those fantastic pockets. Made from 100% Mongolian cashmere (and seen on Michelle Williams in Vogue).
Lutz and Patmos (available at Barney’s and through their own site) is synonymous with sustainable sweaterings; I heard the design team there speak a year ago and their passion for waste-free and long-lasting, high quality yarns was impressive. And their cuts and colors are that perfect cross between modern and classic that means they’re wearable forever. My neck always gets cold in the Winter, even when no other part of my body is, so a chunky neckwarmer that can go as well over a thick sweater for a hike, or over pajamas when I set the thermostat low is an ideal piece. Made from 100% eco friendly Merino wool from Uruguay.
I am in love with this vest, but like you, wonder how practical it could be for regular wear. But what is life if one is practical all the time? Some of my oddest clothes have made- and stayed- in heavy rotation. One statement piece like this one makes the rest of the ensemble simple; Made from organic wool by Thieves Boutique.
This creamy cowl-neck tunic from Covet (one of my fave ecofashion brands) will keep the cozy factor high on the coldest days if paired with jeans and knee-high boots. On warmer days, tights and ankle boots this organic cotton French terry number will remind you that Spring will come someday. Available at Kaight.
There’s nothing better than a wrap-around cardigan; I end up wearing this kind at home with a pair of fleece pants from Patagonia, some thick wool socks, while re-reading The Elegance of the Hedgehog. Left open over a simple sheath with tights and the Lhasa sweater from DeuxFM takes on a polished edge. Available at Nimli.
Starre Vartan
Starre Vartan is founder and editor-in-chief of Eco-Chick.com and the author of the Eco-Chick Guide to Life. She's also a freelance science and environment writer who has published in National Geographic, CNN, Scientific American, Mental Floss, Pacific Standard, the NRDC, and many more. She lives on an island in Puget Sound with her partner and black cat. She was a geologist in her first career, and still picks up rocks wherever she goes.
