October 31, 2007
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Or so they tell me. The latest trend to make its way to the world of fashion is Eco-Chic. But is it a trend? Well, by definition, trends come and go, but I sincerely hope that Eco-Chic becomes a lifestyle more than a passing retailing trend. In the last few years, the fashion industry has become increasingly aware of its responsibilities to the environment. Southern California, for one reason or another, is becoming a “Green is the new Black” hub for burgeoning eco-chic clothing companies.
At first glance, Los Angeles is the last place, one would think, where people would even care about the environment, or being eco-chic. It is one the most polluted cities in the world with more people driving alone in large gas-guzzling SUV’s per capita than anywhere else in the world. At the same time, Southern California is a trend capital of the world, the largest clothing manufacturing center in the US, and home to Hollywood. It is this dichotomy which then leads to this interesting behavior, especially among the “Hollywood set” to be more aware in doing what’s right for Mother Earth. Only the A-list here in LA drive Hybrids and anybody associated with Al Gore’s campaign to save the environment gets a “fast-pass” to the front of the Hollywood Red Carpet.
First, let me get the fancy definition stuff out of the way for those of you still wondering “What is eco-chic?” Eco-friendly fashion involves clothing made of “natural” products, usually organically grown. Organic cotton, hemp, seaweed, linen and even wood pulp are common fabrics used by garment manufacturers and designers that create Eco-Chic fashion. Eco-Chic also involves the dyeing processes used, like utilizing water-based or vegetable-based dyes instead of chemical ones.
Going green in terms of fashion can take baby steps. There’s been a slow but growing reformation in the manner in which the industry designs and produces apparel. 26 Macy’s stores here in Southern California have “gone Green”, installing solar power which is the equivalent of removing 1,144 cars from California’s highways each year. And many retailers, such as Barney’s for example, are also coming forth in support of eco-conscious brands as well as educating their customer on what it means to be eco-aware. When I first heard the term “Eco-Chic”, the first images that came to mind weren’t exactly Christian Lacroix Haute Couture. All I could think of was granola-crunch-Birkenstock-wearing people clad in muslin (unbleached cotton) tops reminiscent of Wilma Flintstone. Boy was I wrong. It could not be further from the truth. Especially with the choices that are becoming more readily available from LA-based environmentally-friendly brands that are doing their part in putting “Chic” next to “Eco”.
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Comments
NANCY S - MA wrote:
Thanks for a very informative blog. I wish more people would think the way you do about the environment. You have taught me a lot, and I plan to look into it further. (I think part of the reason you haven't gotten comments is that this blog was hard to find. I had to search to find any recent PR blogs.)
By the way, I really enjoyed watching you on Project Runway. You were always gracious and kind, even when Santino was badgering you. (I like Santino, by the way. I think after watching the show, he realized what a jerk he had been, and he owned up to it.)
I will add, though, that it appears the winners are not necessarily more successful after the show ends. I think Daniel V. will do well, and you, as will Uli, from season 3. I hope the show helped you move forward in your career.
posted on November 12, 2007 at 9:22 PM
Andrea wrote:
Eco-fashion has come a long way! There was slim pickins' 10 years ago. Now I can go to the Whole Foods 2 blocks away and they have a clothing section. It's essential that fashionable companies take up the cause because that's whay will get more people involved besides the granolas.
posted on November 14, 2007 at 4:08 PM
Aradhana wrote:
I am such an “Uncle Nick” Fan!
Thanks for giving us the scoop on echo-chic. I guess I’m not surprised to hear this, I think everything going on in the world is always somehow reflected in fashion...I will definitely keep my eyes open and try an “ec” label --- but I won’t lie, there will always be lil’ part of me still looking for GORGEOUS more then GREEN!
posted on November 14, 2007 at 9:16 PM
Beth wrote:
Righteo, Nick- But get this: cotton, though we love it, is one of the most thirsty crops on earth, and in California, well, we shouldn't oughta grow it. About hemp though: If only the Fed would allow it! I mean you can't smoke the kind you process for fabric, for godsakes! It requires little and gives much. Love your comments. I think recycled fabric is a great solution too where and whenever possible.
posted on November 15, 2007 at 1:13 AM
Jerry Mahaney wrote:
Nick,
you are awesome I wanted you win so bad that year. You are Hot Dude. I wish you did more with men fashions I would consider buying your product in heart beat.
Take Care
Jerry
posted on November 16, 2007 at 8:32 AM
Peterson Ramos wrote:
Olá... sou total admirados do Nick, além de lindo ele tem talento, queria muito conhece-lo pessoalmente... Você é absolutamente "tudo de bom"... te adoro!!!
posted on November 18, 2007 at 1:41 PM
Peterson Ramos wrote:
LINDO!!! GOSTOSO!!! TUDO DE BOM!!!
posted on November 18, 2007 at 1:42 PM
Rudy wrote:
I want to start this comment by saying that when you were on Project Runway, your designs were really good, too bad that you did not go to fashion week, but that is water under the bridge.
Your article on eco-fashion was very interesting and it shows, that you are not just a designer, but someone that is informed about what is going on and someone that is concious about the earth and what surrounds us.
Great job, and hope to see you doing great stuff soon.
posted on November 21, 2007 at 5:40 PM
harry wrote:
hi dear nick
i'm from China,too.you're hot in China,we love your designs and we love you!i really really want to see you someday!wish you luck~
i love you u're cute :)
harry
posted on November 24, 2007 at 12:40 PM
Benny wrote:
Hi Nick,
I watched the show in HongKong and it was a pity that you didn't make it to the final three. Your designs are good looking as you. Anyway, don't give up and don't feel sad. I think you are the winner already!
posted on November 26, 2007 at 2:49 PM
Benny wrote:
I watched the show in HongKong and it was a pity that you didn't make it to the final three. Your designs are good looking as you. Anyway, don't give up and don't feel sad. I think you are the winner already!
posted on November 26, 2007 at 2:50 PM
alejandra de la torre wrote:
Hello Mr. Verreos! It is wonderful to think that you will read this brief message. Icried when you were eliminated from the show last season. Your personality and ethics were so noticeable! I love your sense of style and hope life is generous with you. You deserve afluence in your life. best of wishes and keep it up! Alejandra
posted on December 4, 2007 at 8:48 PM
Sarah wrote:
Yay! I hope eco-fashion sticks around for good!! We need to take care of the earth! I really wish you'd won the season you were on Project Runway...!!
posted on December 5, 2007 at 10:19 PM
Juan wrote:
Dear nick
I am exited to tell you that I attend Lynwood High school here in LA. I recently got the pleasure to meet you and you seem to be nicer than you are portrayed on Project runway. All I wanted to say is that we have a well organized school wide Eco Club and we try to do our best at helping the environment as much as we can. I would also like to tell you that my friend and I are starting a sewing club at school and we are planning to use recycled materials to create garmants and show that school that just because something is labeled as "trash' it does not mean it can't be used for other purposes.
posted on December 7, 2007 at 10:52 AM
Philip wrote:
Hi Nick,
We saw you at Disneyland over Thanksgiving. You were going through the turnstile with your sister and nephews, and we spoke about "tower of terror." My family is watching the new season of project runway right now, and we all agree. You still are the best. [so what do think of a runway challenge to design for Cinderella?! Ha.] Best of luck.
posted on December 8, 2007 at 7:06 PM