Green clothing is one of LA’s hottest fashions, but think again if you believe this city would conform to any single style. Thankfully, a number of eco-conscious retailers in LA have adopted the green philosophy and designed clothing lines that are unique, personal and completely eco-friendly. From T-shirts to shoes, these green clothing stores are LA’s favorite standbys on the eco fashion front.
American Apparel, Inc.
Multiple Locations
www.americanapparel.net
Organic, undyed and sweatshop-free: three dominating characteristics of American Apparel, Inc. products. They’re so unpretentious it's fashionable. Go for the T-shirts and hoodies, which are simple, comfortable and speak volumes about being eco-friendly.
What to shop for: Zip-up unisex hoody, the perfect laid-back look for those who don’t have to brag about being green.
Arbor Snowboards
102 Washington Blvd.
Marina del Rey, CA
310.577.1130
www.arborsports.com
Arbor isn't just for boarders (though the Arbor name has swept the snowboard/skate culture for its cutting-edge design and eco-friendly boards). Its clothing line is just as stylish and features organic and bamboo clothing for a cool, sporty look.
What to shop for: Cotton beanie or long-sleeve T-shirts emblazoned with the Arbor logo.
Patagonia
47 N. Fair Oaks Ave.
Pasadena, CA 90405
626.795.0319
www.patagonia.com
Some companies claim green, but others prove it. Patagonia backs up all their talk with green action: $27 million to more than 1,000 grassroots groups, 34 million acres of wildlands saved, its LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) service center in Reno and many more initiatives. Plus, the clothes are just really cool.
What to shop for: The "Lowball Shirt" is made from organic cotton and 30 percent recycled polyester. It's the perfect lounging shirt: comfortable, moisture-wicking and stylishly cozy.
For Kids Only
746 N. Fairfax
West Hollywood, CA
323.650.4885
Specializing in — surprise, surprise — children’s clothing, For Kids Only uses organic cotton to make super-comfortable clothing for youngsters (newborns to toddlers under three). After all, it’s only fitting that babies should have clothing as soft as their bottoms.
What to shop for: 100 percent organic cotton onesies.
El Natura Lista
1230 Montana Ave., #104
Santa Monica, CA
310.230.5688
www.elnaturalista.com
This green-friendly store gives “carbon footprint” a whole new meaning. Designer shoes made from tree sap and vegetable-tanned leather, El Natura Lista features kicks that give new life to your feet and the environment.
What to shop for: “Viandante” unisex shoes have European flair with an island-like sensibility, meaning they’re sexy and comfortable at the same time.
10 Women
1237 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA
310.452.2256
www.tenwomengallery.org
This local artists’ coop has grown into 22 members since 1994, putting out everything from paintings to ceramics to fabrics — many created from recycled material. The artistry isn’t lost in the coop’s eco-friendly consciousness, and the products continue to thrive on creativity and originality. Celebrate 1st Fridays at the store and meet the artists behind the art.
What to shop for: Artist Kara Taub's "Bambu Scarves," which are made using renewable bamboo fiber.
Undesigned by Carol Young
1953 1/2 Hillhurst Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
323.663.0088
www.undesigned.com
Forget your dress? Carol Young’s eco-chic designs have created a splash of fitting proportions. Smooth and serene, her lines flatter the physique, and folks at the New York Times and the LA Times agree that her fashions function for you and the earth.
What to shop for: Paperbag Dress; light, summer silkiness.
All Shades of Green
3038 Rowena Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90039
323.665.7454
www.allshadesofgreen.net
Living green can be as easy as jumping into a tub of paint. All Shades of Green features a wide range of gifts for adults and children alike. Clothing, beauty products and books all complement a green home design center featuring recycled and sustainable materials, as well as green living workshops.
What to shop for: Journals, binders and stationary made from 100% recycled, tree-free paper products.
Vert: An Eco Chic Beauty Boutique
1121 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
310.581.612
www.vertlosangeles.com
The new haven for the eco-conscious provides an emerald green alternative for skin, body, hair, home and baby. A draw for many smart celebs including Molly Sims and Jennifer Jason Leigh Vert carries voluminous expert advice and an amazing line of products from the hottest talents in the industry. This Venice Beach gem will help you shine.
What to shop for: Josie Maran Cosmetics, CARE by Stella McCartney, or a workshop by founder by Renata Helfman herself.
