The Alexander Report

By Tiffany Plater

Al Gore’s documentary “An Inconvenient Truth” is striking everywhere and now in fashion. Manufacturers, designers, and retailers are finding ways to ‘go green’. Yet, going green is proving to be not just a walk around the block.

Many organic companies have found issues in manufacturing their pieces. The cost to produce organic clothing is higher. The dyes do not offer the same color, so each item will vary in color. Organic textiles are harder to loom and weave and have imperfections. Its take longer to produce organic clothing. Production requires plenty of ahead of time planning and commitment, something that manufacturers are not used to. But those who have joined in feel it’s all worth it and are finding innovative ways to accomplish green initiatives.

Loomstate, a popular organic line for men and women, has partnered with

Barneys in a new project called Barneys Green. Barneys is aware of the new global movement and wants to provide retail space for organic clothing. Loomstate has designed hoodies, shorts, dresses, and tees special for Barneys. The items are priced between $138 and $58 to reflect the high costs or production. Loomstate like other organic companies believes that their consumers are more willing to pay higher prices for items that environmentally safe because of the end benefit.

This trend has long been recognized in the food industry. Supermarkets like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s are able to price their goods up because their customers deem them valuable. While the fashion industry may encounter challenges to going green, it has a pay off. Not only does it benefit the earth but it allows them to make a more meaningful contribution further then money. Those that have chosen to delve into this new frontier are trailblazing: Eileen Fisher, Linda Loudermilk, Panda Snacks, Kenneth Cole, H & M, Earth Dolphin, and many other retailers and designers. However, will we see a united front or a sparse few?