KEY POINTS:
1: Pick a good vintage
The second of the three Rs, "reuse," grants an existing item a second lease on life, instead of purchasing brand new. No new manufacturing resources will be tapped into and we're spared from any additional pollution and carbon emissions.
2: Make it a fair trade
Shelling out for fairly traded gear supports fair labour conditions and workers' rights, especially in developing countries. Helping producers get a fair price for their labours and promoting self-reliance also empowers them to break the cycle of poverty.
3: Repurpose for a purpose
Because the mining of precious gems and metals is an environmentally ravaging process, some jewellery designers have been taking a different, more eco-friendly tack. Recycled metals include a form of silver reclaimed from used photographic film.
4: Suss out sustainable
Accessories made from sustainably produced or recycled materials are lovely to behold and kind to the planet. On the fabric front, choose textiles such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, and even soysilk.
5: Beg or borrow
Plunder the contents of someone else's closet - with permission - instead of shopping for your own.
6: Buy conflict-free
Conflict or "blood" diamonds sold in war zones fuel conflict and human-rights abuses in several African countries. Make sure your diamond retailer can provide paperwork or otherwise prove that the diamonds are conflict-free.
7: Take care of your wares
Repair a torn purse strap or restring a broken necklace instead of consigning slightly damaged goods to the rubbish heap. Treating your accessories with a little TLC will extend their longevity.
8: Brevity is the soul of wit
Accessories are meant to complement your outfit, not take it over. Wouldn't you rather be remembered for your sparkling wit rather than that blinding hunk of ice that was weighing your neck down?
9: Don't go with the flow
Being a fashion follower instead of a leader will only bring tears and the gnashing of teeth, plus a closet and dresser full of dated gewgaws and doodads that have long fallen out of favour with the fashion gods. One word: poncho.
10: Buy indie
Check out indie crafters' creative talents at markets. Because their businesses tend to be small their carbon footprints are smaller than multinational retailers.
Source: www.treehugger.com
