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In our ever-growing environmentally conscious world, anything reusable or recycled is something to consider. More and more shoppers are carrying reusable canvas totes to the grocery market. And, although those are fine for toting home tomatoes, wouldn’t it be nice to have a stylish and environmentally friendly handbag? Shoppers in-the-know have started sporting chic, eco-friendly bags.

Many independent designers have begun to create handbags, diaper bags, totes, purses, messenger bags, and carry-alls in a variety of “fabrics” that you probably never thought would end-up transforming themselves into a fashion accessory!

In addition to the hot indie designers, many local artisans in disadvantaged communities are crafting these bags as well. Proceeds from these bags are funneled back to the groups, helping to ensure a better economic future. These bags not only utilize recycled materials, they also promote fair trade within non-profit, economic, and community development organizations. Plus, you should see these bags – they’re totally adorable!

Some of the materials used by these purse-makers are items that we would normally toss in the trash: soda can tabs, candy wrappers, reclaimed inner tubes, felt, truck tarps, garbage bags, old sails, seat belts, movie bills, and rice bags (to name a few!). Other materials are environmentally grown, such as hemp or bamboo.

Eco-friendly bags come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Some sport fun patterns and textures, while others feature stamped-on graphics. The choices are endless and you’ll be surprised to see how many there are!

Whether you go for the designer clutch or the fair trade tote, you’ll be a walking example of how to be hip and eco-friendly. Cutting back on garbage and supporting under-developed communities are both great ways to feel good about your fashion choices. These bags not only have style and character, but they make a great conversation piece as well!

~Jennifer Rosen

Related Articles:
12 Ways To Green Up Your Life
An Eco-Friendly Excuse to Shop

Technorati Tags: Glam Media, Glam, GlamSpirit, Wellness, Health, GlamNetwork, Fair Trade, Environmentally Friendly, Stylish, Re-usable, Hemp, Bamboo, Communities

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