Wednesday 30 December 2009

Patriotic eco fashion

by Naomi

Well call me mushy, but I've developed a real sense of patriotism over the last few months. Perhaps it's due to the economic trials and tribulations of the last year, or maybe it is the anticipation of the 2012 Olympics. Whatever the reason, what better way to express a love for our nation than through the medium of fashion?! Nostalgic style and British-themed fashion is where it is at, and so I bring you a selection of the best!

Be boldly British and sport the Union Jack (more a contemporary take on British elegance than Geri Halliwell circa 1997.)

London Undercover umbrella:

The umbrella is a British icon and a classic one is a staple to any truly patriotic wardrobe. This gingham/ plaid Union Jack design by London Undercover is a stylish take on the traditional walker-style umbrella and is made from recycled materials with minimal waste. Team it with a trench coat and brogues, and you will be singing in the rain! It can be yours for £40 from http://www.londonundercover.co.uk/

Crumpets and cuffs:

If you are the kind of gal that likes to get suited and booted, why not finish your shirt with these cufflinks made by Skip Sisters from recycled stamps? Available for £39 from www.fashion-conscience.com

Alternatively,
team together red, white and blue:

Bamboo dress:
This navy dress by Fin, made from 100 per cent organic bamboo, is perfection when teamed with red tights. Available in-store at the new Ascension store, for £240. See www.ascensiononline.com for more information.



Melissa shoes:
I am a big fan of Melissa shoes (particularly the Vivienne Westwood collection - well worth a look) and these vegan t-bar Mary Janes are so cute. They are on sale at www.fashion-conscience.com, reduced from £50 to £35. Choose between ruby red (pictured) or royal blue.

Military Jacket:

Lowie's handmade cropped wool jacket features ornate antique-style buttons and a longer tail, simply oozing this season's military trend. Make it yours for £178. www.ilovelowie.com

Last but not least, be delightfully dapper: androgyny is the new black! This means brogues, straight-cut trousers and braces are all back in the game.

Classic tailoring from Ascension:


This peg-top trouser and blazer combo epitomises flattering masculine tailoring. Trousers £75, blazer £109, at www.ascensiononline.com

Eco-friendly brogues:
You can pick up some vintage or second-hand brogues on sites such as Ebay and Etsy, and the same goes for braces. Bourgeois Boheme, which specialises in responsibly made footwear and accessories, has a range of mens' and womens' brogues such as these by Marco Tozzi  - a bargain at £36! http://www.bboheme.com/

Facts: London Undercover umbrella: recycled materials. Skip Sisters cufflinks: recycled stamps. Fin: organic bamboo.Melissa shoes: vegan. Lowie: handmade wool. Ascension: fairly traded.

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