5 Fun Summer Fashions With a Green Twist

While maintaining a sexy and sleek fashion stance, the Hannah Asymmetrical Sandals are constructed from an ultrasuede (made from recycled plastic), which makes any move in these sandals a step in a positive direction.

It’s tough to be a true green girl. Sure, you want your threads to be eco-friendly, but a homely, olive-colored hemp number isn’t exactly ideal for a summer fiesta.

The thought that 85 percent of once-trendy unwanted clothes and shoes are ending up in landfills is enough to send you running for yet another pair of recycled khaki hiking shorts.

But have no fear! Recycled clothing and accessories don’t have to be drab or dull, and with so many fab and fearless fashions to crave this summer, now is the perfect time to prove it to all your friends.

Here are some of this summer’s hottest trends with a twist you’ll love: they’re all recycled!

1. Trend: Short shorts

Break out those gams, ladies! This season, short-shorts are where it’s at. Pair your little Daisy-Dukes with sandals for everyday wear or glam them up with heels for a night on the town.

Eco-friendly fave: Urban Renewal Denim and Eyelet Short by Urban Outfitters

In case you haven’t heard, Urban Outfitters is doing some pretty cool stuff with recycled vintage finds. Their Urban Renewal line is packed with one-of-a-kind pieces, hand-crafted in Philadelphia from tossed textiles, like these adorable shorts made from vintage jeans.  Each piece comes from a different pair, ensuring no two are exactly alike.

Price: $48

2. Trend: Super-high heels

Of course, sky-high heels never go out of style, but they’re more in than ever this summer. Side cut-outs are this season’s hottest variation, and they’re versatile enough to bring that cute summer sundress from the office to a night out.

Eco-friendly fave: The Hannah Asymmetrical Sandal by Cri de Coeur

Channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw with these cut-out heels fit for any eco-friendly fashionista. The highly-anticipated Hannah’s three-and-a-half inch heel and sexy side cut-outs more than foot the bill for this hot summer trend, and the fact that they’re made from recycled plastic almost justifies the splurge.

Price: $280

3. Trend: Rompers

We swear we would never lie to you: the romper is back! Rock this cute yet sexy style to a backyard barbeque or beach excursion and you’ll be turning heads long after sunset.

Eco-friendly fave: The La Paloma Jumper by Loomstate Organic

The billowy top and cinched waist of this pretty piece are more than on-trend, and while this pick is composed primarily of organic cotton, the pockets are made from recycled polyester. As all summer dieters will tell you, a little cheating never hurt anyone.

This black and white cut-out one-piece by UjENA is made out of recycled fabric.

Price: $60

4. Trend: Tunics

They are your leggings’ best friend, and this summer’s girly tunic styles will give you that feeling of being in a dress without having to worry every time a gust of summer breeze kicks up.

Eco-friendly fave: Kaley Tunic Top by prAna

Rock this cute printed tunic with leggings any day, or pair it with jeans for a cool summer night. The flattering empire waist looks great on all figures, and this pick is made from recycled yoga fabric. So, it’s eco-friendly and mercifully breathable on a hot summer day.

Price: $50

5. Trend: Monokinis

It has finally happened: the string bikini is out! The monokini is the new sexy trend making a splash on ultra-posh beaches around the globe. Finally, a swim style that will turn heads and still leave a little to the imagination.

Eco-friendly fave: Vixen Cut-Out by UjENA

The black and white color palette of this alluring monokini is as classic as an Audrey Hepburn up-do, but this sure isn’t your mother’s one-piece. The front silhouette elongates your body, while the sexy cut-out detail reveals just enough skin to feel sexy on the sand. This summer stunner is made from 92 percent recycled polyester. So, go out there and strut your stuff.

Price: $89

Related articles
365 Dresses, 365 Days, $365
Green Luxe on a Budget

As of June 17th 2011 we have upgraded our comment system to use Facebook comments. The below comments are closed and are listed for historical purposes.

2 Archived Comments

  1. Kate

    posted on July 25th, 2010 at 12:56 pm

    The fifth trend monokini it was a really great idea! The design itself of that one piece swimsuit is very attractive plus it is made of recycle fabric. Just need to buy one.

  2. hot sexy lingeries

    posted on April 23rd, 2011 at 7:11 am

    It was a really great idea! The design of that piece swimsuit is very attractive,and it is made of recycle fabric.

Recently Added to Clothing

  • Plastic Bags Upcycled into Wearable Art

    One man’s trash is another man’s treasure, especially when that trash is braided into upcycled hats, bags and more.

    That’s the idea behind FunkyJunk, a company that turns plastic bags that litter Cambodian streets into wearable works of art. The company …

  • 'Dashing' Bow Tie Brand Upcycles Vintage Finds

    A few years ago, Phoenix-based designer Aaron Kimberlin, 28, was working on his master’s degree in urban planning and policy and studying up on trends in architecture. But in October, he set his sights on a new business venture: Dapper+Dash, …

  • 'Netflix' of Baby Clothes Reduces Clothing Waste

    Raising a baby is hectic, so it’s no wonder disposable bibs, diapers and bottles are in high demand. They’re easy and always clean, but they aren’t always “green.” As those little limbs grow, in a way, clothing becomes disposable too, …

Earth911

Earth911 helps consumers find local recycling information through the largest and most accurate recycling directory in the U.S. Read today's top green lifestyle tips and ideas. Learn how we help businesses.