Ecofashion takes the runway at Vancouver Fashion Week

Vancouver designers prove 'ecofashion' has moved beyond bamboo t-shirts.

Credit: courtesy Lav & Kush


Ecofashion designers hit the runway at Vancouver Fashion Week

 


For the second year in a row, ecofashion designers had the opportunity to showcase their leading-edge sustainable fashion on the Vancouver Fashion Week 2009 runway. For one night the focus was on eco-design, and the turnout was amazing.

Gastown’s Colin Campbell building was packed with fashionistas, buyers, media and anyone who could get their name on the guest list. Attendees  were excited to see ecofashion break the boundaries of yoga wear and hoodies to reveal chic high-end couture—and they were not disappointed.

I was impressed with Red Jade’s distinctiveness and sophistication and the feminine flirty styles of Lav & Kush.

Hawks was rocking out on the catwalk with rock ‘n roll eco-wear that looked soft and comfortable next to the skin.

Nate Organics, purveyors of sportswear, announced they have attached themselves to the David Suzuki Foundation’s Play It Cool program in order to help Olympic athletes go carbon neutral. They will be designing some gear and merchandise for the cause to further promote the benefits of ecofashion.

 


Watch the video:

 


 

 



 


Ecofashion at VFW 2009, video by Becky Gavigan

 


This was just the second year for the Vancouver ecofashion scene to be showcased at Vancouver Fashion Week and, judging by the popularity, not to be the last.

These designers are out there with more than just good design ideas and choice in fabrics; they have a message and a set of best practices, giving suppliers, consumers and employers alternative choices.

Judging from the attendance and the excitement of the evening, I have a feeling the eco-scene in Vancouver is only going to grow and this is a trend worth keeping an eye on.