Green Your Summer

Ah, the dog days of summer are upon us, a time when many spend long days at the beach soaking up the sun, frolicking in ocean waves or lounging poolside. Make your summer excursions even more enjoyable…“green” your gear!

Ladies, your perfect swimsuit can be eco-friendly and fashionable! Check out Kelly B’s collection made from sustainable Bamboo and Organic Cotton. Or cute and comfortable swimsuits from Deux FM made of soy, recycled linen, and an organic cotton blend with a small amount of spandex for fit. Visit Nimli to purchase.

Find soft and eco-friendly beach towels in fun and colorful prints at Sea Glass Organic. Perfect for the beach, spa, and pool outings, their towels are made from 70% Bamboo and 30% Organic Cotton.

Another cool find at Sea Glass Organic…rope sandals! These truly unique sandals are handmade in North Carolina from start to finish! Made from very soft durable polypropylene rope, the non-slip soles are put together using low VOC glues and the entire sandal is machine washable.

By way of beach bags, the Iles Sainte Marie crocheted bag is made out of sustainably harvested raffia and woven seagrass by a workers’ cooperative in Madagascar. The chic handle is hand-carved wood. Or consider their Lug CarryAll handmade of raffia and jute with sturdy leather handles, has a nifty cotton drawstring closure and inside pocket. Find these and more at White Apricot.

Don’t even think about spending time in the sun without proper sun protection. One of my personal favs is the organic moisturizing suncare collection by Coola. Packed with natural photo-protectors, certified organic extracts, antioxidants and vitamins that boost skin’s natural immune system, Coola’s products are PABA, paraben, petroleum, and phthalate free. The Mango Sport SPF45 smells good enough to eat!

Surely you can’t forget to protect your peepers! There are several eco-friendly lines to choose from. A stylish and trendy choice is from iWood ($370). iWood frames are crafted using exotic woods and reclaimed veneer. The frames are coated in an eco-friendly sealant, which preserves the product without emitting any volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They offer 100% UVA/UVB protection. Interestingly, as part of an Industrial Technology Program, iWood products are manufactured by American high school students. These students earn college credits, gain experience, and receive a competitive wage. Hmm. Available at Greenloop.com.