SUSTAINABLE FASHION: HOW TO MAKE YOUR WARDROBE ECO-FRIENDLY

It seems everyone is going green these days. For many of us, by this term we mean reusable canvas grocery bags, refillable water bottles and organic groceries; but what does it mean for your closet?

Sustainable fashion, also known as eco-fashion, includes clothing that is environmentally friendly and has a lower social and environmental impact in design, materials and manufacturing. Fashion designers can approach their work in an environmentally responsible manner by donating a percentage of their sales to a good cause that benefits the environment, using renewable and sustainable natural fibres, employing manufacturing processes with a minimal carbon footprint, and ensuring decent working conditions for the people who use the materials produce.

Alpacas produce some of the finest natural fibers in the world; They are also among the most environmentally friendly of all domesticated animals for many reasons:

First of all, alpacas have padded feet, not hooves, meaning they don't damage the land they live on.

They also don't have upper teeth, so they cut grass instead of pulling it up by the roots like other animals like cows do. Additionally, the average alpaca eats less per pound than most other domesticated animals.

Alpaca provides 5 to 10 pounds of fiber annually and can be sheared once a year.

Unlike sheep's wool, alpaca is allergen and lanolin free, meaning alpaca fibers do not require harsh detergents during the manufacturing process to remove the irritating lanolin.

Finally, alpaca contributes tremendously to the environmental sustainability of thousands, as alpaca provides wool annually and enables smallholder farmers to support themselves, their families, and their communities.

Another way Alpaca Collections promotes environmental sustainability is by participating in 1% for the planet. With every purchase at AlpacaCollections.com, the customer has the option to choose at checkout which of 3 environmentally conscious non-profit organizations will receive 1% of the total purchase amount - Ecoan Peru, Gulf Restoration Network or Sustainable Travel International.

If you're looking to stock your closet with luxurious, natural garments that reduce your carbon footprint, AlpacaCollections.com is a great place to start!