It's about this time of year that I cast off my (second hand) designer gear and girly frocks for something a whole lot more grungey before heading out to slum it hippy-style in a field for a bit.
Organic, recycled and fairtrade labels excel in festival clothes and accessories, so one of the best places to look if you're dressing for Glasto, Latitude or Leeds are the hippyshopper faves. I've picked out a few festival-friendly outfits here, most of which are now available at great prices, as the summer sales are in full swing.
Read on over the jump for details.
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This unusual and regal-looking clutch bag has more than a little of the Vivienne Westwood about it, but it's not Dame V at all: this bag's from eco chic emporium Fashion Conscience, where you'll find a jaw-dropping selection of non-hippy clothes, shoes and accessories for those who don't want their fashion habit to inflict too much pain on the planet.
Or, as in this case, the inhabitants of the planet, because as its name suggests, this bag is made from 100% vegan materials and lined with organic cotton. A great choice whether you're an ethical fashionista - or just want something a bit different you won't see on any high streets. Each bag is made to order, and you'll need to allow up to two weeks for delivery: £175 at Fashion Conscience
Related: Fabulous recycled tyre mock-croc handbag | Top 5 ethical handbags
This amazing reconstructed sweater was made (or re-made, you might say) by Outsapop. It started out life as four different jumpers which were then cut up and sewed back together to make this electric number. Not only does it look cosy and comfortable, but teamed with a pair of leggings it would make a really stylish outfit.
A brilliant idea if you have a load of sweaters that are out of fashion or frumpy. As well as earning yourself green points, you'll also be condensing your wardrobe! If you're feeling inspired, you can find a tutorial here. [By Steph Powell]
Related: Recycled fashion: phonebook couture | Punk's not dead! DIY safety pin jacket
It's not really often we get a range of clothes that are eco friendly and stylish too, but Emobi have filled the niche in the market.
This cool swimwear brand uses a range of environmentally friendly water based dye that minimises the impact on the beaches and waterways. If that's not enough to sell it to you, they're made of UPF 50+ fabric, so they're kind to the environment and to you! Right on trend, the colourful array of bikinis and one pieces feature cut out designs, florals and frills, and sizes go from an 8 to a 14, and A to DD Cup. Buy them at Fashion Conscience. [Stephanie Powell]
Related: The solar-powered bikini: re-charge as you tan | Pick of the best eco-friendly swimming costumes
I'm not Peaches Geldofs' biggest fan, but I was pleasantly surprised by her new collection of jewellery for Made. The range is sustainably produced and ethically made using recycled brass door handles, padlocks and bath taps, as well as wood and bone.
Distinctly spring themed and quite reasonably priced, the bracelets, earrings and necklaces feature daisies and unicorns (maybe inspired by Peaches' own tattoos?). The delicate Daisy Chain Bracelet is one of the best pieces, brightened up with a bold splash of purple, and at £18 would be a great addition to any summer wardrobe.
But hurry; they're limited addition, so get them while you can. Available at Ethical Superstore. [Steph Powell]
Thinking of tying the knot but don't like the fuss or the waste of big weddings? When I stumbled on this wonderfully clean and simple strapless dress on Adili, it immediately called to mind the sort of wedding that stressed-out brides-to-be dream of: the sort where you just put your stuff in a bag, find a beach somewhere and do the deed at sunset.
If you're one of an increasing number of couples who've actually bypassed the daydream and chosen that route, this could be just the right dress for you. It's not only beautifully light and stylish - a simple version of the empire line dresses making waves on the catwalk just now - it's also ethically made, from 100% organic cotton, under acredited fairtrade conditions. Find it on Adili for £131
What do you wear when it's getting warmer but the rain is never far away? Clouds and bruise-blue seem to be big influences in the eco fashion sphere at the moment, so I've picked out a few of my favourite accessories by top green designers.
Follow the jump for details
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