Photo Credit: Boutique-Ethique

We continue to be fascinated with the fiber opportunities available to eco pioneers.   We’re not sure if it’s because it makes the world smaller or larger, depending on prospective.  The world is full of abundant resources available to anyone willing to take a look with new eyes and a mind for sustainability.   We’re also smitten by the classic fashion from the 30’s and 40’s the designs were feminine, glamorous and elegant.  The women wore simple tailored dresses with hats, gloves and ruby red lipstick the epitome of high-society glamour. 

                                                    The design detail of this nostalgic period befitted a lady with genteel silhouettes, shapes and quality craftsmanship to endure multiple seasons.  Emerging designer Linda Rowe merges these two passions with innovative natural fibers and the fashion of the 40’s in her ethical label Boutique-Ethique.  Celebrating 10 years as a fair trade green clothing company based in the UK, Linda’s Spring/Summer 2009 sustainable collection uses pina cloth.  Pina cloth originated in the Philippines and was commonly used for formal attire by the elite.  The fiber is extracted from the pineapple leaf by hand with a scrapping tool, threaded and hand loomed.  The result is a strong, sheer, luxurious silk-like linen fabric that is a bit stiff and translucent.  It’s naturally renewable, organic and available online.  

This is a collection that is a beautiful delight to the senses and would go perfectly with hot red lipstick.