ECO-CHIC BAGS

Eco-chic bags for Earth Day

By Pamela Pekerman
So why all the buzz about not using plastic bags? Not only do they fill landfills and don't decompose, they also drive up oil prices (oil is used to make plastic). But sporting your own eco-chic bag in the check-out line is more fashionable than ever, so we gathered a few styles to inspire change and get the message out.

When a handbag causes the same pandemonium as a rock concert, you know fashion history is being made. Bag designer
Anya Hindmarch's "I'm Not A Plastic Bag" sold out at Whole Foods after it was spotted on A-list and green-friendly celebs.

In true royal form, this unique, diamond-shaped, 100 organic canvas cotton tote tells the world you're one seriously green fashion diva!

Diva Queen Queen Goes Green Tote, $49.99, www.veganqueen.com

Environmental education is key, especially if we want future generations to carry on today's earth-friendly initiatives. A percentage of proceeds from this tote goes to The Green Ambassadors, a high school eco-educational program.

ECOBAGS® Get Hip Get Green, $5.99,
www.ecobags.com

We love a bag that helps us keep non-biodegradable plastic bags off the streets and reminds us what we need to buy on the way home. Plus, the blue, cream and gold color-combo is so stylish.

Rebecca Minkoff Bread and Wine Tote, $185,
www.rebeccaminkoff.com

Simple and to the point, this tote's message relates an obvious truth. Plus, 100 of the proceeds from the sale of this organic cotton bag supports Farm Aid's efforts to promote local, organic, and sustainable farming.

Hayden-Harnett Green is Good Tote, $27, www.haydenharnett.com


If you're looking for a bit more color in your shopper, Ecoist, a brand that made eco bags before it was hip to be green, has fun options crafted from recycled feed and rice bags. Is there nothing we can't reuse?

Ecoist Rice Bag, $45,
www.ecoist.com

Don't just say no to plastic at the grocery or drugstore. With this stylish sack from eco fashion designers Beau Soleil, you can also pass on plastic at the chicest boutiques.

Beau Soiell Beau Bag, $44,
www.shopbeausoleil.com

Promote your favorite political party (or candidate) with Freddy and Ma's "Hilary," "Obama," "Independent," "Republican," or "Democrat" totes, which are made from recycled (we love that!) durable cotton canvas.

Freddy & Ma Tote Bag, $25,
www.freddyandma.com

ECOBAGS has an assortment of recycled canvas totes that will make you smile (and maybe make others blush).

This cheeky bag is from the Green with Envi line, $14.99,
www.ecobags.com

Silver sleek. Matt & Nat's 100 biodegradable shopping bag is a good choice for Mother Earth as well as the fashion gods. To boot, their bags come with an inspirational mantra on the back.

Matt & Nat Enviro Tote, $15,
www.mattandnat.com