Photo Credit: Raphael Mazzucco; model: Elyse Levesque

Vancouver is on a mission to be one of the greenest cities on earth. Yes, we eat locally and organically and recycling is a must, but how often do we stop to think about what we are wearing? The local warriors in Vancouver’s budding eco scene sure do!

Leading the tribe is Myriam Laroche, the mastermind behind the first Eco Fashion Week, happening in Vancouver from September 27-30, 2010 in conjunction with Aveda, the presenting sponsor of the show.

Runway shows will be held at the new Creekside Community Centre in the Olympic Village, featuring international designers like Lara Miller and Prophetik, in addition to well-known local talent like Nicole Bridger, Nixxi, Kim Cathers, Lav & Kush, Lara Presber, and Margarita Angelatos’ two lines — Red Jade and Peridot Kiss.

The green carpet VIP closing gala will be at Club 560 (560 Seymour Street) on Thursday, September 30 from 9pm-2am and attended by the likes of Nettwork Recording Artist K-OS and the world’s first eco supermodel, Summer Rayne Oakes. Tickets are $30 and available online at www.ecofashion-week.com.

It is more than just some trend that is here today and gone tomorrow. Sustainability has become so en vogue that even top designers like Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs have launched eco-friendly looks.

Vancouver designer Margarita Angelatos creates clothes out of fabrics like hemp, organic cotton, merino wool and jersey for her collection, Red Jade, named after the stone that represents courage.

“I have designed for as long as I can remember,” says Margarita. “I took design in high school. When I was 25 I opened up a bridal boutique and custom designed evening and wedding gowns.” Early in 2009, Red Jade hit stores, providing us with yet another label with beautiful designs made in an environmentally conscious way.

The new collection was inspired by “perfection in the midst of chaos and confusion,” explains Margarita. We love the Neema Dress, Asuka Wrap Dress, Tallulah Blouse, and Dyna Coat.

Red Jade is available in Vancouver at Hum and Tenth and Proper, in Victoria at Not Just Pretty, in Winnipeg at Lucy’s Hidden Closet, and in Alberta at On A Lark. For more details, check out www.wearredjade.com.

Neema Dress by Red Jade

The Asuka Wrap Dress by Red Jade

Tallulah Blouse and Pants by Red Jade