Kdon; photo credit: Kris Krug (staticphotography.com)

Over the years eco fashion has carried the brunt of untrue stigmatisms, unfair associations, and ridden the wave of misconception that sustainability automatically means sacrificing style.

And while everyone has different opinions on the idea of using organic fabric or recycled textiles, one thing we can all agree on is that every day people are polluting our landfills. Each year, we produce about 16 kilograms of waste per person. That’s more than 35,000 tonnes of rubbish in Metro Vancouver alone – an issue that clearly affects all of us.

Taking the catwalk at Eco Fashion Week Vancouver on September 28, 2010 were a trio of Canadian designers, Nixxi, Lav & Kush, and Kdon. This was day one.

Nixxi

Salt Spring Island designer Jada-lee Watson delivered a fresh look with dresses, airy linens, and ultra mod illustrations of Helmet Girl.

Lav & Kush

Lav & Kush`s spring collection, designed by Angela Saxena, epitomizes the ultimate flirty femme with sweet dresses paired with chunky accessories.

Kdon

Beautiful, creative freedom exudes from Kdon, a collection made from reconstructed materials, by warrior woman, Kim Cathers. Walking to the sounds of tribal drums, the models floated in a sea of layers, textures, and draped fabrics that was oh-so-lovely and artistic.

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.