Designers modeled eco-chic at green fashion event in Irving

by Louiseza Sanderson of The Assignment Desk, DFW

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Purses and clothing made out of aluminum can lids were just a part of this Earth-friendly cause.

IRVING — Many of us know "fashion" as designer labels and high-dollar price tags. But a few uber-talented designers in Irving proved that fashion can be fun and Earth-friendly at an eco-chic fashion show on Wednesday night hosted by Dallas Greendrinks.

At Elements by Westin hotels in Irving, the designers showed stylish and creative designs that were all "green." Designer Sarah Jones of Status designs explained, "[Being green] starts with people doing it and people supporting it." Jones merges Earth-friendly with hip. Her creations are versatile and provide women with great contemporary silhouettes, no matter what their size. She also said her natural fiber pieces perform double or triple duty. Some of the garments were reversible; others were multifaceted, converting from skirts to shirts or dresses even! For Jones, versatility equates to reduced waste. And that keeps discarded fabric out of landfills.

For milliner Ginger Strand, living green is a conscientious decision that differs from person to person. Strand holds an art degree from SMU has proudly lived green for a long time, but she admits that you cannot be militant about green living if you want others to listen. For her, making hats is a fun way of spreading the message. She uses reclaimed fabrics to make many of the hats and headpieces for her line Millinerium. Her pieces range from elegant to quirky, including a gorgeous pink orchid adorned headband and a military inspired cocktail hat reminiscent of early 20th century fashion.

Next were Walleska Tepping's designs, which definitely gave new meaning to the term "heavy metal." The talented Brazilian-born designer uses the lids from drink cans to construct purses, jewelry, and clothing that can only be described as amazing. She sells her designs under Walleska ecochicc (Ecologically Conscious Organization Celebrating Honoring Inspiring Creative Communities).

The venue -- Elements -- was also a conscious green choice by Dallas Greendrinks. (Go figure!) The extended-stay hotel is LEED certified.

Others at the event included Dada's Candy and Proforma, which provides eco-friendly marketing collateral for businesses. (Of note, the company supplies George Lopez's TV show guests with robes, which are of course organically made.)

The event attracted people from all walks. Some were there as supporters of the designers, while others were definitely there for the love of fashion. One common thread for everyone was supporting and learning more about Dallas Greendrinks' mission for green living. The fashion show was a first for the organization.

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