Last weekend I went shopping for a new dress.  Having taken a break from buying clothes for a few years while sharpening my eco-intelligence, I had a reasonable (or so I thought) expectation that my first shopping spree of 2010 would yield some great green finds.  Imagining the perfect garment, I set out for something sewn from organic fiber, preferably “Made in the USA” in an energy efficient factory (or if made elsewhere, then at least by happy, well-paid employees). I wanted a sophisticated silhouette with a timeless design and quality construction – all at an affordable price.  After scouring on foot and online, I’m here to report that this idealized ensemble does not exist, at least not anywhere I've found.   

Thanks to directories like EcoFashionWorld.com, you can find loads of talented designers whose fabulous creations are ethical or sustainable. Still, even in 2010, shopping for eco-friendly fashion is a challenge unless you have a lot of money to spend, an adventurous spirit and/or a taste for the relaxed or unusual styles typically created from eco-conscious designers.