The Berkeley Beacon

Issue date: 4/5/07 Section: Lifestyle

Eco-friendly fashion at The Hempest on Newbury Street

Whether you're already out saving the planet or if you're just an environmental amateur, it's easy to dress like a responsible citizen. By making a few modifications to your wardrobe and rethinking your laundry routine, you can help save the environment while still looking fashionable.

If you're willing to try new stores or brands that may be more eco-friendly, check out The Hempest, with convenient locations on Newbury Street near Exeter Street and in Harvard Square. The store features a full line of hemp products, from sweaters to shoes to accessories.

The Hempest aims to change misconceptions concerning hemp by offering informational books in the store about the plant and providing statistics and facts on its Web site.

"Everything they make is organic and sweatshop-free," said Lauren Robbins, a junior writing, literature, and publishing major and the president of Earth Emerson. "The fact that they are organic helps the land last longer and keeps pesticides, nitrogen fertilizers, and other awful chemicals out of the land and water."

Although the clothing may be a bit on the expensive side for most students (the average sweater costs about $100), it will last longer than a cotton t-shirt or fleece pullover. Hemp is the strongest vegetable fiber on Earth, and is soft, durable, and machine washable; it's also very thick and warm for those cold Boston winters. The accessories run cheaper, with wallets starting at $5 and shoulder bags starting at $20. The Hempest even sells all-natural socks, belts, and underwear to complete your eco-friendly wardrobe.

"I like shopping at the Hempest because everything is organic," freshman video and media arts major Eric Baker said. "It's much better for the environment than regular fabrics."

To expand your new environmentally conscious closet even further, check out Patagonia on Newbury Street near Massachusetts Avenue. They also sell hemp products, but are known for the 100 percent organic cotton goods for the eco-savvy outdoor enthusiast. Patagonia's website features information on the materials used in each product. Most wool products are chlorine-free and slow-rinsed for minimal shrinkage, and they also offer organic wool garments. All polyester products are recycled or recyclable, and you can also send the company old clothing to be used in new garments.

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