“Rain, rain go away, come again another day.” I don’t know about you, but this childhood rhyme doesn’t reflect my feelings about spring this year. With this seemingly interminable winter, I’d give anything for (shallow) puddles, warm rain showers, and rolling thunder. The good news: spring-like conditions are imminent. However, before thunderstorms begin to make a regular appearance, it’s a good idea to build up your ensemble with compassionate and eco-friendly rainy day essentials.
To repel water, most conventional rain gear features PVC or Gore-Tex. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a synthetic material has been linked to many serious health problems, including cancer, neurological damage, and birth defects, among others. This is to say nothing of its adverse environmental impact: because it contains so many additives, less than ½ of 1 percent of PVC is recycled. Similarly, Gore-Tex is known to be a serious health and environmental hazard. In fact, raincoats containing this toxic substance won’t ever decompose. Thankfully, there are a growing number of eco-friendly rain gear brands that don’t sacrifice fashion while protecting your health and the environment.
Raincoats:
Step outside in style with this chic black raincoat from PDX Boutique. Made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and fully lined with 100% cotton, you can be kind to Mother Earth in style.
I’m in love with Terra New York’s line of fashionable, PVC-free raincoats. All items are made from solvent-free and biodegradable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).
Boots:
A rainy day ensemble is incomplete without a pair of fashion forward boots. Kamik’s soles are 100% recyclable and liners and linings are made from recycled water bottles.
Roma Boots are awesome. Not only are they eco-friendly, but for every pair of boots purchased, a brand new pair is donated to a child in need.
Umbrellas:
Umbrella’s aren’t simply meant to repel rain; they are an extension of one’s outfit! If you’re in the market for a new umbrella, Brelli has you covered. This company pioneered the world’s first biodynamic umbrella, featuring a bamboo handle and frame. Brelli umbrellas are completely biodegradable in less than five years.
For a more affordable umbrella option, check out Target’s umbrellas, many of which have recycled and handles and shells.
For your pet:
We can’t forget about our furry friends! Take a leisurely walk in the rain with Rain Paw’s eco-friendly dog coat, composed of recycled polyester fabric and Oeko-Tex-certified.
Eco Friendly Dog Raincoat, $30.00<
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Photo: respective brand
