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Eco-minded shoppers come together for a night of shopping at Body Politic

September 2nd, 2010 | Published in Blog

Eco Shops for a Cause at Body Politic

Words and photos by Nadia Chu.

Putting our money where our mouth is: shoppers come together to support eco-fashion boutique Body Politic.

Vancouverites like their fashion to be multi-functional. We want a trench coat to look good, but it also needs to keep us dry in our very wet climate. The scarf that lives around our necks for most of fall, winter, and early spring needs to liven up our outfit but keep the chill air out at the same time. Tanks, t-shirts and sweaters must all be wearable across seasons because of the need to dress in layers. Throw in the desire for sustainable fabrics and local manufacturing, and you have a city of women who want clothes that are fashionable, functional, and sustainable.

Eco Shops for a Cause at Body Politic Ask and you shall receive. In 2008, Nicole Ritchie-Oseen opened her boutique Body Politic, and this charming shop just off Main Street on East 12th Avenue delivers exactly what the style conscious and environmentally minded Vancouver woman is looking for. Last Wednesday, Nicole hosted a lively event dubbed “Eco Shops for a Cause,” where 10% of the proceeds were donated to the David Suzuki Foundation. Friends, bloggers, media, and loyal shoppers filled the small boutique as they mingled and perused the racks. Nicole herself was dressed in a beautiful blue silk printed wrap dress and towering green patent Gucci sandals.

<<< Colette, Body Politic owner Nicole Ritchie-Oseen's aunt, in attendance wearing a Vivienne Westwood dress.

I am happy to report that the days of sustainable clothing resembling shapeless sacks are behind us. At Body Politic, the dresses are feminine and chic, and the separates are versatile and timeless. These are clothes that you want to keep in your wardrobe. Knowing who made your clothes, and how and where they are made changes how you see and experience fashion. Nicole has got this recipe figured out, and it is a straightforward message that anyone can understand: good design + sustainable fabrics + local manufacturing = fashion that is good for the consumer, good for small designers, and better for the environment.

Body Politic now has an online shop, so spread the word to your friends abroad who are interested in clothes and accessories that are stylish and sustainably produced.