On Oct. 8th, SJ FAM attended the 2nd annual Eco Chic fashion show to benefit Goodwill of Silicon Valley at the Downtown Marriott. From the looks of Helium’s amazingly artistic flyer, this collaborative production sparked my interest. With no expectations, I was excited to see what ensembles were going to be pieced together from Goodwill. If you think about it, Goodwill probably holds some of the most interesting, vintage and most eclectic pieces from all generations, which meant one thing to me, this should be good. On top of this, fashion working into becoming greener? Let’s see it!
There were a few stops to peruse through before entering the main ballroom. Donated wine, jewelry, makeup and even my favorite water, Smart Water, were present to show you their new products or to give you a make over (thank you Christal Clear Cosmetics!). Why not right, you’re at a fashion show?!
On to the highlight of the night, the fashion show. I must say, this particular part of the evening, was beautifully crafted. There were four segments featured: Elegance of Yesteryear (Roaring 20’s, elegant 40’s and 50’s), the Little Black Dress, Eco Street Wear and Eco Evening Wear. The clothes featured were made from recycled garments transformed into ready to wear glamour. I was amazingly pleased by the “couture-like” feel that each piece brought down the runway. Museum quality fashions were borrowed from Goodwill’s collection that included elegant lace skirts and tops, custom fit shawls and hats by Melissa Bolin of Kitty Andres Millinery. I was intoxicated by the intricate details these “yesteryear” pieces exuded, the silhouettes and feminine details that brought out the best of a woman’s features. Think of all the detailed garments from the Victorian and 1920’s flapper era, the custom made jackets and long skirts, the soft pink hues and silks, chiffon and organza, yes ladies, it was beautiful. I can tell from the looks of other women around me, these fashion pieces which were no longer used and donated to GoodWill, all looked like treasure in our eyes.
Now you’re probably wondering, how is this type of fashion green? Not only were pieces from the show made from recycled garments, it also featured pieces made from fashion designers who are green. My new favorite eco chic company, Amour Vert adorned us with beautiful ready to wear dresses that made you want to buy right then there, well for me at least. Not only does this company design beautiful garments, they thoroughly examine the process of natural and organic fabrics to keep chemicals off of your skin and out of the soil. By manufacturing entirely in the USA, Amour Vert strengthens and supports local communities, and at the same time lowers the carbon footprint of their products.
The night ended with three trophies given to local designers for Best Little Black Dress, Best Eco-Street Design and Best Eco-Evening wear. Proceeds from the event will help Goodwill of Silicon Valley to retrain and repurpose people with barriers to employment for a sustainable workforce in our community. Leaving the event, I was thankful to attend, and most importantly, thankful for organizations like these for putting on events to bring people together for the sake of good will.
Enjoy the fashion pics!