Eco -Chic : Neither paper NOR plastic

How many times have you trudged out of the grocery store, cart filled with all your goodies double bagged in plastic? Believe it or not, these plastic shopping bags may become a thing of the past. In line with the "green movement" that's been sweeping our nation, many cities such as San Francisco are prohibiting their use altogether since they are often un-biodegradable. So what's an environment-loving fashionista to do? Jump on the bandwagon and pick up some reusable shopping bags, before you are stuck with those flimsy paper bags at the grocery store. Starting a huge designer trend, Anya Hindmarch created the first (and cheapest) eco-friendly "It" bag, with her now infamous "I'm Not a Plastic Bag," seen on celebrities from Jessica Biel to Scarlett Johansson to model Lily Cole, pictured here. And while there are several designer options to choose from, there are also plenty of more affordable bags that you can use to tote those groceries. Don't limit yourself to just the local market, bring these cute bags around town for any other store-bought purchases, to the gym, beach, or even as a school tote. So go green and nix the addiction to plastic bags. As if you didn't need another excuse to buy another accessory.

Splurge: For a higher quality tote, choose this Nauti Gear grocery tote , $79, made from recycled sailcloth from yachts.
Save: For the eco-conscious readers, this Recycled Market Bag, $30, is made from recycled rice and feed bags from Cambodia. If loud prints is more your "bag" then pick up this Banana Republic floral cotton tote, $20.
Steal: While the real thing is long gone from stores, you can buy these knock-off versions of Anya's famous bag, only $8.99, at A Stupid Bag. This Ecoezi set of ten totes $22, will never let you forget your bags again-they are all inside a wallet you clip onto your key chain. Go retro in these polka dot Fred Flare dotty shoppers, only $6.99.

(editorial by Kristine Reeves)

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posted - beth / 11:47 AM / 01.11.08