Happy Earth Day!!

Just a few items from my desk…

Handbag designer Evelina, who prefers to be referred to by only one name, is producing recyclable, non-toxic, organic, cruelty free and made in the USA arm candy. Each handbag epitomizes socially-conscious “eco-luxury”, crafted with monogram-embossed 100% natural rubber, nickel-free zippers, PVC-free eco-polymers, organic cotton fleece lining and recycled crest medallions. Evelina even uses 100% carbon offsetting shipping methods that support new renewal energy projects. The bags cost as much as it’s animal skin counterparts at between $300 and $855. http://veganqueen.com/boutique.html.

Totes offers and eco’brello ($30) with a cover made from 100% PET Plastic Bottles. The frame is 70% recycled materials and the handle is bamboo, the new black in green goods. Totes introduced the eco-friendly umbrellas in nine soft muted colors, including khaki, dusty rose and sage at the same time it introduced a variety pack of sparkle-laden pink, purple, black, gold and fuchsia umbrellas ($20-$50) inspired by pop-singer Rihanna, complete with removable charms and crystal chips. The latter is not described as eco-friendly. So consumers get to vote with their reusable dollars or energy efficient credit cards.

And even the low-priced discount wonder of the modern world, Wal-mart is not offering Earth-friendly fashions. USA’s Branded Apparel Group, Briefly Stated, is preparing to launch its first collection of eco-friendly, organic cotton brand pajamas for juniors just in time for Earth Day, exclusively at Wal-Mart stores nationwide and online. The collection features six popular licenses – Kermit the Frog, Chip n Dale, SpongeBob SquarePants, Tinker Bell, Pebbles, and Thumper – and will retail for around $14.96.