Eco-Clothing that "Fits"

I remember the night I met my husband: we were riding in a cab from a friend's party to a bar and over the noise of the ride through the city I told him I was a "fit model"--He said, "a foot model?" (those do exist in case you're wondering), "No", I said, "a FIT model". I don't know if this was what initially intrigued him or made him think I was crazy, or maybe a bit of both--

Anyway, I "fit-modeled" for years before becoming an interior designer and I don't think a lot of people know this job exists. In the late 90's I was taking fashion and industrial design classes at CCA and working part-time for designers and as a fit-model. Essentially, my body measurements were exactly in line with many clothing company's average sizes (I used to be the "8" for Levi's and Dockers, Isda & Co., Babette and a little-known fitness and lifestyle startup called Zosa that was founded by the Zeiglers of Banana Republic fame. Now I am a just a little lighter and the "6" for Athleta and another soon-to-launch cycling line.) My job involves understanding a little bit of pattern-making, some basic logic and experience with what is comfortable and why, and on occasion a little bit of design feedback.

Why I am telling you this is because many people don't understand how fashion and fit make it to the customer in this world of mass-produced goods. I love to see innovation and unique products and I am always checking out the newest sustainable fashion items and latest textiles (I have always been a fabric nut). I love to share my "insider's" take on products that I think are cool and that perhaps you may not know about...whether it be sustainable interiors resources, eco-lifestyle tips or companies and now, some great clothing that you've just got to check out!

By purchasing clothing that is made with sustainable fabrics, you are supporting industries and telling companies that you care about what you wear. For starters, if you're looking for easy organic cotton pieces for these hot summer days, I just love this Athleta"Organic Soul Shine Tank", great for yoga, great for hanging out and as with a lot of Athleta items, built-in support....Check out some of their awesome swim suits and dresses at athleta.com with built in bras for every type and size (thanks to the design team and technicians of Athleta, they must have been yearning for this themselves so decided to make it happen!) Because of Athleta, I am going to get converted to a "skirt-running" gal, versus those ugly leggings I wear!

I am also a big fan of nau:and this 100% recycled poly dress/coat is going to be really cool for transitional weather. This company has a great philosophy and corporate culture going on....they almost didn't weather the economic crisis, but seem to be hanging on now with an infusion of support.

Some of my other favorite lines are loyaleclothing.com, deborahlindquist.com, lindaloudermilk.com and I just found this groovy eco-bikini at niksters.com

You might be asking, what do I do to stay fit and watch my weight so it isn't jumping all over the map when I work as a fit-model? Well, I am a woman and it does fluctuate but listening to my body, drinking lots of water, cutting back on unhealthy carbs and processed foods when I know I've overdone it and YES, exercise! I love dancing, hiking, running, kickboxing, Bikram Yoga and pilates....pick your passion and just do it consistently! Don't forget to belly breathe during your day too, it helps with digestion, stress and allover mental stability!