As a fashion-conscious woman, I dreaded reaching that point in my pregnancy where I could no longer safety-pin my super cute (and super expensive) designer jeans.  I dreaded having to succumb to full-paneled maternity jeans and Coleman-inspired maternity shirts.  Fortunately the demand for chic, mod, and eco-friendly maternity fashions is gaining popularity.

Not to get all granola on you, but the manufacturing processes that result in your favorite pair of jeans may be contributing to our climate crisis.  Consider these facts:

• Cotton is heavily laden with 25% of the world’s pesticides (Organic Trade Association)
• Seven of the top 15 pesticides used on cotton in 2000 in the United States are "possible," "likely," "probable," or "known" human carcinogens  (Environmental Protection Agency)
• Synthetics, like polyester, are difficult to recycle and do not biodegrade (Sierra Club)
• Wool relies on chemicals at every stage of the manufacturing process (Sierra Club, Organic Trade Association)

Realistically, eco-friendly fashion options such as those derived from organic cotton will cost more than conventional fabrics.  If you decide that green is your new black, know that your voice will be heard.  Your choice supports environmentally sustainable practices that make it possible for manufacturers and retailers to offer more organic products.  Opt for healthier air, water and soil…opt for organic.

Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful experiences of a woman’s life.  Looking good goes "mano y mano" with feeling good, so adorn that bump and strut your stuff with these rockin’ eco fashion finds. 

The Find Green is a new, one-stop, online shopping resource for all things green.  With one click you’ll have access to over 300,000 environmentally-friendly products from over 1,200 stores.
Tip:  Refine your search by category to elicit the most pertinent results

Pristine Planet is another shopping resource bringing you eco-alternatives to familiar products.  Shop, browse, compare and review socially responsible, environmentally sustainable companies and products. 
Tip:  Secure substantial savings here. 

Mass maternity chains are jumping on the green bandwagon.  Check out the following eco-friendly fashions at Destination Maternity.

Motherhood Maternity’s stylish organic T’s  are a steal at $11.99.

Mimi Maternity’s chic line includes 100% hemp cargo pants!  Pair them with this 3/4 sleeve tee from Haley K. 

A Pea in the Pod is your top-of-the line indulgence for luxury maternity wear.  Check out these organic jeans from 7 for all mankind and zooey’s ultra comfy fleece pant and coordinating jacket. 

Save 30% on select eco-friendly products from all 3 chains during their Earth Day Sale, going on right now. 

Family-owned business Euphoria Maternity has introduced green fashions from designers Pure T and Schone Maternity to their extensive inventory of maternity wear.  Check out this cool urban tee and these mod, stylish trousers.

 MollyAnna’s bold and sassy line of maternity tees now includes super soft 100% organic supima tees. My favorites?  Birth Control is for Sissies and Body by Baby. 

Style Guru’s beware!  Jessica Scott’s organic maternity line will turn heads. Check out Strapless in Seattle, a uniquely versatile piece that can be worn as a casual skirt by day or  elegant dress by night.  I want baby number two just so I have an excuse to buy these hip gaucho pants! 

What you wear on the outside is just as important as what you consume. By opting for organic, you’ll avoid harmful pesticides and toxic fabric dyes, finishing processes, whitening agents, and fire retardants.