MNN - Mother Nature Network

Upcycling out-of-style clothes into new chic outfits is a fast-growing eco-fashion market today — but designer Deborah Lindquist is perhaps the best known for turning unwanted clothes into high-end eco-chic pieces. And earlier this week, Deborah debuted her fall/winter 2009 line — dubbed “Goth Girl Goes to the Country” — at Point de Vue Salon in West Hollywood.

Those familiar with Deborah’s fashions will recognize the vintage cashmere applique sweaters, which this season have taken on goth motifs  — made fanciful. A skull-and-crossbones design, for example, looks pretty cute and girly when appliqued onto a pink cashmere sweater!

Deborah (left, modeling her own designs) established her eco-fashion brand by working with pre-loved materials long before the practice got popular, revisioning and remaking vintage cashmere sweaters and other used fabrics into whimsical, one-of-a-kind pieces. Her fashion line also includes some organic cotton designs, as well as pieces that include hemp, tencel, peace silk, and other eco-friendly materials.

Celebrities like Gwen Stefani and Pink are fans of Deborah’s designs — and I too couldn’t resist trying them on. Below (from left) are environmental journalist Jenn Breckenridge, Angelina Schneider and me, all in Deborah’s clothes.

Each unique handmade designer piece is crafted in Southern California — and carry designer price tags. The bustiers Jenn and I are wearing cost about $700 each; the organic cotton dress on Angelina costs $150.

 

 

The popular vintage cashmere applique sweaters will run you about $350 each, but similarly designed cashmere scarves can be yours for $175!

 

 

Deborah hasn’t gone all goth; her shop has many pretty dresses and skirts made of vintage materials. Deborah also makes green wedding dresses, so if you’re looking for an eco-dress, check out Deborah’s Green Wedding collection online.

 

Due to the economic downturn, Deborah’s unfortunately going to be closing her retail shop/studio in Tolouca Lake and moving to a more affordable spot. But while that storefront will close, Deborah’s designs can be found in stores around the country.