Secondhand Shops Become Popular in Poland

Now that Poland is finding itself richer than before, secondhand shops are gaining in popularity, finds an article in today's New York Times. The young, with a growing environmental consciousness and fatter wallets, are finding that thrift stores are a great place to create a stylish wardrobe while waiting for wages to catch up to those earned in the rest of the EU.

image from tomitex.com.pl

For some, there is still stigma attached - the photographer for the Times article was cursed for taking pictures of some who are ashamed to be seen in the store. One even cursed him as another complained that she would look poor.

Green is In Vogue

So there's no denying that green is in vogue this year.

Maybe it's the economy; going green really does make economic sense. The "green collar" sector looks to be a growing economic cluster, even as the United States faces job loss across sectors. Energy, gas, water and garbage costs are on the rise.

Maybe it's our emerging generation, indoctrinated by elementary school garbage pickup and Nickelodeon Earth Day specials.

Maybe it's Al Gore.

Regardless, green fashion is IN!

Style.com highlights model Josie Maran, who gives green tips. (Aug. 2007)

Delia's has a selection of eco-message tees.

Sephora has launched a natural and organic selection.

Writing for the The New York Observer, Steve Cohen began a green blog February 8.

And, my inexplicable but powerful undying crush on Tom Hanks has only been strengthened by the revelation that he drives a hybrid!