Fashion enthusiasts from across the pond are known for their style and seemingly natural ability to look good, which is catered to by the creations of the ever-artful European designers. From January 22^nd to 23^rd the extremely popular fashion trade show Modefabriek is taking place in Amsterdam, and will see flocks of the well-dressed going to scavenge the newest and most cutting edge talents in fashion design. As the largest industry trade show in Northern Europe, the event is featuring an exciting addition with the inclusion of a section dedicated entirely to sustainable fashion called MINT.

“Forward fashion: made with respect for people and our environment, without any concession in style” is the motto of MINT, an initiative of two Dutch sustainable design advocates who are hosting the sustainable fashion brands at Modefabriek.  With a plethora of designers that are delivering their ideas of sustainability in wearable form, MINT is aiming to show how “fashion can be incredible (esthetics) yet credible (ethics)”. Representing a total of 24 fashion brands and 5 lifestyle brands, MINT will be located at the entrance of the exhibition space in order to attract all visitors and prove its standing with the rest of the fashion industry.

After a positive initial reception at Modefabriek’s July 2011 show, this January MINT will continue to demonstrate how sustainable fashion does not have to be excessively expensive,  and can cater to many tastes from innovative to trendy or classic. Brands such as well-rounded People Tree (showcasing designs by Harry Potter star Emma Watson), Monkee Genes (who manufacture the coolest range of bamboo and organic cotton skinny jeans), eclectic and Scandinavian Nurmi Clothing, and Yes to Carrots (whose beauty products are made from organic fruits and veggies) showcase the scope of goods available at Modefabriek’s sustainable arena.

By far the most intelligent and captivating idea is delivered by OAT Shoes  in their “Shoes that Bloom” collection of sneakers. Made from a  combination of hemp, organic cotton, cork and biodegradable plastics,  (most all of which are sourced from Europe) these shoes can be used as  planters that will decompose in your garden within approximately 6  months. Discover more by checking out the MINT line-up and short teaser marketing the event. Stay tuned for more info on what goes down at  Modefabriek!

Images courtesy of Modefabriek, OAT Shoes, Monkee Genes and People Tree.