Sometimes it can be difficult to shop for green clothing. However, it is possible -- even during this economy -- to find reasonably priced green clothing. Here are some tips for buying inexpensive green clothing:

1. Have a shopping plan. The first thing you need to do is have a plan. Are there Web sites that sell green clothing? Do you know of stores in town that sell greener clothing? What is your budget? Make sure that you know your price range. Make a plan that reflects your budget and your shopping route.

2. Look to thrift stores. Interestingly, the greenest clothing is not the stuff made from bamboo or that organic cotton t-shirt. Used clothing is the greenest, because it does not require new processes to create and does not use up additional resources. And, of course, thrift stores represent a dramatic savings. Plan ahead and find out when the store puts out the new merchandise (i.e. new things may be put out every Tuesday morning). You can continue the cycle by donating the clothing you no longer wear to the thrift store and getting a tax advantage.

3. Avoid dry-clean-only clothes. Dry cleaning is a process that uses a great many chemicals and pollutes. When shopping, check the labels and try to avoid dry-clean-only clothes. Because dry-clean-only clothing often costs more, you will find that you are saving money by avoiding these clothes.

4. Look for organic clothing. If you prefer new clothing, look for organic clothes. Clothing made from hemp, bamboo and organic cotton are more environmentally friendly than other materials. However, you may have to pay a little bit more. Try looking online for Web stores that sell organic clothing at a discount.

It is possible to have clothing that is friendly to the earth and that does not cost a great deal. With some time and planning -- and some shopping around -- it is possible to green up your closet without breaking the bank.

It has been said that the best way to ensure that your clothing is green is to not buy new clothing. Even organic cotton takes its toll on the environment. If you can get used clothing, that is actually the greenest way to go since you are not creating demand for additional resources by consuming clothing. But you do not have to go to a thrift store in order to get recycled clothing. You can attend a clothing swap and see all the shirts, dresses, pants and accessories that you can think of.

Clothing Swaps
As the economy starts to take its toll on household budgets, the concept of clothing swaps is becoming popular again. When you go to a swap, you take something you own and trade to someone else. There is usually a low fee for entrance to the swap (often between $15 and $50, depending on what is being traded), and you can trade what you have for whatever others are willing to give you. Clothing swaps work the same way.

You can bring your clothes to the swap and trade an outfit, accessory or separate for another. Often, what has become old and boring to you looks fresh and new to someone else - and vice versa. You can find some new clothing to fill your closet, while at the same time living a more eco-friendly life when it comes to your clothes shopping.

The idea of clothing swaps is starting to take hold in the green movement in clothing, because it promotes the recycling of clothing, rather than the consumption of resources and an output of pollution to create new clothing. And it can be a fun way to meet new people and to socialize. In some cases, clothing swaps have grown to include demonstrations of environmentally friendly beauty and personal care products (including makeovers), as well as access to organic food (including chocolate, cheese and wine).

Green clothing doesn't have to be new, and it doesn't have to be expensive. If you have something to offer, you can get recycled clothing at a swap.

Many expectant mothers start thinking about what kind of life they want for their baby, as well as the type of world the little one will be living in. As a result, it is no surprise that many pregnant women are interested in organic maternity clothing. The green movement in clothing is expanding to expectant mothers, and a range of organic maternity clothing is now being offered.

Organic Maternity Clothing: Comfort and style
Organic maternity clothing -- especially green clothing made from organic cotton -- can be very comfortable for expectant mothers. In many cases, organic cotton breathes well and provides comfort. This is especially important during the summer. Additionally, organic maternity clothing is free of harmful dyes that can irritate the skin. For those with sensitive skin, having an organic option can really help improve comfort as the pregnancy progresses and clothing options become more limited.

Additionally, it is nice to know that you will be protecting your child. While most people believe that harmful chemicals in dyes used on clothing probably will not affect fetal development, many receive peace of mind from knowing that they are not taking any chances. With organic clothing, you do not have to worry about chemical exposure.

It is true that on an environmental note, buying used clothing is best. But it can be difficult to find used maternity clothing in good condition. Many women keep their maternity clothes, looking forward to the next pregnancy. In cases where you have a hard time finding used clothing, organic maternity clothing can be a good, green alternative. Look for clothing made from natural fibers, and clothing that is free of manmade chemicals and dyes. Round Belly is one of the best sites for organic maternity and children's clothing.

Your new child will live in the world you helped create. The choices we make now affect our children and grandchildren. We can take a stand by making lifestyle changes, and organic clothing is just one part of the equation.

One of the trends right now in the green movement in clothing is organic cotton products. Many people think that the "organic" label is a true indicator of environmental friendliness. But is organic cotton really as environmentally friendly as we assume? The answer depends.

The Different Degrees of Environmentally Friendly Cotton
While organic cotton is certainly "greener" than conventionally grown cotton, it is not the most environmentally friendly cotton clothing product. In fact, used clothing is the greenest form of cotton, followed by recycled cotton. Organically grown cotton is only third on the list, just ahead of conventional cotton.

Why is organic cotton third out of the four cotton options?
The answer is in what is needed to grow the cotton. Cotton -- even if organically grown and pesticide free -- requires a great deal of water to grow. Additionally, it is resource intensive, taking many nutrients out of the ground. Essentially, the main different between organic cotton and conventional cotton is the fact that no pesticides are used to protect organic cotton.

Watching for Dyes
Another thing to be aware of is that the lack of regulation means that companies do not have to label whether or not the dyes used on the clothing are organic or "green." A shirt could be made of organic cotton (or partially made of organic cotton), and the company could claim the "organic" label. But that does not account for the type of dye used. In many cases, organic cotton is being colored with conventional chemicals and dyes that may be harmful to the environment.

The bottom line is that there are many companies trying to take advantage of the green movement in clothing. You need to be a discerning shopper and consider your options carefully. And keep in mind that the most environmentally friendly option for clothing -- such as buying your clothes used -- may not be what you first think of.

One of the trends picking up steam in the green clothing movement is the use of organic cotton. Organic cotton provides a more environmentally friendly clothing product, while at the same time increasing your health by decreasing your exposure to the harsh chemicals found in pesticides.

Conventional Cotton vs. Organic Cotton
Conventional cotton is grown using vast amounts of pesticides. Indeed, among crops, cotton is one of the most pesticide-dependent. Organic cotton, on the other hand, is grown naturally, using practices that are earth friendly. Pesticides can cause all sorts of problems. They are toxic, and some people with sensitive skin find that conventional cotton is uncomfortable because of these chemicals. Organic cotton, though, does not have allergens or toxins. (You still have to be wary of dyes, however. Try to find organic cotton products that use natural dyes for color.)

Organic cotton feels soft on the skin, and many companies now make tag-less articles of clothing so that there is no itching or scratching. Additionally, you have the good feeling that comes with knowing that your clothing choices are fairly sustainable.

Clothing Made from Organic Cotton
Several companies, including Faerie's Dance, Butterfly Maidens, Lotus Organics, Nubius Organics, Go Natural Baby and more offer clothing, towels, bathrobes and other products made from organic cotton. For babies, organic cotton is becoming especially popular, since crib sheets, onesies and more can be made from organic cotton -- creating an ideal textile environment for newborns.

It is possible to buy organic cotton jeans, a variety of shirts made from organic cotton, as well as accessories like handbags and organic cotton totes. All of these products are a little more earth friendly. It is true that in some cases participating in the green movement in clothing means that you may have to pay a little more for your clothes. However, prices for organic cotton clothing are coming down as it becomes more popular.