By Bonny Osterhage

You wouldn’t dream of covering up that “green” bikini with an oversized t-shirt, and your recycled rubber flip-flops are eco stylish and chic. So, why are you still toting last year’s bag? Your eco friendly beach bag, like your purse, is an extension of your look and should be fashionable, as well as functional. These totes have both those qualities, and more, in the bag!

JADEtribe Seminyak Sac Beach Bag

This bag is pure eco boho chic! Made entirely of hand woven, organically dyed materials, it also features multicolored wooden beads down the sides and wood beaded tassels at the bottom corners. Love the knotted double rope handles! Shown in purple — also comes in blue and black. ON SALE FOR $71.40 (normally $102) at www.shopbop.com.

Yala® Mandala Tote

This cool and funky bag is perfect for a day at the beach, the gym, or the market. Made from organic cotton, the bright and happy design has multiple exterior pockets for stowing your essentials. Available in two colors (shown in marigold), it’s an economical $46 at www.wearthearth.com.

Click the Apricot to Receive 10% Off with your White Apricot Exclusive Offer! That makes it $41.40!

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By Bonny Osterhage

What’s in your green beach bag this summer? If it’s not filled with eco friendly beach gear, then you are missing the boat! From organic cotton towels to bamboo beach chairs, we’ve uncovered must have beach treasures to ensure that the only footprint you leave is in the sand.

Helen Kaminski Organic Cotton and Raffia Rocio Hat

Cowboy hats and baseball caps are so passé! It’s all about Fedoras, baby, and now you can sport this trendy look beachside with Helen Kaminski’s hip organic cotton hat with its versatile raffia brim. Aside from being super stylish, it’s UPF 50+ rating will keep you safe from the sun’s harmful rays. Shown in Sesame/Natural; also comes in Cayenne/Natural. $135 at www.hats.com.

Merimekko Unikko Organic Cotton Beach Towels

You won’t have to worry about finding your towel amid the sea of those on the beach! The cheery shades of pink and red or turquoise and lime in this abstract “poppy” design are so cheerful and easy to spot. Made from soft, absorbent organic cotton, you’ll be stylishly warm and dry. $85 at www.crateandbarrel.com.

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By Bonny Osterhage

When I first took the plunge and covered eco friendly swimwear for White Apricot three or four years ago, I had to dive pretty deep to find suits that were sustainable, fashionable, and that held up to sun, swim and surf. But times, they are a changin’, and, year-by-year, swimwear has become more submerged in the eco friendly waters. Now, in 2011, I am amazed at all the eco friendly suits that have washed up! In fact, sexy styles, beautiful colors and interesting fabrications and techniques are making such a splash, I had trouble narrowing down the list to just five! Narrowing it down to one (or two) — well that depends on what suits you!

Vitamin A Eco Nomad

What’s black and white and green all over? YOU in this tribal print swimsuit from Vitamin A’s new “green bikini” collection, made primarily from recycled nylon, with a little spandex thrown in for shape. We love the halter style top for its coverage and support, and the sexy keyhole cutout gives a feminine touch to the boy short. A portion of all green bikini proceeds go to Heal the Bay environmental organization so suit up! Top and bottom sold separately — $90 each at www.instyleswimwear.com. To see the entire collection, go to www.vitaminaswim.com.

Karla Colletto Animal V-Neck Tank

Sensual, flattering and elegant, this is the LBD of swimwear. Look closely and you will see the subtle tone on tone animal print swirling around for a super slimming effect. Although the fabric is a blend of nylon and lycra for a great fit, the company that makes the material uses a highly sophisticated, environmentally friendly manufacturing process, called the Sensitive® Eco System. $195 at www.junoandjove.com. While you’re there, check out all the other beautiful styles too!

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