Hemp Clothing Is No Longer For Hippies
Hemp was, at one time, the quintessential hippie clothing. However, with new attitudes about this controversial fiber, hemp clothing is becoming more fashionable.
A Few Facts About Hemp (Courtesy of naihc.org)
- Hemp is one of the oldest cultivated fibers in the world. For nearly 12,000 years, hemp has been grown for textiles, paper and food. The American colonies were required to grow hemp due to its importance for making sails and rope. However, unfortunately, in the United States, farming hemp has been banned since the 1950s.
- The Declaration of Independence was drafted on paper made from hemp.
- Hemp is an ideal fiber for making paper. Hemp paper lasts very long and doesn't yellow with age.
- Hemp fibers are long, strong, very absorbent, and mildew-resistant. Fabrics made from hemp block more UV rays than other fabrics.
- Although hemp and marijuana plants are both classified as Cannabis sativa, hemp is bred to maximize fiber and marijuana is bred for its THC (the ingredient that makes pot, pot). You cannot get high from hemp. However, the government doesn't make the distinction between hemp and marijuana, and therefore, it has taken steps to eradicate hemp in the mistaken belief they are helping to stop drug abuse.
- Hemp requires little to no pesticides, very little water, and helps prevent soil erosion.
If It's Good Enough For the Declaration Of Independence, It's Good Enough For You
Despite the ever-growing list of amazing characteristics of hemp, including sustainability, durability, and versatility, fashionable hemp clothing is fairly difficult to find. The hippie mainstays of loose linen-weight hemp pants, tops and muumuus are mostly what you'll find. However, a handful of eco-friendly fashion designers are including this miracle fiber in their designs, albeit blended with silk, cotton or tencel.
Hemp Denim
Hemp makes the ideal denim. It is durable, lightweight, and mildew resistant. Historically, hemp was used to make canvas sails--the supposed fabric Levi Strauss used to make his famous pants.
If hemp didn't have such a negative association to marijuana, it would probably replace cotton denim in a heartbeat. Especially since hemp is easier to grow, requires no pesticides and doesn't require harsh chemicals to manufacture.
A few companies offer hemp denim clothing. Patagonia makes hemp-blend pants that, despite Patagonia's association to outdoorsy fashion, are eco-fabulous.
Hemp + Silk + Cotton = HEAVEN
Many designers combine hemp with silk, cotton or tencel. The result is a luxurious fabric that is easy to care for but looks like a million dollars. Designers like Stewart + Brown, EcoSkin, and Sublet offer gorgeous styles with hemp blended fabrics that look so good you'll be tempted to roll them up and smoke 'em.
Take a peek at Nimli or The Green Loop for the latest hemp blend fashions.
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