We know about the 3 Rs of eco-consciousness: reduce, reuse and recycle. We KNOW style and sustainability aren't mutually exclusive. We also know eco-chic has gone beyond the trend phase, but it's not yet a given. As Summer Rayne Oakes quipped: "One day we'll wake up and green will not be the new black. It will be the new invisible."

STEP (Sustainable Technology Education Project), a student-run initiative at the University of Waterloo advocating sustainable design, technology and lifestyle, says Fashion is now the fourth dimension in eco-responsibility.

To promote its position that the fashion industry must take steps to normalize sustainability (be renewable, leave a light ecological footprint, and be chemical-free), STEP is hosting R4, an eco-friendly evening of fashion and discussion. Working with Telio fabrics, established and emerging local talent including Aime by Monica Mei (pictured above at LG Fashion Week), Thieves by Sonja den Elzen (below), and Carrie Hayes, will showcase eco-chic as a viable haute couture alternative which hopes to become the norm.

Designer Evan Biddell will make an appearance as a judge for the student design competition, along with Kelly Drennan of Fashion Takes Action, and The Style Box's Gail McInnes and Amanda Brugel. Agency Vert, Donna Bishop's green styling agency will make sure everything down to the hair and make-up is eco-friendly. Even what the models walk on will be in keeping with the theme: runway flooring made of salvaged bamboo and side panels fashioned from organic cotton. Enjoy it all while sipping organic beer and wine. The exciting eco event throws down November 20th, 8 pm, at the Atlantis Pavilions by Ontario Place.

Aime photo courtesy Alexander Willink.