Apparel Takes Root

By Lisa McLaughlin

Scientists at the University of Nebraska--Lincoln are developing ways to make textiles from farm leftovers like rice straw, chicken feathers and corn husks. These newfangled fabrics are part of a trend of eco-sustainable synthetic materials. In fact, clothes made from things you might eat are already in stores. Here are a few ways to get some fiber in your fibers.

Bamboo in Your Pants As a crop, bamboo is both flood- and drought-resistant and fast growing. As a fabric, it's naturally antimicrobial, making for soft, nonstinky workout gear. Designer Carol Young uses it to make denim trousers.

Going Coconuts Activewear purveyor GoLite offers recycled polyester shirts reinforced with odor-absorbing carbon from coconut shells. The shirts also provide sun protection and absorb moisture twice as fast as traditional polyester.

High Fashion Toking jokes aside, hemp has been cultivated for fabric since 2800 B.C. and was grown by Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and, in the 1940s, 4-H clubs. The fiber makes durable and breathable clothes.

Beanie Babies Soy textiles are made from the dregs left over from producing soybean oil and tofu. From those humble beginnings come high-end silky tops, dresses and especially soft baby clothes and blankets.

Husky Clothing Ingeo is made from corn, resulting in a fabric that is not only sustainably grown but also biodegradable. It's showing up in hiking socks from Teko and in chic fashions from designers like NaturevsFuture.