By Melissa Magsaysay

The cliche about “green clothing” is that it’s one step removed from a burlap sack with armholes and a felt appliqué of a peace sign or a tree. There is a lot of that genre out there — especially T-shirts that make their “green” statement by literally being green or brown and splashing a “recycle” icon across the front.

But every day there are more stylish and subtle approaches. We’ve rounded up a sampling of apparel and accessory lines that not only aspire to give back to the Earth or community, but also actually look good while doing it.

The chain store

Banana Republic Heritage Collection: The 45 pieces in this eco line look as good or better than the “regular” offerings and are made from 90% sustainable fabrics and trims, and the pieces — khaki button-down safari-style jackets, leopard-print tank tops and shimmery, champagne-colored cropped cargo pants — work well mixed and matched. Look for the little green elephant on the tag. $19 to $150 at www.bananarepublic.com.

The bags

Ferragamo’s “Eco bag” Collection: The 86-year-old Italian brand uses a metal- and pollutant-free tanning process to treat the skins used for the five-piece collection of totes and handbags. Dying is done using tannins from tree bark. But there’s a drawback: Sometimes it costs to be eco-chic. $1,190 to $1,890 at Salvatore Ferragamo boutique, Beverly Hills.

Banana Republic Heritage top, $89 at www.bananarepublic.com; Ferragamo ECO friendly bag, $1,890 at Ferragamo, Beverly Hills; Hey Lola earrings (part of a set with owl necklace), $54 at www.shopheylola.com.

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