BoomerGirl Diary

Switching to clothes made from organic cotton can be a challenge. Most mall stores still don't carry much, and ordering online can be a hassle if the clothes don't fit and you need to return them.

Still, if you want to make some effort at dressing sustainably, consider two of the least risky - and most affordable - clothing options: underwear, and socks.

Intimate apparel is available in organic cotton, hemp and bamboo. Check your local Wal-Mart or Target for in-store choices. Online, here's what you'll find:

Decent Exposures: organic cotton bras

Gaiam: bras, camisoles, panties

Rawganique: bras, camisoles, panties, men's and women's boxers

Blue Canoe: women's lingerie, men's and women's yogawear

EcoBodyWear: women's "boy shorts," bikini undies, bikini with lace, and bras; men's briefs and boxers

Just for men:

Patagonia: organic cotton boxers

Red Dog Sportswear organic cotton Men's Sport briefs and t-shirts

Cottonfield: organic cotton classic briefs, boxer briefs and boxers

Want even more options? Groovy Green's Sustainable Skivvies web page links to more than a dozen additional brands offering intimate earth-friendly apparel.

Sustainable Socks

Teko Socks: for men and women; fabric comes from wool, corn, recycled polyester and organic cotton

Maggie's Functional Organics: organic cotton and wool crew, dress and hiking socks, plus tights for women, babies and toddlers

EcoBodyWear: organic cotton crew, quarter-length and short-top socks

Compare current prices before you buy; end-of-season or pre-season sales make shifting your spending to eco-products more affordable.

Roses & Chocolates

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, what treats can you send to your loved one that also treat the earth gently?

Flowers:

• If you're giving your gift in person and winter hasn't shut down the growing season, opt for locally grown, native flowers, houseplants or small bushes (like native azaleas)

• Consider a pot of amaryllis, narcissus or tulip bulbs that will bloom over time (dare we say, just like your love?)

• Use Organic Bouquet to send roses, cut flowers, paperwhites, bonsai plants or an "apple tree to be."

Chocolates (The confections below were produced organically and according to Fair Trade principles that give workers a fair wage and don't use kids as child laborers)

• Dagoba

• Endangered Species Organic Chocolate

• Divine Milk Chocolate

• Equal Exchange

• Green & Black's

• Theo