Cork is harvested from cork oak forests for uses such as wine stoppers, flooring and now for use in clothing. Cork is the “new black” in fashion and an environmentally responsible alternative to leather. Used in fashion, the natural appearance of cork produces a beautiful blond material. The use of natural dyes broadens cork’s appeal and is now gaining popularity in handbags, luggage, umbrellas and yes, clothing!

Green activists are coming out to express their appreciation for an eco-friendly alternative to leather that is available without the destruction of animals, trees and forests. Sustainable cork harvesting begins when the trees reach 25 to 35 years of age. Cork is found in the bark of the cork oak tree and is gently peeled away from the tree. By only removing some of the bark, the tree retains its natural defenses.

Portuguese based, Pelcor only uses skilled manual labor in fair trade environments to protect the tree and the Portugal Cork Workers Union members. A single tree can be harvested every nine years once mature, and the cork oak’s natural lifespan is about 150 years.

No chemical herbicides, irrigation or fertilizers are used and the planting of cork oak trees in southern Portugal reduces soil erosion and provides a livelihood for local populations. As one of the most under utilized resources, this newer use of cork in apparel and accessories has begun to compete on the elegant fashion runways around the world.

Cork is no longer only found on the sole of your shoes, on an office wall to hold push-pins and memos or even in champagne bottles. This eco-friendly material is lightweight, textural, and remarkably durable. Pelcor products carry a one year warranty and are easy to keep clean. Ecologically smart, their briefcases, hats, belts and umbrellas are surprisingly affordable.

I stopped by Nature’s Cork in Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, to learn more and soon realized the owners, Randy and Mike, felt a deep passion for organic, eco-friendly and fair trade products. Their cozy store located at 15 South 4th Street has an impressive inventory. They also carry merchandise from Ten Thousand Villages, one of the world’s oldest fair trade organizations. Working with over 130 artisan groups in nearly 40 countries to bring you jewelry, home decor, gifts and other items that you know are socially responsible products. With the approaching holidays, they have stocked over 300 items priced at $25.00 or less. Many are handcrafted and unique.

Another green conscience element of Nature’s Cork is the bamboo clothing. Incredibly soft, these bamboo fibers are made into towels, apparel and baby clothing that you must stop by and feel for yourself. While you are there, take a look at the bamboo umbrella. This is a perfect gift for that man or woman on your holiday shopping list that already has everything.

I was surprised by the variety of cork flooring and wall coverings on display at Nature’s Cork. Most orders arrive in only three days, and are perfect for your music room, children’s play rooms and kitchens. Your selection here is much broader than you will find at one of the mass merchandisers out in Yulee.

Nature’s Cork is located at 15 South 4th Street in historic Fernandina Beach, Florida.