Welcome to my second installment of an affordably eco chic holiday. Today I want to focus on decor.  Much debate goes on about how to define a “green” Christmas tree. I mean, it’s a tree for gosh sakes. My parents have done artificial trees for the last decade so they aren’t depleting any forests, but then there are a lot of chemicals that go into manufacturing an artificial tree. I, on the other hand, cannot exist in a world without the smell of pine accompanying my Christmas.  I just got a four foot Noble fir and adore its chubby branches and beautiful pine aroma. The New York Times just ran an article called, “How Green Can a Christmas Tree be?”  I didn’t even know there  were such certifications applied to Christmas trees.  Click on the link to read more : http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/04/garden/04garden.html?ref=garden

Okay, so I already loved www.etsy.com for one of a kind, homemade gifts, accessories, clothing, etc., but these eco friendly stockings are really sweet and you got to love the untraditional holiday colors.

Etsy Catch: rikrak Eco Friendly Felt Holiday Stocking, $18

“The stockings were hung by the chimney with care.”

When they say “with care” they are, of course, referring to environment. (Duh.) Which is why these rikrak felt stockings — handmade from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles — perfectly fit the bill. Plus they’re absolutely adorable. Whether you choose a personalized monogram or just a simple, festive motif, these environmentally-responsible stockings will make a whimsical addition to your holiday.

at etsy.com