It is fun to be fashionable and to always look your best in front of your peers and other people. There is nothing more exciting than trying out the latest fashion trends and dressing up for casual and special occasions alike. But every fashionista should also establish a sense of social responsibility and make sure that they are not guilty of pollution and animal abuse.

You may not know it but magnificent clothes, shoes, and make-up may have been made at the expense of endangered animals, child labor, and all sorts of environmental abuse. It could also be that your favorite pair of shoes or leather skirt may have been made without proper government approval.

The key of course is awareness. In order to be aware, you must do your research well. You owe it to the environment not just to take whatever the fashion industry tosses at you. Information is readily available to anyone who is interested. The Internet itself is a powerful tool that could help you check out which brands adhere to international standards, which materials are good or bad for the environment, which companies follow the labor code, and all sorts of information.

There is too many information available you may not know how to begin. Start by researching about your favorite brand. News items are most helpful. Do you like leather or fur? Browse the PETA website for guidelines on which materials they deem animal-friendly and which ones are not. Researching about fashion is bound to be an exciting and fascinating activity. The next time you show off a classy outfit, you would be surprised how much more you know about it than its price and the designer's name.

A very effective way of exercising social responsibility with regard to fashion is by patronizing thrift shops. Thrift shops not only save you lots of money, they also offer rare and unique items for way lower prices. The trained thrift shopper easily spots the best bargains for designer clothes and vintage items.

Fur, leather, and wool are some of the materials not highly esteemed by animal rights advocates. The genuine versions are taken from seals, snakes, minks, and other animals, which activists insist may not have been killed mercifully. Thrift stores sometimes offer clothing items made of any of these materials. If you buy them, you could somewhat have a peace of mind that the animal which sacrificed its skin for the clothing piece had been long dead before you came across the piece in the thrift shop.

Enthusiasts ditch faux fur or leather altogether while some settle for fake ones. Unless you are sure that the way the animal was skinned had been humane, skip that leopard print or fur coat you have been eyeing for so long. Doing so may not even put a dent on the designer's profit but it is your way of expressing support for movements that have long been fighting for animal rights.

As for leather, PETA has been promoting alternatives such as those made of PVC and other plastic substances. You do not have to be a fiber or chemical expert to be able to uphold your social responsibility. If you are willing to do your part, a little common sense, organization, and practicality will surely help. Be innovative and resourceful. Take up the challenge of being fashionable and socially responsible.