In Imperial China, the emperor was the only one who could wear the color yellow or gold. Today, gold has become the defining color of this rising nation, whether as a symbol of China’s new wealth, prompted by its fast economic development, or the Olympic gold that has attracted so much media scrutiny to that part of the world in the last few years.

With one fifth of the global market share, China is also the world’s top garment producer. For a long time avoiding the “made in China” label was one of the first steps one would take in the journey towards a more ethical wardrobe. However, international pressure, driven partly by the Olympics and the Play Fair 2008 campaign, and the increasing consumer demand for ethically produced fashion is starting to have an impact on the nation’s industry, read about it in China Catches the Flame.

Of course ethical production is a key aspect of sustainability, but what about ecological fabrics? See how some of our favorite eco designers worldwide are using China’s bamboo to create gorgeous fashions that take you from day to night.

But China isn’t all production and no creation, meet visionary designer Ma Ke who’s been wowing the international fashion community with her poetic clothes and holistic vision of sustainable design.

And if you happen to be Shanghai bound in the near future, find refuge and an ethical shopping haven at Nest, China’s first multi-brand sustainable shopping destination!

As always we love to hear your opinion, so leave us your comments…or send us a postcard!