McGregor is quick to point out that Kaight is about eco-fashion with an emphasis on the fashion part. "Fashion is the primary component," she says. "If a designer is making an effort at environmental design, or has it in their mission statement, then that's what matters." Nodding toward a stack of cashmere, she notes that Stewart+Brown works directly with Mongolian herders to produce their cozy sweaters. "For me, that's just as important as just using organic cotton."
Kaight, 83 Orchard Street (between Broome and Grand Streets), 212-680-5630; www.kaightshops.com
Fair trade—and worthy fashion—on Orchard Street is more than its own reward.