Sunday 10th January saw the launch of The Observer Ethical Awards, in association with Ecover. Now in their fifth year the awards pay tribute to the great and the green.

If you have an ethical, innovative fashion label or fashion project this could be your chance to shine, as the awards pay tribute to ethical fashion in the Ethical Fashion and Accessories category sponsored by Marie Claire.

Until recently, Green Fashion was seen to have a bit of an image problem. Few fashioistas wanted to wear ecofashion, as it was deemed to be unflattering and unappealing, and was best left to eco-warriors and Hippies. Fast forward a few years and people are now beginning to realise the importance of us all becoming Green with our fashion. There has been a definite change in attitudes to ethical fashion over the past few years, it has become cool, with the likes of Vogue and the fashion weeks devoting time and space to green/ethical clothing.

With ethical fashion in boom and creativity at a high, the Observer’s Ethical Fashion and Accessories category celebrates the strengths within this industry. ‘We want entrants to move away from the stereotypes associated with ethical fashion and to submit their new and innovative fashion ideas’ Lucy Siegle, Ethical Living Correspondent, The Observer and chair of the judging panel said, ‘It has never been more important to stand up and take positive action. The new decade is about individuals, communities and businesses fighting for environmental and social justice. There are some fantastic ethical champions in the UK and we can’t wait to hear from them.’

Are you a designer, fashion house or retailer who has demonstrated a real commitment to sustainable fashion? Do your ethical ideals extend from the catwalk to your supply chain? Or do you simply just love your local or high street ethical brand? If so simply enter into the category. Last year, People Tree were honored with this prestigious award – who will be this year's winners? To enter yourself our your favourite ethical fashion label or retailer, vote or for further information visit: www.observer.co.uk/ethicalawards In addition to this you can find out more about the awards in the Observer Magazine on Sunday 24th January.

This year the awards are set to welcome the likes of Colin Firth; Ben Fogle, TV presenter; Iwan Thomas, Olympic athlete; Bonnie Wright, actress; Rick Edwards, T4 presenter; Sue Perkins, comedian and presenter; Ben Okri, poet and novelist; Deborah Meaden, businesswoman and Dragons Den star; Kate Humble, TV presenter and Jo Wood, Jo Wood Organics, to the judging panel. The judges will vote on the seven remaining categories and work towards the final prestigious winners.

The deadline for entries is the 12 March 2010 and the winners will be announced at a ceremony in London later in the year.

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