The Soda Bottle's Many Reuses - 3 Fashion Forward Ideas

There's something about summer and soda. Even those of us who avoid soda for the most part seem to indulge at cookouts, backyard barbecues and picnics?even though we know it's not good for us.

Recycling is the obvious conclusion, but if you'd rather find a way to upcycle, there are plenty of options for reusing soda bottles. Here are three DIY projects that are perfect for all the fashionistas and fashion-misters out there.

The Glasses/Bracelet Combo

Futuristic shades can be had in a snap if you have a 2L soda bottle lying around. Chinese designer Suning Chen came up with this concept back in 2005 for Designboom's RE-think + RE-cycle challenge. Using a simple paper template he drew by hand, Chen cut out the glasses shape from a Sprite bottle, then added a little ring so it could also be worn as a bracelet.

The Loopy Necklace

You just need to cut 12 ovals from bottles, punch a hole in each one and string them on a cord or chain to make this funky DIY necklace from craftzine.com. This one boasts different colors and different types of containers, so feel free to think outside the bottle. (The blog post lists a bunch of other DIY projects, too.)

The Cute Coin Purse

Over at Dollar Store Crafts, we found this Pacman-esque coin purse that is sure to turn a few heads. Just lop off the bottom of two 1L soda bottles, sew in a zipper to connect them and you're set. And dare we say it's cute enough to work as a clutch? (Bonus: Coins in a plastic bottle makes for a great noisemaker when you're partying with friends.)

Cara Smusiak writes on behalf of Naturally Savvy.com about how to live a more natural, organic and green lifestyle.