Barn Wedding Chic

How you choose to have your wedding says a lot about you, and thru time, traditions and customs for tying the knot have certainly changed.

At the turn of the last century, outdoor weddings were all of the rage.It made me think about how beautiful an outdoor barn wedding in autumn would be and how eco couture to boot!

• Bridesmaids and groomsman wearing vintage-inspired frocks and suits.
  

• Decorations and refreshments that are whimsical and of course organic.

• A Victoria is sweet and hi fi approved, or perhaps a sweet traveling tambourine and guitar band.

• Cupcake sign to the sweet heart-shaped cutout passage.

• Sunflowers are in season, and you can’t get any better than a big old sunflower can you?

Lastly, a barn.

A Bee Told Me That 'Miracles are Surprises of the Soul'

My favorite Canadian shoe guru John Fluevog announced today that Pennsylvanian artist Hollie Chantile's design submission to their Open Source Program was given the ultimate "John nod." It will be produced as their classic favorite Fluevog Miracle heel.

Hollie's shoe art won Grand Prize in 2001 at the OXO Gallery in Baltimore's juried exhibition. Her paintings merge the natural world complete with carnivorous plants and insects with that of the professional shoe designer. The result is just divinely what Carl Linnaeus might have conjured up.

The strappy heels elevate into delicate swooping curves held steadfast on hand carved wooden last, the new Miracle Hollie is made in a Peruvian factory that has a reputation for outstanding quality and craftsmanship = sustainable for certain. Miracles are the surprises of the soul.


John Fluevog's Open Source Design Contest.

Go Hollie...Can't wait to wear these sweet strappy heels.

Barbie Trades in the Pink Corvette for a Green House

Before Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Lopez, and even Jackie “O”, there was Barbie, arguably the country’s most recognizable Fashion Icon. With her countless number of clothes and large walk-in closets, Barbie quickly became the girl everyone looked to for fashion ideas, even if she was just a 13-inch doll.

As stylish as the blonde bombshell may have been, and still is, Barbie most likely is not a brand that most would first associate with eco-living, (the woman owned how many pink corvettes? Can you say gas guzzler??) however, times have changed and the doll will now reside in a home that will rival the most green buildings in the world.

AIA Architect Barbie® Dream House™ Design Competition, held by Mattel Inc. and the American Institute of Architects (AIA), selected an eco-friendly winning stunning home designed by recent Harvard graduates Ting Li and Maja Paklar.

Decked out with solar panels, operable shading and bamboo flooring, the dream house also comes with a low-flow toilet and sink fixtures, (which in real life could save about 4,000 gallons of water per year) all made from locally sourced materials.

Barbie also gets a 1,500-square-foot entertaining space and open chef’s kitchen, a separate library and client-meeting room, a full-floor “inspiration room,” a greenhouse on the roof, and a landscaped garden for her pets.

Like we needed any more reason to be jealous?

Unfortunately, Mattel has no intentions of transforming this dream house into an actual doll house or real life mansion, but it has been reported that the house would sell for $3.5 million if it were ever built into a real home.

Nonetheless and competitions aside, I can only hope that Mattel can see just how much of an impact a more sustainably-living Barbie would have. I have shared in the past just how important I feel it is for children to begin living an eco conscious lifestyle early, and with this young girl role model, Barbie, taking her first green steps I can only imagine just all of who would follow.

Functionally Sustainable Furniture

Stephen Schultz is an emerging German contemporary furniture designer for the 21st Century. Experimenting in readily available materials including recycled foam, bent steel, domestic concrete, plywood and linoleum, Schultz develops minimalistic and modular pieces that would function equally well in a commercial and residential atmosphere.



The ‘Recycled Chair Couch Sofa System’ is crafted of recycled speckled foam source material and offered in both natural as well as colorful shape options.


Quite a different perspective on the same subject is evident in Schultz’s ‘Comfy Cargo Chair’ which is said to originate from the idea to create a piece of furniture which does not predetermine the surface for the user.

The chair allows the sitter to finish the construction which consists of a bare bones bent steel frame, forming tunnels perfect for tucking pillows, books, blankets and personal items. It seems the idea of “nesting” has not escaped Schultz. Bravo!

For more from the creative eye of Stephen Schultz visit studio-stephenschultz.com

Fresh Fashion: Square Foot for Square Feet

Earlier this year I did a series of post entitled, Fresh Fashion. The idea was to spotlight designs and designers who used their artwork to creatively change the world of fashion. During this time, I loved introducing these works to an audience that may have never been familiar to the designs had they not read it here.

So I decided why stop there. Why not continue to bring light to interesting fashion?

Chipkos, is an eco friendly sandal company based out in LA who protects 100 square feet of the rain forest for each pair of sandals that are bought. Recently the company decided to “step” things up in a big way.

Chipkos is breaking ground by releasing the world’s most expensive flip flop ever. Hand-painted by renowned Los Angeles artist, David Palmer, the collector’s item is priced at $18,000 a pair. On the up side, for each pair that is sold, Chipkos will protect 100,000 square feet of rain forest land.

While I don’t know how many individuals can afford the pricy price tag, the shoes are more targeted toward companies who are interested in making a philanthropic purchase.

I love the concept of this idea and the company in general. Along with its clever design of a more square-ish design as opposed to the round-toe that most flip flops have, the square foot shape symbolizes the square feet of rain forest the company protects.

For anyone interested in purchasing the flip flops, check out the company’s website at www.chipkos.com.

Take A Longer Look into London, Fall 2011

More sneak peeks into what Jonäno has to offer for Fall 2011

Here is my review of the exciting, Fall 2011 Line: Fall 2011 Preview

Children Become Eco-Friendly Eaters

The children may be getting ready to put away the backpacks and say their goodbyes to classmates and teachers, but just before they do, an opportunity has been presented to prepare kids and parents alike for the next school year in a very “green’ way.

In conjunction with their efforts to help increase the awareness of an eco-friendly world to young children, Kid Smart Publishing and Kids Konserve, have joined forces to design an eco-friendly lunch sack in connection to the pro-eco-friendly kids picture book “Jimmy’s Gone Green”.

"We hope Jimmy will encourage families to choose safe, earth-friendly products over those that may be harmful to both the environment and kids," said Monique Harris, spokesperson for KS Publications, Inc., the parent company of Kids Smart Publishing.

The reusable lunch sack, made with 100 percent recycled cotton and printed with vegetable-based inks, is free of BPA, lead and phthalate.

I appreciate the efforts this company is taking to inform and educate children of their responsibility to the earth, even better yet, their way in which doing it brings some fun to the process. I have always stated the importance of starting early in life in order to make any social difference, even if that means a picture book and a lunch bag.

To celebrate the release of the new Jimmy's Gone Green Reusable Lunch Sack, Kids Smart Publishing is giving away 100 FREE lunch sacks to the next 100 people who buy Jimmy's picture book, "Jimmy's Gone Green," at http://www.jimmysgonegreen.com/.

Eco Lovers ONLY Club

Wearing a member’s only jacket can take a total different meaning, now, in the world of eco-living. As opposed to be related to a sports team, the member’s only distinction now represents your way into the new exciting world of online eco retail.

LovingEco, is an invitation-only, social commerce platform, that offers unsurpassed and innovative eco-friendly products at exclusive price points (up to 70% off retail).

The company will offer various sales for a limited-time only to all members to give women the opportunity to shop for organic, fair trade, and eco-friendly products and clothing. The brands and the companies, whose products and fashion will be sold via the online store, will be chosen from co-founders Melinda Moore and Justine Lassoff.

What I love most about this, besides it interesting “members-only” distinction, is how effortlessly the company plans to merge fashion and beauty, which usually exist in the superficial world, and tie it into a mission to involve more women in making eco-conscious decisions.

Even better, 3% of net proceeds from each purchase is donated to the current 'tastemaker charity' to help support a social or environmental cause. Such charities include, Farm Sanctuary, Global Green USA, Stand Up To Cancer, The Environmental Media Association, Village Empowerment and Wholesome Wave.

LovingEco launched its website, www.lovingeco.eco on June 5, 201l, already offering great deals and sales, but before you go remember to sign up as a member, in order to not be left out.

Fresh Fashion Pt. 3: Finger Licking Fashion

Rounding out the top three of the series, is fashion that is closer to home than you may think. In fact most of the fabric, or should I say ingredients, is in your home as you read this.

These featured designs are fashions that serve many purposes and looks like it can be seen on the latest runway show, but can be bought at a local market.

Red Tomatoes

I have been aware of designers creating pieces that were considered edible fashion, or fashion which uses food as its predominant choice for fabric, but this designer and her designs take a very different and dare I say, normal, approach to the idea. And who would have ever thought “normal” would be so unconventional.

Bananas

The designer is Korean artist, Sung Yeonju, who used everything from tomatoes to bread, to design the collection entitled ‘Wearable Foods’.

Bread

What I love most about the designs, is that they can very easily come off as looking like an assignment from a challenge on Project Runway, however they actually look like beautiful, avant-garde pieces that I can see celebrities wearing on a red carpet.

Eggplant

 

As an added bonus, many of the fruits and vegetables that were used were organically grown.

Sung has designed more traditional, wearable fashion, however, it is these designs that make me want to follow her future as she continues to grow as a designer.

Fresh Fashion Pt. 2: Techno Fashion

Like any romantic fairytale, this one is no different. Fashion met technology and technology met fashion. It was love at first sight and the two have been inseparable ever since. This story book romance has come to life in a remarkable way, now that fashion has reached the point where it can harness renewable energy.

California based company, Silvr Lining (Yes, Silvr, not Silver), includes three different brands that incorporate not only high-end fashion, but high-tech as well. Their brand GO Collection, has taken the possibilities of merging fashion and technology to new heights while still designing aesthetically pleasing merchandise.

 The brand designs fashionable organic sportswear made out of animal-friendly ultra-suede with integrated solar power panels that have the capability to charge personal mobile devices. 

 So much for the excuse, “my phone died and I didn’t have anywhere to charge it.” All you need now is a pocket and the sun, who would have ever thought?

Their most recent design is a pair of cargo pants with a pair of built-in photovoltaic panels on two easy-access side pockets. The pants, along with most of the brand, are pretty pricey costing at $920, however, the light weight, stain resistant low-slung drawstring trouser is well before its time so the price tag isn’t as shocking as it may seem.

These designs give everything that is needed for the eco-minded, tech-savvy, fashionista; a target audience that I am unsure as to whether or not had a concrete outlet to turn to in the past.

 I am constantly amazed at how fashion is evolving and the minds that are creating them as well. It really makes me want to sit back and wait to see what they come up with next, and what crazy thing will they do that time…

Fresh Fashion Pt. 1: Birds of a Feather, Walk Together?

*I am beginning a series of blog post, where I will highlight different and new designs/designers. In a time where originality can easily be stiffened by society, let’s look and applaud those who continue to break the mold and reshape it with their designs.*

One of the best things about fashion is the freedom that comes with it. There are no rules to personal style and essentially what you think is “cool” is cool.

I was recently brought to attention of an interesting, complex Israeli shoe designer by the name of Kobi Levi. It’s not so much his designs that are complex; it is his creative, innovative mind that leaves me puzzled.

One of his newest collections is a series where his inspiration comes from a rather peculiar place.

The “Bird Series” is nothing like I have ever seen before, so different, yet so…modern. It immediately made me wonder how no one has ever thought of this before.

Immediately the “Swan” stands out to me. A white pump can be stellar in most cases, however, the detail on the heel, takes a basic and transforms it into something fresh that would look great with another wardrobe staple, a little black dress.

While continuing to look through Levi’s past collections, you will constantly be amazed and see that the best part about his style is that the shoes are actually…practical and can be effortlessly mixed with the everyday girl’s closet.

Looking at his designs, I hope gives some inspiration to others to begin seeking other outlets and ideas when coming up with your next creative piece of art. Go somewhere you have never been, do something you have always wanted to do, or even go back and reassess things you may have brushed off in the past. You will be surprised with what you come up with next, who knows it may be something as close as what lies in your back yard.

Unfortunately for us, as of now, you will are unable to go to a store and pick up his creations. All of his shoes are made to order, so that requires you to “fly” some distance, however anything worth having is worth going to get.

In the meantime, checkout Kobi’s website and continue to be inspired: http://kobilevidesign.blogspot.com/

Eco Pop Up Shop in the Big Apple

One of the newest shopping crazes is the phenomenon of the pop up shop.

Often designers bring one of a kind samples to these short but so sweet events lasting from a couple of hours to sometimes (if we are lucky) as long as a week.


If you are in New York City, be sure to stop by this Thursday, April 14th for an evening of ethically driven flash in Manhattan.

There will be many, many delightful eco fashion and accessories items available for immediate sale for mindful men and women.

Cocktails will be served to attendees and there will even be an eco make up station sponsored by Kroma all natural botanical makeup. If you can't make it, be sure to visit Global Fashion Brand and check out Eco Pop Up Shop Designs online, retailing only the best in eco/ethical fashions.

The event will be held at the Nexus Townhouse (39 West 56th Street, 4th Floor) from 6pm – 9pm. Several eco brands will be on display and for sale including: Ailin, Chak Chel, Moonlight, Vella Mode, Boutique Ethique, Tammam, Elena Garcia, Tompkins Point and Jonano.

Also joining the sustainable roster will be two non-profit collections that are ethical in more ways than one: Care For Kenya and Project Migration. In short, Care For Kenya has partnered with Show Me Your Mumu with proceeds giving back to an impoverished women’s group in Kenya, and Project Migration’s collection will go towards providing clean water and medical supplies in East Africa.

Spearheading this focus on eco, CEO Kerry Bannigan says, “Earth Month is a great time to highlight ethical fashion... to celebrate the brands that practice fair trade but also to remind consumers of the trends and wearable products within sustainable fashion.”

The virtual pop-up store will launch on April 1st at: www.globalfashionbrands.com/earthmonth. The online pop-up store will feature independent ethical brands ranging from ready-to-wear men’s and womenswear to handbags and accessories. Keeping the earth in mind, 10% of all proceeds will go to the Red Cross, giving back to the relief efforts in Japan.

To RSVP for this event: GFB@amp3pr.com
and I will see you there!

Sharing a Bit of Metta and More

Just back from a quick trip to the left coast and wanted to share a little bit of sunshine with you. I was in LA for a runway event to raise money for the Tsunami Relief Fund and had time out to partake in one of my favorite pastimes...chillin' at the beach.


I love the simplicity of life wave-side and the rhythm of the surf, but best of all, I really love to people watch folks that also enjoy my favorite spots. They always are wearing a friendly smile and often some cool eco fashion, too.

Dutch designer Jane Stroink is one such eco designer whose craft can be found at the hippest beaches. Jane makes beach ready recycled blankets for her company, LADAK. I have always wanted to trek through the Ladak region of India and this blanket would make the perfect sleeping mat for that journey on my own bucket list.

LADAK blankets are each unique as they are crafted of recycled sweaters, blankets, jeans and parts of mattresses. They are then ornately decorated with ribbons and rich fabrics.

Each blanket is uniquely handcrafted and machine washable but best of all, 15% of LADAK‘s profits will be donated to an Amsterdam shelter for the homeless.

Jonäno Walks For Japan and More!!

It may be hard to imagine, but what would a pre-teen award show, relief in Japan, and organic fashion have to do with one another??

In most normal circumstances the answer would be nothing, however, in happy news, the unusual mergence has resulted in Jonäno being named the official eco designer for the runaway and event, F.A.M.E Caring with Style “The Art & Spirit of Fashion”.

[Flashback: Jonano at LA Fashion Week for Spring 2011]

The event is brought to you by F.A.M.E Los Angeles and serves the purpose to provide great entertainment, but also as a way to fundraise for the victims of the Tsunami and Earthquake that hit Japan earlier this month.

Jonäno will be presenting their Fall 2011 line, “London”, which was previously highlighted here: http://ecocouture.blogspot.com/2011/02/i-see-london-i-see-fall-2011-fashion.html

The “Fashion Show for Charity” will be held inside the prestigious Hollywood Kodak Complex, immediately following the 2011 Kids Choice Award on this Saturday, April 2, 2011.

Kicking off at 6 PM, the fundraiser will be celebrating life as the festivities will continually entertain, including fashions shows, live DJ’s and performances, celebrities, swag bags and much more.

Here is the official flyer for the event: http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=ei5djqbab&v=001AOTdCtwnZM_Td-xhnEuCgxxGf3uBDf2ckvnZ6xuwDmXjRJXerZZAhwUnBrSezuM8u1EdnzJbUPD2_1RjUTFCMF0HvCZSXeBlzkdG6Kum4J8%3D

The Art of Fashion

Parisian artist, Amylee has found a way to create sustainable fashion by combining fashion and art in her painting and drawing, fashion illustration, and collage.

Brightly colored canvases depict themes of women, film, and portraits, and inspired by vintage fashion with seventies wallpapers and prints.

Mixed media fashion as art combines plastic art pieces with couture.



For an up close and personal Amylee, visit the permanent exhibitions of her work:

• Galerie NEEL - Paris 2, place des Vosges, 75004 Paris

• Galerie NEEL - Cannes 3, rue du Commandant Vidal, 06400 Cannes

Spring Ahead With The Latest Trends

Yesterday marked the first day of spring, so it is about that time to put the heavy coats, hats, and gloves away and opt for something much more appropriate. But before you go and reach for your box labeled “Spring Clothes” keep in mind that this season has taken a slightly different turn and instead you may have to reach for the box that is slightly deeper in your closet because this season has taken a time trip.

The ‘60s and ‘70s have made a comeback as designs looked more to the past for inspiration. From outerwear to shoes, and everything in between, look through your old photos, but be sure to only take the good out of the past because something’s should remain where they were left.

Look for spring jackets with an A-Shape that resemble those of the Mod look in the ‘60s. The design flares away from the hips providing a subtle cover up for anyone still working on their beach body. Pair the outfit with some vintage finds like ladylike watches and large stripped totes.

Give your body a break and slip out of the skinny jeans. Don’t get rid of them for good but simply take the opportunity to easily step into some flare-leg jeans, preferably high-waisted ones. Wear these with some other in style pieces like wedge heels and oversized bangles.

As usual don’t be afraid to add color or even some prints, but don’t be surprised if you see more soft colors and nude pallets. Look for some more low-key colors as opposed to always going for the bright, vibrant options. Let your accessories stand out for you.

Overall, for the next few months take the time to enjoy the comfy look that is in this season. Gone are the body-hugging dresses and six inch heels. But as I always say style is in the eye of the beholder and never let what is “in” for that season dictate your whole style. Trends are merely suggestions and it is up for you to take your own originality and play around with some old faves and new finds.

Basement Paintings - Neil Callander Exhibition Opening at Goose Barnacle in Brooklyn

I love to meet folks that have a similar wanderlust and love for unique yet timeless design. I'm just back from a trip to beautiful Burgos, Spain where I met David Alperin, Founder/Owner of Goose Barnacle, NYC's top rated men's specialty store.

I was impressed by GBs "store as gallery" concept; the curated shop carries Svensson, Sebago and Naked & Famous. GB doubles as an art gallery, whether it be art, clothing or handcrafted jewelry.

The shop will be hosting their Spring art opening to coincide with the seasons new apparel debut. Goose Barnacle debuts next Friday March 18, 2011, “Basement Paintings” by Neil Callander.

Described as a still-life series, “Basement Paintings” reveals objects designed for human intimacy, reflecting years of human contact. The name Goose Barnacle harkens back to Alperin’s Spanish roots, referring to a beloved Northern Spain shellfish delicacy his grandmother served him growing up.