Posh Polish

Its like “lip gloss for your nails,” says the creative director Nonie Crème. Jelly, the new line of sheer, glossy nail polishes by Butter London, is perfect for the summer months. True to their name the translucent polishes can be worn as a subtle pop of color or they can be layered for a darker tint. The tangerine, grape, and raspberry colors are bright and refreshing, each labeled with a cute British name like chuffed or twee. The Jelly polishes were designed so that you can chose the intensity or your own nail color. Also, the different colors can be layered over top of one another to create unique summer colors of your own.

What could make these adorable nail polishes even better? All Butter London nail polishes including the new Jelly brad are three-free. You might be wondering, as I was, what three free-means? There are three very toxic chemicals in most nail polish and treatments, Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), Formaldehyde, Toluene. These chemicals are harmful to the environment and the rival of any eco-friendly shopper. Many companies have recently tried to eradicate these chemicals from their polish formulas, some more successfully then others. Luckily, Butter London was one of the first to eliminate these chemicals and perfect their polishes.

Check out the new Jelly polishes as well as there existing line of polishes (which also come in beautiful, trendy colors) at Butter London!

They Call her Leather Girl

In her workshop she'll be humming away while hand working the one of a kind leather cuffs, bags and belts that Kayrene Kelley fashions in her Portland farm studio – all the while french press brewing away in her large country kitchen chock full of dogs of all shapes and sizes.




This setting is heaven on earth for the artist’s creative mind to emerge as evident in Kayrene’s latest creations.



Biker chic and Hippie hot? Why not! Any as Kayrene says, “If its not custom, why do you have it on?”

Kayrene chooses recycled and veggie tanned leather to fashion her lovelies and the the most vivid and beautiful turquoise one can find.

This leather and lace corset is a one of a kind to die for for any eco biker chic lady on the go.


We can't wait to see what is ahead for you Leather Girl!

Tecbor

While I was writing my last blog post about the Tecbor rubber, I became very skeptical of whether this process was truly eco-friendly. I have always been taught that producing rubber and plastic was one of the most harmful processes to the environment. If this technology is really "out there" why isn't being used all the time? So, I decided to do a little bit of research. This is what I found.

Tecbor is a new type of eco-friendly rubber made and produced in the Brazilian Amazon. The eco-friendly process of congealing the rubber without the harmful chemicals was first invented by Professor Floriano Pastore at the University of Brasilia Latex Laboratory. The key ingredient in this new technology is pyroligenous acid which is used to produce the rubber sheets. Before this technology the only way of coagulating the latex material was through acetic acid in combination with a substance derived from wood smoke. Also. this new process cuts the stages of grinding and rinsing, which in the past, used a large amount of water and electricity. The rubber tappers are able to dry the latex panels outside which saves a lot of energy.

Greenpeace, an environmentalist and peace associated organization, has collaborated with 40 rubber tapping families in the Jurua Valley, an extractive reserve in the amazon, to launch The Amazon Tecbor Project sponsored by the University of Brasilia, the National Council of Rubber Tappers, and the National Centre of Traditional Populations. Greenpeace chose this location for the pilot phase of the project because the region faces the threat of large scale logging operations. Greenpeace along with it's collaborators use this project as an example to prove that the rain forests can be economically useful while they're alive. The rubber produced during the first phase of this project was used by Greenpeace to produce completely eco-friendly mouse pads.

Using this process to produce rubber has also helped the small, native rubber tapping communities in the Amazon. The people of these communities have taken the technology and adapted it to their own practices in order to improve the rubber making process. The Brazilian rubber tappers are able to produce the rubber sheets on their own, eliminating the middlemen, which directly helps the residents of these communities.

Despite my initial skepticism, I have been completely converted after doing the research on Tecbor. It's a wonderful new technology that helps us use the rich resources of the rain forest without destroying it. Also, this technology helps the smaller communities rather then the large rubber producing companies. This research has also given me a new appreciation of Flavia Amadeu's rubber bracelets. She has found a way to make this new rubber stylish and fashionable.

Tecbor Tribal

One of the biggest trends to stride the runway this season was the "tribal" concept we so often see during the spring and summer. However, this spring's "tribal" styles had a new, hard-edge. Fierce models looking more like warriors, took on the runways with painted tattoos and armor style jewelry, providing the perfect inspiration for every summer wardrobe.

The perfect way to bring this trend into your wardrobe is with accessories. A chain mail bracelet or a spiky metal ring can be just the right amount of edge with a pretty summer dress. I was on the look-out last week for more accessories like these to toughen up some of my girly looks, when I found just the thing.

As I scanned countless pages on etsy, (with zealous I probably should have been directed towards the rest of my work), I came across an accessories designer that has a very new take on this popular spring trend. Flavia Amadeu, a member of etsy, sells amazing jewelry made from a rubber material produced in the rain forests of Brazil. The unique material, called Tecbor, is an eco-friendly rubber made with a new technology of coagulating the material with out the smoke acid chemicals used in making other rubber products.

Flavia Amadeu makes everything from bracelets to bookmarks with this interesting new eco-friendly material. The pieces I found most interesting were the "zig zag” and "rectangle" bracelets and arm bands. These bracelets are bold and tough with a tribal feel that’s perfect for the the summer trends. Also, because it's made from rubber the jewelry is comfortable and flexible and comes in vibrant summer colors. They would even be the perfect accessory to wear with a bathing suit at the pool or beach.

Check out Flavi Amadeu’s great pieces on etsy and bring the tribal trend into your wardrobe.

Bags With A Past

Like a proud mom, I set my favorite hand bag on the coffee shop counter. As I foraged threw my ole friend for some spare change for a morning joe, the very patient cashier complimented, "What a great vintage find!" Any compliment on a vintage find is usually a great start to my day, which would have been today, if I hadn't purchased my great, slouchy doctors bag last year, brand new. I could almost hear it whimper as I examined its well-loved shape beginning to crack and peal away. My favorite classic bag had become something of an old withering hag. I have never been one to replace an old friend with something new…..unless it is something really fabulous.

With upcycling on my mind from the latest ecoCouture post, I was searching the web for something new when I came across a great accessories line, Hoakon loves Helga. The Canadian designer, Andi Strand claims she’s, "obsessed with anything vintage", from her unique line name inspired by her grandparents to the her vintage-made-new bags. The Hoakon/Helga designer has a background in Fine Arts and Textiles and is also the editor and founder of online magazine, Antler Magazine. The magazine features different designers from all over the world who have the same flair for vintage and eco fashion. Antlermag is full of great editorials with vibrant fashion photography.

At Hoakon/Helga, Strand combines vintage and recycled materials to create chic, “new” eco friendly bags and clutches. For the designer's current collection, she hunts through thrift stores and vintage shops searching for vintage leather jackets that have been tossed aside as the base for her designs. She creates a variety of bags with similar styles and silhouettes; however, because of the nature of her design process, each bag is unique with its own identity. Each jacket has its own details which the designer tries to incorporate into her own bag designs. Strand says that she "strives to achieve a respect for the past and future using sustainable approaches." Each bag is one-of-a-kind with different colors and patterns as well as unique shapes and pocket styles. The bags and clutches range in price from $25 for a simple clutch to $129 for some of the larger more detailed bags.

While many of these eco friendly accessories might not be an option for the vegan customer, they are great for people who are trying to be cautious about their fashion impact on the environment. For those that don’t like the leather, Hoakon/Helga has a selection of bags made from recycled denim and other materials. Pair one of the “Furrow” totes from Hoakon/Helga with the Jonano “Bloom Puzzle” dress and you have a perfect, completely eco-friendly, day to night look.

I’m afraid I may have to give my sweet, old doctor’s bag a rest for a bit in exchange for something that was made to weather my busy days…and when a cashier commends my find I will thank her with a smile.

Runway Trend: Upcycling!

If the eco fashion lines had one thing in common with the rest of the conventional collections strutting runways this spring, it’s that they could be just as outrageous, glamorous, and fabulous as the best of them. Yes, organic and sustainable clothing is breaking through the image of baggy beige pants and “I Heart the Earth” t-shirts, reinventing itself into the multi-layered, far-reaching and diverse aesthetic that is necessary for this once pocketed trend to explode onto the mainstream. From JoAnn Berman’s fierce and feisty upcycled streetwear designs, to Deux FM’s and Gary Harvey’s Hollywood gala gowns, designers have accepted the challenge that is a more sustainable style and are running, waltzing, and breakdancing with it.



One very brightly colored and visable trend to grace the greener runways this season is working with upcycled materials. Dresses composed of copies of the Financial Times, beauty cream sample packages, old laundry bags (laundered themselves, we hope), and knotted souvenier scarves from around the world were transformed into red carpet ready gowns by designer Gary Harvey. Joann Berman took a different take on the trend, stitching everything from old t-shirts to brightly painted football shoulderpads together for an electric look ready for bold rockstars to rock them. Of course one of the great or unfortunate things about these upcylced pieces, is that each is one of a kind, its own unique work of art defined by the limitations of what the dumpster, or bargain bin at the Goodwill, or limits of your creativity, allows as fabric fodder.

Jonäno Lingerie Auction and Fashion Show for the Cure

Pittsburgh's Firehouse Lounge came alive with belly dancers, lady rappers and fine eco fashion and art at the Susan G Komen benefit party for the cure. A cornucopia of local talent, the night raised funds for the Komen Foundation, raised spirits of the survivors and supporters present, and raised glasses all around as part of Couchange's Drink for the Cure event.

Jonäno presented a fashion show showcasing some of the line's favorite classic pieces, such as the Convertible Bandeau Dress, alongside fresh blooming pieces from their 2010 Spring and Summer Collection. With amazing flower nymph inspired hair and makeup by innovative stylist Marta Anyse Napoleone, and a whimsical introduction by newly relocated rapper/storyteller Bamboo, the models helped highlight fashion that not only looks and feels amazing, but contributes to the healthier world we all work towards through Jonäno's sustainable growing practices and innovative textile production.

The show was capped off by an auction of three EcoLux lingerie looks in eye popping shades of raspberry, ocean aqua, and chartreuse, raising additional funds for the Komen Foundation, which works in the realm of breast cancer education, advocacy, and research. A favorite charity of designer Bonnie Siefers, who lost her mother to breast cancer at a young age, Jonäno raises additional money for breast cancer research year round through the sale of their Peace Silk and Linen Scarves available at www.jonano.com

Designer Spotlight: Hafsteinn Juliusson

Milano- It's green, it's fuzzy, it's ALIVE! Up and coming Icelandic designer Hafsteinn Juliusson's living jewelry incorporates growing moss into sleek, streamlined stainless steel rings and necklaces. Described as designed for the metropolitan among us, Juliusson's Growing Jewlery is a self described "experiment in drawing nature toward man, as nature being the presupposition of life."


As a designer with no claimed specific focus,
Juliusson's projects have a common
thread of simple subjects and fun outcomes.

One of my other favorite projects of his, "Ride it to Light", incorporates community, bikes, and light into one underscored ecological message that is both participatory and relevant to the streets of Milan. Head over to http://www.hafsteinnjuliusson.com/ to see more of Juliusson's innovative creations.

The Story of Stuff

Please watch this video...
The Story of Stuff

Earth Day is April 22nd. You can give some love to Mother Earth by changing simple things in your daily routine. Instead of trashing all of the stuff you no longer want take a moment to see if any of it can be recycled. Unplug your cell phone chargers. They use just as much energy dangling from the outlet as they do filling up your battery. Turn off the faucet when you are brushing your teeth. Most importantly educate yourself. Simply knowing the damage you are doing to the earth and yourself will make you think twice about your shampoo, dish detergent, the lettuce you ate for lunch...


Show how much you care this Earth Day and everyday.

Please watch this video
http://www.storyofstuff.com/

Seventh Generation's New Eco Campaign

Seventh Generation, a maker of eco-friendly household products, is promoting a campaign in Washington called "The Million Baby Crawl". The goal of "The Million Baby Crawl" is to demand toxic chemical policy reform from Congress. Since 1976, the Environmental Protection Agency has only required safety testing on 200 of 80,000 products. Seventh Generation allows users to become active via their website and create a "crawler" to simulate a signature on a petition. Seventh Generation claims to have no partisan involvement, and anyone can get involved!

Jonäno merges eco with chic cosmopolitan at NY Fashion Week

Jonäno debuted their first collection in collaboration with award-winning Design Director, Henry N Jackson, at New York Fashion Week this season. Jonäno’s signature eco fabrics and attention to sustainable and ethical practices combined with Mr. Jackson’s eye for sophisticated yet feminine design came together beautifully in a fall collection comprising signature ecoKashmere® knits and viscose from bamboo cocktail dresses, hemp denim and organic cotton herringbone ensembles in a collection that was inspired by the culture rich city of Vienna. M A Orito, Artist and Crafts person designed the jewelry pieces that accompanied the looks on the catwalk. Tones of heather gray mélange combined with mauve and pops of deep red rich indigo, complimenting the neutral palate Fashion Week goers saw at shows across the city.

Mr. Jackson yields from the world of couture and high fashion, dressing celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Halle Berry, and Whoopi Goldberg for the red carpet in his designs. Coming on board with Jonäno as Design Director represents a new project for Jackson, resulting in a ready to wear line that all involved hope will “take green mainstream.”

Orgnx Haircare

I have used many a hair product that claims to be organic yet leaves my hair falling flat. However, on a recent shopping trip I discovered a FANTASTIC organic product that lives up to its eco-claims and works great! Orgnx by LaCoupe is a wonderful organic product that's also afforable (around $5.00 a bottle). LaCoupe believes what you don't put into a product can be as important as what you put into it, so Orgnx is sulfate-free, paraben-free and DEA-free. Orgnx has been salon-tested and approved, and is always cruelty-free. Each Orgnx product focuses on a different hair care challenge common to modern life. There's an Orgnx regimen for every hair type.

Emma Watson Teams With People Tree

Yep, that is Hermione from the Harry Potter movies. All grown up, Emma Watson along with People Tree has developed a fresh new line of fair trade fashion made with 100% certified organic cotton. Using slow fashion, made by hand knitting, hand embroidery and hand weaving in fair trade factories 'Love From Emma' creates livelihoods for disadvantaged people in India, Bangladesh and Nepal. Launching in February 2010 the new line includes jersey t-shirts, dresses, knitwear, woven skirts and pants for both men and women. Also, Emma included hand embroidered bed throws, recycled sweetie paper jewellery, banana fibre slouchy beanies and head scarves. The new line's bohemian style frames the outline for caring what you wear. We are all becoming increasingly aware of the importance of conscious choices. 'Love From Emma' provides an alternative to fast fashion and a huge nod to personal style.

Eco Nail Care

Keeping beautiful nails while maintaining an eco-conscious lifestyle can be tricky. Many nail polishes contain harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients like formaldehyde and smell noxious right when you open the bottle. Zoya nailcare offers a solution! Zoya nail polishes are formaldehyde, toluene, camphor, and DPB free. They're even safe enough to use during pregnancy! Zoya products nourish the nail instead of depleting it of moisture. Zoya has its own line of polish removers that are free from harsh chemicals and are also safe for moms-to-be!

The Green Lifestyle Guide!

How many times have you been going about your normal daily activities and wondered about your effect on the environment? The Green Book by Thomas M. Kostigen is a handy little guide that offers eco-conscious alternatives for everyday activities. Each section is broken down by by categories according to the activity. This book takes a holistic approach to suggesting environmentally sustainable practices regarding the purchases we make, the food we eat, the money we invest, and the vacations we take. The writers of this book present green living in an easy-to-read and easy-to-live format. It CAN be easy to be green.

Fashion Forward: Helping Haiti Relief and Eco Efforts

By now we've all seen the pictures of the destruction caused by this week's massive earthquake in Haiti. While fashion, ethical or otherwise, may be the last thing the mind conjures when faced with images like this, there are a handful of designers, boutiques, and creative houses putting their efforts towards doing what they can to act in solidarity with the relief efforts now underway. So, if you were already planning on purchasing something stylish this weekend, take a look at a few of these platforms for sustainable style that are donating a portion of your purchase towards help for Haiti.

Fashion Philanthropy has just extended their deadline for donating 100% of profits or 50% of revenue (whatever is greater) from purchases at their eco chic site. Donations will go to Hope for Haiti.

Resurrection Vintage is putting 10% of all sale purchases towards the Haiti Emergency Relief Fund from their online site, NY and LA boutiques. The sale takes 70% off vintage finds and lasts through January 31st. Resurrection specializes in vintage and "historic modern" collectible fashion, with many unique pieces for the vintage vixen in us all.

In the same vintage vein: Rice and Beans is donating 10 dollars from every purchase through this January 17th to the Red Cross efforts in Haiti. In the spirit of rebirth, I think this cheery Adrienne Vittadini skirt is fabulous, and at $50 it's not a bad deal.


Soles4Souls has set up collection points for gently used shoe drop-offs all over the US. With all the broken glass, raw sewage, jagged metal and other rubble exposed after an earthquake, a good pair of shoes can make a world of difference. You can donate money online to their cause or click here to find a drop off point for your own shoes in your area.

Of course the most direct way to donate is to give money directly, but be sure to check out one of the charity watchdogs out there to be sure you know what you're contributing to. One of the most popular and credible sites currently is Charity Navigator, which has a wonderful post on things to consider before giving to make the most change with your change.

Any more suggestions to share, please do!

Trends vs Classics

Each season, style aficionados vote with their pens and keyboards on whats hot and whats yesterdays news. While color and silhouette trends are forever changing, the classics never go out of style.

Choosing classics as go to garments for your wardrobe is a sustainable choice, but there is certainly, for me anyway, a desire to have fresh new twists on these classics each season. It gives me the same pleasure to update my classic wardrobe with trend-centric seasonal additions that it gives me to redecorate my space with a shuffle of furniture and some new pillowcases.

Spring 2010 looks allow women to dip into their closet to rework pieces from previous seasons plus invest in some transitional outfits which still reflect new trends.The classic shirt dress, the trench, the biker jacket and are just a few of the styles which continue to top hot trend lists for spring. Boyfriend loose fitting jeans and sweaters offer the opportunity to purchase trendy pieces for 2010 that will work as classic investments for years to come, and the floral prints and watercolor style tie-dye that is so hot on the catwalk will help me add some spice to my classic style.

Key looks for Spring 2010 include:

White

White is the new black, at least according to runway trends hailing from New York to Shanghai. Donning white from head to toe is not always practical, but I find that a seasonal purchase of fresh whites, whether it’s a classic blouse or white washed jeans will never go wrong. Many designers have taken a reality check in terms of transitional colors, in response to consumer demand for classic neutrals that will glide seamlessly from season to season.

Veggie Tanned Leather

The soft leather jacket and either boots from ankle length to mid thigh, leather is hot for Spring (literally), but leather tanned with veggies? (don't laugh...it might be dyed with some), but actually veg-tanning is a process which uses the "tannins" from the leaves and bark of trees (like the oak or chestnut tree). While not a vegan option, veggie tanned offers a choice for those of us who shy away from chemical treated leather...you know the smell. A butter-soft biker jacket has become a wardrobe staple whether 20-something or 50-something. This is one fashion piece well worth the investment.

Lingerie-Inspired Trend

Innerwear as outerwear with lingerie-inspired lacey chemises, tap pants, camis and boyshorts. My sister tuned me in on pairing a sexy cami with jeans and a jeans jacket for date night chic. Thanks sis!

Jumpsuits and Capris

Jumpsuits continue to flourish in everything from sporty with hoods and zips to single-shouldered jumpsuits with sequins to workmanlike denim overalls. I love them with a cropped jackets and baby rib tank.

No more nappy-shaped trousers, last year’s harem pants have morphed into sleeker capri length classic jodphurs that speak to my love of the Gatsby era.

Shorter-than-short Shorts

Sexy hotpants and boyshorts are back, so ladies that daily walk we are doing for head and heart will pay off in spades as we show off our gams.

The Timeless Trench

Fashions love affair with the timeless trench. From fitted to oversize, the top coat is my must have update this season.

New Colors for Spring 2010

Spring wouldn’t be spring without a touch of red, white and blue. Whilst head-to-toe white makes a fashion statement all on it’s own, navy and chili red are all over the runway. Soft neutrals provide a sound color base which can transcend seasons.

Deconstructing Vintage

I have a secret to share with you. I am a closet vintage vixen. Back in the day, I would clad top to toe in fab finds from "op shops" (that short for opportunity shops) so popular in Melbourne, Australia and Stockholm, Sweden where I spent my school days and even small town finds from US vintage stores. I even had not one but two pair of Audrey Hepburn style vintage skinny ski pants. These days my vintage taste has refined specifically to the deconstructing vintage movement. Deconstructed fashion is providing some of the most innovative, sensual and playful looks around. And the growing eco-chic movement is being redefined by designers who love to break the rules. But it also inspires mainstream consumers and fashion-lovers like me to reinterpret our own old clothes. One of my favorite ways to incorporate vintage into the mix is by pairing "something old with something new" as the saying goes. I popped over to the Jak & Jil Blog and saw this pictorial on Catherine Baba.










I love this antique kimono dating from the 1920's to 1950's, paired with skinny pants and what looks to be a Gilligan style cap to keep the rays at bay. Catherine, you are particularly spectacular in vintage with this pop of red!




Vintage kimonos provide a wonderful inspiration for deconstruction.

Check out Glamorwrap for deconstructing vintage kimonos like the one shown below.

Re-purposed from a 1940s kimono, this GlamourWrap is unusual in that the fabric is almost sheer in a lightweight woven silk. The silhouette can be worn in a myriad of ways, transforming from a vest to a dress, from a cape to a belted jacket, and back into a kimono again, and work as wonderfully over jeans as an evening dress.

Best of all, Shrimpton Couture is running their all new ANNUAL event once a year (hence the annual part) to clean out the racks and get the site ready for new stock for the new year. ALL the designers that work with vintage will be taking part and pretty much every vintage item on the site will be marked down. This is NOT a 10% off event - this is a almost every item is 20-60 and even a few are 70% off event!

A New Year, New Resolutions

As 2009 came to a close, have we given enough thought to our impact on the enviroment in the new year? When most people choose to make new year's resolutions, they often opt to work harder, to lose weight, or to manage finances in a more effective manner. Why not choose to improve our eco-conscious efforts? Caring for the environment is one of the few resoultions we can make that has a direct impact on the globe and creates a better world for our planet's future inhabitants. Recycle gift bags given to you with gifts from this holiday season to use next year! Choose to use soy candles instead of parrafin wax candles, which emit harmful chemicals and rely on foreign oil production. Change lightbulbs to more efficient, low wattage models. Begin a carpool or rely less on the car! Small steps equal big changes when more people participate, so share ideas with friends and family. Here's to a happier, healthier planet for 2010!

Reduce. R.E.U.S.E. Recycle

As the resolutions become daily rituals of a new year and a fresh start I have been thinking of more ways to reduce, reuse and recycle. As each day passes I have become increasingly aware of my affect on the earth. While I was cleaning out my closet in a last ditch effort to organize and give to the goodwill I noticed how many pairs of jeans I have.
Let's face it most women's comfort zone rests in denim threads. Jeans have always, and continue to be my favorite. Especially the worn in pair that seem to mold to me like they were designed exclusively for my body. They are comfortable and can be worn with just about anything. However most of them, I am a little ashamed to say, are not environmentally friendly. There is no way I'm giving my lovely hip hugging denim to goodwill. So as I gather the bags on the way to be reused I wonder...Where in the world can I find recycled or environmentally friendly denim jeans? After just a little research I stumbled upon http://www.reusejeans.com/. "Step into a smaller carbon footprint one leg at a time." That is the first thing I saw and there is no arguing with that! These fabulous finds are made from sustainable 80% recycled premiere quality denim. In an effort to help reduce the effects that the fashion and textile industry have on the environment R.E.U.S.E. jeans have discovered a way to take one of the most popular items in anyone's closet and make it coincide with eco-fashion. A belief in a greener lifestyle does not have to stop at the closet door. So, a new item is added to the green resolution list, R.E.U.S.E. jeans! I can still have my favorite denim and feel confident about my green lifestyle choices "one leg at a time."

Sole Power

Tis the season where my boots become my second skin. Between tromping all over the city in my constant attempt to improve my petroleum karma, and a probable bum boot zipper, it pains me to say I've worn through two pairs before even getting through December. Besides looking for a creative re-use for my boots gone bunk, I'm on the hunt for a pair that will walk the walk when it comes to quality, and look darn good doing it. Harder than I thought to find, especially on a budget. However as I do the math, it doesn't take Honors Accounting to figure out that it's going to cost me more to buy three so-so pairs a season verses one quality, timeless pair.

On my search for the perfect boot for life's daily adventures, I came across the California designed and Mexico made (fair trade, of course) Green Bees. Designed from locally sourced materials by the daughters of a decades old shoe manufacturing company, these boots bring together the best in buzz words that will perk up the ears of eco-fashionistas everywhere. Green Bees upcycles old tires into new shoe soles, getting four soles from every one tire otherwise doomed to the dump.

Though these shoes aren't vegan, the leathers used are traditionally processed without any heavy metals or formaldehyde, which for me is a toss up that I am always weighing in my head. My past two boots that I've quickly worn through were man made materials, which means none of the materials involved were made from animals. At the same time, they didn't last or hold up to the elements well at all, which means my materials “boot print” is accounting now for three pairs of boots a season instead of one for (hopefully) several seasons. As anyone rocking a quality vintage pair of leather cowboy boots knows, good leather lasts, and so the energy and resource use of production, transportation, packaging, and all that jazz doesn't need to be expended again with new pair after new pair. I declare this issue hereby open for debate (oh the beauty of the comments box).

Green Bees will also plant a tree for every pair of boots purchased, and you just can't argue with that. The classic design of these boots and beautiful tonal colors will transcend trends while being hip enough for your tucked in skinny jeans or spunky skirt of the season. While I'm still on the prowl for what else the brilliant world of eco-forward footwear could bring, I love the idea of upcycled, fair trade, and too cute to boot!

Green Personal Care

Have you ever thought about how many plastic items you use everyday? After the holidays are over, the trash can is often loaded with wrapping paper, plasticware, and plastic packaging. Many items we use and rely on everyday are plastic (toothbrushes, razors, etc.) and it's often impossible to find alternatives. The Preserve company is taking steps to improve this issue. Preserve makes personal care items, plasticware, and kitchenware from all recycled plastics. Whenever you're done using the products, Preserve provides free shipping so the consumer can send the products back to be recycled again! The products are brightly colored and affordable, and can be found easily at local retailers such as Target and Whole Foods. Preserve is taking the necessary steps to bring recycling to the mainstream consumer in an affordable way.

Green Holiday

The holidays have arrived. The mailbox is filled with glittery greeting cards. The gifts have been purchased and wrapped. Now, it is time for the little details that make holiday get togethers something to remember. And, if you are like me then ambiance is a big deal. Lighting, music, centerpieces,candles and of course your outfit, all play a huge role in creating the perfect environment for catching up with old friends and staying close with relatives. This year make your holiday event environmentally friendly. Use organic items from the backyard like pinecones, herbs and fruit to decorate. If you live in wintry conditions you can order a guilt-free flower centerpiece from organicbouquet.com. Switch to energy efficient LED light bulbs to save on electric. To add some extra ambiance use soy or beeswax candles opposed to traditional candles that emit toxic soot into your home and lungs. I know the pile up of dirty dishes is something everyone dreads. As an alternative visit http://www.worldcentric.org/ for compostable plates, cups, napkins and utensils. Most importantly, the outfit. Show how important green living is with the clothes on your back. Jonano has some beautiful and ethical dresses that are sure to spice up your night. And remember recycle, recycle, recycle...Happy Holidays!

A Gift Worth Giving and Hats off to Humble Heros

Each year at this time I like to meditate and ground myself as we speed into the holidays, and this year, on to a new decade. I take an inventory of the year’s events, achievements and struggles, and spend some time with reflecting on life and the ultimate goal for me, happiness.

Here at eco Couture we like to search out the gems in the world that are mindful in their design choices as they walk this planet. Today I would like to talk about one special person who looks, not to clothe for profit, but instead for inner peace and a profound connection with his brothers and sisters.

I offer Hazzah to Holocaust survivor Henri Landwirth.

Henri knows what it means not to have clothes - to be stripped of dignity and to give up all hope. He founded Dignity U Wear to create real change in the lives of children and adults in need by distributing brand new clothing to them through their not for profit nationwide organization. He has known the struggle of having everything stripped away and the depths of despair and has made it his mission in life to try to restore broken spirits and restores hope, dignity and self-esteem.

With the struggles so many families are facing this year and winter’s cold at our doors, Dignity U Wear is specifically in need of new baby clothes and outerwear to give to those in need this season. Designers who would like to donate new and unworn clothing from their showrooms and stockrooms can contact Dignity U Wear at 888.364.1305.

This year you can contribute to Henry’s mission and shop for your friends and family at the same time through the Dignity U Wear – Jonäno/Sami Baby partnership. For every Sami Baby clothing item you purchase through December 23rd, Sami Baby will donate a brand new item of baby clothes to the good folks at Dignity U Wear.

Sami Baby makes cute, organically grown and ethically sewn baby clothing that’s gift ready. Thanks Henry and thank you all for checking in regularly to see what we here at eco Couture are so passionate about – beauty from the inside out!

Jonano model search is ON!

Jonano is looking for their next eco-fashion-ilicious model!

Jonano Eco Model Search is having an open call December 1st from 3-6pm in Jonano's Riverfront Studio in Steel City turned Green Mecca, Pittsburgh PA (333 East Carson Street on Terminal Way, Second Building on the Left, Floor 5). Contestants should be ready to strut their stuff and share one simple way they bring green to the mainstream! Your response will be premiered on the iFoundJonano YouTube channel.

You don't need to be a size zero to look great in Jonano! The only requirements are to exude natural confidence, be original, and care to learn about the progression of sustainable fashion. No previous modeling experience is required.

Aspiring models should go to "Jonano eco model search" on facebook to post a picture and find out more information. Jonano wants models to be a part of the movement, using the page as a forum to share eco-fashion insight. The winner will receive a handful of Jonano wardrobe must-haves, a photo-shoot and images, local and national exposure, and the potential to come on board with the Jonano team for future paid shoots and projects. Share your passion for eco-fashion and break into the biz in one delicious bite!

Holiday Beauty for the Eco-Maven!

Natural cosmetics can often be hard to find or expensive, but Burt's Bees is aiming to make natural gift giving easy this holiday season. The Burt's Bees company is devoted to making natural care products that are good for you and good for the environment, and they've come out with fabulous natural gifts for the holiday season! Burt's Bees has come out with a cute holiday line of products-with the eco-conscious buyer in mind. Whether you're buying for men or women, Burt's Bees has assembled full-sized products into Holiday packages at reduced prices. Gifts are also organized by buyer budget- consumers can shop for gifts under $20, $15, and $10. Some favorites include the Polka Dot Mani-Pedi kit, which features a full-size coconut foot creme, full-size almond milk hand creme, full-size lemon balm cuticle creme, nail file, travel case, and orange wood cuticle sticks- all for $20.00!

Feed Your Face with Organic Skin Food

Lets talk about how we nourish our faces - face food! We know that what we eat can affect how we look. Is the same also true for our skin? I want to share with all of you my own personal organic skin diet...Dr. Alkaitis!

Dr. Alkaitis, his daughter Trish and I had the pleasure of meeting a couple of years ago and I gave the good doctor a challenge. If he could find products in his toolkit that would not irritate my extremely sensitive skin, I would tell everyone I know and even those I don't about it. Well this is no small challenge as up until that day the only thing I could apply to my most sensitive skin was pure organic aloe vera gel which I kept stored in the refrigerator. Dr Alkaitis assembled a nice meal for my skin and I have been a fan ever since. My skin glows with good health, not only because I eat well, but my skin eats well too...and smelled amazing!

If you are looking for a new skin care line and want to invest in something you know will work for sensitive skin, I can guarantee Dr. Alkaitis will not let you down.

By The Sea Launches Eco Chic Collection in Kauai

Eco chic collection, Jonano, made its Kauai debut this autumn at the popular fashion boutique By the Sea. Mindful Fashionistas came out to shop.

The highly innovative collection combines eco-fabrics like viscose from bamboo, colorgrown cotton, and corn as well as natural details from tagua to coconut. Many of the collection’s signature pieces are multifunctional and versitile like this bandeau convertible dress that can be worn 16 ways, from top to dress to skirt to wrap. Seasonal collections are created from travel inspirations and each story that is brought to life by combining the splendor of natural elements with cultural allusions.

For a unique shopping experience please visit By The Sea, located in Poipu Shopping Village on the sunny South Shore of Kauai.Offering the islands finest resort wear clothing and accessories for men and women. Featuring the Eco Kashmere collection from Jonano. Enjoy the island lifestyle with luxuriously soft bamboo clothing, and look gorgeous doing it!

Heirloom, the 11th Annual New York Fashion and Design Conference

December 3 - 5, 2009

It's that time of the year again, when sustainable design is celebrated in the Big Apple. Thanks to Lisa Koenigsberg, Ph.D., the energy behind Art in Initiatives Annual Fashion Conference,this event has been going strong for 11 years straight. This year's theme, "Heirloom," brings to mind those keepsakes that were passed on in my own family...pretty cameo pin, sweet charm bracelet, vintage wool camping shirt and beaded purse collection from dandier days.




As always, a distinguished panel of fashion and jewelry world insiders and mavericks are panel guests to discuss the many facets of heirloom elements in design. Speakers include Deborah Milner, the designer who created a sensation with Aveda Ecoture collection, Deborah Linquist, designer noted for her high style eco wedding attire like this "Rose" wedding gown, Robin Renzi of Me & Ro jewelry and all the way from across the pond, Penny Walsh, founder of Dyework. The question at hand, "How do we carry on the traditions of the past while meeting contemporary challenges such as the need for conservation of the earth’s resources?"

The ultimate heirloom is the Earth itself, and attention to eco-friendly principles and practices is important to our stewardship of the planet. Concepts of fair trade and eco-consciousness and a focus in not only on design but also on the elements that go into design and the techniques used in creation will be explored.




This conference will be held at The Graduate Center City University of New York (Fifth Ave. between 34th–35th Streets). You can register on-line for this conference, or get more info by contacting Lisa Koenigsburg: lisa.koenigsberg@artinitiatives.com or call 646-485-1952.

See you there!

Celebrating Biodiversity through Fashion and Textiles

Before next day shipping, internet shopping, and tools of mass production, what people of the world wore could read as a map of local ecology and wildlife. Now, as technology and high speed travel allow for fashionistas in all corners of the globe to sport whatever fabrics strike their fancy (for the most part), there is a movement afoot to slow down, localize, and create healthy, place based textiles and garments that are regenerative in nature.

This manifests into a whole new take on the traditional- a fusion of sustainability movements, ethno-botany and traditional craft, this exploration of uses of native plants in dyes and fabrics, as well as indigenous textile process takes cues and hues from the Slow Food movement. Permacouture Institute is one organization pioneering the way for creating ecoliteracy and biodiversity through fashion. Founder Sasha Duerr fuses her experience in textile and garment design with her education in permaculture, resulting in a milieu of educational and ecological opportunities “from seed to studio”. Looking to create a healthy fusion between ecology and culture (I'm feelin those permaculture roots!), the Permacouture Institute's think tank-abilities range from creating curriculum for schools and community gardens to researching and educating designers on natural dyes and creative re-use and recycling of fiber.

One of several of their dynamic programs, Seeds to Sew, encourages seed saving of the dye and textile plants on a global and local level. This ensures the identification and survival of unique fiber fabulous and dye plants while increasing biodiversity. We'll be keeping our eyes on these folks, looking for their next fashion functional dose of ecoliteracy.