You'll certainly get an "oh my!" when this gift is opened. Since this bag is made from a piece of a recycled banner, the vinyl is sturdy and waterproof. That makes it perfect for damp swimsuits, drippy groceries, muddy picnics. It would also make an ideal alternative diaper bag for moms who like to customize their carry-alongs. They'll never have to worry about dirty nappies or sticky fingers around this tote -- just wipe it down or wash it out, and it's good as new!
Like the diaper bag idea, and know someone who's going to need all the basics soon? Make a full gift of it, by adding an organic folded changing pad and some home made baby wipes. Your soon-to-be mom will be set to hit the ground running!
Know someone who whips out the Robot at every night club and has the whole gang in stitches? Or maybe you've got a friend who daydreams of getting her own place and covering it in retro woodsy wallpaper? If so, you've found the perfect audience for these adorable necklaces, made from recycled records by hand in Brooklyn. Super sweet.
What a beautiful color for cold weather! You'll love the vintage floral lining, too. This charming wristlet is made of salvaged cotton corduroy in an eco friendly studio out on Portland. It's the perfect size for tucking into a larger shopping bag, or slinging onto wrists for a night out sampling microbrews. Not the best color for your gift-getter? There are also two hemp version in an earthy olive and a goes-with-everything natural.
So C finally corralled me into posting, and it's fortuitous timing. I just got back from Bonnaroo, everyone's favorite neo hippie organic loving music festival in the hills outside of Nashville, TN, so I have been immersed in sustainable, vintage, and eco minded hipsters (and a smattering of eco-disinterest, but we won't hold that against them).
Firstly, if you haven't ever been to Bonnaroo, it's definitely an experience you can't pass up while it lasts. Standouts, in my opinion, were Pearl Jam (the elder statesmen of grunge who are actually better with age), Gogol Bordello (who's music is like a gypsy punk filibuster you can't stop bouncing to), Robert Plant & Alison Krauss (with blues country soul and the occasional Zep cover), and Yonder Mountain String Band (bringing out the dancing hillbilly bluegrass in everyone). More importantly, Bonnaroo does a fantastic job of monitoring their own environmental impact. They had a bevy of compostable utensils and plates/cups, recycling everywhere, organic clothing on site, and an amazing volunteer staff that cleaned and recycled after every show. Last year alone, they recycled 60% of their waste, and bought carbon credits to offset their energy consumption.
In the midst of all this eco friendly rock and rootsy music, it's easy to forget that I have to look goooooood while rocking out. Fortunately, there are a bevy of music festivals this summer to show off your sustainable duds. Start with the most important piece, the hiply irreverent organic tee shirt with artwork by Karl Addison - llamas never looked so badass. Follow it up with stylish (if expensive) chinos by Loomstate made from 100% organic cotton. Even though it comes in blue, the checked pattern is far more nerdy ironic. The sandals are key for summer wear, so go stylish and hip in the Splaff Mens Recycled Rubber Black Flip Flops, made from recycled car tires. What's more punk than wearing tires on your feet? For the final "I'm a rock icon" touch, don this sustainable, organic fairtrade seagrass Fireball Fedora by Livity. Now you can continue pretending you don't care how you look at every festival this summer.
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Remember that fabulous recycled bikini by Aaron Chang from way back in March? Well, turns out the fabric was such a hit that he released a whole line of recycled bikinis! You can try the psychedelic print for the pool, but I'm daydreaming about spending my next vacation surfing in this wave-screened bikini.
I'm especially psyched that it reverses to black, since I've collected a black-centered mix and match swimming collection over the years. It's a trick I learned from the girls in Hawaii, who never bother wearing matching tops and bottoms. You get to expand your options while never risking a useless orphan swim piece if the elastic goes out in half of your set!
Finally, an eco friendly umbrella at a price point that won't have me terrified to bring it outdoors!
Totes should probably win an award for the many ways they've gone eco in this one product. Not content with a 100% recycled canopy (who knew the umbrella part of the umbrella had a name?), they've also used bamboo for the main handle with 70% recycled plastic hardware, a 70% recycled metal frame, and environmentally friendly packaging. Whew! I guess with that much going on, you'll want to brag with the recycled raindrop logo on the side -- luckily, it's stylish enough that it doesn't cross into greener-than-thou territory.
And thank goodness there are pretty color choices that aren't black! My favorite is the subtle "Leaf Green" color, but the bright blue "Hydrangea" will add some pizzaz overhead no matter what the skies are doing.
A little more love for the red? I can only dream of having somewhere to wear this beautiful dress next week (hint, hint, M!) That slinky red silk is fair trade from Bali, and the sequins are actually recycled leather! Plus running into this dress at Envi was a nice introduction to fair trade company Alchem1st, a wonderful brand I hope will be picked up by some more US shops soon. Until then, you can brave the weak dollar and the expensive shipping and check out Alchem1st at Adili, a UK boutique that's having a big sale and delivers to the US for (wince) about $39.
Omg, these little bags are so cute! I hate having a full sized purse sliding off my shoulder when I'm out drinking or (even worse!) dancing. Little wristlets are the perfect answer, and I love how these are designed as pretty additions to your outfit. Plus, they're made of recycled fabric from thrift shops. Does it get any cooler? If you're not a metallic leather girl (although for night time, I think everyone should be) there are a ton of options in both matte leather and repurposed fabric.
I'll admit it -- if I don't have a chance to see them in person, the couture shows only barely make my radar. In my mind, they're way more art than fashion. But it's true, they do set the tone of things to come, and I noticed two very conistant trends this season: luxurious colors and subdued volume. I'm glad designers are sticking with the volume-on-the-lower-half trend, and relieved that it seems to be done now with super flattering a-line styles (we all know my hatred for last spring's maternity wear.)
Here is an adorable circle skirt that perfectly reflects this new take on volume (as seen in the Valentino show on Style.com.) This adorable skirt can be paired with anything in your wardrobe (though to keep the Valentino vibe, I'd suggest a loose top in a contrasting color), is made in the US with re-purposed yarns, and (for those of you who love multi-purpose clothing) can even double as a funky cape!
p.s. Send me your eco conversion wish list (stuff you love, but wish were more eco friendly) and I'll start looking for green alternatives. CHARTREUSE dot GIRL at GMAIL dot COM!
Ah, vacation... I think I got a little caught up in being off, wouldn't you say? Well, it's time for some new posts for the new year!
Let's talk about thigh high socks for a sec. Sure, they had a recent fashion moment, and if you're under 30, live in NYC and work in a creative field, you might already be wearing them slouchily with loose short skirts. But if you don't fall into that narrow little demographic, I'll let you in on the secret of their real purpose -- keeping you warm without adding bulk.
Under skirts and dresses, they can look just like tights without that saggy crotch thing or that too-high-waistband-making-bulges thing. Under pants, you can cuff them just above the knee and stay warm without feeling like you're adding inches to your thighs. Plus when the weather warms up a bit (or if you live in Boston and are dealing with this global warming heat wave) you can try them slouched and all Erin-Fetherston-y and pretend you really do live in NYC with a fab creative job.
First up, these sleek recycled tree fiber thigh highs from French company G=9.8, which have gotten a lot of attention this season. Sprig praised them first, and Hippyshopper just reminded me of them. These are perfect for work days or under very very tight jeans (although in good conscious, I suppose I should recommend against the later).
Next up are these "regenerated" socks by unknown Love & Socks. I can't find anything about the company, but supposedly these are both eco friendly and ridiculously cheap? Hey, stranger things have happened. Rock these with boots and a knee length skirt for just a strip of fun color.
Finally, a super long pair from fair trade standby American Apparel. Unless you're Amazonian, you'll have to cuff these or slouch them, but that added detail makes them the perfect accent to layer under your girly summer dresses.
p.s. Notice that the American Apparel pair is NOT made of cotton. I went to a really eye opening exhibit at the Museum of Natural History on water usage. I was shocked by how much more water Americans use (we consume 151 gallons per person per day, compared to the UK's 31!) as well as how much water it takes to grow cotton. My resolution this year is to try to pay more attention the water consumption in a product the way we've all learned to be good about carbon consumption. Amusingly enough, polyester is formed by a dehydration reaction that creates water. Figured that would be a good stand by while I try to educate myself on water consumption issues a bit more.
p.p.s. In good consciousness, I also have to point out that AA's founder is going to trial in a sexual harassment suit this week.
9 months out of the year, I'm willing to put up with a little discomfort in the foot region in the name of style. 4" stilettos, wobbly platforms, you name it, I've danced all night in it. But come winter and snow on the ground, I start taking my footwear very, very seriously.
These boots by Patagonia are super cute and contain up to 20% recycled content. But mostly I chose to feature them because I trust that Patagonia made them warm enough and sturdy enough to keep my toes toasty while I'm trekking through icy Boston. There are probably cuter or greener boots out there, but if you get frostbite wearing them, what's the point?
I've found that flat winter boots look fantastic when paired with last season's organic skinny jeans, making them this winter's must have denim. A fair trade tunic sweater keeps drafts from sneaking in, while an organic wool coat plays with proportion and makes bulk (inevitable this time of year) look chic by emphasizing it with big buttons and a big collar. Top everything off with a rakish organic cap in a bright and cheery color, and you're ready to brave whatever winter might throw at you!
These handmade recycled silk earrings are such a riot of color and life! What a perfect way to kick off our last week of green gifts -- eco-friendly luxuries under $25. Plus you know no one's got anything like this in their jewelry box -- these earrings (just like their recipient!) are one of a kind.
Wow, has it been a busy crazy week! I have all these wonderful green gift lazing around in my bookmarks folder that I haven't gotten to share. Luckily, today's just the kind of day to snuggle inside from the storm and catch up on Chartreuse Chic!
My love for Armour Sans Anguish is certainly no secret. This beautiful recycled barrette is a way to add a little AsA to someone's life. It's such a unique accessory that you'll want to save it for a someone who will appreciate it, but trust me -- if you're looking for a gift for a quirky someone, this lovely barrette will not disappoint.
This stunning necklace is made of leather recycled from the cast-offs of an Indonesian shoe factory. It's sure to add a touch of "wow" to anyone's wardrobe.
Now that it's December, I'm finally willing to embrace the fact that the holidays are officially here. We all know what that means... Presents!!
My philosophy on gift giving is simple -- the very best presents are the ones that people secretly lust over but would never be able to justify getting themselves. With all the financial uncertainty this year, I'm especially eying eco-friendly luxuries. The holidays are the perfect time for people to pamper themselves! And giving green luxury doesn't have to break the bank.
This week, I'm going to focus on eco treats that can be had for under $100. Don't worry if that's too rich for your blood -- the next few weeks in December will be devoted to little luxuries that cost even less!
This adorable Laura James recycled charm necklace is just the perfect gift for any holiday. The pretty pattern and delicate chain will add a touch of old-world femininity to any outfit, while the personalized engraving makes this a thoughtful and one of a kind gift. Think outside of the box when choosing your engraving -- names and nicknames are charming, but a well chosen adjective might be even more meaningful.
p.s. I just remembered that I found Laura James via Lucky, and I have to give a shout out to them for including eco friendly options in their holiday gift guide.
I love recycled tire belts for two reasons (besides the obvious "what a brilliant idea for old tires!" thing.) First: They have a totally unique look without being too wild and out there. I've worn mine (in thick basic black from Hempest) to work and didn't get any second looks. Second: They really are durable! My old leather or leather-like belts all developed cracks or kitty bite marks after a year (they were all either H&M or vintage, so maybe things weren't in their favor.) But these tires were built to withstand way more abuse than they're getting around my waist (although I suppose I can't really speak for the abuse anyone else puts their belts through.)
These belts from Zero Per Gallon have the added benefit of fun colors and an absolutely hilarious write-up (which advertises the belts' "SooperDooper-Quik-'N-EZ NoHands Keep-U-Riding Fastening System (SDQNEZNHKURFS)" amongst other benefits.) Seriously, even if all your belt wishes have been met, you should check these belts out for the write-up alone. Sizes are for boys and voluptuous girls, but I'll bet skinny little things could ask designer Jonny5 to throw together a custom size.
p.s. Thanks so much to Fabulously Green and Hippy Shopper for the fantastic reviews this week! If you don't already have these two bookmarked, get over and check them out right now.
I'm always somewhat bemused by newly made clothing that tries to mimic the look and feel of vintage scarves. Sure, the patterns and colors are pretty, but isn't half the point of wearing a vintage scarf to be unique and a little funky? A quirky little print that made you stand out in the dressing room is going to look a little silly if everyone on the street is wearing the same thing (see "fear of patterns" below.)
This Nieves Lavi top is one of the subtler offenders, but I'd still rather chose a one-of-a-kind, hand-made, recycled vintage scarf top from Grey Goat any day! I think the rich colors of this particular top would be sublime for the holidays, but if this version isn't tickling your fancy, check out the myriad of other beautiful choices.
I have a bit of a complicated social agenda for tonight, starting with standing in the rain for an hour or two, and then moving on to a relaxed but not dive-y bar. So what in the world can I wear that will keep me dry and cozy but not leave me looking like a bum off the street once I'm out for a drink?
The first key is rain boots -- I don't play around with the comfort of my toes. I'm always annoyed when I can't find recycled content rain boots. Surely someone must be making them! But until I find that brilliant eco maker, I'll keep my eye on these tough looking Gap wellies, with proceeds donated to the Global Fund. Next, how about a perfect pair of organic wide leg pants. This Serfontaine pair will look cute and trouser-y with the hems rolled, and I'll stay dry and mud-free. Then a sweater that will keep me warm and a something sexy underneath to show off a little skin once I'm in the bar. Preppy organic cotton by Perfectly Imperfect and slinky bamboo by Sworn Virgins should do the trick! Finally, the most important element of all -- a recycled umbrella from Monsoon Vermont that makes both a style and an eco statement. Now I'm ready to go!
I have such a love/hate relationship with the big A. On one hand, I constantly drool over their styling, both in the store and throughout their online catalogs. On the other hand, I get such a kick when a small, sustainable designer makes something Anthropologie-esque, only better!
This dead-on eco conversion was sent to me by Sara Parks over at lovely little eco boutique Equita (who's having Fair Trade month right now). I love the rich colors of this recycled, one-of-a-king Muumuu Heaven skirt (and we all know I love the company.) It's way less stuffy-victorian than the original, yet perfect to add a touch of something special to your next dinner party. Try it with a plain white tee and dressed up flats, and see why "aloha" means both "hello" and "love."
p.s. Can I also point out how adorable it is that not only the skirt is eco converted, but everything else too? The stand is now warm wood, and instead of a boring corporate white background, we get a charming brick room! I'm totally smiling.
Treehugger
the ultimate go-to for all things hip and green
learned to love fashion in NY and sustainability in Berkeley; now I'm busy in Boston trying to find easy ways to keep up the green without giving up the chic.
