Can you imagine anything more luxurious than breakfast in bed on this lovely bamboo tray? I've discovered that it doesn't take fancy equipment to dine safely off soft spots, just a stable surface like this tray. Throw on a hot cup of fair trade coffee and a steaming plate of farm fresh eggs and you've got the ultimate holiday morning indulgence.
Bamboo Countertop Tray & Canisters $44 from $89. Also available in a festive red. Perfect for homebodies whose favorite Sunday mornings are spent curled up inside.
Wow! December already? This year, it's chic to be cheap (was it ever not?) so the gift guide's starting with a week of fabulous eco finds under $50. After that, we'll have a week of little gems under $25, and after that... well, you'll just have to check in to see!
I love giving statement jewelry as a gift -- it's fun to chose, fun to receive, and you know it will always be remembered. This gorgeous cuff is made from sustainable wood then carefully plated with silver. It's exactly the kind of piece that will get you a "Wow!" when the wrapping is pulled off.
Betty B Nina Cuff $34 from $48. Perfect for urban hippies with a penchant for the dramatic.
I'll admit -- that vintage Hermes that Angelina Jolie wore to cover up her baby bump at the SAG awards was not my favorite look for her. The ombre was pretty, but too much volume in all the wrong places (I suppose that was the point.) So it was fun to stumble across an echo of that dress in Larsen Gray's artsy column gown in bamboo and organic cotton.
I much prefer the Larsen Gray's sleek silhouette, with just a single pleat to convey the message of volume. Make sure you check out the detail shots. What looks like ombre from far off is actually a gorgeous scribble pattern that seems randomly drawn across the silk. Almost like those doodles in your page margin during a boring high school english class, only utterly prettier. If you've got somewhere to be dazzling over the holidays, I think you've found your gown.
Girls always want to look good. That's a no brainer. But admit it -- there are also those occasions, those less-than-special-occasions, where we don't just want to look good -- we need to look better than we ever have before. I'm talking awkward high school reunions, lunch with the "friend" who snagged your promotion, or, worst of all, the wedding of an ex... those times when you need to be absolutely certain that you can walk into a room and be "that girl" who looks effortlessly amazing.
First off, let me say I hope you can avoid as many of these events as possible. But if not? Wear this dress.
Your waist will look miniscule, your curves will look Dita-esque, and with a pretty pair of flats and your hands casually hanging out of the pockets, you'll look like it never occurred to you that seeing you ex-crush, ex-friend, ex-whatever might be awkward. Sure, it might be a little petty to get your revenge by looking that much better than anyone around you. But oh, it will feel so good.
Yes, I'm still in the mood for yellow. Maybe it was this weekend's inspirational slideshow by the Times' Bill Cunningham (the original sartorialist?) But doesn't these women's outdoor lunch date seem even more delightful because of that bright yellow jacket?
Get the look (but eco-friendly!) with this adorably cape-like jacket (so french!) made with 70% bamboo and 25% organic cotton (ooh la la!)
Confession: I can't wear yellow. Nothing against the color, but I'm half Chinese and, well... it just doesn't work. But I really don't want to be neglecting all you lucky folks out there who look fab in sunny shades (especially since they're ideal this season.) So, it's time for some pretty, yellow, eco friendly clothing!
Gina Michele is a new designer to me, with a tiny but adorable eco-collection of bamboo dresses. All four are available at Couture Candy, but this pretty yellow dress is my fav. I love the navy accents and the emphasis on the waist, plus the flirty sleeves and length can't be beat. You could pair this with a blazer and brown boots for the office, chunky platform heels and hair down for a date, or even over your teenie bikini with flip flops at the beach.
p.s. More of a jeans kind of girl? Make sure you vote to the left on your favorite types of jeans. We've got a bit of a competition going on between sultry skinnies and stalwart bootcuts right now -- make sure you weight in!
Did this sale pop up at the perfect time, or what? Things might still be a bit chilly here in Boston, but the sun is staying out later and brighter like it knows I'm ready for a little more heat.
You can turn up the temperature in this flirty little number from Passenger Pidgeon. Wouldn't it look cute with some tights or thigh highs? You know me, I'm a sucker for bright legs -- pick purple or maroon to spice things up!
Ready for a different spring break adventure this week? Costa Rica, anyone? Belize? Have I got the perfect eco friendly packing list for you!
The first order of business, of course, is being comfy without looking sloppy for your long plane ride. The loose organic dress will keep you relaxed but styling, while these fabulous and flowing organic jersey pants look like slacks but will feel like sweats. The great bamboo sweater/shawl is the perfect flexible extra layer for air-conditioned layovers (I have a sweater this shape, and it is FABulous.)
What's great about this plane outfit is how well it mixes in with the other fun eco pieces on this packing list. Throw on the stunning recycled bikini as soon as you land, then use the orange organic dress as a coverup. Head for early morning hikes in the organic jersey pants paired with a fun organic tee and afternoon kayaking in the bikini and the durable hemp shorts. At night, dress up the orange dress with the green sweater/shawl for beers under the stars. The sneakers here do double duty -- sporty by day, but with a collapsable heel that converts them to fun slides at night. Plus since everything on the list does double duty on your trip, you'll be packing light into the fun little duffle.
Guess what time of year it is?!?!? Spring break time!!!!
Even if you're not in any sort of vacation-offering school program, just about everyone I know starts to get a bit antsy around March. Whether it's for a weekend or a glorious week, March is the time to break out the sunscreen and sandals. In honor of our upcoming sun-seeking travels, I've put together two different eco-friendly packing lists for two very different types of vacations.
For those of us who's ideal get-away involves sipping umbrella-ed drinks while lounging in our biggest sunglasses, the ideal packing list is mix of deep blues, sophisticated grays, and sandy accessories -- all organic, sustainable, and fair trade, of course!
The simple strapless dress will look perfectly relaxed from boardwarks to boutiques, while the polka-dotted number will jazz up salsa dancing with your spring break crush. The sophisticated denim pencil skirt dresses up sleek and sexy tees, while natural and neutral bag and shoes will look perfect paired with anything you bring (or buy!) And don't forget to pack a bathing suit! Let the rest of the crowd flop around in florescent string bikinis -- you'll be turning heads in this unique retro one piece.
Newcomer Anne Valérie Hash had a beautiful collection full of romantic and gauzy fabrics for Spring 2008 Couture (as seen on Style.com.) But one dress stood out from here otherwise lady-like offerings for it's shear exuberance. This beautiful Habitude dress made of hemp, silk, and organic cotton perfectly captures the essence of the Anne Valérie Hash frock in a completely wearable shape (and a shade of pink that won't wash out those of us without a yacht off St. Lucia.) Take a tip from the runway and embrace your girly side by pairing it with matching pink heels.
With all the nerves and worry about the economy these days, it's gotten a little harder to daydream about extravagant shopping. Plus, M and I were caught up in the recent surge in credit card fraud (though our bank is handling things very well) so we're a little wary about whipping out the plastic these days. But do you know what I do when I'm feeling broke but need a little fashion fix? I go window shopping! So I'm going to break my unspoken rule about only showing purchasable items, and show you the best spots to preview some of the fun green fashions lined up for Spring.
First up is Modify's Spring Pre-Sale, all of which can be browsed and pre-ordered now for shipment around March. I'm loving this delicate shirt dress from sweatshop-free company Myth & Ritual. It captures the sweetness of spring without falling into pastels or florals.
Next stop? Stewart + Brown's spring line (organic, as always!) Though some pieces are beginning to show up S+B's web store, the best place to take a gander at all the spring offerings is via Nina's Photography's Portland Fashion Week photos. Not only can we preview everything on the catwalk, but there are great suggestions about how to build outfits out of items. Personally, I love how the ruffles on this blue dress echo the ruffles on the paired crochet jacket. If you can't wait, the Stewart + Brown Flare Knit Cardi can be had for $197.
Last but certainly not least are the spring fashions from Beau Soleil. When playing one of those "bring only one dress to a dessert island" games, I'd definitely pick one of these bamboo dresses. This Beau Medallion dress would make me feel like such a goddess! It will be available for $275 the day after Valentine's Day. Something to look forward to!
I have a soft spot for the well educated and well informed Ms. Natalie Portman (I'm sure it doesn't hurt that she went to the same high school as my good friend A, who remembers her as being totally down to earth.) Natalie always manages to show up to events looking young, fresh, and not at all overdone. This particular Getty Images photo (via Fashion Week Daily) is a classic example of her totally enviable style sense -- here she is at the premiere of Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium in a flashy red-carpet-worthy color, but a completely laid back (and forgiving!) shape. Plus, yum, look how she's showing off those legs!
This dress from Toggery is 70% sustainable bamboo and 30% organic cotton, with all the relaxed style and dramatic color of Natalie's version (which is from the Olsen twins' Elizabeth & James line.) I've actually been eyeing it all week as a contender for "awesome-but-not-trying-too-hard" outfit to wear to a reunion of M's (guess which one!) Now that I've seen how effortlessly chic Natalie looks in the same style, I might be sold. All I need to finish off the look are some flashy vintage gold heels. Perfection!
I've always been impressed with the construction and creativity of Doie Designs (here in Boston, they're carried by Envi.) But for some reason, I never found a design that got my heart racing and my blood pumping. It probably has something to do with my irrational fear of patterns -- I always think, will this match what I own? will I get bored of it? will I show up at a party and blend in the wallpaper? Silly fears, I know, but they always make me pause when it comes to committing to patterned clothing.
All that changed last week when founder Sara Kirsner sent me an email to remind me to check out her eco brand. Looking at the new Fall Line, I saw a ton of new pieces with her signature style -- Asian-inspired prints accenting hems, necklines and even elbows. Again, I thought, "Beautiful, but those patterns..." And then I saw this bamboo tunic dress.
First of all, the cut is just perfect right now -- flowy enough to evoke last season's girly dressy trend, sleek enough to stay away from last season's infantalizing trend, short enough to be uber sexy, loose enough to stay totally sophisticated. Then there's that pattern -- it doesn't scare away even the most avowed pattern fearer (me!) but is just that one extra touch to make this one LBD that won't be forgotten. Plus, notice how the arm sashes' position calls attention to your waist? That's right, an optical illusion that keeps things hour glassed without needing Spanx.
You could pull this one off with tights and flat boots at your office. But I say save it for heels and something (or someone!) really special.
So I noticed that amost all the eco outfits I've put together here are for going out. Guess you can tell where my brain is come Friday! But honestly, most of us don't spend our days at clubs and bars and farmer's markets -- we spend them at the office. So this week, I've got a totally work appropriate look to add some eco fashion to your cubicle.
These sustainable bamboo black pants are a work wardrobe staple, while the organic long sleeved polo is cute as a layer or slightly sultry alone (the neck is pretty low, but might be just what you're looking for over post-work cocktails.) I think that Patagonia's non-chlorine washed merino vest is absolutely adorable, plus the green booties are totally in and the recycled messenger is stylish without screaming second hand. Yes folks, a completely eco friendly outfit that won't frighten your "no new taxes" boss!
The video on the many ways to tie this American Apparel bandeau dress is so totally fashion-porn-erific it almost made me laugh. But the dress really does look fabulous in all its incarnations, and a dress you can restyle for multiple occasions means you don't need to own as many dresses, which is totally green.
What's greener? The same style dress in fair trade, sustainable bamboo from a company whose CEO doesn't sexually harass employees. Ah, now that feels better.
I tried this adorable top on at Kaight this weekend in a different color, and if they'd had it in this lovely green, I would have snatched it up in a heartbeat. Ignore the overly-perky model -- this is one blouse that tiny-on-top girls can pull off without a bra and without feeling like they're accidentally "pointing" everywhere.
p.s. Big thumbs up to Sworn Virgins, for making almost all the clothing that caught my eye as both stylish and well priced during my eco-shopping-excursion in NYC this weekend. Wish they sold from their website directly!
There was a funny article in the RI paper this weekend about "lucky" weddings on 7/7/2007. I had a brief moment of thinking, "Hm, cool anniversary" before I realized that I'm very happy to have the whole wedding thing out of the way. Non-traditional weddings can be so much work -- everything needs to be planned from scratch once you reject all the normal trappings!
One of my headaches was finding a cool, modern, dress that said "wedding" without saying "princess" and didn't cost more than our rent. I ended going a little more formal than I'd initially imagined, just because it was easier. But this dress -- wow. It is absolutely ideal for a garden wedding or a city hall shindig. I love the simple, sleek cut, and the pretty flower embroidery along the side makes it clear that this isn't just anyone's wedding dress. Plus because it's bamboo, you know it's as soft as silk and naturally antibacterial (which, eh hem, is not only good for the planet but also good for dealing with any "Did I forget my vows?" perspiration.)
Same Underneath Belt Dress in Pristine $242. If that price doesn't leave some room in the budget to invite your long lost Uncle Al, I don't know what will!
I might be dropping by the MFA's first Friday tonight, meaning I'm faced with the eternal "going out to a REAL social event" question -- what in the world am I going to wear?
This outfit would be adorable -- the bamboo tank is quirky enough to stand out from Boston's predictble post-work crowd, the long hemp shorts are just on the practical side of trendy, the little hemp wristlet wallet has the perfect amount of room for ticket stubs and dollar bills. and the eco friendly shoes will keep you comfortable from artwork to cocktails to whatever you might fall into next.
Oh summer and global warming. The weather is so wonky. Some nights it gets down to 60. Some afternoons it feels like 100. And don't even get me started on those frigid AC levels everywhere.
What you need is one of these babies -- cardishawls, sweaterwraps, whatever you want to call them. I got mine in black ages ago from Belly Basics (no longer available) and a good friend has one from Bebe. But this version from TranquiliT not only comes in great non-neutral colors (plum! for bringing a little color into your cubicle) but is made out of renewable bamboo by a conscientious company.
The design is really perfect. I wear it as a drape-y cardigan, throw one side over my shoulder as a wrap, or tie the ends in front if I want a more fitted look. Plus, in a pinch, you can actually wrap the ends around your knees if you're freezing on an airplane.
Well hello there. Maybe it's the bedroom eyes on this model, but I'm completely smitten with this polo from Same Underneath. Besides, the collar and the solid color on the shoulders will give any man that sexy, rugged V-shape (not that you need help, M dear.)
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.
