Eco-Friendly New Moon Stylish Look-Alikes

The whole world is in love with the Twilight Saga! Whether you're a 'twihard fan' or you can just appreciate a good story - one thing is for sure...those vampires are pretty stylish. If you want to mimic your favorite styles from the movies, why not do it in an eco-friendly way? Below, we've scoped out some green styles that could possibly be found in the home or closet of a Cullen or a Swan. Bella and Alice Winter Wear: In this screenshot, you see Bella and Alice chatting on the sofa, both wearing cute coats to stave off the cold. Mimic Alice's clean, cozy white coat with the women's BMP Bliss Down Jacket from Burton. The coat features eco-DryRide recycled polyester dobby and a waterproof, eco-friendly lamination and DWR coating. The great thing about this jacket is that it's reversible so you can easily switch between looks. (Pictured below left in white.) Bella's style can be more easily imitated with Patagonia's Women's Tres Parka in beige. It features a recycled polyester lining, adjustable snap-on hood, waterproof and windproof-but-breathable lining. (Pictured above right in beige.) Esme Party Wear: In this scene, it's Bella's birthday, and everyone's have a wonderful time before the whole 'papercut' thing. You can see Esme's beautiful purple ruffled dress, and can easily imitate it by going vintage.KissesfromAna's Etsy shop features a convincing Vintage Royal Purple Ruffle dress that is beautiful and very feminine. (Pictured below.) Buying vintage is eco-friendly because you're reusing the clothing and saving it from the trash bin rather than purchasing new clothing. Rosalie's Party Wear & Accessories: In this shot of Rosalie at Bella's birthday party, you can see her elegant black dress and bracelet. To get that gorgeous look with an eco-friendly twist, check out the 1930's black Velvet Long Dress from Posh Girl Vintage. It's a black silk velvet and tafetta perfect for a party! (Pictured below.) Get the same look of Rosalie's pretty bangle bracelet with this Strand for Something beaded bracelet. Created by artisans of the Tara Project, this fair trade bracelet can help provide educational opportunities for women in India and help fight against child labor. (Pictured below.) Bella's Rose Art: In Bella's room - as you can see in the scene below - there is a particularly charming piece of art on the wall behing her. It's the pretty rose just to the right of Charlie's head. Why not make your rose art as eco-friendly as possible with a recycled license plate rose from Michael Kalish. (Pictured below.) These are absolutely gorgeous, and they're created from old license plates destined for the trash pile. What a neat way to mimic Bella's style! Using these great eco-friendly look-alikes, you can mimic your favorite characters' styles and still be kind to the earth. The vampires would appreciate that - after all, they're vegetarians, aren't they? Photo Credits: Patagonia.com, Burton.com, KissesfromAna on Etsy, PoshGirlVintage, OriginalGood.com, NewMoonMovie.org, MichaelKalish.com

Adding a Little Color to Your 'Green' Winter Wardrobe

Brrrr... I'm just about as close as you can get to the Mississippi Gulf without wading - and mornings are getting chillier and chillier. In other places, winter weather has already kicked in and is settled to stay a while. With the great eco-friendly products below, we can keep ourselves toasty warm and add a bit of beautiful color to our winter wardrobes! Organic Cotton Cable Gloves These adorable and colorful gloves are available to you from FaeriesDance.com, and are created from Peruvian-grown organic cotton. There's a bit of shimmer woven throughout these gloves, and they're guaranteed to keep your hands warm and comfortable. These gloves meet the Fair Trade Federation guidelines and would be a perfect holiday gift for someone special! These cable gloves are a wonderful addition to a winter wardrobe. Block Party Scarf Available from OriginalGood.com, these scarves are created by artists in India and sold under the Community Friendly Movement. The mission is to 'create prosperity for artisan communities,' and with the earth in mind, soy-based dyes have recently replaced synthetic ones. These scarves are absolutely gorgeous - with bright, vivid colors that will really bring your wardrobe to life. Socksmith Socks If your toes are feeling a bit cool, SockSmith.com has you covered. Made from bamboo fibers that are sustainable and eco-friendly, these socks are ultra soft and comfortable. Available in every color of the rainbow, these socks are perfect for putting under your favorite eco-friendly shoes...or just to keep your feet warm as you lounge on the sofa with a great book! With these and other great eco-friendly winter products, you can make sure the season keeps you warm and toasty without compromising your environmental beliefs. Also, don't forget to shop vintage this season - as that's eco-friendly too! Photos Courtesy of FaeriesDance.com, OriginalGood.com and SockSmith.com

Paihamu Wild-Wool and Eco-Luxury Fur

Have you heard of the reduce, reuse, and recycle plan in New Zealand that ultimately satisfies your desire for soft, natural fiber products, including eco-luxury fur pillows, throws, and rugs? Thanks to a non-native furry creature threatening the ecosystem of the country, Eco-Luxury Fur, LLC offers consumers a 100% natural fiber product consisting of 60% merino wool and 40% Paihamu fiber. When spun together, a cashmere-like fabric is produced with softer, warmer, and lighter qualities than plain wool. What is Paihamu? Known as the "Australian Brushtail possum" outside of New Zealand, manufacturers and the industry chose to use the Maori word Paihamu to avoid confusion with the American possum – a completely different species in appearance and fur quality. Known as the largest of all possum species, Paihamu are nocturnal, semi-arboreal marsupials with pink noses, pointy snouts, and long whiskers. During the fur trade rush of the 1800s, Paihamu first came to New Zealand by way of Australia. Unfortunately, the critter thrived a little too well with an estimated 70 million roaming the country, outnumbering New Zealanders 17 to 1. At night, Paihamu destroy about 20,000 tons of vegetation throughout the country, including many native forest plants and precious eucalyptus leaves. The creature also poses a threat to wildlife habits, native animals, and domesticated animals, including birds and cattle (with the transmission of tuberculosis). Wild-Wool Accessories & Goods Against the skin, the softness and warmth of Paihamu products is impressive with inviting colors that adds an upscale touch to bedrooms, dens, and living rooms. The Paihamu and wool blend also accommodates consumers with sensitive skin, bringing what Eco-Luxury Fur likes to call the 'prickle factor' close to zero. The natural fibers are also believed to be hypoallergenic. A sample of items include the over-sized Basketweave Throw ($225) measuring 62" x 58" that comes in Oatmeal, Denim Blue, Heathered Teal, and Black, and the Scallop Edged Wrap/Throw ($95) offers a decorative fringe in Oatmeal, Heathered Teal (shown above), and Black. Other Wild-Wool products to consider include a selection of Unisex Ribbed Scarves, Ribbed Hats, Gloves, and Wool Socks. Eco-Luxury Fur According to Eco Luxury Fur, LLC, the Paihamu has the distinction of being named the third warmest fur with a light composition that not only delivers soft, silky luxury, but also helps ease a highly aggressive ecological threat in New Zealand. When browsing eco-luxury fur products, a few standouts include: Small Pillow ($100) and Large Pillow ($250) – Accent piece for bed or couch. Chair Throw ($1250) – (shown) Room accent piece that cozily accommodates one to two people. King Shorn Throw ($2800) – Sheared fur with unforgettable caramel and soft gray tones. Large Rug ($1900) – Raw-edged and unlined, this rug that also doubles as a throw, is made with treated suede backing. The Lowdown on Wild-Wool and Eco-Luxury Products

• All clothing and household goods are 100% sourced and manufactured in New Zealand.
• All Wild-Wool products are washable.
• All fur is humanely collected (and not farmed), which in turn provides employment in rural areas. The company spares the animals from an inhumane and wasteful end. They also contribute to the protection of the environment by averting potentially toxic alternatives, including a substance banned in the United States, which not only kills the Paihamu, but also takes the lives of dogs, cattle, and other innocent animals.
• Fibers are minimally processed, renewable, durable, reusable, and biodegradable.
• No pesticides, insecticides, or fertilizers are used in the production of fibers.

If you're interested in learning more about the ecological profile of Wild-Wool or would like to request more information, contact info@eco-luxuryfur.com or 503-635-0002. Eco-Luxury Fur, LLC 333 S. State Street, Suite V-446 Lake Oswego, OR 97034 chrys@eco-luxuryfur.com Image Credits: Grace Studio, Eco-Luxury Fur

Winter Coats – Vegan, Ethical & Planet-Friendly

Leaves are starting to turn lovely shades of orange, red, and gold – meaning winter is just around the corner. Can you feel the chill in the air and most importantly, do you have a seasonal coat to satisfy your planet-friendly, vegan, or ethical conscious? Today, I'd like to introduce a few samples of outerwear swimming in a sea of luxurious materials and fashionable comfort. Don't forget - it's never too early to track down the perfect winter coat. Vaute Couture's Bomono Vegan Winter Coat Prepare yourself for the changing weather with the windproof, water resistant, and heat retaining Bomono Luxe ($506) – available in blue, black, ivory, and gray. Oozing with comfort, wrap yourself in this oversized bomber jacket that mirrors the style of a kimono. Fully lined and sleek, the coat works well with a mini or skinny jeans assemble. The shawl collar, dolman sleeves, and foldover cuffs add to the overall presentation. The Bomono (shown above) highlights cutting-edge fashion trends, including fabric from the Polartex Wind Pro Series and a 100% recycled, closed loop, zero waste liner. The shell of the coat is 100% Vegan and 100% recyclable. Vintage metal buttons decorate the coat – detoured from landfills in the United Kingdom. A recycled version of the Bomono is available in black for $405. Izzy Lane If you're looking for a "fashion label with a conscience," look no further than Izzy Lane for your next winter coat. All clothing comes from an ethically run company, using wool originating from their own rare breeds of Wensleydale and Shetland sheep – the majority of which have been saved from the slaughterhouse. Joining the Izzy Lane collection of jackets and coats is an assortment of knitwear, skirts, shoes, and handbags – all of which are approved by the Vegetarian Society. The sheep responsible for the Shetland Collection generates exceptionally fine wool in an array of natural colors with no need for dyes. Speaking to the hearts of animal lovers, the Izzy Lane flock will also carry out the rest of their natural lives in the meadows of the Yorkshire Dales. Just one of the Izzy Lane winter coats to consider – the Shetland Isobel Coat (£395.00) with an alluring detachable belt at waist and slight A-line skirt. Nau For the woman looking for a sharp design with high performance, the Nau Blazing Jacket ($375) fights wintry breezes with a waterproof, knee-length down jacket comprised of 100% recycled poly shell and naturally renewable 650-fill goose down. Not one, but two layers of waterproof and breathable fabric will certainly protect you from the weather. To enhance the function of the coat, the fabric is treated with a DWR-finish for extra water repellency. Additional features include a two-way adjustable hood, ribbed wool interior cuffs, and a snap adjustable waist with belt. Image Credits: Vaute Couture, Izzy Lane, Nau

Yves Saint Laurent and Stefano Pilati Introduce the 'New Vintage' Collection

Designer Stefano Pilati and Yves Saint Laurent wowed crowds on Monday in New York City with an exciting clothing collection. With stylishly cut designs and bold colors, the clothing didn’t appear too different from the usual, except that it was created from the cotton ‘leftovers’ of previous Yves Saint Laurent clothing! Taking advantage of the unused cotton from the last 10 years, the designer created gorgeous couture clothing and quite a buzz. This is a pretty exciting collection, as YSL and Pilati have acknowledged their own social responsibility in the clothing world. Featuring vivid blues, pinks, shades of white and other bold colors, the collection of eco-friendly clothing totals about fifty different pieces. Some of the clothing is one of a kind, making it even more exciting for those who love to have something unique. The prices for the clothing and accessories ranged from around $500 to about $2400 a piece, with the average price at $1000. The collection was called ‘New Vintage’ and we can only hope that with the overwhelming excitement and response to it, Yves Saint Laurent will see the importance of continuing down the socially responsible path. The collection included gorgeous bags in bright colors as well as sandals, giving fashionably and environmentally conscience women the opportunity to grab THE perfect summer ensemble. By Tuesday, every piece of the collection had sold! Let’s hope this is a strong statement to both Pilati and Yves Saint Laurent to keep up the great work. Things look positive, as CEO of YSL, Valerie Hermann was quoted as saying, “There is no imminent danger, though, of running out of fabrics. We can do many things like this.” It just proves that more things can be done for the environment and to reduce waste, and that eco-friendly clothing has certainly come a long way! Photo Courtesy of www.WWD.com

ShopFlick.com’s huge Week Long Sale Features Two Eco-Chic Designers

For you green connoisseurs who aren’t familiar with ShopFlick.com, it’s a video based marketplace that allows consumers to find brilliantly talented independent designers. It’s a wonderful way to find the bold, unique, sleek and lovely fashions you crave. Starting May 20th, ShopFlick.com will be practically giving away some incredible fashions created by four amazing designers, including two eco-chic designers, Sublet Clothing and Zova L.A. Zova L.A. is known for creating gorgeous and comfortable eco-friendly clothing for the gals, from elegant dresses that drape perfectly to tops that will turn heads. Sublet Clothing offers clothing that is both comfortable and sleek at the same time. From a-symmetrical tops to a-line skirts, these fashions can go from office to dinner party with a change of shoes and accessories. Summer Staple Sale The Summer Staple Sale kicks off this Wednesday, May 20th, and will give shoppers the opportunity to snag their luxury clothing items for a fraction of their normal cost. The Green Connoisseur has some exclusive sneak peeks at the kinds of treasures you’ll find at the Summer Staple Sale:

• Sublet Belinda Jumper: orig. $275, on sale: $39.99

• Sublet Becca Top: (pictured below) orig. $115, on sale: $29.99

• Zova LA Boyfriend Mini: orig. $145, on sale: $39.99

What’s the Coolest Thing about ShopFlick.com? The big difference you’ll get shopping at ShopFlick.com versus other locations online is that you watch videos of what you’re going to buy! Rather than just browsing through images of the fashions, you see them in action, being modeled on video for you. You can also get a chance to ‘meet’ the designer of your new favorite piece of clothing. It’s a really neat way of sampling online before you purchase! Don’t miss out on the Summer Staple Sale at Shopflick.com starting this Wednesday, May 20th! Photos Courtesy of www.ShopFlick.com.

Andira Raintees: Saving the Rainforests One Tee at a Time

Eco-friendly. Luxury. Gorgeous. These three words describe the new line of women’s and children’s t-shirts by Andira Raintees. Who are the designers? Children living in rainforests across South and Central America! It’s simple really, but at the same time it’s genius. You see, Andira came up with an amazing idea. They donated school and art supplies to children living in these areas and asked them to draw pictures of their homes – and the things they see there. These gorgeous illustrations that can only be created through the eyes of a child are then transformed into 100% organic t-shirts that do much more than make a statement. On the t-shirt is the child’s illustration, thoughts about their home and their name. When a t-shirt is purchased, a tree is replanted in the place of one that has been destroyed. The purchase also helps support fair trade and fair labor, the teaching and awareness of environmental responsibility and more. So, what do you get when you give a child a way to convey what’s in his or her heart regarding the rainforests? Children’s Monkey Bridge T-Shirt This t-shirt illustration was created by Winnie McCarthy of Costa Rica. It shows the bridges which were built by the children of Costa Rica. These kids were involved in the program ‘Kids Saving the Rain Forest,’ and the bridges allow endangered monkeys to cross roads and travel without being hit by cars or electrocuted by power lines. What a beautiful shirt to get for a kid you love, and what a great story to share with them at the same time! Joison Crew Top Named for its designer, this bold, bright top began as an illustration by Joison Canelos of Ecuador. It’s a beautifully elegant shirt; a view of the Amazon through the eyes of a child complete with a flower and bird in the heavy, imaginative lines only a child can create. This shirt was shown at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in Los Angeles and lets you show the world exactly what you’re supporting! What a great idea thought up by Beth Doane, founder of Andira Raintees and made a reality by the children of the rainforests and Beth’s helpful design team. Beth says, “I believe we are all so much more powerful than we realize, and that there are endless opportunities waiting for us to embrace our potential and make a difference in our world. Rain Tees is my way to make that difference.” To see more Andira Raintees, or to show your support, visit the website or purchase shirts at:

• The Green Loop

• My Earth 360

Photos Courtesy of www.Raintees.com

Naturally Bamboo: Inside the Eco-Friendly Clothing Company

It’s no secret that bamboo is one of the most sustainable fibers in existence, making it a perfect material for eco-friendly clothing. One of the greatest things about bamboo clothing is the silky soft texture it possesses, and the versatility the material provides. A rainbow of colors awaits you at Naturally Bamboo, an eco-friendly clothing company bringing luxury to your green wardrobe. Naturally Bamboo Helps Stop the Exploitation of Clothing Workers Unfortunately, the majority of clothing companies carry a dreadful secret. The individuals responsible for making the clothing earn as low as 13 cents an hour. This includes the major brands that have become so popular by ‘saving people money.’ Naturally Bamboo obtains clothing from factories which participate in fair labor laws, do not condone child labor, and offer more than competitive pay for the workers. In fact, the workers who provide Naturally Bamboo’s clothing make on average $2 to $3 more per hour than what is considered ‘normal’ for the area. Naturally Bamboo Takes Environmental Responsibility Seriously Not only are the fibers found in this company’s clothing sustainable, but the entire process is performed in order to create the least possible negative impact on the earth. For instance, the dyes used for creating the beautiful colors of clothing contain no heavy metals, no chlorine, and no dangerous chemicals. Not just the clothing is considered, though. This company uses a high fiber recycled packaging material and 100% recycled paper with soy based ink for paper materials. Shirts are also printed with vegetable or water based ink. Naturally Bamboo Brings Gorgeous Luxury to Eco-Friendly Casual Clothing Although the clothing found at Naturally Bamboo are casual for the most part, there is an element of luxury found in the beautifully rich colors and fabrics. From casual and beautiful cling dresses for women to attractive polo shirts for men and many different accessories – Naturally Bamboo has something for everyone in the family. The Spring/Summer collection 2009 features a few great steals, including: The Stillwater Tank which is 66% bamboo and 26% organic cotton. This adorable sleeveless blouse is versatile enough to wear with jeans for a summer picnic or with a sleek skirt and heels for a night on the town. It’s available for only $38, too! The Stillwater Tank is shown above left in ‘brick.’ The Vermillion V-Neck is a perfect spring day accessory for your favorite jeans. It features 66% bamboo and 26% organic cotton, with a soft, silky texture you will feel great in. This V-Neck is available for only $42. The Vermillion V-Neck is shown at right in 'brick' also. Naturally Bamboo will be attending the Living Green Expo on May 2nd and 3rd this year at the Minnesota State Fair Grounds if you’d like to get to know more about them – and you can also visit their website and pick up a few great accessories for your eco-friendly wardrobe.

What is Peace Silk?

In the world of eco-friendly clothing, silk is used to create breathtaking wedding dresses to fashionable shawls to breathable yoga garments. However, you should know an oftentimes hidden truth behind commercial silk that should encourage you to seek out the rare and less readily available option of 'peace silk.' The majority of commercial silk products are created by boiling whole cocoons that are later unraveled onto reels into a single silk strand. The process kills the silkworm found inside just so the silk fibers stay intact and produce a continuous strand. In an effort to keep the population of silkworms flowing, only a couple of moths are allowed to live past their cocoon stage. While it may save time and energy, it is unnecessary to kill the silkworm, as the silk can still be spun like other fibers if the moths are allowed to live. "Vegetarian Silk" The process of creating peace silk greatly differs from most commercial endeavora, as the silkworm is allowed to live out its full life cycle, thus gaining the nickname of "vegetarian silk." Instead of being reeled, the silk undergoes a process of degumming and is then spun in a similar manner as other fibers. The results are the same, if not better. The yarn is flexible, soft, and airy. If you're looking for a product that is warm, peace silk is highly recommended, as it's also known to provide therapeutic comfort. Tussah Peace Silk When browsing eco-friendly fashion sites, you may come across the term, 'Tussah' – also known as wild silk. This method of collecting the silk used in organic clothing involves venturing into the wild to gather cocoons that moths have naturally left behind. Handspun Tussah silk yarn is famously molded into wrist and foot warmers in Europe, perfect for arthritis patients trying to provide T.L.C. to poorly circulated limbs. Examples of Peace Silk Shown: Deborah Lindquist Peace Silk Dress (peace silk and organic cotton lace) (l) ; Dolce & Gabbana Tussah Silk Tank Dress (textured Tussah silk) (r); Unisex Hand-Loomed Wild (Peace) Silk Scarf by Sevya (above) Image Credits: Elegant Roots, Embodies

Cmarchuska: Eco-Friendly Clothing + Charity = A Welcomed Change in Fashion

What do you get when you blend childhood dreams, business savvy, compassion, and zeal for environmentally conscious fashion? A winning combination taking the latest wave of eco-friendly clothing lines to the next level. There's nothing like the tightening grip of economic instability to push you towards your calling in life. Just ask Christine Marchuska – former financial wizard turned luxury 'green' clothing entrepreneur. She left behind a souring Wall Street to successfully mold her personal interests into an ever-evolving company – cmarchuska. With a fresh take on luxury eco-wear, Marchuska brings sustainable, high quality fabrics to life with a commitment to comfort and style. Pieces within the cmarchuska Signature Collection consist of fine organic and recycled materials with a color palette of pristine white, noir black and vert green. When you enter the world of cmarchuska, prepare yourself for:

• High fashion cuts
• Flattering pieces that don’t place strain on the environment
• The flirty 'Samantha' A-line, V-neck sundress
• Agreeable return policy (but why would you ever want to?)
• 5% of net proceeds going to charitable organizations
• Free shipping!

I've been told that the christine dress and hunter scarf have been causing quite a stir…but you must see for yourself! This February, the ECOCOLLECTION/MAGIC fashion trade show held in Las Vegas will unveil the cmarchuska spring/summer 09' line. Can't wait until the show? Order online or visit m.y. boutique in Binghamton, NY and the PILATES room in Ithaca, NY. Featured pieces: Christine dress ($130) 50% cotton, 50% modal fabric Recycled Italian polyester buttons Hunter scarf ($50) Organic blend of modal and silk

Conscious Clothing: Hemp-Silk Creations

When the eco-friendly bride wants to walk down the aisle in a breathtaking sustainable gown, what is she going to wear? Making strides in the 'green' bridal movement is Conscious Clothing, which uses hemp fabrics to satisfy the needs of the bride that doesn’t want her wedding to become a strain on the planet. I must say that Conscious Clothing has created a gorgeous line of wedding gowns that uphold all of the same traditional desires of comfort, visual appeal, and texture. Each piece is truly a work of art. Brides may choose dresses made from a: · hemp/silk blend · hemp/silk floral jacquard · hemp/silk satin · hemp/tencel blend (for pure Vegan brides) Interested in a free fabric swatch? It's as easy as contacting Conscious Clothing by phone or email. Some lucky brides may even browse designs at local fashion shows, trade shows, and other events. Upcoming events include the Body Café in Santa Fe, New Mexico (December 6th) and the Seattle Green Festival (April 12th –13th). And… wearing a sustainable, stylish gown isn’t just limited to the exchange of vows – consider the Conscious Couture line that includes the dazzling peacock dress ($3,200) shown below with cowrie shells and peacock feathers.

Photos: Conscious Clothing

Luv My Woobie! Has Gone Green

Shopping for new parents this holiday season or looking to pamper your precious little one? Today, a great deal of luxury retailers are discovering the beauty, convenience, and benefits of environmental friendliness by utilizing sustainable and renewable materials when creating their retail masterpieces. At the ABC Kids Expo in Las Vegas that recently took place last September, Luv My Woobie, Inc. pulled the curtain back on their Organic Collection of high-end baby products. Now, parents can choose an organic blanket and matching burpie made from eco-friendly cotton fabrics and bamboo – something I've never heard used in the production of children's clothing. Speaking of bamboo, did you know that it is one of the most sustainable and renewable crops in the world? Plus, it is hypoallergenic and antimicrobial. Overall, I think the blankets make a perfect addition to the Luv My Woobie Silk Brocade and Cotton Collections. Each Luv My Woobie! blanket measures 36" x 36" with a convenient pocket and Velcro closure. Satin binding elevates the level of security and comfort for the 'green' baby in your life. Within the Organic Collection, you can choose from three different styles: the Chloe, Jaden and Sage. Green happens to be my favorite color, so the Sage blanket naturally caught my eye. Luv My Woobie, Inc. is also known for satisfying the needs of fashion-conscious mommies, so I'm sure the Chloe will turn a few heads as well.