How Green Is Your Closet?

Washing with Balls

2010-04-20T08:14:00.003-04:00

I know we have discussed that washing clothes is an area where we can each green our lives - cold water wash, hang to dry, using low impact or biodegradable detergent. Pretty much what I do most of the time.

Yesterday, I was discussing this very topic with my class and the topic of washing balls came up again. When I got home, I was looking through a slew of catalogs and there was the Greenwash Ball staring me in the face. So I took it as a sign and I am sharing some research with you.

Available from the Harriet Carter Catalog for $19.98, the Greenwash Ball is described as "a patented eco-friendly ball with ceramics inside that create frictiona nd enable water to reach a pH level equal to that of detergent...Reusable ball lasts for over 1,000 washes! Antibacterial and hypo-allergenic."

Interesting, but does it work? Before I plonk down my $19.98 + shipping, I decided to see what other think. Thank goodness for the internet.

The Lighter Footstep reports,"The laundry was clean. Not just clean, in fact, but really good." The blog continues to break down the product itself and discuss why the laundry gets clean. This makes for thoughtful reading.

Inhabitat tests report, "I used the GreenWashBall and found that the effects were like washing my clothes with just water and no detergent (which I have done multiple times due to forgetfulness or lack of detergent). The dirt that was visible before washing was still visible and the armpits still faintly smelled like BO." Inhabitat further notes,"The Straight Dope wrote a piece about laundry balls, saying that that metal elements in the ceramics could produce ionized oxygen, like peroxide, but probably not enough of it to clean your clothes. Hydroxides could be created in the same way, although not in large quantities. These ions could lower the water’s pH, the the same effect produced by lye soap and sodium hydroxide."

Laundry balls have legs in Europe and they are often further along on the green curve than the US. Do they work? Are they worth it? You weigh the choice and do let me know what you find out.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Shoes.com Promotes Green

2010-04-13T08:43:00.002-04:00

Shoes.com sends an eco-friendly shoe promotion to their email subscribers. Featuring styles from 9 eco brands, there are styles from Fashion, Comfort and Athletic collections.

3 companies offer styles that rock your inner-Fashionista.
Jambu's story:
"Inspired by the beauty and mystique of the rainforest, Jambu™ Footwear is designed to guide you in style and comfort on your next personal journey – at home or across the globe. Let Jambu™ join you as you zip line through the rainforest, stroll the beach, navigate the city, or travel the world. Be you with Jambu™.

JAMBU™ uses only 100% recycled, recyclable and re-usable packaging. Jambu™ outsoles are made with partially recycled and re-usable compressed rubber. In this small way we hope to preserve our great outdoors for future generations. Renew with Jambu™."

Corso Como shoes are available through many major retailers - Zappos, Piperlime, and Nordstrom's among others.

From the Zappos website: "About Corso Como Corso Como women's shoes are hand-assembled in Brazil in the most elite boutique factories. Every design is manufactured with the finest material available in the marketplace. The Corso Como footwear collection features innovative silhouettes that will complement your fashionable lifestyle.

Corso Como shoes are made of naturally treated leather. A soft leather lining is also used, which allows your feet to breathe while reducing humidity. All Corso Como women's shoes, women's boots, and women's sandals offer superior quality, fit, and comfort.

Corso Como shoes promote the idea of style with a conscience. As an advocate for various environmental and social causes, Corso Como donates a portion of every sale to charity. Further supporting their eco-friendly philosophy, Corso Como shoes uses fully recyclable boxes and tissue."

Owned by Chrysler, LLC (hmm?) J-41 footwear's tagline is 'Adventure On'. J-41 summarizes their brand: "Combining a highly-functional design with exceptional style,
J-41™ Footwear sets a pace well above the crowd. From leisurely outings to more intensive activities, J-41™ is a high performance “go anywhere” shoe that looks and feels great. A roadmap — gently imbedded in our soles — symbolizes the unique and very special adventure that each of us embarks upon."

Fashionable, comfortable and good for the planet - a no-brainer - feed your shoe fetish with one of these brands today!

--till next week Restore, Refresh, Recycle & Renew.

Green Spring Things

2010-04-06T09:24:00.004-04:00

We certainly have been having some great full on Spring weather in the Northeast. It's time to spring clean and revitalize your wardrobe.

First sort out what you have. It's time to get the boots and sweaters away and bring on the pumps, sandals and summer dresses.

I suggest 3 piles of clothes you are putting away and then repeating the process with your Spring/Summer items as well.

Pile 1 - Keepers
Pile 2 - Maybes
Pile 3 - Let it go!

Keepers go right into cleaning and storage. The maybes need a good try on and inspection. You need to do this with each item and move it to Keepers or Let it Go! Make a list of the Let it Go! pile and package them for reuse at a consignment shop, reuse program or charity shop, or arrange a clothing swap with your friends followed by a trip to one of the stores listed.

I suggest you do this at the beginning and end of each seasonal change. Once this is done, you have a good picture of the items you need to replenish and then you can make responsible choices.

Here are some items you may like to pick up:
A smashing new umbrella for your inner Anglophile. Beat April showers with a brolly from London Undercover.

A Claudi Garzesi recycled necklace from Recycled Planet Store.

A coin purse from the Go Green collection at Ecoist.

Clothing from Stewart & Brown.

A Market/Beach bag from Rising Tide Fair Trade.

Bandeau and boy shorts from Daughters of the Revolution.

Shoes from Terra Plana - no stranger to How Green is Your Closet?

Enjoy the purge and the binge - Happy Spring!

till next week - Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Iceland Inspired Scarf Part 3

2010-03-30T09:54:00.002-04:00

We've made it back from Iceland and now it is time to get serious about finishing our scarves. Here's an inspiration from uncommon goods and here's what you do:

1) Layout your t-shirt pieces in 2 strips of 8 squares. Arrange them until you are satisfied with the sequence on each set. Then place one set on top of the other so you can see what is underneath.

2) When you are satisfied with your arrangement, use a running stitch or a back stitch to connect the squares on each side. You can use various colored thread - we used metallic which was grand.

3) Select a couple of squares with interesting colors behind them and slit the fabric with your scissors to reveal the color beneath. (Note: you could do this before stitching like making paper snowflakes) You could also cut the end squares into fringe if you like.

4)Stitch the front and back together. If you use a running stitch, you can also gather your scarf to create interest.

5) Finally, add beads or other adornments as you see fit.

Voila - you have created your very own scarf from recycled and reused materials.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Iceland Inspired Scarf Part 2

2010-03-25T05:10:00.001-04:00

We are going strong in Iceland and I have limited access to my computer and internet. Visit the d&m abroad blog to follow our journey.

This week we will focus on preparing the 6"x6" squares.

Technique:

Cut a 6” x 6” cardboard square to use as a template . Remember you will need a total of 16 to complete the project. I suggest cutting an additional 4 to experiment with.

Place the template on the tee where you would like to make your square. You can cut 2-4 layers of fabric at one time if your scissors are sharp. Make sure to place your template carefully over any graphics you want to preserve.

You have the option with one 6" x12" and two 6"x6" to capture a larger screen image from the tee if you use a multiple of the 6" x6", for example, cut a 6"x12" rectangle,

Next week well put these together and have our final result.

-till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Iceland Inspired Scarf Part 1

2010-03-16T11:04:00.003-04:00

In honor of my spring break study tour to Iceland, I am posting the project we will be completing there so you can join in. You can follow our escapades on the d&m abroad blog.

Iceland Workshop Getting Started.
This week we will gather your supplies, look at our goal and some inspiration.

Goal: Use Icelandic design as inspiration to synthesize the Icelandic design concept -maximizing resources through re-use to create hand-crafted products using a “raw” aesthetic, inspired by the powerful visual and forces of Nature.

Haugkaupf Tee Shirt - mesh, jersey 1
Project: Using the visual examples in your packet and inspiration from the items you have seen at Gallery Kraum and Rosa’s studio, create a 48” (approximately) scarf out of recycled tee shirts.

Rosa's pieced, jersey skirt close up 1

Supplies:
Gather old tee shirts these can include artwork or decoration if you like. You will cut these next week into 20 6”x 6” pre-cut squares. (You will need 16 to complete your project. Cut an additional 4 for experimentation and trading.)

Cotton or Cotton-Polyester thread. (You can use one color, or several that match or contrast with your tee shirt squares.)

2-3 needles that you can thread;)

1 pr. scissors that will cut both your thread and your squares.

Optional: Any decorations – buttons, beads, sequins, fringe, soda tabs, etc. Use the Icelandic design concept -maximizing resources through re-use to create hand-crafted products using a “raw” aesthetic, inspired by the powerful visual and forces of Nature to select your decorations as well.

Next week we will prepare the tees and stitch them together.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

I can't believe it is Wednesday

2010-03-10T08:50:00.003-05:00

I can't believe I missed my Tuesday post! I definitely have a lot on my plate and Iceland on the brain. So in honor of Iceland I'm talking felt. Not just any felt, but felted soap to scrub in the tub.

You say: "Felt in the tub! That's just wrong. Who wants wet wool that smells like wet Yak?"
Fiat Luxe says: "No worries. Our fragrant soaps are wrapped in a fuzzy little anti-fungal wool that exfoliates as you scrub and shrinks along with the soap for a perfectly sudsed wash every time."

They are green, beautiful and reusable - just cut a slit and insert a new bar. Healthy for your skin and the environment. Another win, win.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Closets & Windows

2010-03-02T11:14:00.003-05:00

I bet your closet doesn't have a window, but it is the window to your wardrobe soul. This week I'd like to take a minute to give props to a local to me window company that has gained notoriety through President Obama.

Northeast Building Products of Phildelphia offers a range of quality energy-efficient windows and this product offering has lead the company to growth in these economically troubled times. The family owned business has increased its workforce from 185-285 employees. The company has certainly benefited from the Obama stimulus plan, but the greatest impact has come from Obama's mention in the State of the Union Address which lead to a significant increase in sales.

Founded in 1975, this family owned company has work hard to ensure innovation and a commitment to social responsibility. Their work has paid off in spades. Northeast Building Products won two of the most coveted industry awards in 2009: Window and Door Magazine's Crystal Achievement Award for "Most Innovative Plant" and the "Greenest Manufacturer" award from Door and Window Manufacturer Magazine. Investing heavily in green technologies, Northeast customers to qualify for a $1,500 energy tax credit.

Good for the environment. Good for business. Go Green!

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Asos Green Lounge

2010-02-23T08:21:00.002-05:00

UK online fashion retailer Asos launched an eco-driven section on their website on February 19th. Asos features the latest trends and celebrity looks - a bit more sophisticated and mature Forever 21.It is one of my favorite sources for that bit of something different. Sign up for their email newsletter and enjoy a real treat. They sell internationally so don't fret if you don't live in the UK.

According to their blog: "...THE GREEN ROOM will fill you in on all the latest stories from the real people behind your favourite finds on ASOS.com. We'll be asking the brands who sell in THE GREEN ROOM and anyone who plays a key roll in bringing you the latest fashion that support people and the planet.

SOCIAL & ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE BRANDS – features amazing labels that promote people and planet, from Swedish Hasbeens much-feted ecologically prepared, natural grain leather footwear to the hotly anticipated Emma Watson for People Tree collaboration.

ASOS.COM OWN LABEL – We launched our first Fairtrade cotton jersey pieces back in December, here you'll find an ever increasing number of own brand creations designed inhouse by our super designers and suppliers - there will be some basics but well be dropping a few styles with a twist on site - search 'FAIRTRADE' onsite now - don't miss out! (check out the fab Chrissie Abbott designed tee). The Fairtrade status of these products ensures that the cotton farmers have been paid a fair price for their crop. Each farming community also receives a social premium that they invest in social projects such as building schools and hospitals (see one of our next blogs for commentary directly from the Fairtrade Foundation)

BEAUTY– a range of products that pamper without using any ingredients that are damaging to the environment - and of course your skin! Includes well-known brands such as Cowshed, This Works and Neal’s Yard. Lush!"

Ahh another reason to practice retail therapy online and feel good about your choices.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew.

Bodkin Just Keeps on Keeping on...

2010-02-16T08:18:00.005-05:00

Bodkin Designer Eviana Hartman shares her favorite green items with Daily Candy on the eve of NY Fashion week.
The top 5:
1) Her own Bodkin Jedi Pant $170 from the Fall '09 collection (see image #8 for the organic wool design).
2) Rachel Comey’s raincoat with the rounded shoulder overlay piece and built-in belt (to preorder, call Frances May, 503-227-3402; $579)
3) Black and lavender geometric-printed tights from Gaspard Yurkievich and a spotted pair by Hansel from Basel.
4) Housewares from Tortoise General Store, a Japanese housewares shop in Venice, California.
5) Costa Rica
--till next week Restore, Refresh, Recycle & Renew

It's 10AM somewhere

2010-02-09T15:17:00.001-05:00

So wherever that is I'm not late with today's post;)

We've talked about Brooklyn based Bodkin before. Talk about making the grade! Check out the latest edition of Marie Claire for the latest on Bodkin.

It's great that MC is giving coverage to home-grown green. Thumbs up to Marie Claire for the coverage.

--till next week Restore, Refresh, Recycle & Renew

Bridesmaid Blues

2010-02-02T10:58:00.001-05:00

There is nothing quite so wasteful as a bridesmaid gown that is so specific it can't be worn for anything else. Back in the day, I was subjected to purchasing a floral number with a big artificial flower located right at my bust which doesn't need any more attention drawn to it. The second time I was called to duty, I was required to wear a mauve and white satin number that made me (the oldest in the bridal party) look like mutton dressed as lamb.

Since then, brides have been much more reasonable requesting all attendants go with a particular color, or pick from one of several styles. When I got married, the woman who made my ensemble was my Maid of Honor and she chose a suit that worked well with my 1940's inspired tea length chemise and jacket. Allowing your attendants to choose an outfit that suits them and can be worn again as is or with slight alterations goes a long way to helping our environment. I have worn my wedding dress for another event and I have worn the jacket again on a couple of occasions with slacks or a skirt to create other ensembles.

Two Birds Bridesmaids has come up with an excellent solution. One dress that can be worn 15 ways. We have discussed the multiple option dress before, but this one is done very nicely for the special occasion category. According to the website, Two Birds offer, "One dress that can be wrapped in over 15 unique ways, flattering to all body types. 18 colors offered in 4 lengths, one size fits 0-14 and size B fits 16-24." The Classic dress is described as "nylon/jersey/spandex, blend dresses do not cling, maternity friendly, hand washable, made in New York, no alterations necessary." At $270-$310 this option is reasonable.

I wish this had been an option for me. The mauve satin (not at all forgiving as a fabric) number was ordered for me in a size 3 sizes smaller than the size that the chart indicated would fit my bust. I implored the bride to order large so we could tailor it down in the other areas, but she just couldn't believe I needed that large a size. So days before the wedding, my friend was cutting down the peplum and using the piece to extend the bodice. Thank heaven it was the 80's and there was a lot of peplum.

Two Birds doubles up doubles - the ability to wear the dress again and again kills more than "two birds" with one stone. Keeping the dress in your closet, instead of a land-fill and being able to hand wash, and producing in New York kills the environmental "two birds" with one stone. Thumbs up Two Birds for finding an environmentally sound Special Occasion solution.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

--
--Elphaba to Fiyero:"I don't CAUSE the commotion. I AM the commotion." --Wicked

View my Blog and work at www.minervamedia.co

Too Many Sweaters?

2010-01-26T07:00:00.002-05:00

We are enjoying a bit of a January thaw in the North East, but we are sure to have another bitter snap before Winter is done with us. How about upcycling an old sweater into a new accessory for the final push to Spring?

What exactly is Upcycling? Wikipedia offers a concise definition: "Upcycling is the process of converting waste materials or useless products into new materials or products of better quality or a higher environmental value." The Upcycling movement is growing and it is easy to participate.

We've talked about it before in many of my blog entries. If you aren't so crafty or you just don't have the time, here are a couple of services that will do the work for you:

Got an old cashmere sweater and a friend with a new baby? Contact TeddyLux. This Georgia based company offers plush animals and toys from recycled cashmere. You can also order a custom plush from your own sweater. Prices are reasonable. Animals are $50-$60 each with toys on offer for $15. They accept donations as well and will reimburse you for postage.

ReKnit is another company that upcycles. Each month ReKnit converts your old sweaters into a new product. This month - scarves. Users get to vote on the next item. You send in your sweater and the yarn is unraveled and reknit into the item of the month. The reknitting fee is $30. That's quite a bargain.

Best of all, you can re-purpose that sweater and learn a new craft yourself. First, check this unravel tutorial from Neauveau. Then select an old sweater from your closet or acquire one from friends or a local thrift shop. Next check out these resources on learning to knit. Better yet, find a local knitting group. Knitting circles are everywhere - from bars to home parties it shouldn't be too hard to find one in your community. A local yarn store is a good place to start or find one at Stich 'n Bitch.org.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Resolution Solution

2010-01-19T09:48:00.002-05:00

It's here - the dreaded end of season Winter Sale. Everything is picked over and what is left is now down to ridiculously low prices. So low in fact that you can't resist. How could you pass up a pair of mittens for $1.19 or a scarf for $3.74? I'm here to tell you MUST stick to your guns. This is a dangerous cycle and retailers know they've got you. Retailers are desperate to get something for their investment and they will do just about anything to get customers to buy. And NO YOU DON'T NEED IT!

Many of you may have resolved to save more money, buy less stuff, or make better purchasing decisions. These are all admirable resolutions and I know that you are starting to waiver just about now. The shopping jones is calling...

Before you spend a penny on a new item that you probably don't need, make the most of what you already have with wardrobe management software or apps like the "Pocket Closet" for iphone.

Here's how it works - you enter all the items in your wardrobe. Then you categorize them and put them into outfits (BONUS: no more scrambling in the morning worrying about what to wear). This app has a built in calendar to keep track of what you wore when and when you wore it last, as well as, a "suggest an outfit" option. You can also email some of your best outfits to your friends - handy if you are lending something for a special event.

Some other options for the iPhone and/or your computer include: "iWardrobe Lite" and "What to Wear - Online Closet." Web-based solutions are on offer as well. Check out this online service: "Closet Assistant."

It all seems a bit tedious on the front end, but think of the time and money savings on the back end! Making the most out of what you have is the greenest option.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Late but in earnest

2010-01-12T17:51:00.004-05:00

Well Tuesday certainly got away from me. While I should have been posting a blog message for you, I was skyping with a colleague in Hong Kong who I am working with on a cross-institution course via the internet. Anyway - onto our green topic.

So boot socks are in and the way the weather has been they seem to be a necessary accessory. Here's an easy way to get that chunky, funky look and your legs warm at the same time.

Sort through old sweaters in your home. Select one that is 100% wool. If you can't find one, ask around or hit a local thrift shop.

Felt the sweater - this is quite easy to do. Place the sweater inside a white cotton pillow case with a zipper. (I learned this the hard way) Felting without the pillow case can lead to fibers in the washer's motor and a $175 repair fee. That's one expensive pair of boot socks;)

Felting occurs through the agitation of the wool fibers in hot water. I like to let it go for about 5 minutes and check. Then I estimate - 5 more, 3 more, 2 more and so on until the felting has occurred. If you can still see the knitting loops in the sweater you need more time.

Take the sweater out and roll it in a towel to remove most of the moisture. Lay flat to dry. Cut the sleeves off the sweater. Even off the shoulder end. Voila you have a footless boot sock.

Cut slits around the top, feed through a pretty ribbon and tie them under your knee for a gathered look. Cut along the seam and resew to fit your leg for a more fitted look. Run elastic around the top in a fold over band or use garters to hold them up.

Now you've got the rest of that felt. There are so many projects - stuffed creatures, handbags, hats, gewgaws...Get surfing and get going;)

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

New Year, New Decade, New Green

2010-01-05T10:25:00.000-05:00

According to "16 Eco-Fashion Predictions for 2010" by Jasmin Malik Chua, posted 01/04/10 on ecouterre we will see continuing interest in Sustainable and Green Fashion products.

From Manufacturers analyzing supply-chain impacts to become more efficient and increase profit margins, to Designers using increasingly better sustainable raw materials and processes, to Consumers doing more with less - voting with their dollars for more sustainable products, purchasing less quantity and more quality and reusing, repairing and recycling more, all players in the Fashion Cycle will be furthering "going green".

Leaders in the movement will keep a strict eye on social responsibility as well - monitoring working conditions in 3rd world countries, purchasing fair-trade goods, maintaining ethical business practices, etc. will be an integral part of each business or personal decision.

My prediction? 2010 will see "Green" trickle further into our culture. The business side of the industry will continue to find greener processes for dealing with raw materials, waste, production and transportation. As we have discussed in the past, going green is good business with a positive impact on the bottom line. More exposure to 'Green' in the media and popular culture will continue to push individuals to embrace green thinking into their daily decision making process on the consumer side.

New Year, New Decade - A fresh start that is BRIGHT & SHINY Green!

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Happy Green Year

2009-12-29T05:50:00.001-05:00

How Green is Your Closet? wishes you a Happy New Year and a greener 2010. I'm taking a break to re-charge and clean out the closet, donate the old and make room for the new ;) I'll be back on the 5th. Have a safe and happy holiday.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Ambitiously Green

2009-12-22T08:22:00.003-05:00

Now I know you all recycle your magazines and catalogs, but on my trip to Hong Kong I ran into an artist doing it in a really unique way - she's knitting paper! That's right. Movana Chen's first project used fashion magazines and her current project uses books.

I have a long history of knitting many materials - wire, fishing line, trash bags, ribbon, etc. Since I had most recently tried to knit pre-consumer chip wrappers while working on a project with TerraCycle, I was enthralled by Movana's work. Interestingly, I used a similar process to Movana, but I never perfected it like she did.

My Process: 1) I fed the wrappers from their pre-use rolls through a shredder. This didn't work really well since the wrapper is rather thin and the shredder was powerful. I didn't get uniform shred. 2)I tried to melt the ends together with an iron - no go. I tried to find a proper adhesive - no go. I settled on a tried and true method of tying the ends together - worked but created knots and fringes. 3) Even loose tension made the wrapper tear.

Movana's Process: 1)Tape pages into long sheets. 2)Feed multiple sheets through the shredder. 3) Connect the ends with double stick tape. 4) Knit several layers of paper as one thread.

I have lots of magazines to try so I am going to see if I can give it a go. It is the perfect project for our next really Big Snow!

--till next week Restore, Recycle Refresh & Renew-- Happy Holidays

All I want for Christmas...

2009-12-15T09:43:00.004-05:00

is my 2 front teeth... Well not exactly, I want a bunny without 2 front teeth.

Okay so I have told everyone I am tired of the re-usable bag mania. They come in all shapes, materials, colors and sizes and I am just plain tote bagged out - suffering from sheer tote bag exhaustion.

Then along comes the Picnica Bunny Tote Bag - Now maybe it is because I have just been in Hong Kong and talking a lot of Kawaii & cosplay, but this is oh so cute in a Japanese kinda way. See that bunny there? Well that tote folds down into that cute little bunny and doubles as a stuffed animal. I bet "ammas" (nannies) just love this.

Designed by EDING-POST, this super light nylon tote is available online. Priced at $27.00 this tote is available from japanesemoderndesign.com. Just imagine all the plastic bags you won't use and how many conversations you'll start with this cutie- now if it was produced green as well...

Give the gift of Green!

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Have a Hand Made Green Holiday

2009-12-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

So Black Friday and Cyber Monday have come and gone. You're shopped out. You still don't have all the gifts you need and the funds are getting tight. Not to mention you need a festive wardrobe update for the holiday social rounds.

I've said it before, but I'll say it again. Make It!!!!

Here is a new to me blog that has a wide range of items with easy DIY instructions - P.S. - I made this... Self-proclaimed a movement, P.S. - I made this... describes itself as "a call to action to re-imagine, re-use, and re-invent. I see it. I like it. I make it."

Recent posts feature a variety of fashion(Chunky necklaces, Art deco earrings, etc.) and home accessories (textured pottery) that are on trend and oh so easy to make, many from things you may already have kicking around. Remember what MacGyver could do with a little string, duct tape and chewing gum? Now you won't necessarily escape from the bad guys, but you can have a festive runway inspired hair bow with a trash bag, lace ribbon, gorilla tape and scissors - a quick fix to your personal fashion emergency;)

Now there really are no excuses. See it. Like it? Make it! Give it. Wear it. Use it.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Shop Local Shop Green

2009-12-01T08:46:00.003-05:00

This week I wanted to focus on shopping local and green by featuring a rockin' Philly shoe store, Bus Stop and one of their green offerings, Terra Plana.

London-born owner Elena Brennan opened Bus Stop to feature fun and funky shoes for the Philly shoe addict. Featuring a variety of hard-to-find designers and selections from such far away places at Lima and Rio, Bus Stop is always a delight. The merchandise mix offers a varied selection of product in a broad (many brands) and shallow (few styles and sizes) plan so you won't be wearing the same shoes as your friends shopping at the mall.

Just in for Winter, Bus Stop features new boots from Terra Plana with accents from repurposed Pakistani quilts and low-impact materials. In the About section of their website, Terra Plana describes their company as "Inspired by ecological survival, TERRA PLANA believes in a variety of non-generic products supporting ideas of sustainability: lightness, anatomic design, disassembly and durability." They offer a wide selection of footwear and accessories for men, women and kids. Terra Plana has one US store in NYC: Terra Plana , 254 Elizabeth Street, New York NY 10012, 1 212 274 9000, 254elizabethst@terraplana.com. It is a great little shop with a wonderful selection. I strongly suggest a visit when you are in the area.

Stay local. Stay green. Buy green, Be green. Bus Stop is located at 750 South 4th Street in Fabric Row. Holiday Hours are: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday 11AM-6PM, Friday till 7PM and Sunday 12PM-5PM.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Sheep Chic

2009-11-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

In honor of my trip to the waterfront vacation farm for Thanksgiving, I ask you to ponder my $64,000 question: "What to do with the family farm?"

•CSA (not enough acreage and too much maintenance to be profitable)
•Organic vineyard (we have yet to protect the grapes from birds or deer)
•Fig farm (see birds and deer)
•Persimmon farm (The fruit suffers from the deer/bird issue, but the wood maybe, however, there is not enough to create a profit center).

Animals - now that is where it's at. Did you know that the Eastern Shore in Maryland is home to more than a few Llama and Alpaca farms? Maryland is home to 12 Llama farms, 6 of which are located on the Eastern Shore. Add my knitting expertise and this opportunity just might have legs.

•Raise the Llamas and/or Alpacas (I'm good with animals)
•Harvest their wool(This would require some research and help)
•Create the yarns(I already have the family heirloom spinning wheel)
•Sell the yarns(I am definitely a Merchant) AND
•Products made from them(No problem, I have been knitting since I was 3)
•Don't forget the workshops(I've been teaching for over 20 years).

Thanks to Daily Candy and model Lily Cole's, The North Circular project, I even have the business plan with all the right built-in buzz - eco-friendly, animal-friendly and charitable. Saving sheep, employing (mostly) knitting grannies and supporting charities through the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF). A little modification could make for an interesting retirement plan.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Green Specs

2009-11-17T08:09:00.003-05:00

I have always thought of glasses as a great accessory, but I haven't given much consideration to whether or not they are green. Recently TrendCentral devoted a newsletter to this very topic and featured several designers and products worth talking about.

Lenses
Essilor has introduced the Airwear Lens. Using 100% recycled water in the production process and 100% recycled packaging, Airwear offers a 100% UV protected lens that is lighter and more impact-resistant than standard plastic lenses. The company is also committed to educating their customer on their green initiatives, as well as, how to live greener.

Frames
When German furniture designer, Andreas Licht succumbed to his need for glasses, he began carving his personal frames from wood and a new business category was born. According to the website, "HERRLICHT eyeglasses are crafted entirely from either maple or cherry-wood. No metal or plastic parts for hinges, screws or reinforcements are used in the design." The frames are durable, flexible and underscore individuality.

Chicago based Urban Spectacles takes another approach offering custom designs from wood, recycled record vinyl, recycled bike parts, plastic, metals, etc. The process begins with precise measurements and a collaboration with the customer on preferred shapes and materials. Wooden frames are hand carved and finished with natural wood oil for a durable finish.

I often search ebay or etsy for vintage frames. It is another way to get a unique frame at a reasonable price and the re-use is eco-friendly.

Good for your eyes, good for you Personal Style and Green to boot - No Brainer.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

She's Crafty

2009-11-10T08:44:00.004-05:00

Ah November. The season of craft shows is in full swing. It's time for holiday shopping, gift giving and the party extravaganzas. Here's some thoughts about doing it green.

Look to nature for decorations. Fallen branches can be painted with metallics and arranged in a container with some floral foam to create a stunning "tree", "bush" or festive arrangement.

Here's an idea for easy DIY "ornaments". Pull fruit sections out of citrus fruits and then cut the skin into shapes with kitchen shears - stars, half moons, suns, whatever you heart desires. Let them dry naturally and then coat with a thin layer of watered down white glue to seal them. Tie with raffia and voila instant decorations or garland to use or give. These items could also be arranged into a fantastic center piece around a log with a few drilled holes for candles - just make sure to keep the flames away and don't leave the candles unattended! Holiday fires are bad for you and bad for the environment;)
•Best bet for natural items in Philly - Fairmount Park

Holidays parties are the perfect time to go vintage. You can find really unique and show- stopping pieces. With this years trend toward shine, look for items from the 40's and 80's to get you through. Beading, sequins, metallic jacquards and stretch are must haves. Throw in a "real" boyfriend jacket and some shoots (shoe/boots) and you are on your way to being the belle of the ball. There are a variety of vintage and thrift stores in all areas of Philly. Some places to check live - Vintage Connection, Retrospect, Decades Vintage (615 Bainbridge/South Street Area), Sugarcube, Forbidden Planet (10 N. 3rd basement in Olde City), the Second Mile and online Vintage Looks and Etsy.

Gift-giving should be a treat for both giver and receiver. Look for interesting handmade or eco-friendly options to suit the receiver's interests. If you are feeling really ambitious, make things yourself. You will feel immense satisfaction giving something that you have made. It comes from your heart and hands and will be cherished by the recipient. There are so many things to make to meet any skill level.
•Some sites to check for ideas and directions - DIY Network, PioneerThinking and Make-Stuff.

Here's an idea for a quick and easy dessert stand idea I got from the Sunday London Times Magazine last year. Find 2 beautiful plates and a pair of candle sticks (preferably vintage or second hand). Get some epoxy or bonding glue that will work for ceramic and glass. You will need to read the label or go to a local hardware store where the merchant can give you the correct adhesive. I like to use E6000 which is readily available at craft stores. Glue on of the candle sticks to the center of one of the plates. Weight the stick while it drys. Bake or buy some holiday goodies. Put them on the stand with a festive doily or vintage napkin. Wrap with colored cellophane. Include a note with instructions to hand wash the stand and handle with care. This is a great holiday or hostess gift for any occasion. You can alter the includes based on the recipient - make a two tiered stand for a High Tea theme, include napkins and place mats or a runner for those with new homes, etc. Easy, fun and unique.

Now for some shameless self-promotion - check my rocklava shop for some vintage treasures and a variety of handmade items to give.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Levi's & GoodWill form Green Tag Team

2009-11-03T09:38:00.002-05:00

As reported by Eleftheria Parpis on October 22, 2009 in Brandweek, Levi's is teaming with Goodwill to encourage customers to donate their used denim to Goodwill. The slogan, '"A care tag for our planet," was conceived by BBDO West, San Francisco, and will include online and in-store communications.'

Denim has a long life. I am still wearing my hand me over Levis from my ex-husband from 1988. The bottom line - donate your clothes when you are done with them. Don't put them in a landfill.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew