Who knew that the remedy to common skin conditions such as dryness, eczema, and irritation lay in the folds of a crocodile’s scaly skin? Contrary to what could be seen as a unlikely ingredient for effective skincare, research by top dermatological scientists shows that crocodile oil can in fact help soothe and repair damaged skin.

The fat contained in a crocodile’s skin contains an unbelievably high concentration of natural skin repairing components like vitamins E and A, oleic acid for skin cell regeneration, and sapiens and antiseptic terrines that soften the skin. And that’s not all. The oil also contains plenty of omega 3,6, and 9 essential fatty acids–which cannot be naturally produced by humans–that moisturize and calm the skin. Crocodile oil has in fact been used for centuries as a powerful skincare treatment for skin conditions, irritations, and infections–specifically eczema and psoriasis.

Crocodile oil is indeed derived from the fat of crocodiles, which leads us to the burning questions about crocodile cruelty. According to one of the major producers of crocodile oil products, crocodile fat is a by-product that in the past has been discarded. Now, the fat is collected when the meat is trimmed and prepared for restaurants and meat suppliers in Europe and Africa. This fat’s also slim pickings, as one crocodile only has about 600g of fat available.

The crocodile fat used for the oil is derived from crocodile breeding farms where thousands of crocodiles are raised yearly for meat and leather use. These farms operate in accordance with strict regulations set by CITES [Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora]. Although CITES regulations do aim to prevent animals from becoming extinct, it doesn’t necessarily regulate the way in which the animals are raised and put to death.

Although crocodile is a proven effective ingredient for beauty care, sustainability and ethics are questionable. Several companies selling crocodile oil products are certified by various organic, fair-trade and cruelty-free organizations, but we may choose to wait a while before we go with the crocodile.

Good thing there are a host of other beautifying products. Check out these:

Green Tea for Skin: Our Top Superfood Cosmetic Product Picks

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The post Crocodile Oil: The Next Big Thing in Beauty? appeared first on EcoSalon.

Although winter weather may not have you excited, the endless possibilities for an amazing wardrobe should! And what’s got us most excited are this season’s super chic, must-have boots. Check out our top 5 fashionable boots for winter to get you through the cold without compromising on style.

5 Fashionable Boots for Winter

1. Royal Rush Wrap Boot by Free People

These gorgeous, hand-crafted block-heel boots are made in Portugal, the home of the original shoe artisans. Made from ethically-sourced genuine leather, these supple yet supportive boots are not only functional, but so stylish that they will dress up pretty much any outfit from a simple jeans and jacket combo to a tailored dress or a cute A-line skirt and knee high socks. Choose from brown or  black!

$468

2. Whittemore Lace-Up Boots by Timberland Earthkeepers

Made from recycled rubber and genuine leather sourced from a sustainable tannery, these street chic boots are the perfect fusion of form, function and fashion. Wear them with anything from your favorite pair of jeans to dresses, skirts and even jumpsuits. They’ll look great with one of our favorite fall or winter coats, and will be sure to keep your feet warm through the chillier months.

$240

3. Lace-Up Platform Bootie by Stella McCartney

If you’re looking something on the wilder side, these ankle booties from Stella McCartney are so edgy that they’ll turn heads anywhere you go. Strut your stuff and pair them with one of this season’s on-trend A-line skirts for the sexy librarian look or a done them with a pair of faux black jeans and a biker jacket for a rocker chic look. We especially love the wooden heel detail and the fact that they are handmade in Spain!

$695

4. Fringe-Swept Boots by Cynthia Vincent

These fabulous California cool meets Western chic fringe boots are one of the hottest on our list, and perfect for snapping up any winter outfit. They are handmade in Brazil from genuine sueded leather with wood heels and soles that will take you through any weather. Although the 4 inch heel may be a bit intimidating, the sturdy construction of these shoes will make them comfortable and easy to wear. Wear them with dresses, skirts, jeans, trousers…you name it!

$495

5. Vegan 1490 Ankle Boot by Doc Martens

Does the inner punk in you wish that despite your vegan values you could own a pair of kick ass Doc Martens? Well now you can, since the British company has started making faux leather versions of their quintessential punk rock fashion statements. Still made in the U.K. these boots even flash the iconic yellow stitching the brand is so well known for. What else would you rock them with than a pleated mini skirt or a pair of ankle trousers?

$130

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The post 5 Fashionable Boots for Winter to Get You Through the Snow in Style appeared first on EcoSalon.

The hottest accessory for your fall wardrobe? Those perfectly fashionable and flirty cute ponytail hairstyles, of course. Check out our 6 favorite ponytails for fall and rock your favorite, or all 6, with your fabulous fall outfits.

1. The Power Ponytail

Pictured above, the power ponytail is a combination of smooth and sexy, with a poker-straight finish that gives you a bit of that tough warrior look. Use a high quality brush and some styling mousse to for a sleek finish on the top of the head, and then wrap a glossy section of hair around the hair tie to conceal it, securing it with a bobby pin.

2. The ’70s Meets ’90s Ponytail

Inspired by a fusion of ’70s hippie culture and ’90s grunge, these retro double ponytails adorned with roughly cut scraps of fabrics are super cute and easy to wear. To add a touch of subversive sweetness to your ponytail, create some texture and volume with organic hair oil before separating your hair for a double ponytail.

3. The Sleek Ponytail

Modeled here by Camila Alves, the sleek ponytail is a super easy upgrade to your fall look. Use the wrong end of a pair of tweezers to part your hair evenly in the center, and then brush it and slick it down with some hair oil or mousse. Tie your ponytail at the nape of your neck. Use some peachy blush to show off sculpted cheekbones, and use black eyeliner to highlight your eyes.

4. The Loose Ponytail

On the other end of the ponytail spectrum is the half-falling, loose ponytail that the term ‘bedhead’ makes look stylish again.  You can pretty much work this one by going to bed with a wet head of post shower hair, lightly brush trough it in the am and then loosely secure it with a hairtie at least a few inches from the nape of your neck.

5. The Bandana Ponytail

This super cute and effortless look, rocked above by the uber cool Cara Delevigne is perfect for a casual outing or for the weekend. Just sweep your hair up into a simple high ponytail, and wrap your favorite bandana around your head, making sure to tie it to the side of your forehead.

6. The Chic Low Ponytail

If you are looking for a more elegant and sophisticated version of the ponytail, this is it. You can either curl your hair or wear it straight, just make sure to use a good brush to achieve a sleek ponytail. Secure any fly aways with some hairspray and you can choose to wrap some hair around your hair tie to conceal it.

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The post 6 Cute Ponytail Hairstyles for Fall appeared first on EcoSalon.

ColumnStep up your stems this fall with the perfect combination of stylish socks and loafers for a charming yet quirky look. Check out our favorite picks of this fall fashion trend in the September edition of On Trend!

1. Johannesburg Loafers by Kaanas

These simple but stylish loafers from Kaanas are made from vegan leather and natural rubber on the soles. Wear them with your favorite pair of jeans, a sweater or short jacket for a cool and casual fall look.

$169

2. Vegan Eddie Loafer by fairly robin + Free People

These menswear inspired loafers are made from cruelty-free vegan leather, sporting functional stretch inserts so that they slip on and off easily. Professional enough for the office, these loafers also lend themselves well to casual weekend outings.

$29.95 (on sale!)

3. Heritage Argylge Socks by CHALLENGERxUSA

What pair of loafers would be complete without a set of traditional argyle socks? These are made in the USA, and available in a range of color combinations.

$28

4. Vionnet Loafers by Jeffrey Campbell

Step up your chic status in a subtle yet noticeable way with these embossed leather loafers from U.S.-based designer Jeffrey Campbell. Wear them with Audrey Hepburn inspired black trousers or jeans or sport them with this season’s cutest garment – the A-line skirt.

$138

5. Veronica Loafers by Ouigal

If you’re looking for something a little bit more feminine, these heeled loafers are just the thing. They’ll look perfect paired with a long or short skirt, or one of your favorite fall dresses.

$398

6. Bird Print Knee High Socks by Strathcona

We love these crazy cool socks, which are available in a number of different colors and prints and are made in the USA. Pair these with the heeled loafers above and a cute miniskirt or minidress for a fun fall look.

$36

7. Vintage Floral Crew Sock by Little River Sock Mill

These organic cotton socks from Alabama-based Little River Sock Mill are a little less loud than the ones above, and perfect for your favorite, simple loafers. We love the autumnal flower and leaf designs on these.

$20

8. Waterproof Haylie Loafer by UGG Australia

For more rugged conditions and colder climates, look no further than these trendy, yet totally functional, loafers from UGG Australia. Made with the highest quality, authentic lambs wool, these loafers are sure to keep your feet warm in the coming months.

$125

9. Carino Slip on Loafer by Jeffrey Campbell

Sliding to the opposite end of the spectrum, these lightweight slip-ons are perfect for warmer climates or upcoming tropical vacations. Made from natural fibers including jute and wood, they are breathable and perfect paired with cotton trousers or a breezy dress.

$100

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) can effectively be considered one of the most influential organizations in helping up and coming American designers enter the credible fashion market.

Much to our joy, the CFDA has launched the “CFDA and Lexus Fashion Initiative” as part of its scheme to support new designers, comprising workshops, mentorships and fieldwork for meaningful change in the U.S. fashion industry.

The Initiative will consider ten brands or designers for review, requiring them to demonstrate how they aim to significantly evolve the ethical and environmental standards of their design and production methods. The aim is to create a higher standard of sustainability and social responsibility across the board in order to instill a stronger sense of purpose, community and positive change in the fashion industry. The CFDA believes the principles to change design are “inspiration, innovation and imagination.”

Each year, the grand prize winner of the Fashion Initiative will receive $150,000 and two runners up will receive $50,000 to be used for establishing and developing ethical and environmental practices for their business.

The program spans over the course of 17 months, is completely accessible via the web and is available to any U.S.-based fashion designer. The CFDA recognizes the need for ample time for designers to perfect their craft and receive steady, supportive mentoring over a span of time where changes really do begin to develop.

The ten finalists chosen from the applicant pool will be announced next month. The CFDA is looking for companies that are already consciously utilizing ecologically and socially responsible practices in order to definitively drive the desire for those principles across the span of the fashion industry. The finalists will then be evaluated by the board, which conists of some of the most influential individuals in American sustainable fashion such as Timo Rissanen of Parsons School of Design, Amber Valletta of Master + Muse, Olivia Wilde of Conscious Commerce, Scott Hahn of Loomstate and Linda Greer of The Natural Resources Defense Council, to name a few.

This Initiative not only demonstrates the increased recognition and support of new fashion brands and designers, but also the considerable need for ethical and eco-friendly practices at the base level of a fashion brand.  “It just would be great if you just see this commitment to sustainability permeate the entire fashion community,” says Andre Lim, the Marketing Maanger at Lexus, “I believe it’s going to happen one day. It’s just a matter of time of knocking down those dominos one at a time.”

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The post CFDA and Lexus Launch the Sustainability in Fashion Initiative appeared first on EcoSalon.

The eco fashion trend is catching on in a big way, as evidenced by the launch of the gorgeous Topshop Reclaim collection of designs made entirely from leftover material like jersey, denim, and cotton from the fashion giant’s existing stock of fabric remnants.

The UK based company partnered up with eco fashion pioneers Orsola de Castro and Filippo Ricci of From Somewhere for their venture into the world of eco chic via the process of upcycling. This is the process of utilizing leftover fabrics and materials to create unique, creative, eco friendly and, of course fashionable, garments.

The capsule collection includes ’90s inspired collarless jackets, lots of white denim, funnel neck tops, flowy and silky florals, and geometric cuts – and all at prices ranging from $22-85!

Taking cues from the Fall 2015 runways, the collection features monotones, high waist skirts and trousers, nude and sheer tops, turtlenecks and the much loved miniskirt. We especially love the Leopard Print Overlay shorts ($68), and the matching top ($52). Accessorize your fall look with chic black boots, some seductive long gloves, a skinny scarf and of course some of this season’s big and colorful bling.

We’re so glad that companies and labels with fast fashion notoriety have begun to recognize and embrace the importance of eco fashion and sustainable design and its eventual evolution into the mainstream. We hope that the Topshop Reclaim collection inspires many more of its kind!

As Trish Clarke, Head of Technical Services at Topshop stated, “We are inspired to challenge textile waste across our product areas, whilst still creating versatile designs that are wardrobe essentials for our customers. From 70’s button down dresses, to sheer panel print blouses – we want everyday fashion to be sustainable in TOPSHOP’s portfolio and blueprint.”

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ColumnRetro chic influences popped up all over the place on Fall 2015 runways, so reveal in the vintage trends of suede, bell bottoms, chelsea boots and flowing dresses this coming season.

1. Faux Suede A-Line Mini Skirt by Hinge

This super cute, vegan mini skirt looks like something Twiggy would have donned back in the sixties. Make it more modern with a pair of western booties and a cute blouse or slouchy sweater.

$78

2. Rachel Blouse by Georgie & Elaine 

This richly colored peace silk blouse is designed and made by the zero-waste and eco friendly fashion label Georgie & Elaine. Wear it with a pencil skirt, mini skirt or pair of fitted bell bottoms and a pair of platform boots.

$253

3. Transcend – Canyon Bell Bottom Jeans by Paige Denim

These extremely flattering, cotton/rayon blend bell bottoms are made in the USA. They are the perfect retro chic addition to your fall wardrobe, especially when paired with cute booties, a silky floral blouse and seventies inspired zipper leather jacket.

$179

4. Lucid Dream Dress by Free People

So seventies and so sexy, this vintage inspired long sleeve dress is perfect for chillier weather, tights and knee high boots this fall. Add a simple piece of gold jewelry for a touch of elegance.

$148

5. ‘Babies’ Bootie by Saint Laurent

If you’re going for something on the fancier side and have soft spot for animal prints, you may not be able to resist the urge to splurge on these gorgeous chelsea boots. They would look absolutely stunning with a suede skirt or a pair of bell bottoms.

$1,395

6. The Ridley Black by Gunas

What could go better with the amazing boots above (or any chelsea boots for that matter) than this vegan leather bag by eco-friendly bag label Gunas. And it even comes in five other bright and retro inspired colors!

$135

7. Vintage 1970s Denim Jumpsuit by Free People

This fantastic denim jumpsuit from the Free People marketplace is an authentic vintage piece that will look good in any season and is great for almost any occasion from weekend chill outs to nights out on the town. Dress it up with some chunky seventies jewelry and a pair of  sexy heels.

$398

8. Retro Bralette and Panties by Hanky Panky 

Made in the USA from recycled nylon, this lingerie set is the perfect base layer for a a retro inspired outfit. Or maybe you’ll just want to wear it with a pair of knee high socks for a lazy Sunday at home.

$64

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The post Retro Chic Fashion for Fall: On Trend appeared first on EcoSalon.

The upcoming season’s trends are full of voluptuous and sensual fabrics, rich colors and flattering silhouettes that will make you want to don your fall wardrobe all year long. Use our quick guide to the top looks for fall 2015 fashion to add some velvets, sheer silks and some sleek boots to your ensemble!

1. Slim Skinny High Rise Jeans by Bluer Denim

A great pair of blue jeans is a must have for any fall wardrobe. These feminine and flattering ones from eco-conscious brand Bluer Denim are sure to turn heads, and they’ll look awesome with booties!

$95

2. Tie Dye Velour Sweatshirt by Splendid

You’ll never want to take this sweatshirt off! Its even made in the USA and machine washable.

$118

3. Ivy Ballet Flat by Bhava

Enjoy wearing flats before the really cold weather sets in. This pair by Bhava is perfect for fall tones and is made in NYC from sustainable materials.

$110

4. Berlin Zip Up Booty by Bhava

Once it is time to warm your feet up, keep them cozy in these super comfy and stylish zip up boots, also from NYC based brand Bhava.

$189

5. Textile Wrap Skirt by VOZ

Pair your boots with this playful skirt, which hand-woven by artisans in Chile.

$595

6. Black Slit Blouse by Delikate Rayne

Some sheer silks are definitely in order for fall, like this top from eco-fashion label Delicate Rayne. Wear it with velvet leggings, sleek trousers or a skin tight pencil skirt.

$320

7. Victorian Maxi Dress by Free People

This gorgeous dress is just the ticket to the dreamy evening look this fall. Made from mostly cotton and silk, this piece will let your natural beauty glow.

$500

8. Nicole Dress by Frock LA

If you’re looking for something simultaneously casual and dressy, this is it. Wear this black dress to the office with a blazer, and out to dinner or the club bare-backed.

$115

9. Carol Pea Coat by Georgie & Elaine

Cover up once the weather chills in this exquisite, 100 percent wool coat made with zero-waste methods from up cycled fabrics.

$407

10. Sunday Tote by Angela Roi

This elegant and chic tote is made entirely from vegan leather with the finest quality, sophisticated craftsmanship. It’s available in several different colors, and it wants to be your new hold-all!

$150

11. Anita Bucket Bag by Catrinka

If you’re looking for a bag that’s a bit more boho and laid-back, you’ll love this one from Faitrade label Catrinka. It’s made by hand at a small, women-owned workshop in India from 100 percent cotton.

$65

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When the fashion industry boomed after World War II, the “Made in” label became synonymous with the class and chic factor of any person wearing a certain designer or brand, but what do they really mean?

Since the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, the practice of labeling the country of origin on a manufactured product has been a marker of quality. By the 1990s logos were everything, especially since sportswear (think Nike, Adidas, Fila) hit the fashion market like a jet stream.

In this day and age, the “Made in” label also provides consumers with a indication of the working conditions and wage, safety and health standards of a certain brand and factory. Some countries have become synonymous with the sweat shops that have guilt shamed many large brand names for crimes against the wellbeing of humankind, although these brands have yet to fully implement reverse production methods.

However, through the recent exponential globalization and growth of the fashion industry, the implications of the “Made in” label have become a bit convoluted. Although the apparel factories in countries like India, Bangladesh, Thailand and Korea are often thought of as meccas for terrible working conditions and below poverty level wages, there are several brands working with artisan cooperatives and craftsmen in these countries to produce fairly made goods that improve the local infrastructure.

On the other hand, sweatshops are cropping up in countries like Italy, long known for their quality and impeccable use of materials, complicating the use of a “Made in Italy”, label. Several higher end brands are also producing many of their fashion items in places such as Hong Kong and China at a fraction of the cost of producing them in a European high-end fashion factory, but having them finished or packaged in France or Italy. According to the European Union, this confusingly provides ground for using a “Made in France” label. Transparency is completely invoked in this case, only to falsely protect the reputations of a brand.

So who can you trust? The powerful labeling systems such as Fair-Trade and Certified Organic are somewhat reliable, but the best way is to really research a brand for its transparency and production methods. A full understanding of the integrity of a fashion brand comes from the passion behind its methods of creation, and that will shine through everything the brand offers.

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Women have been the driving force behind sustainable  fashion, and we want to honor some of the industry’s most awesome ladies by highlighting their achievements and undeniable passion for creating a fashion system that serves us all!

1. Yael Aflalo

This LA based dame first started her fashion career as a designer in 1999. Upon learning the negative environmental and social impacts of fast fashion, she decided to create a fashion label that was blended her SoCal trend sense with sustainable fashion principles. In 2009 Reformation was born, a brand that uses sustainable repurposed and vintage materials and designed designed, manufactured, photographed, packed, and shipped from the brand’s vertically integrated LA headquarters.

2. Summer Rayne Oakes

Summer Rayne is the ultimate fusion of fabulous and green, since her impressive resume spans top notch modeling gigs, a degree in entomology, founding a sourcing platform for designers and an online farmers market to help sustain local foods systems (just to name a few). As a leading environmental activist and sustainability entrepreneur, we love that she has used her talents and intelligence to demonstrate that sustainable fashion can be simultaneously chic and effective.

3. Safia Minney

Considered to be the leader of the Fair Trade fashion movement, as the founder of fashion label People Tree, Safia Minney has turned her lifelong interest in the well-being of the earth and social justice into an exemplary business. Determined to help the fashion industry clean up its act, she has successfully set the stage for others to follow suit in turning sustainability into the mainstream fashion market.

4. Amy DuFault

Amy has been a driving force behind the promotion of sustainable fashion and  eco fashion designers since before the term “sustainable” become a buzz word. The former editor of EcoSalon, she now writes regularly for Ecouterre, The Guardian and directs communications from the Brooklyn Fashion & Design Accelerator alongside repping for sustainable fashion designers, sitting on major fashion panels and hosting awesome eco fashion events.

5. Carrie Parry

Aside from her adorable and super chic ’50s inspired sense of style, Carrie Parry is also a fashion designer with a commitment to environmentally conscious and ethical production. Her impeccably tailored line is made from sustainably sourced, artisan crafted materials, and is all made in the heart of New York City.

7. Hannah Jones

As the Chief Sustainability Officer for global activewear giant Nike Inc., Hannah Jones has definitely played an integral part in injecting an appreciation for and motivation to achieve sustainability in the world of apparel production. Innovation is her favorite word, especially when combined with resources, materials, and system change, and she’s paving the path for future sustainability leaders in the corporate setting.

7. Orsola de Castro

Founder and designer of fashion label From Somewhere, Orsola de Castro has created groundbreaking designs through the concept of “exquisite rubbish” by utilizing the surplus and discard textiles from luxury fashion houses. She’s known for taking on the entire collection of expelled Speedo racing suits and turning them into luxury dresses that were sold at   UK based high end departments, as well as being the founder of Esthetica, the sustainable hub for London Fashion Week.

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