Looking for DIY stocking stuffer ideas that don’t suck? Well we’ve got seven ideas that you (and your recipients) will love–especially since they come with a focus on green living.

If you’re like me, then being at a loss for cool stocking stuffer ideas is a yearly occurrence, which is why we’re here to mix things up. Don’t waste money and pollute the environment with a bunch of junk from the dollar aisle that will just get tossed out the following week. Instead, make some extra special from-the-heart gifts that your friends and family will actually enjoy receiving. From lip scrubs to cute hand warming sachets, you’ll have as much fun making these as you will giving them away!

1. Reusable Baggies

These cute (machine washable!) baggies are whipped up in just a few minutes with the use of a sewing machine, some velcro, and the oil cloth fabric of your choice. They’re perfect for your lunch-packing eco-friendly cohorts, and will quickly eliminate the need for all of those plastic baggies. Not only can these be used for more than just lunch food, but you can also pre-fill them with goodies before placing them in the stocking. Check out the tutorial from The Chic Site.

2. Peppermint Lip Scrub

As far a stocking stuffer ideas go, this one is a winner. This peppermint lip scrub from A Little Glass Box is easy to whip up using household ingredients, looks great when delivered in a cute glass jar, and is apparently very inexpensive compared to buying retail. Not only that, but this gift is from the heart, and your lucky recipients will know exactly what the ingredients are.

3. Hot Chocolate Spoons

I have been wanting to make these for, like, ever, and The Nerd’s Wife blog has finally sealed the deal. Who wouldn’t want to receive a hot chocolate spoon? I, mean, really? These are easy to make and they look like so much fun, too! What’s great is that you can make these with vegan chocolate and gift with vegan marshmallows, or keep the recipe as-is. As far as wooden spoons go, check out this all-natural version here, or consider going thrifting for some unique silver spoons, give them a good scrub, and dip those instead.

4. Seed Bombs

For truly unique stocking stuffer ideas, look no further than this awesometastic seed bomb DIY project from Rae of Sparkles. Beautiful, customizable, and earth-friendly, this is a handmade gift that you’ll love to receive as much as you’ll love to give. Whether you use wildflower seeds, or something that’s worthy of a kitchen window herb garden, all you have to do is mix up the ingredients and wrap with some fabric or burlap, and your favorite ribbon.

5. Mini Planter Magnets

If you (or your recipient) love wine and succulents, and we’re betting you do, then this DIY stocking stuffer is the perfect little handmade project. Round up those wine corks, and follow the instructions from Upcycle That to craft this adorable gift. Not only is it good for the environment, but it’s such an unexpected and economical stocking stuffer. I would suggest making these closer to gift giving time and then wrapping them up (plant and all) in a cute square of fabric or gift wrap just before you’re ready to present.

6. Upcycled Hand Warmers

These are attractive, functional, easy to make (no sew! woot!), and small enough to squish into a stocking. Gather up those old sweaters, unused fabric, or cruise the thrift stores aisles looking for some ugly Christmas goodness, and make these nifty hand warmers that also double as excellent stocking stuffers. Blogger Rachel Talbott uses vanilla and lavender essential oils in hers which, in my opinion, takes these DIY handwarmers to the next level.

7. Lemon Peppercorn Soap

An exfoliating bar of soap is a great way to slough off that dull winter layer of skin. These beautiful bars of soap are easy to make, can incorporate natural and organic ingredients, and fit neatly into a stocking. Burkatron has the tutorial you need to pull these off. We love the simple twine bow, but you can get as fancy as you’d like.

Homemade gifts can be elevated and awesome, so skip over the dollar aisle this year and make a few of these awesome presents for your lucky loved ones. If you’ve enjoyed these stocking stuffer ideas as much as we do, then hop on over to the EcoSalon Facebook page and share your favorites!

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Fall is upon us, which means the holidays will soon be here, but don’t worry – we have seven beautiful and eco-friendly home decor pieces that are perfect for warming up your home and welcoming guests just in time for the festivities.

Combine getting your home in tip-top shape with the impending holidays, and you’ve got the recipe for a panic attack. Sometimes, getting your hands on good looking eco-friendly home decor can be hard to do, especially when all your time is being spent breathing heavily into a paper bag. (Just sayin’.)

Luckily, though, I’ve gone ahead and rounded up seven gorgeous pieces that just about anyone would want to have in their home. Take a peek at my choices, and either snag one for yourself, pick one up for a lucky recipient–or glean a little holiday inspiration for the season.

1. Marbled Handwoven Throw

Hello, Gorgeous! I have officially found my new favorite home decor accent. I mean, who doesn’t want a little marble in every room of the house, right? And the best part about this all-cotton throw, aside from the awesome marbled look, is that it’s artisan made and handwoven. Toss this over your favorite chair, and use it to stay toasty on cool fall evenings.

2. Reclaimed Cookbook Holder

Perfect for the chef of the house, and especially for those easily distracted, burn-the-Tofurky kinda cooks, this beautiful stand with warm, reclaimed wood and steel accents is perfect for nailing all of your holiday recipes. The best part, aside from its sustainability and good looks, is that it doesn’t matter if you prefer old fashioned paper, or a tech-based recipe reader, the stand can easily accommodate either.

3. Geometric Eco-Cotton Rug

Treat your guests and yourself with a soft new rug underfoot. Not only is this modern geometric carpet beautiful, but it’s also ethically made by employees who are of legal working age and treated well. This particular rug is from the eco-cotton collection, which uses clean donated textiles to spin new yarn, so you can give thanks for innovative techniques this season, as well.

4. Teak Salt and Pepper Set

We believe good things come in small packages, just like this salt and pepper serving set. A great little story to share around the dinner table is that each one of these is crafted from excess materials from the logging industry, so no new trees are cut down for its making. Recommended for artisanal finishing salts and freshly ground pepper, it’s sure to be a hit.

5. Mid Century Tallboy

This vintage tallboy is the perfect accent piece for an entry way, dining space, or living room. Fall decor would look fabulous against its high gloss black finish, and the clean lines work well in a variety of settings. Whether eclectic, modern, vintage, or transitional, a piece like this will really add a lot of style and warmth to any room.

6. Natural Fuzzy Ikat Pillow

Next time you’re indulging in your hot cocoa and sappy holiday movie ritual, make sure you have this extra fuzzy Ikat pillow to cry into snuggle up with. Made from natural and sustainable materials, the unique design and conscientious craftsmanship is perfect for the boho-chic decor lover in us all. Trust me, your cat, Mr. Fluffy Pants, will thank you for it.

7. Organic Eclectic Leopard Chair

Be still, my heart! This leopard chair is on the tippy top of my wish list, but if you’re lucky enough to splurge now, then I’d definitely recommend working this into your living room, like now. With organic cotton, natural linen, recycled filling, and certified wood materials, this plush chair is sustainable and stylish. I can totally imagine this chair and that vintage tallboy being BFFs in some special person’s living room.

Don’t hate me ‘cause you want them all! But do relish in their gorgeousness and let the furnishings serve as inspiration for the holiday season. Not only can eco-friendly home decor be warm and inviting, it also proves that being stylish is better for the environment. And, even if your budget doesn’t have the room for new pieces right now, I can definitely see the DIY potential in a lot of these.

Share your favorite pieces AND your favorite holiday memories with us on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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Thanks to few wonderfully wearable trends, and some surprisingly sustainable twists, fall fashion has never looked so good (or been so ethical).

Autumn is closing in, which means it’s time to start thinking about your seasonal wardrobe. (Can I getta hells yes for sweater weather?!) And if you’re anything like me, then you may have actually been fantasizing about all of the cute outfits you’ve been wanting to put together since, well, the hottest month of the year. We southernmost folks generally like to throw in the proverbial towel, completely sweat-soaked, by the way, during the month of August. To say I’m excited for a little reprieve from the heat would be an understatement. Fortunately, this post is dedicated to all things fall fashion and is designed to help us all look toward the brighter (and cooler) aspects of the season.

When it comes to fashion, one great thing about the changing of the seasons are the new trends that follow suit. NYFW is the mecca of all things stylish, especially when it comes to setting the stage for what retailers will be carrying and your favorite fashion icons will be wearing. However, if you’re a diehard EcoSalon fan, which I know you are, then you’ve probably learned by now from reading so many entertaining and informative articles that fast fashion is bad for all parties involved. Luckily, you can still follow trends and be good to humanity, because I’ve brought you coverage of some of this autumn’s most fashion-tastic trends, each with their own little sustainable twist.

1. Cold Shoulder

You haven’t seen the last of this trend yet! Although it might seem counterintuitive to the cooler weather that’s soon approaching, baring your shoulders is a fall fashion statement that’s sticking around through the season. The secret to pulling off this universally flattering trend is in warmer knits and thoughtful layering. Fortunately for us, this strikingly beautiful, two-tone Pamela poncho from Anita Arze is as socially responsible as it is stylish. Although the poncho isn’t vegan – it’s made from alpaca – you can still rest assured that this piece has been crafted in the kindest way possible, treating both the artisans and the animals with the utmost care.

2. Half-Moon Handbags

When it comes to high fashion handbags, apparently it’s all about the manner in which you tote them. Wide open bags, purses that had a mini me appendages, a fanny pack revival, and clutches carried in the crook of the arm are just a few of the wild trends that were showcased at NYFW. Fortunately, I’m a bit of a realist, which means any popular look I share with you will usually also have a (very) practical twist. Half-moon shapes happened to be a sought after style from the runways, and I’m always a fan of a hands-free cross-body bag, so here’s a bag that combines the best of both worlds: the Jessa. This all vegan beauty from Urban Expressions is actually quite similar to a popular Chanel bag, but with a bigger heart and a smaller price tag. Carry the caramel tote everywhere this fall.

3. Lux Velvet

Love it, or hate it, velvet, especially colorful, was a star on the NYFW runways for fall. Fortunately, this is a great textile to incorporate in office, evening, and weekend attire — it even works wonders in the winter. Whether it’s brought in on a blazer, with an accessory, or through something quite practical, like a pair of pants, this is definitely a trend that everyone can work. These red Kensington trousers from Boden are the perfect addition to your fall fashion line-up. They will showcase ankle booties beautifully and can be worn during a variety of occasions. The retailer is a member of the Ethical Trade Initiative, ensuring that your purchases are a result of conscious labor practices.

4. Practical Loafers

These comfy shoes are trending hard, and I’m so glad. With such versatility and effortless style, how could you not want a pair? I love these with fall work-to-weekend looks, like a plaid oxford shirt, and slim leg trousers that only need a bit of revamping in order to make the outfit casual-chic. For the perfect early holiday shopping attire, untuck your button down, swap the trousers for a pair of rolled up boyfriend jeans, and trade the briefcase for your favorite cross-body bag. The gorgeous royal blue jazz loafers pictured here are 100 percent vegan (woo hoo!) with a biolatex and cork insole. Get them right now from Moo Shoes!

As you can see, fall fashion is not only super exciting and beautiful, but also highly sustainable. Now you can conquer whatever the season throws at you – I’m really hoping it’s a pumpkin spice latte, fingers crossed – with a clear conscience and a winning wardrobe. What’d you think of my picks? Sound off on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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Image of Woman Wearing Colorful Skirt via Shutterstock

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With the invention of technology-laden fabrics, otherwise known as smart textiles, we are able to benefit from multifunctional materials.  

Smart textiles, also known as E-textiles, smart garments, tech fabrics, and smart fabrics, are materials based on technology that integrate advanced features beneficial to the wearer. In an interview with Forbes,  Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman, smart textiles and wearable technologies expert stated,  “what makes smart fabrics revolutionary is that they have the ability to do many things that traditional fabrics cannot, including communicate, transform, conduct energy and even grow.” And as crazy as it might sound, having computers and technology literally integrated into our clothing is not only acceptable but may one day be the norm.

“Smart textiles can be broken into two different categories: Aesthetic and Performance Enhancing,” says Forbes. And because of this, these technologically advanced textiles are being utilized by several different industries. Medical, beauty, sports, military, and fashion are taking advantage of such innovations to benefit its users in a way that’s seamlessly integrated into our lives. Excited to see what developments lay ahead, we’ll be exploring a few fabrics that may be in our closets, homes, and doctors offices sooner rather than later.

1. Light Up Fabric

Imagine leaving reflectors at home when you go out for an evening stroll, or skipping the candles in favor of your curtains because there’s a material that can do all of that for you. From the LumiGram site: “The Luminous Fiber Optic Fabric is a fabric that literally lights up; It is made of ultra-thin optical fibers, directly woven with synthetic fibers.” The decor line is perfect for special occasions or for eliciting that wow factor from friends, and while the clothing line is geared more toward the raver or party goer, we could definitely imagine this integrated into regular clothing, like workout gear, sneakers, and more, in the future.

2. Drug Releasing Material

The University of Washington is onto a breakthrough in preventing women from being infected with HIV and it may come from a carefully designed material. They’ve created a “medicated, electrospun fabric” that has the potential to release the antiretrovital drugs faster than other methods. From the Fierce Pharma website, based on study results published in the August issue of Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, “UW bioengineers spun topical drugs into silklike fibers that quickly dissolve when exposed to moisture, releasing higher levels of antiretroviral drug in less time than topical gels or rings.” In addition to this, researchers are also hoping to develop an HIV preventing tampon that could be inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse.

3. Moisturizing Textiles

Thanks to advancements in smart textiles, there may come a time when you no longer have to apply lotions and moisturizers in the traditional way. JuveTex Rejuvenating Fabric is a revolutionary way to hydrate without creams or chemicals. According to the site, “The skin moisturizing capabilities are built permanently into the fabric. In one square inch there are over 20,000 microfibers which makes the fabric ultra-luxurious.” In addition to that, JuveTex, founded on medical science, “is a proprietary weave pattern and blend of natural cellulosic fibers and synthetic microfibers. It is uniquely constructed to channel moisture away from the skin’s surface via a hydrophobic transport layer to the soft absorbent backing layer where it then evaporates.” Now that’s a pair of pajamas we could get behind.

4. Temperature Regulating Fabric

Absorbing and releasing heat, textiles from Outlast allow its users to regulate body temperature with ease. The company utilizes these fabrics for a variety of applications, including bedding, apparel, footwear, seating, and body armor. Rather than wicking heat away during slumber, this company’s materials actually feature proactive heat management technology that has been “tested and proven to alleviate spikes in skin temperature that cause sleep disturbances.” And when it comes to clothing, Outlast claims that the wearer “will feel just right, no matter what the activity or season.” Reducing perspiration by up to 70 percent in some cases, this is a welcome technology so far.

As you can see, smart textiles are beautiful, exciting, practical, and even life-saving. With such amazing advancements on the horizon we can’t wait to see what the future of fabrics has in store. What do you think about tech materials and their role in society? Share your thoughts with us on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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Fashion shapes identity in a multitude of different ways; from the colors we pick to the stores we frequent, who we are is ingrained in our style.

Clothes, shoes, accessories, and even body modifications, like piercings, tattoos, hair dye, and cosmetic surgery, are all a part of fashion in one way or another. Somehow we decide why we want those jeans, that pair of shoes, or our first tattoo. Considering we are highly complex individuals who absorb many different characteristics throughout our lives, identity is a complicated concept. From how fashion shapes identity in terms of age, gender, class, and more, we hope that this will help shed some light on who you are, why we make certain style related choices, and how to better understand others.

Age

Women have been taught, oftentimes from a very young age, that there is a certain social standard for how we should dress at different stages in our lives. And if you’ve ever been told that you should dress your age – like when your twelve-year-old self tried to sneak out in a mini skirt, only to be told by your mother that you won’t be leaving looking like that, then you probably understand this concept a little better than most.

Chances are, many women have been on the receiving end of the “dress your age” judgments, even those who are well into their 40s, 50s, 60s and so on. So why is this such a crucial part of our identities? Many of us use clothes to represent our ages, whether the actual one, or how we feel inside, and as we grow older, our fashion sense usually changes with it. Fortunately, though, these rigid roles are beginning to become more fluid in the adult world (sorry twelve-year-old me), allowing your great aunt to proudly display her pink hair and butterfly ink.

Further supported by a paper published by the University of Manchester, which states, “In relation to clothing and dress, it means the end of the old culture of age ordering, of self effacement, and drab and frumpy dress: there is no reason why older people should not wear the same clothes, shop at the same fashion conscious shops as younger people. For women in particular it offers liberation from what is a very negative set of messages around sexuality, appearance and self assertion, policed by a heavily moralistic language.” In other words, rock on Grandma. Rock on.

Gender

When we’re born, clothing typically reflects our gender – boys are in blue and girls in pink. But as we grow older and begin to develop likes and dislikes, what we are left with can drastically change. With gender fluidity and the greater social acceptance of transgender individuals, our mainstream ideas of man and woman based on clothing alone is no longer the best identifier. What ends up happening is that we utilize fashion as the self-expression needed to convey our genders, whether actual or desired, to the world.

An insightful article from the Berg Fashion Library on the study of fashion, dress, and gender, notes, “In the humanities, the most influential gender theorist has been Judith Butler, whose canonical book Gender Trouble contributed the concept of gender performativity. This theory argues that seemingly stable gender expressions are actually the result of constant negotiations between an individual’s sense of self and the feedback acquired through social interactions, in a context of signs and symbols that are constantly subject to change.”

Class and Culture

How much money we make helps determine which brands we can afford, where we will acquire clothing, and how we will dress. Fashion shapes identity thereby further supporting the wearer’s lifestyle. Luxury names, branded handbags and clothing, and the ability to afford more cosmetic procedures, which are often out of reach for most, may become an important part of a wealthy person’s life. Whereas, someone on the opposite end of the spectrum may find themselves shopping at thrift stores, or possibly struggling to maintain a clean, tatter-free wardrobe. Our clothing is a stark reminder of our identities, whether we like it or not.

Self-Esteem

If you’ve ever had a favorite dress that fits perfectly in all the right places, or a power suit that always seems to give you that extra boost of confidence before a meeting, then you probably understand how clothing can have a direct affect on your self-esteem and how class and culture trickle down into this area. Although you don’t have to be rich to look nice and to buy new clothes, when you can’t afford any at all, then self-esteem and self-worth can, understandably, take a hit. The correlation between clothing and how we feel about ourselves is so strong that in “The Psychology of Dress“ published by the Berg Fashion Library, a team of social psychologists found “that when women put on a swimsuit as part of a research project, they performed more poorly on a subsequent math test than other women who put on a sweater.”

Other’s Opinions

The way we dress is like communicating without words, and whether we like it or not, other people judge us by our appearances. While we shouldn’t allow our self-esteem to ride on the opinions of others, what we glean from people throughout our lives, be it good or bad, helps to shape our identities. Like the story about the homeless man who received little to no assistance, but once he was wearing a suit strangers were more apt to help him, to the excuse about “the way she was dressed” as a way to explain away a motive for sexual assault, there are many predeterminations and misconceptions about outward appearances – it’s up to us to change them.

Although this is just barely scratching the surface, there’s no doubting the effect that fashion has on our identities. Based on these notions, is there one that you most closely relate to? What do your clothes say about you? Share your thoughts with us on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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Living a better and more efficient life begins at home, which is why the psychology of interior design is so vitally important to creating a happy home.

Whether you’re a professional or a do-it-yourselfer, residential interior design is a multifaceted field that often involves various stages of renovating, remodeling, and decorating homes–which, believe it or not, incorporates a fair amount of psychological know-how. All the way from space planning to wall colors to how your home is organized, every little detail has the ability to create an impact – both subliminally and explicitly.

Space Planning for Efficiency and Functionality

The goal of space planning is to create a harmonious flow within a space, and when things feel out of whack, then everything from productivity to basic comfort can take a hit. This integral part of interior design might involve floorplans or blueprints when doing things like knocking down walls or building additions. And for decorating purposes, space planning would refer to where you place your furnishings within the home and how those “force” its residents to move throughout and utilize the area.  

Just because you don’t own your home or have the dough to remodel doesn’t mean you can’t improve the current situation. Making small steps to increase efficiency, and thereby creating a happier home, can go a long way. Take the opportunity to experiment by rearranging what you already have, or by eliminating a few pieces if the area is feeling claustrophobic. Leave some space around all sides of your furniture – in other words, don’t push your sofa against the wall. And if you’re kitchen is too small, invest in a small island on wheels that also has some storage built in – this could become your entire coffee brewing station in a tiny space.

Set the Mood with Color

We experience color at every turn, so whether you love it, hate it, or fall somewhere in between, it is definitely here to stay. This inescapable facet of interior design and decorating can be uplifting, stimulating, relaxing, maddening, inspiring, and more. And when it comes to including color in the home, the hues you choose can have a direct impact on your mood. Although no two people see color exactly the same (Was that dress really white and gold, or was it blue and black?), there is legitimacy to how certain colors have the ability to alter our outlooks and perceptions.

According to experts at Dream Home Decorating, just as a neutral interior color palette may appear calming and stylish to some, others may find it such a drag that only a cheerful and energizing yellow splashed on the walls could get them through the day. The site also gives great explanations on how darker colors can make a large room seem more intimate, how lighter colors can make a small space feel larger, and how warm and cool undertones can also make a difference. So, if you’re feeling blue, then maybe it’s time for an interior color overhaul – it may do your mental state a lot of good.

Cleanliness for a Clear Mind

If a tidy space equals a clear mind, then why aren’t we taking more steps to improve our surroundings? One key to a happy home is by creating a simple routine to keep things clean, even if it’s as small as making your bed every morning, quickly clearing off the coffee table, or emptying the bathroom garbage every Wednesday and Sunday so you’re not faced with seeing it full to the brim throughout the week. Commit to spending just ten minutes a day cleaning up and you may find that all of these little things can make a huge difference.

And don’t forget the importance of organizing. It can set the stage for keeping things clean on a regular basis. For example, if your shoes don’t have a home, then how do you expect them to stay off of the living room floor and out of the way? Invest in tools like a sturdy shoe rack for your closet or entryway, a bathroom organizer that hangs on the back of the door, or extra closet shelving. Ensuring that everything has a place in your home can be life changing

With so much time spent at home, improving how you feel when there is vital to your mental health, especially if you’re a sensitive person to begin with. And thanks to a greater understanding of how to lift your spirit and improve your mood, these tips should put you on the path to creating a happy home. What are some steps you’ve taken to improve your mood at home? Share your thoughts on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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A vegan lifestyle often goes beyond abstaining from certain foods. For many, like the four individuals below, it becomes a chance to spread awareness about animal, social, and environmental issues through the use of their talent and individuality.

Veganism is essentially defined as a person who does not consume any meat, dairy, eggs, cheese, or any other food that is animal derived. They also eschew animal-derived textiles in clothing, shoes, and accessories, and avoid products tested on animals such as personal care products and makeup. Usually, along with a lifestyle that specific come misconceptions, stereotypes, and other judgments. And while a vegan lifestyle isn’t for everyone, the folks you’re about to meet prove that one can not only survive, but thrive.

1. Leilani Munter

Although Leilani has been named “one of the top ten female race car drivers in the world” by Sports Illustrated, there’s even more to this caring and compassionate woman than just her accomplished career. In addition to her competitive side, she’s also been described as “the face of activism” by Vegan Lifestyle Magazine. Munter has not only adopted a plant based diet, but she’s also made many strides and sent numerous messages using her publicized profession as the vehicle – literally and figuratively – for spreading awareness.

Originally a biology major, Munter has a long list of achievements, including placing “green” and eco-friendly advertisements on her race car, being the first race car driver to travel 2600 miles, to her match oil free in her Tesla Model S, and becoming the first team in history to run their pit box on 100 percent solar power. In addition to this, she has delivered more than 80 keynote speeches, sits on two environmental advisory boards, and is said to be launching a vegan clothing line this year.

2. Jehina Malik

This incredible athlete is the first ever International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness Pro card holder to compete as a lifelong vegan! Malik has certainly broken boundaries and stereotypes, especially when it comes to naysayers believing that people who live a vegan lifestyle can’t and won’t get enough nutrition and protein in their diets. The lean muscle on her well-honed physique says otherwise!

Competing since the age of 19 and a vegan since birth, this formerly self-proclaimed “skinny” girl wasn’t always praised for her musculature. Being thin and teased is actually what prompted her to begin weight training. Dedicated and disciplined, Malik works out 12 to 14 hours per week, takes several vegan vitamins and supplements, sticks to very clean eating during season, and says her favorite food in her prep diet is the cashew.

3. Dexter Thomas

According to LGBTQ Nation, “Transgender rights activist Dexter Thomas is the first out trans man to compete for the title of PETA’s Sexiest Vegan Next Door.” Hailing from from Salt Lake City, Utah, Thomas adopted a vegan lifestyle at the age of 17 and “championed changes” at his high school by including vegan lunch options before dropping out due to difficulties transitioning from his junior to senior year as a transgender teen. Fast forward 17 years, and this 34-year-old summa cum laude graduate and Ph.D. student of social psychology is a transgender activist, advocate for animals, advocate for homeless sexual-minority youth, has protested rodeos, and is continuing to be helpful, hands-on, and impactful in his daily life.

Thomas shared this sentiment with PETA on part of what drove him to go vegan at such a young age: “I learned first-hand that people are capable of immense cruelty toward others who they perceive to be inferior to them. When I started to realize that this attitude drives transphobia, homophobia, sexism, and so on, I also realized it fuels outdated attitudes toward other animals.” As a deeply compassionate and caring human being, in addition to his charming good looks, it’s no wonder Thomas went on to win PETA’s male title of Sexiest Vegan Next Door 2016.

4. Amy Guidry

After adopting a vegan lifestyle for more than a decade, it only made sense that animals would one day become this artist’s inspiration. An interview with Vegans Are Cool revealed that Guidry first became a vegetarian while doing research for a college ethics class, but realized that dairy and eggs still contributed to the slaughtering of animals, thereby influencing her decision to go vegan. And although she didn’t transition until later in life, her passion for art began at an early age.

Truly brilliant, this surrealist artist has honed her craft over the years into beautifully depicted and detailed paintings. Her most recent series titled In Our Veins focuses on various animals which are widely anthropomorphized in one way or another. According to Guidry, this series “explores the connection between all life forms and life cycles.” She goes on to say that this study includes the “interdependence of the human race to each other and to the rest of the animal kingdom, as well as the planet itself.  One cannot exist without the other, therefore it is of the utmost importance that we care for each and every living thing.”

Whether you’re a vegan or not, we hope you’ve found inspiration from these four alternative leaders, and take away with you the notion that being who you are is the best choice you can make, even when facing adversity or combating your fears. Share your thoughts with us on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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If you’re going to update your wardrobe this summer, consider investing in one of these charitable companies that are also fashion forward.

Let’s face it, whether you love it or hate it, the majority of us have to shop at one time or another. So wouldn’t it be nice to know that the retailer you’re giving your money to is also working behind the scenes to do good for the causes you care about?

Whether the focus is on animals or people, these companies have their hearts in the right place.

1. Sevenly

Sevenly’s name is a hint to the company’s charitable process. “Recognized as one of the world’s leading ‘social good’ companies,” fashion forward graphic tees is what the brand is known for, and each purchase will donate 7 percent of every sale to the Sevenly Foundation, with 100 percent of that amount going to one of 7 different charities. To date this business has donated more than $4 million to various organizations See the trend yet? Sevenly’s “epic causes,” or charitable groups, change throughout the year, but the choice of where your money goes is up to you, so long as the design falls under one of the easy to navigate charitable categories on the website.

2. Lemlem

Founded in 2007 by supermodel, actress, and maternal health advocate, Liya Kebede, Lemlem not only dedicates its business practices to empowering traditional weavers by sourcing products from women in Ethiopia, but the company also donates 5 percent of sales to its sister non-profit organization, The Liya Kebede Foundation, where members “work to address the top health concern of women in Africa – access to lifesaving maternity care.” Midwives are then trained to provide assistance in order to make childbirth safer near where Lemlem sources and manufacturers products.

3. Olsenhaus

Vegan shoe company founded by designer and animal advocate Elizabeth Olsen in August of 2008 in New York City, “was created to illustrate plundering, cruelty, and greed are not synonymous with true style.” The business creates beautiful footwear while also focusing on transparency and unwavering ethical and social values, so it’s no wonder that “Olsenhaus works with and donates to the country’s leading animals rights organizations for education and rescue,” often donating product for auction at fundraising events.

4. Freedom of Animals

With products that are “animal-free and made consciously in the U.S.A.,” Freedom of Animals carries a beautiful line of luxury handbags that any woman would be proud to own. In addition to its partnership with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya, cruelty-free products, ethically run factories, and eco-friendly materials are what this business stands by. The handbags are “named after the orphaned elephants who were brought to the Shedrick Foundation after losing their mothers to poaching,” and as the company grows, Freedom of Animals aims to donate a percent of each sale.

5. FASHIONABLE

“Beautiful products by women who have overcome” is the motto of FASHIONABLE, and what a great concept it is. This company believes in the power of charity and in the relief it gives individuals who are often in unbearable circumstances. And although it is not a “charitable model of business,” what FASHIONABLE does believe is this: “What we seek to ‘give’ to those living in poverty is opportunity by purchasing goods from them, and helping those businesses grow and employ more.” By doing trade with companies in Africa the role is to hold those businesses accountable for their employment practices, ensuring they’re fair and positively reinforced.

6. Pura Vida Bracelets

When two Southern California friends, Griffin Thall and Paul Goodman, embarked on a college graduation trip to Costa Rica, they stumbled upon two bracelet peddlers who fashioned accessories that “seemed to capture the essence of their journey.” Before leaving they asked the men to make 400 bracelets that the two then placed in a boutique shop in San Diego. After selling out within days, the partners had an epiphany about how they could help the bracelet makers, who at the time were living in a cramped, single room with three beds for their entire family. Today, the Pura Vida is thriving, and “every bracelet purchased helps provide full-time jobs for local artisans in Costa Rica.”

7. The Elephant Pants

With a soft spot for Elephants, this boutique online retailer that caters to women and kids was founded in 2014. With awareness of illegal ivory poaching and a 50 percent decline in population over the last 35 years, The Elephant Pants made it the company’s mission to help save elephants and “feel damn good while doing it.” A portion of every sale is donated to the African Wildlife Foundation, which educates about the effects of the ivory trade, supplies park rangers with adequate training for tracking animals and apprehending poachers, and pays African land owners to keep their land open rather than sell to developers. To date, more than $100,000 has been donated to the AWF and other charitable organizations.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our roundup of charitable companies. Share your thoughts about this post on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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Vegan fashion has changed my life–yes, jeans, and shoes, and sweaters have made me a better, more compassionate person.

This article won’t chastise you for wearing leather, try and convert you to veganism, or tell you that you’re somehow inadequate for choosing animal fur over faux. Ultimately, we are all humans who have the ability to make choices – paper or plastic, apple or banana, regular or premium – and reading this won’t take that ability away from you. What it will do (I hope), however, is serve as a platform for discussing all the things vegan fashion has done to not only change my life, but really enrich and enlighten my outlook on the world.

First, what is vegan fashion? It’s clothing, shoes, outerwear, and accessories that are free from animal-based materials, namely leather and suede, wool, silk, or fur. Lots of the clothes we wear are vegan by default: denim, cotton tees and undies, etc.

Fashion, whether it’s vegan or ethical or eco-friendly or not, is a global phenomenon – a process that may start clear across the planet before ever making its way into our closets. And with an impact that broad, it’s important to identify why it matters so darn much. Fortunately, intentional vegan fashion is often a positive process resulting in a product that’s better for everyone involved. And the ways in which it has changed my life, for better or worse, is what we’ll be exploring today.

1. Human Rights Awareness

Sometimes we become so focused on the animals that we forget about the ones who make the production aspect possible – people. Clothing manufacturers’ employees deserve to earn living wages, have safe work environments, and perform under humane working conditions, which in many cases of fast fashion, are completely overlooked. I’ve come to the conclusion that the founders of  ethical, and fair trade vegan clothing companies are all around more compassionate and aware of such problems, and less concerned about the company’s bottom line. Of course, that doesn’t apply to all vegan products, but there are those brands out there that do consider these factors, and that makes all the difference.

2. Save More Money

This may not seem true at first glance, considering that vegan clothing from ethical retailers and manufacturers can sometimes be more expensive that their counterparts, but because I’m ultimately more selective about what I spend my money on, opting for quality over cheaper, fast fashion quantity, then I’m not faced with the cheap, disposable factor of the items I buy. Not only that, but synthetic belts, shoes, handbags, fur accented coats, and other clothes and accessories made from faux materials sometimes actually cost less than those made from the real thing.

3. Trickle Down Effect

Adopting vegan-only fashion had what I like to call a trickle-down effect on my choices, in that the idea sort of naturally influenced my way of thinking in other areas of life. Going cruelty-free with my toiletries, makeup, hair dyes, cleaning solutions, and other products was a direct result of my fashion choices. It only made sense to “go all the way” forcing me to explore new territory that required a lot of research and discovery, but was incredibly rewarding nonetheless. Today, identifying brands and products that are acceptable for my lifestyle is easier than ever, like second nature. It has made the journey worth the initial work because I feel better about my choices and what I put on my body.

4. Sadness, But Also Compassion

I’ve seen the undercover videos, I’ve read the books, I’ve watched the documentaries, and although you can’t believe everything you see or hear, there’s a lot of truth to what goes on in the leather and wool industries, the fur trade, and more. It’s a sad reality for the animals we use for fashion and it really bothers me. Not only do they experience extreme suffering, but with appalling revelations publicly surfacing about China’s dog fur trade, there’s no way of knowing whether the animal is actually someone’s beloved pet. Anonymous or named, any animal being harmed makes me sad, but also knowing that they’ve suffered only compounds my feelings, resulting in a whole lot of compassion for the gentle, unassuming beings that share this planet with us.

5. New Discoveries

During my research into textile alternatives to animal-derived materials, I have been exposed to technological advances and innovative techniques that have produced some of the most unique and beautiful “fabrics” I’ve ever seen. This has opened my eyes to the future of both the regular and vegan fashion industries, with high hopes that one day famous designers will opt for the innovative product rather than the traditionally high-end product that so often require the use of animals. I believe that adopting this principle will not only set a new standard but it will also appeal more readily to the progressive generations to come.

As individuals, we are free to make our own choices, so let’s hope that a message without blame will incite more compassion in all aspects of life. And, as always, let us know your thoughts on the EcoSalon Facebook page.

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Our Father’s Day gift guide will appeal to a range of different dad’s – from the health nut to the geeky guy, we’ve got something for everyone.

For the special man in your life, whether it’s the father of your children, your own dearest dad, or a surrogate father figure, show him how much you care with a small token of appreciation. Whether he’s into an organic and sustainable lifestyle or not, our Father’s Day gift guide still has mass appeal and is a great jumping off point for some really special and unique presents for Pops.

1. The Grillmaster

If your Dad is a vegetarian or vegan, that doesn’t mean he has to give up one of his favorite pastimes. Cracking open a beer, sporting his favorite apron, and firing up the grill is not only possible, but also delicious and healthy with one of these meat-free cookbooks. Depending on dietary preferences, we recommend the highly rated “Cookouts Veggie Style!: 225 Backyard Favorites – Full of Flavor, Free of Meat” or “Grilling Vegan Style: 125 Fired-Up Recipes to Turn Every Bite into a Backyard BBQ.”

2. The Dapper Dad

For the dad that’s always dressed to the nines, impeccably groomed, and smelling great, then the Herban Cowboy line of men’s all natural cologne and grooming products should be right up his alley. Not only are we loving this popular dusk blend fragrance that’s both organic and cruelty-free, but the ethical brand also offers shaving cream, soap, lotion, deodorant, and more.

3. The Adventurer

When the great outdoors is when Dad is truly in his element, then perhaps some upgraded camping gear will brighten his day. The Encampment 15 from Big Agnes is a synthetic sleeping bag that features Insotect Hotstream insulation, comprised of one hundred percent recycled material, which is said to feel as warm and as soft as down insulation. Now, Dad can still do rugged, manly things while having a soft spot to sleep. Maybe he can even convince you to tag along.

4. The Hipster

If Dad is a trend slayer on the regular and loves to dress in the latest styles, then a hip and handy messenger bag might be just the thing to complete his outfits this year. For a cross-body tote that he can carry to the office or to the park, choose The Quintessential Commuter from Blue Lounge. Perfect for a bicycle ride, subway commute, and more, this messenger bag is made entirely from plastic bottles, water-resistant, and hardwearing.

5. The Sporty Father

The All Out Crush running shoe from Merrell will have your fitness loving father pounding the pavement in comfort and style. One of the best features of these shoes, aside from the ergonomic design and pleasing aesthetic, is the fact that they’re also vegan-friendly. This ethical footwear is made from mesh, TPU, a washable synthetic upper, and the advanced Trail Protect pad for underfoot protection.

6. The Tech Lover

If gadgets always ran amuck at your house and dad is still tinkering with the latest in technology, then blow his mind with a sound enhancer that uses no batteries, has zero cords, and was formerly a living plant. Enter the iBamboo Speaker that’s designed specifically for use with the iPhone. And just as described, this music amplifier made from nothing more than a piece of bamboo is as novel as it sounds.

7. The Spirited Fella

Kicking back with a brew is something many dads enjoy, especially after a long day or on a hot summer afternoon. If yours is conscientious about what he puts in his body, or is willing to try new things, then why not bring by a six pack of ice cold beers from Peak Organic? They’re in most local stores and the company prides itself on using local, artisan, and organic ingredients. With a variety of ales and lagers, there’s something for every beer imbibing dad.

To the first man who taught you how to throw a ball, battled you at video games, helped you study your first specimen, or just gave really good advice, let him know you’re thinking about him this year and every day. Surprise dear old dad with some of the coolest in sustainable, organic, and eco-friendly ideas from our Father’s Day gift guide. Do you have any special Father’s Day memories? Share your thoughts on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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