Spring brings with it the perfect weather to wear ballet flats. Every girl needs a pair in her closet and while many are made from leather, these sweet styles prove vegan ballet flats are just as chic!

The trickiest part of shopping for vegan ballet flats is finding a pair that is not only faux leather but also comfortable. Many times, faux leather is used to be cost effective rather than animal-friendly, which means they’re not designed to last–or feel all that great on your feet! These styles, fortunately, are higher quality and therefore should keep your feet from aching.

Try one of these cruelty-free flats to perk up your spring style!

Vegan Ballet Flats

1. Olsenhaus B-Babylon-Lavender Ballet Flats

These faux suede ballet flats from Olsenhaus are the epitome of spring. In an unexpected shade, lavender, these shoes will put a pop of color into your outfit. Plus, Olsenhaus shoes are not only cruelty-free but also fair-trade and eco-friendly.

2. Tieks Silver Lake Vegan Ballet Flats

Tieks are an essential for on-the-go women everywhere due to their easy transportability. Each shoe rolls into a compact shape which makes them ideal for tucking away in a purse or gym bag. Tieks offers a few vegan selections like these gray flats which are made from synthetic materials without parabens or artificial dyes.

3. Noah Italian Vegan Shoes Catherine Flats

These ballet flats by Noah Italian Vegan Shoes are elegant and refined. Their ladylike style remains a classic suited for a wide range of occasions. The shoes are composed of a supple faux suede which has a luxurious look and feel. Unlike real suede, the microsuede Noah Italian Vegan Shoes uses is waterproof so you won’t need to treat the shoes with a protectant coat before wearing them.

4. Melissa Space Love + Jason Wu III

Who wouldn’t covet a shoe designed by Jason Wu go-to designer of the former First Lady, Michelle Obama? Wu collaborated with Melissa Shoes to create these pale pink ballet flats, which are romantic yet refined. Melissa Shoes are made from vegan-friendly PVC so any of its styles will keep your closet cruelty-free.

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Staying chic and cruelty-free is a difficult feat come snow season. Most snow-proof clothing is either made from wool, leather, or down feathers–or it’s simply not flattering. But these slick snow essentials prove it’s possible to stay stylishly vegan while walking in a winter wonderland.

Cruelty-Free Snow Clothes

1. Thermal Top

Thermal tops lock in heat and are perfect for layering under snow jackets. This bandana print thermal by Free People is trendy and practical. Plus, it has a stretchy fit that’ll prevent you from feeling trapped beneath your layers.

2. Softshell Anorak

Jessica Simpson is one of my go-to brands for vegan snow jackets. Each season, there are usually at least three different cruelty-free styles to choose from. This soft shell anorak is perfect for wearing over a few layers on winter outings.

3. Quilted Puffer Jacket

This sleek puffer jacket by Jessica Simpson is perfect for staying extra warm with its polyester filling. Plus, it has a removable faux fur hood which will allow you to switch up your look. Water-resistant polyester means you’ll stay dry all day long in this cruelty-free snow coat.

4. Skinny Ski Pants

These slick ski pants have a skinny silhouette and are fitted closely to ensure you’ll look sophisticated. Their design allows you to ski effortlessly without being weighed or slowed down by baggy pants.

5. Floral Snow Pants

If snowboarding is your preferred snowsport, then these floral Burton snow pants are a must. The whimsical print will keep you looking trendy as you ride down the mountain. Plus, they are waterproof and very breathable with zipper vents running through the sides.

6. Colorblock Leggings

A comfy pair of leggings layered under your snow clothes are essential. The stretchy feel of these colorblock Free People leggings makes them ideal for both snow sports or just wintery walks. They’re also high-waisted which means they have the perfect rise for staying put as you move about.

7. Faux Leather Gloves

Finding gloves made without leather is always a challenge. But these Marmot gloves will keep your hands dry and warm with their faux leather coating and polyester-fleece interior. The printed trim adds a trendy touch that’ll help you stand out.

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No sheep were harmed in the making of these cozy winter hats! 

Winter is the time of year where wool, fur, and cashmere are abundant in stores. While marketing may have you believe that these are absolute essentials for chilly temperatures, that’s far from the truth. You can stay just as warm and cozy in winter hats, coats, gloves, and scarves made from synthetic materials. Plus, skipping wool benefits even more than the animals.

Wool is not only cruel to the sheep but also to the body and planet. Often, the sheep used to produce wool are submerged in a pool full of parasiticides. Basically, that’s a big bath of chemicals that linger long after the sheep are sheared. Skipping wool means skipping chemicals, cruelty, and that unbearable itchiness that always accompanies the material.

Sheep are also major methane producers–a greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. So ditch the itch and be comfy and chic in one of these wool-free winter hats!

5 Wool-Free Winter Hats

1. Pom Pom Beanie

A giant pom pom adds a fun touch to a coral knit beanie. This cute hat will add flair to your winter looks with its bright color and fluffy pom pom. Wear it with an oversized sweater, skinny jeans, and knee-high boots for a standout look.

2. Slouchy Ribbed Beanie

This slouchy ribbed beanie is truly for the cool kids. You’ll look effortlessly chic in this no-fuss winter hat. Pair it with a vegan leather jacket, v-neck tee, skinny jeans, and ankle boots for a winter night out.

3. Retro Striped Beanie

This beanie is a total throwback with its classic stripe and embroidery. In addition to being stylish, it’s also eco-friendly! This Patagonia hat is made from 96 percent recycled polyester (with the other 4 percent being stretchy spandex). This hat is made for being worn at the slopes so pair it with all your ski or snowboarding gear.

4. Ear Flap Hat

Cozy ear flaps on this winter hat will keep your ears snug and warm. This eco-friendly hat is made from 100 percent recycled polyester produced from water bottles. A pair of tassels make this classic hat style on-trend. Style this snow-ready hat with your warmest coat, fleece-lined leggings, and snow boots for a walk in a winter wonderland.

5. Fair Isle Beanie

This knit fair isle beanie is not only cute and cruelty-free, it’s also charitable! Krochet Kids hats are hand-knit by women in impoverished areas of the world. The inside of each hat is hand-signed by the woman who made it so you know exactly where your clothes are coming from. Talk about transparency! Pair this mint beanie with a white coat, maroon skinny jeans, and brown boots for a cool color palette.

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If you are about to embark on a vegan lifestyle, you’ve got a lot of work ahead of you—fun and meaningful work—but work all the same. You’ve probably already figured out a meal plan, but may not have had the time to search for clothing, accessories, and shoe brands that are cruelty-free. So, we’ve rounded up 5 vegan clothing brands that have gorgeous pieces.

1. Vaute Couture

Vaute Couture was founded by Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart. Hilgart has always had a soft spot in her heart for animals. When she was only 12, she made a school project called “Being Cruel Isn’t Cool” that depicted the horrors of the fur industry, etc. Hilgart has come a long way since then—her company is in its seventh successful year and proudly holds the title of being the world’s first all-vegan fashion brand. While we’re mad about all of Vaute’s pieces, this coat struck a chord in our hearts. After all, winter isn’t that far away… Priced at $325.

2. Delikate Rayne

Meg and Komie Vora founded Delicate Rayne in 2013. The sisters operate their family-owned business in Los Angeles, California, to help combat fast fashion. When creating the cruelty-free line—they both are life-long vegetarians—the duo infused the pieces with East Indian influences. We’re smitten with the line’s Black Slit Back Blouse. It’s semi-sheer and has a silky feel. It’s shorter in the front and longer in the back, has a relaxed fit and is priced at $320.

3. Freedom of Animals

Freedom of Animals was founded in 2012 by Morgan Bogle. Bogle also works very closely with her photographer boyfriend, Scott McDonough. Bogle’s line is fully sustainable and cruelty-free. The brand strictly makes bags made out of high-quality fabrics, as well as polyurethane, organic cotton, vegetable-based dyes, and plastic water bottle lining. The New York company names most of its bags after orphaned elephants. We like that this bag is roomy and also adore its simple design. Use this bag on rainy days as it’s water resistant. Priced at $180.

4. Saved Kisses

This incredibly modern brand was founded by Alyssa Flynn when she was 27 years old. She studied entrepreneurship at Babson College and took courses at the Boston School of Fashion design. Flynn created the brand to prove she could make American-made, eco-friendly clothing that honors animal welfare. We chose to highlight Saved Kisses’ pantsuit because it’s sleek, stylish and fun. It has a defined waist and wide legs. Priced at $289.

5. Vegetarian Shoes

This UK brand was founded by Robin Webb in 1990. At first, Webb only made shoes with his own two hands and only made one shoe—a simple lace-up. Since the shop’s start, he has added many new shoes to his line and now uses European and English factories, and one co-op that’s been operating since 1881. We love Veggie Shoes’ boots because they are sturdy, made from quality material and totally leather-free—a boot trait that’s hard to find. Priced at $132.

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Image of vegan bag via Shutterstock

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Trendy nail polish colors aren’t difficult to find, but finding cruelty-free and low toxin hues? That can be a bit more tricky. We’ve scoured the Internet—and a few reliable blogs—to find some of the trendiest spring nail polish colors that are cruelty-free and carry less of a toxic burden.

1. Charcoal gray, Pacifica’s Drift

If you like wearing dark colors when the sun shines but are tired of painting your nails black, you’ll dig this spring’s charcoal gray trend. This hue still gives off moody vibes but looks fresh—like stones in a spring stream.

Why did we choose to feature Pacifica? Because this brand’s nail polish is cruelty-free and vegan. It’s also formulated without parabens, phthalates (dibutyl phthalate), toluene, xylene, camphor, formaldehyde, and resin. Priced at a cool $9.

2. Warm, opaque beige, Pacifica’s Dark Desert Highway

Sure, beige may seem like a totally bland color, but if painted on impeccably, it can look like a 1970s dream. This trendy spring color also is a great choice if you like to keep your nail colors subtle. Pair with a simple cat eye, nude lip, and a little bit of blush, and you’ll look disco-ready.

3. Classic apple red, Butter London’s Her Majesty

Red, red, red—that’s my color of choice and apparently, it’s also a popular nail color trend this spring. Pair this hue with a similarly bright, red lipstick, a simple tinted moisturizer, and hit the road.

While not all of Butter’s nail polishes are totally vegan, the company’s 10X Nail Lacquer line is. This cruelty-free nail polish also is free of formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, DBP, toluene, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, and TPHP. Priced at $18.

4. Sea foam green, Zoya’s Dillon

This sea green hue has just a touch of shimmer. We’re calling it the must-wear color if you plan on being waterside. Put together the look with a funky lipstick—I love NYX’s various green hues—some green eyeliner, and make all those landlovers wish they were chilling in the pool with you.

Zoya’s polishes are free of formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, and camphor. The brand also is 100 percent vegan. Priced at $10.

5. Navy blue, Deborah Lippmann’s Sliver Sparkled Blue

Navy blue, similar to charcoal gray, is appealing to people who like to rock darker colors when warmer weather comes around. But unlike the gray hue we referenced earlier, this polish is filled with flirty sparkles that make your nails looks like little pools.

While Deborah Lippmann’s cuticle oil isn’t vegan, her company and all the other nail polishes under the brand are. Priced at $20.

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Whether you’re young, old, or somewhere in between, it’s always fun to celebrate the holidays by decorating Easter eggs, especially with an adult spin. Fortunately, a cruelty-free Easter is easier to come by than ever with five of the coolest vegan “egg” alternatives we’ve seen.

The billions of chickens used every year for their eggs endure ridiculous and unnecessary cruelty that, according to PETA, lasts for two whole years until they’re finally slaughtered for low-grade chicken meat. During that brief time they’re alive, though, their beaks are often seared off, the hens are stored in tiny cages where they’re unable to spread their wings, and they are manipulated into producing more eggs through artificial light and calorie restriction. If you’d like to find out more, visit PETA’s informative expose here.

So, now that you know why we’re suggesting an alternative Easter, we can begin to offer you some vegan substitutes that are more humane, more fun, more creative, and longer lasting. Gone are the days of contributing to unnecessary factory farm cruelty by boiling and dip-dyeing traditional Easter eggs, because ours are the perfect canvases for materials like glitter, acrylic paint, tissue paper, and more. These “eggs” will last on display for several seasons to come, and if done well, they’ll look like a dozen of the most beautiful designer decorations you never knew you could make!

1. Ceramic Eggs

EggNots is a newer ceramic product designed to look and feel like a real egg. It was developed as a solution for the founder’s niece and her food allergy to eggs, but eventually became a mainstream product that is perfect for vegans, traditionalists, hobbyists, and crafters.

The ceramic is actually able to be dyed, like a hen’s egg, but can also take other materials, like paints and decoupage, very well. There’s no mess or smell from boiling, no refrigeration required, and these can last for many years. The decorated result would look beautiful placed in a pretty bowl, in a glass jar, or nestled in a modern basket, plus the company also offers little decorative hangers that attach to the eggs for different display options.

2. Wooden Eggs

Wooden “eggs” have actually been around for quite some time, but can be easily overlooked as a fun way to decorate Easter eggs if you’re not familiar with the product. The set we found appear to be very well made and can be found at Snuggly Monkey’s shop on Etsy. The flat bottom allows them to stand on their own and they’re another great eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic ester eggs. These are great for painting, stamping, or wood burning, but can even be left in their natural state with a coat of non-toxic polish or sealant. Try painting half and leaving the other half unfished for a colorful look that still has a natural appeal.

3. “Plastic” Eggs

Eco Eggs are a hen’s and plastic egg alternative that are made in the USA completely out of plant material, which is 100 percent renewable and recyclable content, as opposed to their petroleum-based counterparts. Not only are they made locally, rather than overseas, but these colorful and nostalgic eggs can be filled with your favorite treats just like the plastic variety. These can be decorated, as well, with a little imagination and the right materials, like puffy paints, glitter, and rhinestones.

4. Papier Mache Eggs

Papier mache eggs can be purchased or homemade and offer another super solution to regular eggs. If you’d rather buy them so they’re ready to be decorated right away, then we’d suggest these from Amazon. Paint these, adorn these, decoupage these, or try out some washi tape for a fun result.

If you’d rather customize and prefill your papier mache eggs, then we suggest checking out this amazing and adorable tutorial from Not Martha. She uses water balloons to create the shape, tissue paper to cover the outside and a few other tricks to get these cuties just right, but the end result looks totally worth it.

5. Clay Eggs

Clay “eggs” are a little more difficult to find premade, which is why opting for a fun DIY project is probably the best alternative in this case. There are a couple of ways that we know of to make polymer clay eggs, one is with the use of a mold if you’re not feeling too confident in your egg shaping skills, and the other is simply by rolling the material around in your hands. We found a great silicone mold from Natural Republic on Etsy that will allow you to shape your clay in fun ways. And here on Raising Veg Kids there’s a non-toxic tutorial that calls for hand shaping complete with a simple clay recipe.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our Easter egg alternatives and definitely want to see your holiday creations. Share them with us on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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Vegan shoes are always in demand and who doesn’t love a pair of stylish flats?! They’re versatile, comfy, and cruelty-free – a combination that would be music to any animal lover’s ears.

We’ve got flats for every occasion, in a variety of materials, and they’re suitable for a wide range of styles. Plus, with spring just around the corner, we’ve included some peep toe options that will make you want to get a post-winter pedi, like now. No matter your fashion preferences, we’re certain you’ll not only enjoy this post, but that you’ll find something you’d love to wear, too!

1. Floral Flats

Just as the shoe says, “Life is beautiful!” so why not wear your passionate attitude under foot with these adorable vegan flats from Toms. The ethical slip-ons don’t contain any animal derived materials and for every purchase made from Toms, the company will give a new pair of shoes to a child in need. From skinny jeans to shorts, these would look adorable with just about everything.

2. Leopard Flats

No animals were harmed in the making of these shoes, so feel free to unleash your wild side in the leopard peep toe flats that will add a touch of fun and unexpected whimsy to every outfit. These sleek vegan slides would look ultra chic with cigarette pants or tailored shorts.

3. Vibrant Flats

If you don’t have a sunny disposition already, then these shoes are bound to create that for you. The vibrant yellow is sure to put a smile on your face, brightening up your day every time you slip them on. The Oka-B slingbacks are not only vegan, but they can also be sanitized in your dishwasher. How cool is that?!

4. Casual Flats

Don’t be green with envy – pick up a pair of the d’Orsay style peep toe slip-ons for yourself. The emerald and white fabric is made exclusively by DELLA which is a woman-owned and operated Los Angeles-based business working with West Africa to produce socially responsible textiles. Pair these vegan beauties with sundresses, skirts, rompers, and more.

5. Gladiator Flats

Reminiscent of blue skies and deep blue oceans, these vegan shoes are perfect for the impending warm weather. Made from Melflex, which is a one hundred percent recyclable material, the gladiator style flats even have a raspberry scent infused into the eco-friendly plastic.

6. Rosy Flats

Everything is coming up roses in these highly unique floral flats that feature a contemporary cut out design. Made from PVC MELFLEX, the ballet style flats are hypoallergenic, water resistant, and recyclable. Plus, they’re easy to clean thanks to the removable insole.

7. Embellished Flats

If art, design, technology, and sustainability collided then the Doris II flat by Melissa would be the product – and a beautiful on it is. With a soft baby pink and embellished t-strap, these shoes are not only pretty but they’re also good for the environment. The vegan flats utilize thermoplastic technology in order to weather and water proof them and they’re made in Fair Labor factories in Brazil.

8. Spotted Flats

Get spotted in these black and white smoking slippers that will go with so many outfits for spring. They’ll be great teamed with colors, bold or soft, and perfect with denim in a variety of washes. Wear these versatile and stylish vegan shoes to the office, on a date, or to the grocery store.

9. Lace-Up Flats

These sexy “suede” lace-up flats draw attention to your beautiful ankles and accentuate your feet and legs thanks to the peek-a-boo cut-outs on either side of the shoe. These are sweet and elegant and would look lovely with a date night dress or with something as casual as a pair of shorts.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our vegan shoes in a variety of flat styles. These will get you everywhere you need to go comfortably, in style, and without weighing heavily on your conscience. Let us know what you liked best on the EcoSalon Facebook page

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Image of Green Women’s Flats via Shutterstock

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What do wine making, beautiful artwork, and natural skincare have in common? Cruelty-free and vegan personal care line, CREO, has managed to blend the three. We found out how in an interview with co-founder and chief chemist, Karl Wright.

How many of you shop by label appeal? You know, buying a product because it looks pretty or would match your bathroom? We are all guilty of this, but it is also important to make sure the products you purchase are good for you and work the way you want them to.

That’s where CREO comes in. These products obviously offer major aesthetic appeal with beautiful artist-created labels. Even better, the brand uses healthy ingredients to create the hand-crafted skin and hair care products. As for the wine making? You’ll just have to read the interview.

An Interview With CREO Co-Founder and Chief Chemist, Karl Wright

Liz Thompson: You call yourself a “consulting winemaker”. How did wine lead you to natural hair and skincare?

Karl Wright: I was working in the Napa Valley when some friends I grew up with were taking the pressed grapes and harvesting the seeds to make oil, and composting the skins. We formulated a skincare line which used the cold pressed grape seed oil and an antioxidant grape seed extract that I made from the seeds, as well. Then I got involved in a project where we patented the extraction and use of germinated seed extracts.

A lot of the protein chemistry and antioxidant chemistry crosses over from winemaking to personal care. This also involves molecular interactions, free radical oxidation, polyphenols / antioxidant effects and enzyme chemistry.

Formulating skincare products has also made me a better winemaker.

LT: What is your ingredient commitment?

KW: We are committed to using plant-derived, cruelty-free ingredients and to provide products that are designed to make hair look better through true hair health without the use of silicones or plastics, [which are] designed to produce a cosmetic effect without enhancing the overall health of the hair.

(Note: CREO also makes products for face and body.)

LT: Who are your products designed for?

KW: Our products are designed for discerning individuals, primarily women, who are ecologically sensitive but also demand a product that provides salon professional grade performance.

LT: Where did you get the idea to blend art with personal care?

KW: We started with the idea that perhaps a shampoo bottle could be something more than just a clinical looking piece of plastic. So much of the packaging nowadays has a “sameness” to it and we truly feel that the hand crafted nature of the CREO product (all of our products are produced by hand, not in a giant factory) deserved a more hand touched look. In addition, we felt that the meaning of the brand name, “CREO”, should play into a more creative approach. CREO finds its roots in Latin and means “to create or to make”. When we started to brainstorm with a local artist, it was actually she who first posed the question, “what if we put an actual painting on the bottle?” Our hope is that in time we will be able to use CREO as a vehicle for bringing a wide variety of artists to the public eye and to devote a portion of the proceeds toward art oriented non-profits.

LT: How do you choose the artists you collaborate with?

KW: We do it the old fashioned way – we talk to people. Our approach is very simple. We mock up labels and go out into the world and gather reactions. What we’re looking for is a smile, an immediate gut reaction that will often be accompanied by an outreached hand and an observable desire to interact with the bottle. If we don’t see that, we keep looking. If we do see it, we know that we have that magical “it factor” to lend an additional element of delight for the consumer.

LT: What is one healthy tip you can offer our readers?

KW: Don’t be fooled by silicone. Although it is not inherently bad, it can deceive you into thinking that something meaningful is happening when it is not. Although it can have a somewhat beneficial effect of holding moisture in longer, silicone mostly works to fill in rough hair surfaces, making them appear smooth. While this isn’t inherently bad, it is temporary. So, our one piece of advice would be “pursue truly healthy hair with a smooth outer surface”. Once that is attained, all of the products designed for temporary cosmetic improvement will usually be completely unnecessary.

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Image courtesy CREO

The post CREO Co-Founder Talks Wine, Art, and the Worst Ingredient for Your Hair appeared first on EcoSalon.

Luxury vegan fashion lovers rejoice, because cruelty-free organic fabrics, vegetable dyes, and upcycled materials can also come with a hearty dose of opulence.

Sustainable sources, creative repurposing, and keen attention to detail are just a few of the awesometastic features boasted by these eco-loving vegan fashion masterminds. But are they enough to justify the high cost of compassionate couture? You betcha!

From ready-to-wear staples from Delikate Rayne, to the trendy and whimsical footwear from Olsen Haus, whatever your taste there’s bound to be something that floats your boat and matches your ethics as well.

You may already know the consequences of leather and animal derived materials – but for those who might not, you absolutely must watch this. (I’ll wait!) Now you’re ready for cruelty-free fashion, aren’t you?

In the spirit of making conscious yet stunning fashion choices, let’s take a look at three of the latest luxury vegan fashion trends for office, evening, and weekend that are sure to leave you looking pristine and feeling guilt-free.

1. Vegan Fashion for the Office

Business casual has never looked so chic. Classic office basics are back with a vengeance in breathable, flowing fabric tailored in all the right places. The workplace isn’t always ideal for taking fashion risks, so be sure to play up your personality with some cruelty-free accessories. Appoint neutral elements as the star of the show to make your investment even more advantageous, while simultaneously opening up opportunities for some striking statement pieces.

Made from chiffon instead of silk, this elegant asymmetrical blouse from Delikate Rayne doesn’t have to cause undue suffering for the sake of beauty – not to mention how stellar it looks with Stella McCartney’s fabulously flattering Vivian trousers. Topping off this sweet outfit with a killer accessory trio from three of the greats in luxury vegan fashion is the icing on the office break room cake.

White Asymmetrical Blouse from Delikate Rayne $313; Vivian Trousers in Black from Stella McCartney $610; Bold Origin Stud Earrings in Bronze from Tiffany Kunz $99; Ayva Poppy Clutch from Matt & Nat $150; Striped Mini Heel from Marais for Moo Shoes $140

2. Luxury Looks for the Evening

Aside from the classic LBD and the reemergence of dressy shorts, jumpsuits are all the rage this summer. For a simple and effortless look, try wearing this onesie with a strategically placed belt, a colorful pair of pumps, coordinating clutch, or a fabulous necklace. Next, whip your tresses up into a messy high bun, smudge on a smoky eye, and flash that gawgeous smile in order to complete your new head turning ensemble. Choose a sweetheart neckline to accentuate the girls, or opt for a peplum style suit that creates the illusion of wider hips.

Cruelty-free luxury vegan handbag designers, Matt & Nat, boast superior quality and attention to the little things, like the logo-embossed cork tag found on this citron clutch. With its commitment to sustainability, it’s easy to see how the company has become so popular among the animal and earth loving types. Heck, even the brand name is short for Mat(t)erial and Nature. Pair the saucy citrus clutch with this sexy Stella McCartney jumpsuit alongside some other bold accessories and you’ll be sure to turn heads everywhere you go!

Naomi All-In-One Jumpsuit from Stella McCartney $4,095; Australia III Earrings from Deux Lux $85; Daisy Citrus Clutch from Matt & Nat $80; Nama Brass Teardrop Statement Cuff from Raven + Lily $104; Spark Teal Wedge Faux Suede Platform Shoe from BC Footwear for Moo Shoes $70

3. Casual and Chic for the Weekend

When you’re still working for the weekend, it’s imperative to have a wardrobe worthy enough to match your brief bout of freedom. Fortunately, sweet, hippie-chic looks are practically begging women to play up their natural beauty in order to compliment these casual ensembles – meaning less time getting ready and more time having fun. Yay! Maxi skirts, distressed jean shorts, crop tops, graphic tanks, rompers, and strappy sandals are here to stay. Try soft beachy waves, a smattering of blush, and some tinted lip gloss to top off your look.

This adorable bunny tank from Vaute Couture has somehow managed to combine compassion, comfort, and cuteness in this laid back racer that is simply perfect for a weekend romp. Created by the stunning Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart, Vaute Couture has also made a commitment to supporting animal rescue groups, like the Rabbit Rescue & Rehab located in New York City.

Combine the rest of these great pieces from other conscious designers and retailers, like MRKT for Moo Shoes and A Peace Treaty, and all you’ll have left to do is put your best foot forward in these vegan sandals from Olsen Haus. Thanks to another female-led business committed to compassion and sustainability in footwear, we can proudly bare our perfectly manicured toes in some of the coolest and innovative shoes this side of the universe. Materials like cork, upcycled industrial waste, recycled rubber tires, and a sweatshop-free production facility make this vegan company a force to be reckoned with.

Pink Chinese Zodiac Rabbit Tank from Vaute Couture $35; Yazzie Stackable Rings from A Peace Treaty $124; Wildcat Skinny Ankle Grazer Jean from Stella McCartney $695; St. Croix Sandal from OlsenHaus $165; Jaedon Backpack in Honey Mustard from MRKT for Moo Shoes $119

Next time you’re in the mood to splurge, remember that the world of luxury vegan fashion is right at your fingertips, so free your conscience (and those animals!) with all the clothes, shoes, and handbags your virtual shopping cart can hold…or until your credit card is maxed out, whichever comes first.

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The Hermes Birkin Bag Has Nothing on the ‘Virkin’ Bag (Except Unnecessary Cruelty)

Image via Vaute Couture

The post 3 Must-Have Luxury Vegan Fashion Looks for Fabulous Cruelty-Free Style appeared first on EcoSalon.

Every purse lover knows the fashionable weight the Hermès Birkin Bag carries: it’s a name, fashion status, and mark of good taste, all rolled into one. Well, that is if you consider animal cruelty to be in good taste.

Vegans and animal lovers everywhere have never been able to enjoy the high-end lux bag because it’s made of (gag) alligator skin. Really. From alligators. But now there’s a new bag on the block that has everything the Birkin has, except that it’s cruelty-free–as in no more tortured alligators.

Freedom of Animals and animal rights group PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) recently announced the launch of the “Virkin” bag, a vegan mock-croc purse that has all the class — and none of the cruelty — of the original, much drooled over Hermès Birkin bag.

This creation is a huge deal because: 1)Freedom of Animals is known as the “Céline of vegan fashion” because of its minimalist, high-end designs, and because 2) Hermès was recently outed for animal abuse, thanks to a PETA investigation. According to PETA, the organization recently discovered that Hermès alligator and crocodile supplier farms were treating the animals terribly. PETA reported that the “animals were packed into dark sheds and barren concrete pits,” and that “workers crudely hacked into the necks of some alligators and tried to scramble their brains with metal rods… and some of the animals were still conscious and flailing their legs minutes after workers cut into them.”

And all for the name of fashion…We’d really like a gator or two to get a hold of some of those bags and have their way with them!

While celebrities, such as Olivia Wilde, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Olivia Culpo, are already fans of many of Freedom of Animals creations, PETA and Freedom of Animals are trying to get every big fashion-forward celebrity aware of its new product. Just last week, PETA sent one of the custom bags to Victoria Beckham, a well-known Birkin bag lover. The groups sent the Virkin to help the fashion designer make the cruelty-free switch away from alligator skin products.

The current Virkin bag is part of a limited edition line. A portion of the bag’s proceeds will support PETA. The bags are available at FreedomofAnimals.com and are listed on the PETA Catalog.

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Image of bag via PETA

The post The Hermès Birkin Bag Has Nothing on the ‘Virkin’ Bag (Except Unnecessary Cruelty) appeared first on EcoSalon.