Black and white is one of the hottest trends this spring. Get inspired by Louis Vuitton, chess boards and harlequin squares.

One of the hottest trends this spring is, without a doubt, the combination of black and white. The good news is that it’s very easy to copy, and that garments in these basic colors are very unlikely to go out of style. Get inspired by Marc Jacobs’ Spring RTW collection for Louis Vuitton, featuring large checks and harlequin patterns.

1. Zebra Stripe Gilet Sweater by Edun
Made in Africa, this Zebra stripe gilet sweater has a vibe that is both very current and very retro. Made from 100 percent wool, it will also keep you warm during those cold few months we have left until spring comes again. If you want to totally channel the Louis Vuitton-style head-to-toe look, there’s a matching skirt that you can pair this top with.
$148, Edun

2. Vans Checkerboard Slip-Ons
These classic slip-ons by Vans need no formal introduction. They have become part of skate culture and contemporary style, proving their iconoclastic relevance from the street to the fashion pages all around the world. “Their popularity comes from unmatched quality,” the company says, “and they have hence become a big time influence on our Off The Wall efforts to innovate, every step of the way.”
$47, Vans

3. Berlin Harlequin Messenger by The Sway
This handcrafted, made-to-order bag allows you to channel the harlequin trend while still ensuring that you are investing in something that will stand the test of time. The discrete pattern is made of high quality reclaimed patchwork leather and suede. Double trend points for the recycled cotton lining, which features a great black a white pattern.
$418, The Sway

4. Trigo Vertical Clutch by VOZ
This cute little clutch features an eye-catching black and white crisscross pattern. It’s made from 100 percent all natural wool, lined with 100 percent cotton, and naturally dyed with mud, berries and herbs. VOZ, which means “voice” in Spanish, “translates rich indigenous craft into contemporary styles, creating change through beauty.” Through design education and innovation workshops, the company empowers Mapuche weavers in Southern Chile, offering a new voice for their exquisite art form and a way for them to earn a living.
$189, VOZ Apparel

5. Stevie OTK Tassel Platform Boot by Cri de Coeur
These vegan boots give a nod to luxurious 70s style with slouched ultra-suede upper and platform heel. They’re made in an ethical, sweat-shop free factory in China and, despite the 4-inch heel, comfortable as can be. The tassel is an unexpected detail that gives these boots some attitude. And for you crafty people out there, here’s a great DIY project to spice up a pair of boots you already have.
$125, Cri de Coeur

6. Flare Top & Short Short by Titania Inglis
New York-based designer Titania Inglis’ is a master of stylish minimalism and totally nailed the black and white trend in her Spring 2013 collection. This flare top is made from hand-painted Italian silk/organic cotton twill and has a vegetable-tanned leather overlay. Pair with short shorts, made from raw Japanese organic cotton denim.
Available for pre-order: Titania Inglis

Collages by Johanna Björk. Top photo via style.com

The post On Trend: 6 Black and White Styles for Spring appeared first on EcoSalon.

Transition into fall with 4 easy pieces.

Fall is without a doubt the most beautiful season of the year. Crispy leaves, golden tones and the last few bright red sunsets of summer. It does however make for difficult dressing. Summer dresses and sandals dismissed, cold mornings lure you into layering up for the day. But by the time the midday lunch run comes around, this becomes sweaty business – the sun is out in full force and you are wrapped up in a cashmere sweater!

Fear not however – fall dressing need not be so stressful. It may surprise you at how many transitional pieces are already in your wardrobe. But if you are in need of some inspiration, check out our favorite online (sustainable fashion) picks of the season below, many are as friendly on the purse strings as they are on the environment, and can be worn right the way through from fall to next summer.

THE DRESS

This 100% organic silk dress by Edun is the perfect base piece for an outfit in any season. For fall, team with some chunky heeled ankle boots and socks for easy day time chic. As winter sets in, add some thick black opaques into the mix, and cozy up with a waist length biker jacket topped off with a comfy gilet and chunky knit scarf, to create a practical yet edgy winter look.

To make this already perfect dress even better, it’s a steal reduced by 50% to $222.50 on the Edun website.

THE SHIRT

With their first collection debuting in 2011 and being a huge success, century old brand Pendelton uses home grown fabrics and create every garment in their Oregon based factory. A wardrobe essential, the denim shirt is easily transitioned through all seasons. Wear now tucked into brightly colored pants as seen above, and add some cute flats and a chunky belt. For colder weather, button to the top and layer with a chunky knit sweater and straight leg pants underneath an oversized coat for off-duty weekend style.

Grab this staple piece online at Nordstrom for $80.00

THE SKIRT

Model and actress Liya Kebede’s label LemLem supports workers in her home country of Ethiopia, by preserving the art of handweaving and inspiring economic independence amongst the people. This cotton striped knee length skirt with recycled coconut buttons is the perfect purchase to help a good cause and update your fall look. Team this fun skirt with a simple trench as above for fall, and gradually mix in layers of colorful chunky knits and thick woolen tights to keep your mood bright  through the winter season.
Skirt $240 available online at LemLem

THE PANTS

London based label Chinti & Parker aims to create ethically conscious garments using sustainable fabrics, yet not compromising on style. These adorable cotton star print straight leg trousers can be dressed up with a smart silk blouse and heels or kept simple with a casual cashmere sweater and brogues. In the winter, wear tucked into biker boots with a leather jacket and chunky knit accessories.
Cotton Trousers, $265 at NET-A-PORTER

Image: Martinak15

The post 4 Key Wardrobe Staples to Take You Through Fall appeared first on EcoSalon.

EDUN takes on the idea of the complete woman.

EDUN’s Spring/Summer 13 collection is all about promoting what might seem, at first glance, like utilitarian female garb. At second glance – and knowing full well you won’t rock the outfits quite like the groupie girls strutting the catwalk – you see a pretty clean palette for a woman to promote her very badass self.

We’ll call it Manhattan Rocker Chic but designer Ali Hewson calls it a collection “contrasting worlds of the EDUN girl,” and you do aspire to be her if you’re one looking for solid street cred.

The EDUN collection never strays too far from the modern woman on safari in the city vibe, and this particular collection stayed true to the core concept of the label. Silky utility shirts, cargo dresses, vests with zip pockets, an excess of buckles, snaps and zippers, and enough army green to outfit a full regiment.

Feminine touches of cutout jersey bralettes, floral silk pailette utility pants, bustiers and sequins lay testament to Hewson’s desire to make this collection about the soft as much as the rough edged.

EDUN continues to make progress with bringing more economic development back to Africa since their controversial departure to LVMH about a year and a half ago. In fact, the cover of the EDUN collection program reads that styles to be made in Africa or made from fabric sourced from Africa have “been highlighted in bold.”

While that might be only 1/4 of the collection, that they are acknowledging their brand’s roots might be half the battle of owning some professional missteps.

In addition to the organic cottons, silk habotai and nutmeg dyed pieces, the news of being more accountable for the label’s original ideal of being an “important tool for societal transformation, something that is urgently needed in the world of conscious fashion,” comes as refreshing news.

We couldn’t help but want to be that it girl strutting down the catwalk, if only for the 7 minutes or so we were allowed to enter the fantasy.

Check out EcoSalon’s coverage of the show:

Image: Amy DuFault

The post NYFW: EDUN Fuses the Introvert with the Extrovert appeared first on EcoSalon.

Trench coats never go out of style. We’ve picked out five to wear this spring.

The trench coat is one of those classics that never really goes out of style. This spring, however, it’s a very on trend garment that you can wear with anything from cropped jeans to a cute dress. A good trench is an investment that will last for a very long time. You could always go for a classic beige one, but consider choosing from other fun variations of the trench offered right now – with colors and unexpected details giving new life to this beloved wardrobe staple. We’ve picked out five eco-trench coats that we think would make excellent additions to your spring wardrobe.

Grommet Detailed Trench Coat by Edun
This cool yet classic trench coat from Edun is made from a blend of organic cotton, polyester and hemp. The grommet details add some interest to this otherwise simple piece, making it edgier. Avoid the head-to-toe black look by pairing it with white denim, a bright-colored top and heels.
$598, Edun

Linda Loudermilk Siren Coat
This 100% organic cotton lace coat by eco-designer Linda Loudermilk is gorgeous, timeless and graceful. It’s also made in the U.S. With this trench coat you’ll hit two of spring’s biggest trends – white and lace – in one shot. Wear it with a white or pastel-colored dress or toughen it up with distressed denim.
$575, Juno & Jove

Organic by John Patrick Double Breasted Trench
This classic, double-breasted trench coat by Organic by John Patrick features a slightly relaxed silhouette with tie belt at waist. It’s made from 100% recycled cotton and fully lined in Cupro. The utility-green color is a good complement to many of springs other trends, like color blocking, patterns and pastels.
$550, La Garçonne

Mini Soft Trench by Prairie Underground
Part of Prairie Underground’s Spring 2012 collection, this oyster white trench has a simple cut which makes it a timeless addition to your spring wardrobe. If you want to add a bit more visual interest, swap out the belt for a wide, patterned or colored one.
$248, Show Pony Seattle

Vintage Belted Wrap Coat
This vintage belted wrap coat is part of Kaight’s Vintage Shop in a Shop, where the NYC-based eco-boutique is now featuring some of our favorite pieces from the shop online. Made from 100% wool, this mint green coat has pockets and is the perfect length to wear as a dress jacket.
$150, Kaight

The post On Trend: Five Trench Coats for Spring appeared first on EcoSalon.

Nine ways to wear one of spring’s hottest trends: ankle-length pants.

Ankle-length pants have been seen on the runways of fashion darlings like Isabel Marant for a few seasons now. This spring, it’s the hottest pant shape. A definite love-it-or-hate-it trend, ankle-length pants are easy to pull off, if you know how. The secret: picking the right shoes. We’ve done the work for you and found nine cropped pants and shoes that will make each look a home-run. Pair with a simple tee and a cropped jacket or long blazer and you’re wearing the spring trend as it should be.

Red is one of the hottest hues this spring when it comes to pants. Get inspired by Isabel Marant’s latest runway collection and pair your skinny ankle-length jeans with black pointed-toe pumps. It’s a fail-safe look.

Eileen Fisher Organic Stretch Twill Slim Ankle Jean in Saffron, $178, Eileen Fisher / Novacas Vegan Olivia Pump, on sale for $39.99, Moo Shoes

Take a walk on the wild side by pairing cropped cigarette jeans from Edun with cruelty-free vegan loafers in leopard print. All hues of pink – from soft pastel to hot fuchsia – are very on trend for spring.

Cropped Cigarette Jean, $198, Edun / Leopard-print Loafers, on sale for approx. $97, Beyond Skin

Most people will look best in a pair of skinny ankle-length pants, simply because they are more flattering and tend to accentuate the curve of the calves. Play with another of spring’s trends – stripes – in these organic cotton leggings by Feral Childe and pink vegan pinup-style sandals with a striped cork wedge heel.

Feral Childe Organic Cotton Chain Link Legging, on sale for $69, Jute & Jackfruit / Vegan Wedge Pindowns, on sale for $99, Fluevog Shoes

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, prints are huge for spring. Combine these galaxy/flower print cropped pants with yellow strappy sandals by Cri de Coeur and you’ll nail another hot trend – monochrome.

Low-waisted Skinny Pant, on sale for $112.50, Suno NY / Elegance T-strap Vegan Sandals, on sale for $50, Cri de Coeur

Strike the perfect balance between casual cool and street-savvy elegance by pairing Stewart + Brown’s Organic cotton sweats with shiny black rubber platform heels by Melissa. Top it off with a long black blazer and you may just get away with wearing sweat pants to a fancy dinner.

Stewart + Brown Terry Sweat Pants, $133, Stewart + Brown / Melissa Amazonas Platform Sandals, on sale for $67, Tobi

For a more avant-garde take on the ankle-length pant trend, pair these Organic wool trousers by designer Bruno Pieter’s new line Honest By, with a pair of vegan creepers. Keeping the look simple in all black keeps you from looking like a kid who outgrew his pants.

Adjustable Organic Wool Trousers, approx. $608, Honest By / Novacas Vegan Oxfords, $129.95, Compassion Couture

Keep things easy and breezy by pairing loose-fitting cropped pants by Dace with elegant architectural slingback heels. Add a lace top, sand-colored blazer and or loose-knit sweater and you’ll look like the nature-babe you are.

Dace Timothy Pants, on sale for $122.95, Future:Standard/ Clio Ankle Strap Vegan Wedges, $380, Cri de Coeur

If you’re ready to be totally daring with this trend, pair this printed jumpsuit by Edun with a pair of graphic black and white sandals. You’re guaranteed to turn some heads. Chances are, though, that this look will only work on amazonian model types.

Yoruba Print Jumpsuit, $489, Edun / Charm Bib-front Sandal, on sale for $42.50, Cri de Coeur

The post How To Wear It: Ankle-Length Pants appeared first on EcoSalon.

How to wear polka dots without looking like a 50s pinup.

Polka dots. You’ve seen them on the runways but aren’t quite sure how to wear them without looking like a 50s pinup or your grandma’s apron. Fear not, there are plenty of ways that this classic pattern can fit into a stylish eco-fashionista’s wardrobe.

Stella Wedge by Calleen Cordero, $455, Juno & Jove // Stella Stars Necklace, $128, Hovey Lee // Lina Rennell Recycled Leather belt, $165, Beklina // Polka Dot Sweater, Approx. $550, Chinti & Parker // Stella Vino clutch by Raven Kauffman, $325, Juno & Jove // Baby Toes Cactus polish, $12.50, Priti NYC // A Line Mini Skirt, on sale for $104, Edun

Let’s start with a Polka Dot Sweater from Chinti & Parker, a basic, versatile piece perfect for a first envoy into this polka dot trend. The mixing of patterns is very hot right now. Don’t be afraid to try ones that you wouldn’t think at first glance will go together — that’s where the magic happens. Mix your polka dot pattern with more pattern, like this woven mini skirt or a bright floral pattern or – why not – a smaller polka dot print on a dark background.

Stars are all the rage right now and just happen to be a great complement to those dots. This necklace from Hovey Lee will ensure your look is more tough than sweet. Add visual interest with with a burgundy bag by Raven Kauffman and shoes by Calleen Cordero. Finish off the look by adding some bright yellow – one of the hottest colors this spring – accents like a belt and nail polish.

If you’re still not convinced that you can rock the polka dots, try a dotty manicure (here’s a tutorial on how to do it yourself).

The post How To Wear It: Polka Dots appeared first on EcoSalon.

Safari meets punk rock meets everything in between at EDUN’s Fall/Winter 2012 runway show.

In the program for EDUN‘s New York Fashion Week runway show, the Fall/Winter 2012 collection was described as “a mash-up of 80s vibe leathers, bonded plaids, mesh, and tech-finished fabrics, juxtaposed with African safari prints.”

Sounds like a lot going on? It was.

On a cold, blustery Sunday afternoon at Manhattan’s Pier 57, head designer Sharon Wauchob presented a line inspired by the EDUN girl who has taken her punk rock roots on safari. Even on paper, it sounds like a tough combination to pull off. Several of the ensembles were elegant, like a charcoal-cassis double face wool parka over a navy-charcoal turtleneck vest and black double face pleat skirt. Others made me scratch my head, like an electric pink silk fil-coupé zip dress that looked straight out of a Disney Channel tween’s wardrobe.

It’s tough to evaluate EDUN’s progress without bringing up its past, which has been rocky to say the least. In 2005, U2 frontman and human rights crusader Bono and wife Ali Hewson launched Edun to great fanfare, with the aim of using the brand to bring about economic development in Africa. However, they quickly ran into quality control issues, with retailers complaining about late shipments, poor garment construction, and ill fit. Soon after, it was revealed that 85 percent of EDUN garments were being produced outside of Africa, primarily in China but also in Peru. The news outraged people in the industry, and EDUN is still struggling to recover its image.

This season, in an attempt at greater transparency, EDUN highlighted in the show’s program which items would be produced in Africa. About half the pieces were in bold, including many of the following ensembles.

Images: Jessica Marati

The post EcoSalon at NYFW: EDUN appeared first on EcoSalon.

Does Edun’s far reaching ad campaign have the ability to change consumer mindsets?

Without the glossy ad campaigns typically employed by fashion houses, star-ethical line, Edun has managed to become the most well known and celebrity beloved conscious clothing collection out there (having Bono and his wife, Ali Hewson as the line’s founders doesn’t hurt). Posting double digit growth last year and announcing plans that both Bloomingdales and Neiman Marcus will pick up the line, the fast-growing sustainable clothing label has just unveiled their first advertising campaign.

An advance look at the ads reveal Edun’s spring looks shown alongside six species of butterflies indigenous to Africa. According to a WWD interview with Hewson in Africa – where the brand reportedly produces much of its clothing and supports local farming communities and factories – she explains, “We really wanted to capture the essence of Edun, and of what inspires the brand, which is duality and transformation.”

Some of fashion’s hottest design talent was enlisted to create the campaign, Photographer Ryan McGinley was the visionary behind the engaging images, British Dazed and Confused Editor, Jefferson Hack, served as the on-shoot creative director.

Skeptics have pointed out that Edun’s partner company – luxury group LVMH bought a 49% stake in the company in May 2009  – utilizes far from sustainable practices. And a now infamous campaign featuring Bono with Hewson, parading through one of the poorest landscapes in the world carrying LVMH luxury bags, may not have not helped win over the critics either.

What is clearly persuasive is the reach of the label. With the campaign set to break in the March issues of Vogue, Vanity Fair, Dazed & Confused, AnOther, T The New York Times Magazine and the Sunday Times of London, its ability to change mindsets is far-reaching. Also included as part of the campaign, is a launch event set to take place during New York Fashion Week and short “blink videos” that will appear on Edun.com and via social media outlets. The message that “eco-friendly” and “socially-aware” are desirable clothing attributes is about to get some wings.

The post The Butterfly Effect: Edun’s First Advertising Campaign appeared first on EcoSalon.

Versatile basics with edgy details, easy-to-walk-in wedges and an extra-roomy bag are a New York City girl’s best friends.

There’s no doubt that New York City girls have a certain edge to their style. It’s all about basics with unexpected details – and yes, black. Heels are a must and wedges keep things comfortable. And always carry a big, stylish bag – because who has time to go home before the night begins?

Alkemie Ruler Bangle
Although it’s handmade in Los Angeles, this bangle is cast from a vintage NYC-approved ruler (possibly made in Buffalo, NY). It’s made from 100% reclaimed metal and adds just the right amount of unexpected quirk to an outfit.
$154, Alkemie 

Alpaca Slouch Hat by Mayu
A hat is a must for New Yorkers in the winter — to protect ears from sub-zero chills. This slouchy hat is hand-knit with 100% Peruvian Alpaca fiber and made according to fair trade principles.
On sale for $50, Mayu

NYC Necklace
You know you’re proud to be a New Yorker. Show your love for the Big Apple by wearing this necklace, made in Brooklyn from old, recycled records.
$38, Teich 

Thieves Armour Skirt
This high-waist fitted skirt is made from hemp wool suiting (45% hemp, 40% wool & 15% tencel) and covered with beeswaxed organic cotton, which gives it a great “aged leather” look. Definitely not your average pencil skirt, this one brings a fresh supply of attitude.
On sale for $173.25, Thieves

Crewneck Sweater by Edun
This sweater by Ali Hewson’s Edun is a sexy, edgy alternative to the ol’ cashmere basic. The strategic pattern of the knits keep it from becoming too revealing. We all know we need to leave a little for the imagination, right? Wear it to work underneath a blazer and on it’s own for a night on the town.
$312, Juno & Jove 

Sabine Triangle Bag by The Sway
Every girl in NYC needs a big bag that can easily go from day to night and will hold anything from heels and workout clothes to lunch boxes and reading material for the subway. This bucket-style messenger bag is extra-roomy and has both double shoulder straps and a removable cross-body strap. It’s made from soft upcycled patchwork leather and lined with The Sway‘s signature Aboriginal-inspired organic fabric.
$490, The Sway 

Millenium Black Wedges by OlsenHaus
These 100% vegan wedges by OlsenHaus are made from ultra suede and faux leather and feature a blonde pine wooden wedge heel. The mix of materials keep things interesting and the wedge heels ensure that you can walk the entire length of Manhattan if need be.
$300, OlsenHaus 

The post On Trend: New York City Girl appeared first on EcoSalon.

Geometric shapes are the perfect way to add edge to any outfit.

Maybe it’s because I am a graphic designer at heart, but there is something strangely comforting about straight angles and geometric shapes. They are also the perfect way to add edge to any outfit. Match an Aztec-print blouse with a simple black skirt, versatile bag, some great geometric jewelry and a pair of spectacular shoes and you are turning heads.

Collina Strada Vegan Cartella Bag
Made in New York City, exclusively for New York City based eco-boutique Kaight, this version of the classic Cartella is crafted from recycled canvas dyed with eco inks and vegan leather. It’s simple enough to go with everything but unique enough to stand out from the crowd.
On sale for $198.75, Kaight

Alkemie Falling Star Necklace
It is said when you wish upon a fallen star your wish comes true. Hang these three around your neck and wish upon them every day. Handmade in Los Angeles from vintage and recycled Japanese chain and 100% reclaimed metal.
$209.00, Alkemie

Pencil Skirt by Pendleton Portland Collection
This simple black skirt from Pendleton’s Portland collection is made from 100% Virgin wool, which means it will keep you warm and cozy all winter long. Side pockets and button details at the waistline create visual interest. This is a piece you will want to keep in your wardrobe for many years to come.
$176, Juno and Jove

DLC Muan Earrings
Susan Domelsmith of DLC (Dirty Librarian Collection), handcrafts elegant yet edgy pieces from materials rescued from old jewelry factories. Made in Brooklyn, NY, from handpicked recycled beads and vintage hematite chains. These brass bead earrings are simple, yet truly unique and will go with anything.
$85, DLC Brooklyn

Covet Aztec Print Silk Blouse
Slightly cropped, this cute button down has a tiny pleat detail at the collar and slightly bloused sleeves. The Aztec print looks as good matched with neutrals like black and navy and with bright colors like orange and kelly green. Made in a socially responsible factory using eco-friendly silk.
$130, Future:Standard

Melissa x Gareth Pugh “Aileron” Spartan Sandals
Gareth Pugh’s collection for Melissa this winter reflects his love of geometric forms, a theme found in his collections and collaborations, which most recently includes a collector’s bottle for Absolut Vodka. These sandals come in black, klein blue or golden faceted, and the collection also includes star printed Ultragirl ballerinas.
$96.02, Colette

Uxmal Ring by DLC Brooklyn
All DLC jewelry is made by hand in the company’s Brooklyn studio. This ring is made from deadstock pieces that were rescued from shuttered jewelry factories in the Northeast United States; five vintage beads form an abstracted flower shape with a chain tassel cluster on a delicate band.
$90-$140, DLC Brooklyn

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