As the taste for mass-produced goods wanes, the handcrafted design scene is banding together to support the artisan design movement. EcoSalon favorite, Jeweler Kirsten Muenster, joins a growing roster of independent artisans whose goods are now featured at Heath Ceramics stores.

Simplicity. Handmade. Designed to last. These are the principles of the Californian artisan design movement that hopes to revitalize and transform the way we live our lives. As one of the scene’s leading figures, Kirsten Muenster creates unique heirloom jewelry pieces made from sustainable materials that exemplify this vision. Muenster’s take on this season’s trend for bold metal linked chains is characteristically holistic. “I really put the entire focus on the chain itself, it’s front and center. I explored the links themselves, experimenting with construction, scale, weight, layering and the way they hang on the body, “ she said.

The resulting line of eye-catching and beautifully crafted chains was featured as part of the seasonal collection from Heath Ceramics, the Sausalito-based pottery company founded in 1948 by Edith Heath. Designed to complement the bright blues and dipped hues of Heath’s Summer seasonal collection, it may seem an unlikely home for Muenster’s statement jewelry with its solid style credentials. With its impressive new retail space in the mission district of San Francisco serving as a gallery, coffee shop and gathering spot for events, Heath is quickly becoming the design world’s Chez Panisse.

I caught up with Muenster recently to discuss the collection and her thoughts on the latest developments, here’s what she had to say:

Rowena Ritchie: Your work is currently featured as part of Heath Ceramic’s Summer Seasonal Collection – can you tell us how that came about?

Kirsten Muenster: I produced some posters for each of my jewelry lines last year, Cathy Bailey owner and creative director of Heath saw the chain collection and liked the work. They started carrying the pieces in the San Francisco store before the holidays and recently added it to the Sausalito and Ferry Building locations, as well as online. There was an amazing response to the chain pieces, the Heath stores have been doing really well with jewelry in general. It seemed like a natural progression for them to include jewelry in their collections. This season’s palette is gorgeous – deep to pale blue, light green and a little hint of orange and brass. I’m thrilled to have two of my large half Persian chain bracelets in the collection – they pair beautifully with the two necklaces from Julia Turner and the bronze bowl by Alma Allen. By including jewelry, it’s like they’ve added another layer to the experience. You picture the dinnerware making up a stunning table setting at a party with friends – and now you have something special, a statement piece to wear as well.

RR: Your line of hand-made chains is reinvigorating interest in your work. Can you describe the process of creating them and what they mean to your artistic journey?

KM: Each piece is made by my hands, every link and every clasp. They are all one-of a-kind. The process is important, but in the end, it’s all about how the pieces look and feel. I’ve modernized ancient chain weaves into bold, strong statement pieces that feel amazing on the body and are substantial without being heavy.

RR: What do you think it is in their design people are responding to?

KM: Collectors respond to the versatility of the pieces – they can either read ‘tough’ or ‘elegant.’ They look amazing with a gown, or jeans and a t-shirt, and pair beautifully with silver, gold, or both. The chain starts with a raw spool of wire. The wire is hand spun into a coil, then hand cut into individual links. The links are then “woven” into chain, one by one. I work with brass and bronze; sterling silver can be special ordered. The finish is either oxidized or brushed. The patina changes and evolves over time. Changes in coloration occur with time, environment and also in response to the touch of the wearer. This process highlights the inherent beauty of the material and gives the chain a unique depth, which I think is what people are really interested in finding these days.

RR: How does Heath’s aesthetic reflect your own views on design and sustainability?

KM: We share a similar aesthetic; clean, minimalist, modern design. But more importantly, we share similar values: handmade, fine craftsmanship, environmental integrity, heirloom quality and timeless design. I really connect to how they describe themselves on their website,  “We thoughtfully make, gather, and sell enduring objects that enhance the way people eat, live, and connect.”

RR: What’s next for your line?

KM: I’m really excited to push the work to another level now. In the next series of pieces I will combine all of my skills – hand fabricated chain, stone work and even some cast elements as well. My next pieces will be about balance and the interplay between the elements. The chain will still be an extremely important component of the work, but the main focal point may be a large piece of fossil coral, dinosaur bone or walrus tusk.

Top Image: Heath Ceramics

The post Link Love: Kirsten Muenster’s Seasonal Jewelry Collection for Heath Ceramics appeared first on EcoSalon.

ColumnNine statement necklaces that simply cannot be ignored.

The best and perhaps easiest way to elevate a simple look to a new level is by adding a statement necklace — the kind that truly packs a visual punch and simply cannot be ignored. Here are nine of our standout favorites, all consciously made, which ensures that you are making the right kind of statement.

1. Radial Necklace by Erin Considine
Made from recycled cast brass, sewn and handwaxed cotton, handbraided cotton and oxidized vintage snake chain, and dyed with logwood, this eye-catching necklace by Erin Considine is the perfect mix of elegant and outrageous. It’s guaranteed to not go unnoticed.
$450, Erin Considine

2. 50 Year Necklace by Lulu Frost
This one-of-a-kind necklace is Lulu Frost’s take on a history lesson. It’s made by elements that span a century, including a champagne cut-steel buckle from the late 19th Century, Czech celluloid buckles and hand-carved maroon bakelite from the ’30s, “harmoniously united on brass brick chain with adjustable lobster closure.”
$900, Lulu Frost

3. Desert Rose Necklace by Gretchen Jones NYC
This porcupine fringe necklace by Project Runway winner Gretchen Jones is a little bit disco and a little bit hippie — perfect for you urban bohemians out there (you know who you are).
$245, Gretchen Jones NYC

4. Long Mixed Box Chain Necklace by Kirsten Muenster Jewelry
Made entirely by hand, in Muenster’s San Francisco studio, this box chain necklace is available in oxidized brass or oxidized bronze. Due to the custom nature of the piece, it can be made in any size desired. We love that it’s both tough and delicate at the same time.
$800, Kirsten Muenster Jewelry

5. Trinity Necklace by Delusions of Grandeur
This necklace, shown here in shock pink, butterscotch and gold, but available in many other colorways, just puts a smile on your face. Made from lightweight cast acrylic and gold filled wire “the Trinity forms a unique contour around your neck emphasizing asymmetric focal points while you remain the center of attention.” We like the sound of that.
$64, Delusions of Grandeur

6. Crochet Chain Necklace by Kaight
Crocheted and woven using vintage brass chain, this his necklace is truly a showstopper. Reminiscent of both chainmail and vintage lace, it’s discrete enough to wear to work, but packs enough sparkle for a night on the town. Each piece is unique and handmade in Brooklyn.
$98, Kaight

7. Hette Turquoise Necklace by Gemma Redux
Like all Gemma Redux pieces, this turquoise and 18K gold plate necklace is handcrafted in the label’s studio in New York City. Because all pieces are made to order, allow two weeks for your order to be completed and shipped.
$216, Gemma Redux

8. Necklace No. 5-05 by Iacoli & McAllister
Featuring powder coated brass and un-coated brass square tubes that hang from black ultra suede, this necklace is at once serious and playful. Un-coated brass will tarnish and get darker and duller with time, something the designers, who make all pieces by hand in their Seattle studio, say drew them to the material.
$58, Iacoli & McAllister

9. Raidne Gold Collar Necklace by Gemma Redux
Made from solid metal, with 18K gold plating and a silver tone chain, this collar necklace makes a truly powerful statement. Hand made to order in New York City, it is also available in a great gunmetal finish.
$248, Gemma Redux

Photos courtesy of the designers, top collage by Johanna Björk

The post On Trend: 9 Powerful Statement Necklaces appeared first on EcoSalon.

EcoSalon’s favorite fashion designers, jewelry makers and artisans on the nature of creativity. 

“Beauty will save the world,” remarked Dostoevsky in the 19^th century. If ever there was a time to believe in the possibility of that statement, it is now. When our public discourse is reduced to ideological political posturing, the impact of beauty and creativity in our everyday lives offers both a vital opportunity for connection and a prospect for cultural renewal.

Over the years at EcoSalon, we’ve delighted in sharing the stories of the fashion designers, jewelry makers and artisans who are dedicated to creating true objects of beauty while choosing ethically responsible methods and practices that upend the customary business models in fashion, jewelry and art. Why do they do it? We asked them the question, “What compels you to create?” Here’s what they had to say:

Xing-Zhen Chung-Hilyard and Melissa Kirgan, Eko-Lab

“Creativity is a deep unconscious force. A process that reveals the unseen see-able and dreams reality. There’s a peace that comes from designing that in some small way we’re making the every-day more beautiful.”

Joy Opfer, Kyler by Joy O

Elizabeth Gilbert, author of  Eat, Pray, Love, has said that she believes there are currents of creativity and ideas circulating around the planet, looking for people to bring them into physical form. This idea is a lovely way of explaining the process of creativity – I often feel that I do not so much create, as synthesize ideas. When we work hard to be there, to be open and prepared for the muse when she arrives, to welcome her through sweat and tears, ready to manifest the boldest visions, a blend of the hive and our own minds – this is a gift.

Fashion is one of the biggest industries on the planet. To act as though it is frivolous is, at this point, a waste of time. Each person, through their choices can inspire change and awareness – and creating one more choice that supports handcrafted and carefully made goods is one that I am proud to be a part of.

Meghan Sebold, Afia

Life can be nauseatingly tragic with many things feeling out of our control. People can be corrupt, dishonest and disloyal – and often times it seems that those people win out. I see only two ways of dealing with the dark side of life: you can respond to corruption with conniving strategies, dishonesty with lies, attacks with counter attacks – or you can reject it and a attempt to create light and beauty in dark situations.

I’m certainly no hero to the women who produce my line – most of them are suspicious of my intentions. They think I’m there to use them for cheap labor – why else would I cross the world to be there? We stand in a room together across a table, having difficult conversations. Trying to trust each other. Trying to create a product together.

Shannon South, reMade USA

So many of us have the innate desire to create. It is what makes us human and what keeps our species going. It’s what fuels innovation. Those of us who are informed and concerned try to do so in the most thoughtful and sustainable way – a path that is not easiest or the most profitable, yet one that gives meaning and integrity to our vision.

Sasha Duerr, Permacouture Institute

I am a plant dyer because it immediately connects me to time and place, to my environment, to my community, and to indescribable depths of beauty. Plant color can ONLY be created – like an amazing meal you toast  to and savor with friends, or an heirloom peach that came to ripen in the sweetness of a perfect growing season – in that time with those conditions. It is a depth of experience that is often not repeatable – and therefore difficult to commodify.

I am consciously grateful to have chosen to make it my work – beyond promise of financial gain or security. This is why I started Permacouture – experimentation and knowledge needs to be shared if it is ever to be sustainable or regenerative to last beyond our own generation. This love for the wonder of the bigger picture has fueled my passion as both an artist and advocate for slower ways of being and creating. I am always awed by how much there is to learn.

Davora Lindner, Prairie Underground

The idea that “Creativity is it’s own reward” seems like such a universal truism. As designers and manufacturers our role isn’t entirely creative but we feel fortunate to work in an industry that demands this engagement. It has introduced us to the writers at EcoSalon and to like-minded women all over the world. That level of aesthetic communication is startling – it’s this connection that is the inspiration behind Prairie and remains the central theme of our work.

The photo (above) is from when Prairie Underground was still based in our homes.  We had received a large volume of orders for the Hard Times Dress that featured a hand painted print.  I needed to figure out a way to execute this in my studio apartment.  The solution was to paint the textile and feed it out my window to dry, then repeat.  Our passion to create is something that end users don’t often see.  The memories of this time are some of the fondest in my life.

Elizabeth Bruner, Piece x Piece

When you  start to seek out original and handcrafted crafted clothing, it feels like an important revelation. Handcrafted means respecting the time it takes to actually create something. There is meaning in the fact that someone has thought and carried out all the little steps it takes to make a truly unique item.

It’s never been about money for me. I know I’m not going to be a rich woman working with scrap fabrics but what compelled me to start Piece x Piece was the fact that I simply could not ignore what in my heart I knew I could change, if even on the smallest scale.

Alice Wu + Moriah Carlson, Feral Childe, 

When we started Feral Childe, we were young artists trying to make it in the New York art world, trying to fill the emptiness in our own closets, and striving to provide an antidote to fashion’s obsessions with brands, logos and over-consumption. We felt a responsibility to make things that were thoughtfully made, using available materials such as off-cuts and fabric remnants so gnarly and unloved in their raw state, but full of potential beauty in our hands. We believe in the power of the handcrafted to affect one profoundly. When something we have made touches an individual in a way that makes them think differently about the world we live in, we are inspired to continue our work.

Maria Moyer

It’s submission to the process. From inspiration to execution, I have to get out of the way and let my hands and my understanding of material attempt to catch up to some idea of what is possible. The result is always a surprise and that is a delight, sometimes a disappointment and always there’s something to learn. The whole thing is a miraculous privilege.

Kirsten Muenster, Kirsten Muenster Jewelry

I’ve always felt a need to create with my hands. My father helped me make my first ring in our basement when I was a kid. The feeling I had then (and still get today) from translating an abstract or conceptual idea into a tangible object with my hands is indescribably addictive.

Nature, unusual materials, ancient artifacts and crafting techniques inspire my work and process. Creating handcrafted objects is vital because they have the power to tell a story, carry on a tradition and remind us of the connection between every set of hands involved in the process or supply chain. I hope to influence others with my work to keep the cycle going. That’s why it is so important for me to know where my materials come from and whose lives they impact. We’re all connected.

Howard Brown, Stewart+Brown

At Stewart+Brown, the reason we do what we do is because we MUST have a sense of both passion and purpose in our work. And we must have beauty in our lives and not at the expense of the environment or supply chain stakeholders. We could not find that collision of ideals in the corporate world even when working at great companies, so we created it ourselves with our own company. It has been the greatest adventure of our lives. In a world of mass production and consumption there still needs to be value, integrity, humanity, and yes, great design without compromise. That is the goal we work towards every day.

Gretchen Jones, Gretchen Jones NYC

I believe it is our responsibility (the creative’s of the world) to be an instrument for the greater whole. We were given a gift, but in that gift is responsibility. Responsibility to be a communicator for humanity and the world, as we know it. We transmit cultural movements and the direction life is taking. Without us, we are collectively nothing.

Art in itself is about translating what cannot be translated in words. I take responsibility for that job. My “job” is to learn how to use my gift to better our lives. To open us ALL up to new ways of thinking and enable us all to live more enriched existences. I may need money to survive, but making money from my work is there by default. The passion to create is about the greater whole, not the ego or bank account… and that, is what the life of an artist is all about.

The post Beauty Will Save the World: Sustainability’s Top Makers on What Compels Them to Create appeared first on EcoSalon.

This week, we celebrate the USA by highlighting some of the great design that is also made here on our home turf.

This week is all about celebrating the United States of America, and we do that by highlighting some of the great design that is done here on our home turf. Manufacturing in the U.S. creates jobs and cuts carbon emissions from shipping, so be a patriot and support your local designers. Here are a few of our favorites, on the neutral color scale.

Modaspia Gia Knit
We all need a cozy knit to keep us warm through the summer. This one is made to order on a vintage knitting machine in Modaspia’s studio – a charming 19th Century masonic temple in Placerville, CA – from bunny soft Peruvian baby alpaca. The rolled neck and hem and crocheted seams give is a bit of a bohemian touch – perfect for summer.
$210, Modaspia

Kirsten Muenster Small Box Chain Bracelet
This bracelet is made from oxidized brass or bronze and made in California. Kirsten Muenster starts with a raw spool of wire, which is hand spun into a coil that is then hand cut into individual links. These are then woven into chain, one by one. It’s an old school technique, but this piece is decidedly modern and will give any look that slight edge that we like.
$280, Kirsten Muenster Jewelry

Form & Fauna Havana Open-toe Pump
Form & Fauna creates beautiful eco footwear made from sustainable materials that are vegan, chic, and green. The Havana open-toe pump is made in the U.S., from hemp, second generation alder wood, water-based glue, open cell rubber lining for comfort, and a rubber outsole. The slight curve in the heel is a great unexpected detail that sets these apart from the crowd.
$289.90, Ethical Ocean

Stewart + Brown Xcellent Tank Maxi
This easy-breezy piece is inspired by casual chic California lifestyle around Ventura, California, where the company is based. A maxi dress is a great piece to have in your summer wardrobe and this one is made (in the U.S., of course) from 100% organic pima cotton. It has a raw edge hemline and criss-cross detailing in the front.
$148, Stewart + Brown

CurleeBikini Twist Halter One Piece Swimsuit
A good swimsuit is a must-have for summer and can also double as a top. This slight retro-inspired one-piece has a flattering fit with adjustable peek-a-boo side seams. CurleeBikini suits are made to order in the company’s studio – located in suburban Las Vegas – and you can choose the combinations of fabrics and trimmings to suit your style.
From $270, CurleeBikini

The post Made in the USA: Neutrals appeared first on EcoSalon.

Inspired by American heritage style and the Pendleton Portland Collection, these picks will help preserve that “cozying-up-by-the-fire” feeling, all day long.

The best thing about fall is that we can cozy up on the couch and wrap ourselves in a thick, warm blanket. With these blanket patterned pieces, we can preserve that cozy feeling, all day long. The Pendleton Portland Collection serves as the inspiration for this American heritage style, but you can find eco-savvy picks from other designers as well. In light of the recent Navajo Nation vs. Urban Outfitters controversy, it’s worth noting that Pendleton has worked with Native Americans in the Southwest since 1895, designing blankets, robes and, eventually, items for ceremonial use. Add a black hat, some black tights and you’re good to go.

Pendleton Reversible Harding Poncho
This limited edition poncho updates a reversible black and ivory Native American design introduced 80 years ago by Pendleton. Justly prized for its luxurious 100% pure virgin wool, this family-owned manufacturer produces outerwear that combines softness with exceptional warmth and original styling. This comfy poncho provides complete coverage, sort of like a blanket.
$395, VivaTerra

Kirsten Muenster Corolla Ring
Each piece of jewelry in Kirsten Muenster’s collection is hand crafted from ethically sourced materials and vintage elements, to create one-of-a-kind, modern heirlooms that reveal the subtle intricacies of nature. This exquisite ring is made using recycled sterling silver with oxidation.
$200, Kirsten Muenster Jewelry

Tracy Watts Dandy Fedora
Tracy Watts is a classically trained milliner with a background in art and painting. Her stylish hats are handcrafted in her Chelsea studio. This Dandy Fedora is the perfect topper to an all black and white ensemble.
$242, Juno & Jove

Shift Dress by Pendleton Portland Collection
This Shift Dress by Pendleton is made from 100% virgin wool. The Jacquard pattern is woven on a special loom, the same method Pendleton has used since 1909. A flattering feminine silhouette will make a timeless addition to your wardrobe. Wear it to work, or a sophisticated night out with friends.
$248, Juno& Jove

JADEtribe Weekender in Black/Beige
This hand woven weekender bag is created from organic cotton and natural dyes by a village of women in Laos. All raw materials to create the natural dyes are grown in their village. Each textile takes three days for the women to weave, making this bag is a true exhibition of craft.
$396, Jade Tribe

Black & Tan Harding Robe Blanket by Pendleton Portland Collection
Made from 100% virgin wool, the Jacquard pattern on this robe is woven on a special loom, creating a double-sided design in reversed colors. The leather carrier ensures that you can carry it in style. Curl up next to a fire with this blanket and a cup of tea for the perfect ending to a long day.
$248, Juno & Jove

Aztec Silver Canvas Women’s Desert Botas
These black and white botas from TOMS feature clever hidden elastic straps for secure fit even without laces. But these kicks are not just stylish, they will boost your karma too. For every pair you buy, TOMS donates a pair to a child in need.
$68, Toms

The post On Trend: Blanket Pattern appeared first on EcoSalon.

Sustainable style news and events from EcoSalon’s West Coast fashion correspondent.

Jewel of the West – Celebrate Earth Day with a stop by jeweler extraordinaire Kirsten Muenster’s trunk show at D&H Sustainable Jewelers in San Francisco on Friday April 22, 4–8 pm  &  Saturday April 23, 11 am–6 pm. Taste wines from local small production wineries and learn about Muenster’s latest designs and inspirations for her exquisite line featuring ethically-sourced stones and materials. Muenster’s work is always a revelation, her handmade designs displaying the delicate interplay between a practiced eye and a thoughtful artisan uniquely illustrating the treasures nature has to offer. EcoSalon will be on the scene.

Runway Headway – Venice’s Abbot Kinney Boulevard may be one of L.A.’s hippest shopping destinations but my recent visit surprisingly failed to unearth any green fashion finds. If Earth Day is about inspiring action, the people at the G2 Gallery are leading the charge with their Eco Runway for Earth Day on Friday featuring the conscious active wear of Zavella, a socially-responsible clothing company. The GoodMakers Street Team will promote chemical-free makeup and Venice-based artisan Veronica Brigitte Rose with Ladjili jewelry will showcase her handmade crystal jewelry. Tasty treats by Chipotle.

Birthday Suit –  Honor the planet’s birthday this week by slipping into something more comfortable with the world’s best body treatment, Duchess Marden’s new Body Serum. The line’s founder, Mill Valley-based Marla Steuer, has created the most sensational and effective beauty remedy I’ve ever tried. Stunningly packaged, the paraben- and preservative-free Body Serum is an expertly blended mix of Steuer’s signature highest-quality Damascena Pure Rose oil with anti-aging qualities of pure, plant-based elements such as apricot kernel oil, jojoba oil and skin-restoring sea buckthorn fruit extract and candlenut oil. The gift of feeling able to face transition with a renewed commitment to what is truly necessary this Earth Day, makes it worth every penny.

The post Eco Style West Vol. 6 appeared first on EcoSalon.

Though it’s still spring, I can’t help but dream of warm summer days: lounging lazily in hammocks, taking in the ocean breezes and hitting as many cocktail parties and barbeques as humanly possible.

But what to wear? Well, first, take into consideration that this is your season to shine in sheer and floaty, draped and dreamy and get away with it.

This summer I’ll be wrapped in sea and sand tones from head to toe. My own way of communing with Mother Ocean.

There are outfits for all and I’ve rounded up some of my favorite ocean-themed pieces for you to be casual but nevertheless stylish as you go seaside, poolside or ringside to your favorite summer soiree.

The Under The Sea Dress made of 100% silk by Covet will flatter as it flows in the summer breezes.

Up top, recycled silver seashell rings by Kirsten Muenster.

And a hemp/silk slouch bag from VivaTerra to hold all the  sunblock, water and lip gloss a girl could need.

An Ostrich Egg Shell necklace from the San women of Namibia for natural adornment.

The Noraha by Charmone to slide your way through a casual cocktail party.

A Beaumont Organics Beaded Halter Neck Top to dress up or down with fitted shorts or pencil skirt.

The best bathing suit ever. Mociun’s soy organic one piece.

And a versatile organic cotton sarong to wear a million different ways.

The post Summer Fashion Ahoy! appeared first on EcoSalon.