Myrrhia Knitwear’s Spring 2014 collection is made from yarns sustainably grown in the USA. 

This season the Oakland, CA based Myrrhia Knitwear is launching a gorgeous collection of fine knitwear, skirts, dresses, camis and soft scarves made in the USA.

The entire collection has been made from organically grown California cotton, naturally dyed silks and eucalyptus fiber-based Tencel and manufactured in a local, zero-waste factory. A collection for the stylish, sensible and ecologically aware woman, Myrrhia’s latest wares are empowering yet feminine and minimalist yet  intriguing.

Founded in 2010 by designer Myrrhia Resneck, a native of Santa Cruz, CA, Myrrhia Knitwear is a sustainable and conscious fashion label with the aim “to be part of the antidote to a culture who treats it’s people–and the environment that sustains them–as disposable.” The label has achieved this goal by setting up a system of fashion manufacturing that is local and ethical, made with locally grown and sustainable fibers, and designed to embody the essence of an aware, stylish and intelligent woman. 

Drawing inspiration from the protests in Brazil, and the historical female figures that have rebelled and risen against oppression, Myrrhia Knitwear’s Spring 2014 collection plays between the duality of romantic softness and strong female edge. The collection includes simple yet alluring silk camis and slips, tailored moto chic jackets, hand knit dresses and tops, infinity scarves and structured skirts. The entire collection is made with love at Myrrhia’s studio in Oakland, CA, where zero-waste practices, conscious creation and a love of sustainable fashion reign supreme.

Featured in the Spring 2014 collection is knitwear made from organically grown cotton from a farm only 90 miles away from Myrrhia’s studio in Oakland. Sally Fox, owner of Foxfibre farms, has been experimenting with the cultivation of organically grown cotton in California since the 1980s. She has successfully created a method of growing apparel grade cotton that is easier for handspinners to work with and is in the process of  cultivating various cotton types that take natural dyes very well. Myrrhia Knitwear has been supporting the development of Foxfibre’s gorgeous yarns by turning them into spectacular and wearable garments that will bring stylish and sustainable self-expression  to your Spring wardrobe!

Related on EcoSalon

Brazilian Inmates Knit Their Way to Freedom with Doiselles Knitwear

Designer & Artist Liz Collins Launches Innovative Knitwear Collection

Homeland Fashion: 7 Brands Born and Raised in the USA

Images: Myrrhia Knitwear, Foxfibre

The post Grown and Made in the USA: Spring Fashion from Myrrhia Knitwear and Foxfibre Yarns appeared first on EcoSalon.

Tired of outsourcing? Made in the USA just got easier.

In the past year, I’ve spoken with dozens of designer entrepreneurs all looking for solutions to the same setbacks.

I can’t find someone willing to produce my minimums. I’m having such a hard time finding a sew shop that will work with me. I can’t find the fabric I need.

Without the right connections, the entire process of setting up a supply chain in the U.S. can almost seem impossible.

Those conversations are what led me to create Factory45, an accelerator program created for designers and makers who want to start sustainable and profitable businesses and keep everything made in the USA.

Why?

The domestic manufacturing industry can seem closed off. Sew shops don’t usually have websites and suppliers don’t always have email addresses. It can be very difficult to get a foot in the door without knowing the right questions to ask.

I created Factory45 to open those doors. I want local designers and makers to have the resources, tools and mentorship to start their businesses in the USA. We so often hear about the support of accelerator programs in the tech and software industries, but there are very few of the same resources available in the consumer goods space. Factory45 is one way to change that.

How does it work?

The program is six months, consisting of three two-month modules. Each module focuses on a different part of the process. By the time each participant has completed the program, he or she will have set up a U.S.-based supply chain, built a website and brand presence, created a crowdfunding campaign, and all of the little steps in between.

Through weekly group calls, bi-monthly one-on-one calls, mentorship, interviews with industry experts, and an entrepreneurial community of peer support, Factory45 guides the entire process of starting a business for designer entrepreneurs.

Who is it for?

The ideal applicant is a designer or maker with an idea for a consumer goods product. Maybe you have an idea for a baby blanket collection or a versatile dress or small-batch women’s apparel. You might only have an idea right now or maybe you’ve already made some traction with an Etsy store and want to scale production. If you need support setting up your supply chain, building an audience and brand presence, and creating a Kickstarter campaign, then you’re the perfect applicant.

Who is running the show?

I’m Shannon Whitehead, the founder of Factory45. In 2010, I co-founded {r}evolution apparel, a sustainable clothing company for travelers and minimalists that was featured in The New York Times, Forbes.com, WSJ.com and Yahoo! News. Our signature piece, The Versalette, one garment that can be worn over 20 different ways, became the highest-funded fashion project in Kickstarter history at that time.

After {r}evolution apparel, I moved on to become a sustainable apparel consultant, advocate and writer. In the past year and a half, I’ve worked with dozens of designers, startups and sustainable brands to grow their businesses and expand their reach.

Want more details?

Everything you need to know is on the Factory45 website here where applications are open until April 28, 2014.

—
I truly believe in combatting fast fashion by supporting slow fashion. I believe that the local, independent designer has a place in this industry and can compete above and beyond the cheap and disposable goods churned out by big corporations.

The resources, mentorship and connections available through Factory45 will show aspiring entrepreneurs that it is possible to create ethical supply chains and do good business by supporting a revival of the U.S. manufacturing industry.

My hope is that Factory45 will create more entrepreneurs who can change the industry with me

Shannon Whitehead is the founder of Factory45, an accelerator program that gives independent makers the resources to start sustainable businesses in the USA. Shannon got her start in 2010 when she co-founded {r}evolution apparel, a sustainable clothing company for female travelers and minimalists that was featured in The New York Times, Forbes.com, TheWallStreetJournal.com and Yahoo! News. Shannon has appeared as a speaker at the World Education Congress, ECO Fashion Week, SXSW, and as a guest lecturer at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. Applications for Factory45 are now open until April 28, 2014.

Related on EcoSalon

The Absolute Best Mens Fashion Eco Designers: On Trend

Our 5 Favorite Upcycled Fashion Designers from the USA

New Zealand’s First Ethical Fashion Week Plus 3 Hot Kiwi Designers

images via Factory45

The post Designers and Makers, This is for You: ‘Made in the USA’ Accelerator Program appeared first on EcoSalon.

ColumnEver since the art of American blue jeans sprang up in San Francisco during the gold rush of 1849, blue jeans have stood as a solid symbol of American contemporary style, freedom, and quality. This week’s On Trend features 8 of the absolute best made in America blue jeans companies. Each brand has its own special characteristic, but they all embody domestic manufacturing and quality that lasts. 

1. Tellason, San Francisco, California — Menswear

Designed and produced in the birthplace of American blue jeans, San Francisco, Tellason jeans are American made to the core — 99.9 percent of all denim used is from the White Oak Cone Denim mill in Greensboro, NC, pocketing is sourced from Tennessee, threading  from North Carolina, and leather goods from Oregon, using all Northwest sourced vegetable tanned leather. “We’ve become friends with our suppliers and feel it is the right thing to do to support them and their businesses as we build our products,” says Tellason co-founders, Tony Patella and Pete Searson.

2. Baldwin Denim, Leawood, Kansas — Womenswear and Menswear

Founded on modern design, quality textiles, and American manufacturing, Baldwin is a hip lifestyle brand producing the best quality jeans for men and women. “Baldwin’s growth has been fueled by its approachability, functional design, attention to detail, and inclusiveness,” says Baldwin. Their deliberate execution throughout all steps of the making process is as foundational to their brand’s signature today as when the label was founded in 2009.

3. Rising Sun, Pasadena, California — Menswear

Take a trip inside the Rising Sun headquarters in Pasadena, CA, and it’s as if you’ve stepped back in time: Rising Sun prides themselves in using period antique sewing machines for manufacturing all their goods. The entire pant is stitched with the same machine — a single needle stitch that dates back 80 years! Using all American made fabrics, founder Mike Hodis, former creative director of Lucky Brand, was recently named The Hardest Working Jeans Maker in America

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4. The Stronghold, Los Angeles, California — Menswear

First established in 1895, Stronghold was the first brand ever to manufacture denim in Los Angeles. In 2004, Michael Paradise and Michael Cassell reopened the label after it had been shut down for nearly fifty years. The duo kept the authentic backbone, but added on a modern contemporary feel.

5. Left Field, Queens, New York — Womenswear and Menswear

Cut and sewn in the Garment Center, Left Field is a company with a hard edge for denim that lasts. “Although the brand has been through many phases over the years, making quality, American clothing that our grandfathers would be proud of has always been my number one concern,” says Christian McCann, founder of Left Field.

6. Raleigh Denim, Raleigh, North Carolina — Womenswear and Menswear

Perhaps one of the hottest made in America jeans right now, Raleigh Denim uses “old school methods and modern fit.” Husband and wife team, Sarah and Victor Lytvinenko, design, develop, source, and create their jeans by hand using a small and dedicated staff in their Raleigh workshop. Recently accepted into the Council of Fashion Designers of America, Raleigh Denim + Workshop symbolizes the craft of American jeans production.

photography by Sully Sullivan

7. Ruell and Ray, Blacksburg, Virginia — Menswear

Using high-quality deadstock denim from around the world, Ruell and Ray manufacture’s jeans that are “one of a kind… forever.” All threads, buttons, and work labor are sourced from within America, and founder Ashley James inspects and stamps each pair of jeans herself before they reach the consumer.

8. Imogene + Willie, Nashville, Tennessee — Womenswear and Menswear

Imogene + Willie started making jeans in an old gas station, which still stands as their headquarters today. Rising demand for their goods have pushed some production out of their tiny space, but they support a dying denim industry in America’s south by keeping production within the region. Imogene + Willie’s specialty lies in the cut and immaculate fit of the jeans.

 featured image flag from ilmungo and jeans from Rakuten, images from the brands

Related on Ecosalon

Sustainable Denim Round Up: 17 Brands We Love

Now & Then: The History of Skinny Jeans

Lustables: Raleigh Denim Jeans

Behind The Label: Levi’s Strauss E-Valuate Program

The post 8 Best Made In America Jeans Brands: On Trend appeared first on EcoSalon.

Several large companies are bringing clothing production back to the USA, lowering unemployment rates and increasing our competitive ability. But at what cost?

Over the last year, several U.S. based companies have announced that they are bringing production back to American soil. These companies include Apple, Caterpillar, Ford Motor, General Electric and Whirlpool. Among apparel manufacturers, the likes of Karen Kane, hoodie producer American Giant, Keen Footwear, Brooks Brothers, Abercrombie, Opening Ceremony, Levi’s and even Walmart are ‘inshoring’ production to meet the ‘Made in USA’ apparel standard.

In the 1940s this country made 40 percent of the planet’s goods, but since then our manufacturing activity has shrunk to a minute 18 percent. The reason, although not one to be proud of, is the simple fact that labor and other resources became exponentially cheaper in other nations and were more “available” for use. Our material culture has become increasingly dependent on the manipulation of these resources no matter what the cost, mostly due to perceived obsolescence. While a most lucrative business for some of our nation’s richest has become the full exploitation of other countries’ resources and people, too many citizens of this nation wallow in the depressed towns that have been bereaved of the once heavily invested domestic industries. So why have these large companies decided to bring back manufacturing now?

Four main reasons:

1. Labor, transportation, and industrial-land costs are rising in China, one of our largest import countries. Wages are rising at a rate of 15 to 20 percent per year, while wages are stagnant in the U.S.

2. Local manufacturing allows for lower transportation costs and shorter turn-around times, allowing companies to respond to changing consumer demands much quicker. It also allows companies to produce smaller runs of items, cutting back on over-production, as well as increasing efficiency and thus lowering costs.

3. The USA is experiencing an energy boom – unfortunately it is in the name of natural gas. Thanks to hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, North America produces more natural gas than any other continent, and is projected to become the world’s largest petroleum and natural gas exporter by 2020.

4. The move is a very political one, and especially tied to the recent elections and insourcing campaigns to decrease unemployment rates and serve a population that is placing more value on U.S. manufactured items.

When Ralph Lauren manufactured the 2012 U.S. Olympic uniforms in China, the label receiving endless amounts of criticism. Since that faux pas, it seems that more attention has been put on apparel manufactured in the U.S. Although domestic apparel manufacturing is still 40 percent more expensive than in China, the factors mentioned above are contributing to a shift, with orders rising by 30 percent from 2010 for several homeland factories. Demand may also have some effect on the shift, as a study from the American Research Group shows that in 2012, 75 percent of Americans were willing to pay more for U.S. made goods, up from the 50 percent in 2010. Consumers, especially in the late twenties/early thirties age bracket, are turning to U.S. made clothing, causing the trend to have taken off for those with an interest in fashion and a disposable income.

Outsourcing of apparel manufacturing was at its peak in 2010, when China made 40 percent of the clothing bought in the U.S. Since then, labor costs in China have been growing rapidly, but so has (rather ironically) Chinese consumer interest in U.S. made clothing. Manufacturing technologies that have not been previously available in the U.S. are also being implemented in our factories, such as the superwashing of wool. French textile processor Chargeurs opened a superwashing facility in South Carolina in the late 2000’s, surprisingly at the behest of the U.S. military. It seems that synthetics weren’t the choice material for soldiers, as their plastic qualities would cause the materials to melt onto their skin from the heat of explosives. In fact, the Kissell Amendment of 2009 requires all military apparel to be made in the USA.

But what about the labor force here? Are there really enough educated and skilled workers to put a highly functioning apparel production industry in place? Currently, no. Young people with the opportunity have sought careers in more lucrative industries, and our education systems do not cater to skilled craft instruction. This can hopefully shift, and will bring with it an appreciation for the crafts among younger generations.

Although production is moving back to the USA, increasing employment opportunities, injecting the economy with more value and creating infrastructure for a country that is seemingly beginning to come apart at the seams, what does all of this mean in terms of the environment?  As mentioned before, a large factor in homeland production is the local availability of  domestic fuel, but one that will give energy guzzling industries such as chemical producers and steelmakers the perfect ‘patriotic’ excuse to produce and pollute more. Fracking involves pumping pressurized fluids through rock formations that are a mile or more under the ground, to extract oil and gas. These rock formations are often surrounded by pure, clean groundwater aquifers that can become badly contaminated with the heavy metals and toxic chemicals used in the process, as well as with the oil and gas itself.  As “the Saudi Arabia of natural gas”, like Nancy Lazer, co-head of New York-based International Strategy & Investment declares, the U.S. will no doubt see be a plethora of investors ready to drive this potentially polluting cause of fracking under blind pretenses such as job creation, economic stability and global energy dominance. It would seem this current petroleum energy investment, production and dependency cycle is one “made in the USA” equation we could do without.

Yet, energy obtained via fracking is in fact a choice many manufacturers are leaning toward, especially in the energy-dependent apparel industry. But what happened to the creation of jobs through green energy investments? Why don’t our nations top researchers embark on studies for the viability of nationwide green energy schemes that can be utilized by cities and industries alike? Why aren’t we more aware of the implications of a Made in the USA? Most importantly, why can’t so many of these large manufacturers, our government and the people of this nation work together to bring honest, responsibly functioning, environmentally sound and highly efficient production systems into existence?

Made in the USA is definitely a direction we should be heading in, but not at a great cost to the environment or the long-term stability of domestic industries. Isn’t now the time to demand and input systems and methods that will work realistically to create a different view of true homeland security in an environmentally and culturally egalitarian country?

Check in next week to hear more about clothing labels that are realizing this and carrying it out.

Image: USDAgov

The post The Insourcing Trend: What is the Impact of Clothing Made in the USA? appeared first on EcoSalon.

Today, we celebrate the 4th of July and 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 BBQs, of course), 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 stars and stripes-themed favorites.

Amour Vert Paquerette Navy/White Stripes Tube Top
We never thought we’d wear tube tops again, but suddenly they feel kind of right, especially on a hot summer day, paired with a high-waisted skirt. This striped one, by Amour Vert is made in the USA from soft bamboo.
$34, Amour Vert

Amour Vert Audrey White Buttoned Skirt
This sailor-inspired mini skirt goes perfectly with a striped tube top (see above). The fun button-detailing in the front give it that slight nautical feel, while the side pockets and clean silhouette keep it classy. Made in the USA, from organic cotton.
$99, Amour Vert

Hovey Lee Stella Stars Necklace
If there are stripes, there must be stars. This dramatic statement necklace features large metal star charms hanging from a large brass chain, all made with reclaimed metal. The charms are hollow to make it easy to wear. You can make it work double-duty by wrapping it around your wrist as a bracelet. Hovey Lee jewelry is designed and made in Los Angeles, always from natural, reclaimed and fair trade materials.
$158, Hovey Lee

PACT Bikini Handpainted Stars Bikini
OK, so these star-spangled organic undies are not actually made in the USA, but in a fair trade factory in Turkey. PACT’s new stars and stripes-themed collection was, however, inspired by a hunky Texas farmer named Mason Arnold, with proceeds benefiting the Sustainable Food Center, which provides families in low-income communities with access to healthy local food. That just seems kind of patriotic to us.
$20, PACT

American Apparel Unisex Swim Trunk
American Apparel has been the mainstream poster child of bringing local manufacturing to downtown LA, which we think is pretty cool. We just wish they would commit to organic fabrics too. These mid-length unisex swim shorts have vented legs, a drawstring waist and come in a variety of different colors.
$34, American Apparel

Giant Dwarf Astral Crown
Celebrate independence day by channeling lady liberty with this headpiece made from German glass glitter (which is pure silver and real glass shards). There’s no way you can avoid having fun wearing this. Astral Crowns are an original Giant Dwarf design – each piece is carefully crafted and assembled by hand, with lots of love and sparkles.
$48, Olivine

Edith A. Miller Cotton Boatneck Striped 3/4 Tee
This classic boatneck tee is as timeless as it is all-American – a perfect summer wardrobe staple. The versatile knits by Edith A. Miller are all made in a 100-year-old mill in Reading, Pennsylvania, which originally specialized in making men’s undershirts. In late 2010, former investment banker Nancy Gibson and designer Jennifer Murray convinced the mill to start making women’s shirts, which have ever since been a favorite of stylish women everywhere.
$70, Bird

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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.

We’ve got sustainable versions of 7 gorgeous belt trends spotted on the runways.

Belts are one of the season’s hottest accessories, seen all over the runways. They are also an easy way to dress up an outfit, giving it that little extra something that will set you apart from the crowd. Leather is and will continue to be a topic of controversy. If the leather is sourced and treated sustainably and the belt carefully made by hand, it’s a good investment piece since natural materials like leather do last for a very long time.

The fun thing about belts right now is that there are many different styles from which to choose — from ladylike double-wrap belts to bondage-like harness belts. Here are seven of our favorites.

Double Long Salmon Skin Belt by Leila Hafzi
Double-wrapped belts were seen at Victoria Beckham’s show, perfectly complementing her ladylike dresses with an edge. This one by Leila Hafzi is made from vegetable dyed salmon skin, a sustainable alternative to leather.
$110, Juno & Jove 

Bow Skinny Belt by Brave Leather
Almost every single look at the Burberry Prorsum show featured a bow belt, in a variety of colors. While it’s still cold out, wear it on top of a jacket or trench coat, and for summer pair it with a dress or light blazer. We like pairing this belt style (available in a rainbow of colors) with an outfit that is not-so-sweet for a nice contrast. Brave Leather belts are hand crafted in Canada by skilled craftspeople, in a safe, ethical factory.
$60, Brave Leather 

Wide Leather Belt by De Palma
Celine — which still seems to be every fashion editor’s favorite line — showed wide belts, worn low on the hips with wide-leg trousers and simple boxy tops — a look that I will personally copy this spring (while regretting what I said about low-waisted pants earlier). This simple, understated wide leather belt is hand made in California using vegetable-tanned leather coated with beeswax. Available in four different colors.
$143, De Palma Leather 

Kim White Equestrian Belt
This look by Paul & Joe perfectly shows how to take the too-sweet edge off a girly summer dress. Cinch the waist with a corset-style wide belt in a metallic hue. This one by Kim White is handmade in the U.S. and has a gorgeous pewter-finish with just the right amount of shine.
$110, Kim White

Ashley Watson Obi Belt
Zac Posen’s Asian-inspired collection featured several different styles of traditional (and not-so-traditional) obi wrap belts. For a look that will work in real life, try this quilted one by Ashley Watson, made from super soft, guilt-free reclaimed leather. Also available in brown suede and light tan.
$124, Beklina

Leather Harness by Norisol Ferrari
Bondage-like leather harnesses were, somewhat surprisingly, seen on the runways of designers like Herve Leger and Monique L’huillier (as seen above). We like how a tough piece like this can add a definite edge to an outfit. This custom handcrafted leather harness by Norisol Ferrari was designed in collaboration with harness master Zana Bayne — she made the one Lady Gaga wears in her You and I video.
From $1200, AhaLife 

Handmade Native American-Inspired Beaded Belt
Our bet as to what all the fashion bloggers will be wearing this season is a Native American-inspired beaded belt. They look great with low-waisted denim and summer dresses alike. Support the people whose heritage inspired this look and order yours from Native Arts Trading, who custom makes hand-beaded belts (and hat bands) to order.
From $395, Native Arts Trading.

The post Runway to Real Life: 7 Gorgeous Belts to Wear Right Now appeared first on EcoSalon.

When packing for a stay at the Eco Pod in Scotland, take inspiration from the interiors and mix black, leather and metal with natural materials & hues.

Pack for a weekend at the Eco Pod in Scotland by filling your bag with a mix of Scottish and American eco-design. Take inspiration from the interiors of the geodesic dome pods and mix black leather and metal with natural materials and hues.

Erica Weiner Circles & Squares Necklace
Made from a long vintage brass chain threaded through a series of gunmetal-plated brass cubes with hollowed-out circles, this necklace by Erica Weiner echoes the shapes found in the exteriors of the Eco Pod hotel. It’s geometric shapes create a nice contrast with the neutral garments.
$75, Erica Weiner

Right As Rain T-shirt
Taking the idea of natural beauty to the next level the team behind Right as Rain came up with the unique concept of planting and harvest shirts, thus leaving the design to the unpredictability of nature. After the t-shirt has been planted in the ground for two to three months they are “harvested” and dried and then they are ready for wearing.
Approx. $325, Right As Rain

Izzy Lane Shetland Herringbone Zipped Coat
This zipped coat in a black and camel herringbone fabric will keep you warm through that British winter. Made from a rare breed of Shetland wool from the Izzy Lane flock of 600 rescued sheep, this coat is truly one-of-a-kind.
Approx. $520, Izzy Lane

Henrietta Ludgate Leather Skirt
Scottish luxury women’s wear designer, Henrietta Ludgate is known for her distinct structural aesthetic, and minimalist design, as well as for channeling her Scottish Heritage into her collection. The entire collection is produced locally, supporting Scottish craftsmanship.
$603, Yoox

Melange Hoodie Scarf / Alpaca Wrap by Mayu
This chunky knit alpaca scarf is the perfect size to wrap up with and in case you can’t find a hat, it’s got a super cute, oversized hood to keep you warm. Handknit by artisans in Peru with the highest quality pure, eco-friendly alpaca fiber.
$140, Mayu

The post Weekend Bag: Scottish Eco Pod appeared first on EcoSalon.

LA shows the love for local designers, artists and makers of food.

This past weekend, local makers of food, fashion and art gathered at The California Market Center in LA for Unique LA’s Local Love event — the largest independent design show in the country. As a relatively new East Coast transplant, I welcomed the opportunity to meet and mingle with designers and makers on my new home-turf. The products at the show were all made in the U.S., so all the dollars spent during the weekend went straight towards stimulating LA’s design economy.

There was plenty of love-themed merchandise on display, perhaps because this was the perfect opportunity to buy a last-minute Valentine’s gift. We particularly liked the LA Love tees by MNKR and the sweet linen heart coin purses by Yellow Wallpaper.

Of course there were lots of cute tees and onesies for the little ones, emblazoned with everything from squirrels, whales and hearts, like at Jasper Wren, to LA-centric statements like the “I live and cry in LA” onesie from Kira.

The first thing that caught my eye when I entered the space (perhaps because it was right by the entrance door) was a tipi, surrounded by pillows, towels, book ends and coasters adorned with lovely graphic prints, all handmade in LA by Wolfum.

My nose directed me to my next favorite — coconut wax candles by Queen Bee’s Hive, scented with spa-grade essential oils. Topanga Candle Company uses vintage vessels such as tins, food containers and film canisters to hand pour the wax into, a creative way to give these objects a new life. You can even bring in your own vessel and they will make it into a candle for you.

Another company that creatively reuses our old stuff is My T-shirt Pillow who, as the name suggests, takes old tees and makes them into cozy pillows. I also loved the recycled cashmere scarves, made from thrifted sweaters, by Creature Cashmere and Stella Neptune.

There was a ton of great jewelry on display — some of my favorite were an action-provoking necklace in black letters by MNKR, a poetic banner necklace with butterflies by Fruition, message necklaces by Solstice LTD, recycled metal pieces by Tiffany Kunz, bold color and ceramic pieces by Kyyote, and pendant necklaces by Love Nail Tree (that camera is for all you bloggers out there).

For the boys — and the girls who steal their clothing — there were bow ties in all sorts of colors and materials by Pocket Square Clothing and wood eyewear by Sire’s Crown. And a new favorite, Hepp’s White Truffle Salt is something I can’t live without.

I was thrilled to see the kind of creativity and high level of design that comes out of Los Angeles. Shopping locally means that you are directly supporting this industry of small-scale designers. They are often the ones who push the envelope and give us the unexpected. That is something we need to cherish and of course, show the love to.

The post Unique LA’s Local Love Event appeared first on EcoSalon.

Your Weekend Bag for a stay at the Treehotel in the North of Sweden includes local eco-labels and modern takes on Swedish classics — designed to keep you warm.

When packing for a weekend at the Treehotel, a gathering of fantastical dwellings nestled high up in the trees of Northern Sweden, you need to keep in mind that Nordic winters are just a tad colder than most of us are used to. Embrace Swedish style with local eco-labels and updates on classics like clogs, a Sami parka and Lovikka mittens. It may also be a good idea to pack a thermos and fill it with one of Swedes’ favorite warming winter beverages — glögg or vargtass, a mix of vodka and lingonberry juice.

Thin Finn Dry Flat Selvage Denim
Swedish denim brand Nudie’s The Dry Selvage line is a special concept made from select selvage denim from Japan, Italy and Turkey, featuring the highest denim qualities — denim with cashmere, hemp and organic cotton, and so on. Styles are all unisex, and the Thin Finn is one particularly favored by the ladies.
Approx. $340, Nudie Jeans Co.

Fjällräven Luhkka Cape
We love this Luhkka Cape, inspired by a traditional Sami garment, by classic Swedish outdoor brand Fjällräven. Even if there is a snow storm, you will have to leave your treehouse to eat, use the facilities or warm up in the sauna. The lightly insulated G-1000 material provides protection against rain, snow, sleet and bitter winds, and the large kangaroo pocket in front is great for keeping your hands warm and toasty. Best of all, this cape will look just as good in the city as it does in the Nordic wilderness.
$299, Fjällräven

Hildur Cashmere Cardigan
If you go to the Treehotel, chances are you came to relax. This cozy, slightly over-size cashmere cardigan by Swedish eco-label Righteous Fashion will certainly help you do that. There’s enough fabric that you can almost wrap yourself in it like a blanket. Handmade in Nepal from 100% Fair-Made Cashmere Wool.
Approx. $420, Righteous Fashion

Shearling Clog Boot
What’s more Swedish than a clog? This updated take on the classic everyday footwear has a shearling lining that is sure to keep your toes warm when trudging through the snow. Sven’s Clogs are handmade with pride in a 36-year-old factory in Chisago City, Minnesota. What we like most is that you can choose the style, leather option and color, as well as the base color to make your own perfect clog.
$360, Sven’s Clogs

 Lovikka Mittens
Every Swedish kid goes through many pairs — usually knitted by a grandmother — of these traditional Sami-style mittens during their childhood. They are supposedly easy to make if you feel like taking on a DIY project (try this pattern). If not, they can be purchased from Swedish arts and crafts stores, perhaps a good souvenir to bring back from your trip?
Approx. $45, Hantverkstan

Ambika Boutique Front Fold Hat
Ok, so it’s not Swedish, but we so love this fluffy hat with front and earflaps, made with friendly fur. On her farm in Upstate New York, designer Ambika Conroy raises angora rabbits that are shorn every three months according to their natural cycle. The fibers are then hand-carded and spun into the yarn Ambika uses to create her designs. Best of all, because of the angora rabbits’ long fibers, it doesn’t shed.
$275, Ambika Boutique

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