EcoSalon goes vintage shopping in New York City.

A while back we discussed the “fashion hauling” phenomenon and the impact it is having on today’s teen shopper. While I do think it’s a disturbing trend, I also realize that there is very little we can do to affect the basic desire that shoppers have to share their finds with others. If you can’t beat them, join them. Of course, we here at EcoSalon do it in a conscious consumer kind of way, featuring some of awesome vintage finds that I recently scored while scouring two of my favorite NYC thrift shops.

At Beacon’s Closet in Williamsburg I found two things that fit well into current trends.

This African print tunic, which has a really lovely pattern and one of my favorite colors: green. I think it’s originally for kids, because the arm holes are a bit tight, but that’s an easy fix with the sewing machine.

These pale pink shorts are really nicely distressed, and both the color and length are right on trend for summer. And at $12, they were a great deal.

Moving on to my other favorite Brooklyn thrift shop, Guvnor’s Vintage Thrift, I found a bunch of great dresses.

First, I saw this vaguely animal-pattern dress in a nice, flattering 50s-style cut. Usually it’s hard to find this kind of dress without a really narrow waist, but this one fits perfectly and I’ll probably pair it with a delicate belt. I love the colors and the pearlized buttons too.

Like I mentioned, I’m very into bright greens right now, and this 70s dress with a pleated skirt and metallic bodice instantly caught my eye.

I have a problem with black—so much so that I had banned myself from buying anything black this summer. This long-sleeve maxi dress fit me really well, though, and when I saw that the label was called Mr. Sergio, like one of my best friends, I just had to break down and get it. It’s got these really nice ruffle details on the front that keep it from being just another black dress. Or maybe that’s just my excuse.

Finally, this rose-patterned linen thing caught my eye. Initially I wasn’t sure why, but I think I can relate to the fact that it’s an insane mix of styles – the collar is vaguely Asian, the pattern very conservative and sort of British, and the leather lace up detail with shells is very hippie chic. It was also less than $20, so done deal.

Actually, none of these set me back more than $40. The brown animal-print dress and green 70s party dress were the most expensive things, but the good thing about vintage clothing is that you can just sell it again once you don’t want it anymore. It’s like a virtuous circle of consumption, where all this good stuff is passed along for someone else to discover and fall in love with one day.

What are some of your recent vintage finds?

The post Vintage Fashion Haul: Thrifty Finds from NYC appeared first on EcoSalon.

Stylish cycling gear that will keep you feeling safe and looking chic all summer long.

We’re all about alternative transportation here at EcoSalon, and summer is the perfect time to get out that bike and start pedaling around the streets. To help you do that in style, we’ve gathered some cycling gear that will keep you safe while still looking tres chic.

Nessa Dress by Edith A. Miller
There’s no reason you shouldn’t wear a dress just because you’re biking. Just make sure to choose a loose-fitting short one, so it’s comfortable and doesn’t run the risk of getting stuck in the gears. This classic striped dress by Edith A. Miller is ethically made in the USA, and we think it goes great with a bicycle.
$198, Juno & Jove

The Madera Helmet by Coyle
Based on a contemporary, skate-inspired helmet design, the Madera provides a great balance of coverage and visibility. Coyle helmets are made using patented technology that takes advantage of  the inherent structural properties that allow wood to absorb significant energy in the event of a significant impact, adding protective redundancy to the EPS foam or low density cork system that lies beneath. The all-natural materials resist the UV degradation that synthetic helmet materials are vulnerable to, which means you won’t need to replace a weather-worn and sunburned helmet every few years.
$375, Coyle

Blink Steady Rear Light
A good light is a must, especially when long summer days on the road turn into spontaneous picnics under the stars. Made from solid aluminum, the Blink Steady bike light turns on automatically and shuts off when you’re not riding. And you don’t have to remove it when you lock up because it’s secured by your seatpost.
$95, Blink Steady

Bike Strap-Downs by Walnut Studiolo
Let’s face it, we often end up carrying more stuff than we thought. When you’re on a bike, this can be a problem, unless you carry the right accessories with you. This set of bike strap-downs is a key tool for MacGyvering stuff onto your bike. Two buckling leather straps with eyelets running the length of it helps you strap down items of varying sizes to your bike rack. All of Studiolo’s beautiful bike accessories are made, by a couple, in their workshop in Portland, Oregon.
$38, Walnut Studiolo

Green Guru Cruiser Cooler Recycled Bike Tube Handlebar Bag
Think of the Cruiser Handlebar Bag as the missing glove compartment for your cruiser or commuter bike. It has room for all those essentials, like a just-in-case rainjacket, sunglasses and sunscreen for a hot spin to the beach, or cold beverages for a warm evening cruise. You can also take it off the bike and use it as a cooler. Made in the US from recycled or upcycled bike tubes and upcycled reflective mylar from compostable cup packaging
$44.95, Green Guru

Portland Design Works Sodapop Fenders
Made from 97% post-consumer recycled beverage bottles, these bike fenders will keep you clean and dry in any weather. They are designed to pop off your bike easily, should you want to remove them when the sun comes out. Thanks to clever hardware they fit most city and mountain bikes that have a hole in the fork crown.
$25, Portland Design Works

Recycled Innertube Stringer Cuff
The lightweight stringer cuff by Beatrice Holiday is made from soft recycled bike inner tubes, lightly sprinkled with metallic gold spray paint. Designer Holiday wants you to feel good knowing that this bracelet was made from heap of inner tubes that lay discarded outside a bike shop in Venice, CA. Now they can ride again, only on your arm instead.
$28, Etsy/Beatrice Holiday

Eastlake Recycled Tablet Sleeve
If you bring your reading tablet along for the ride, make sure it’s protected, in true biker style. This stylish, protective sleeve is constructed from recycled bicycle inner tubes, which gives it a durable, highly water-resistant exterior. It’s sized to be compatible with the iPad, but will fit other roughly 10” tablets as well.
$34, Alchemy Goods

AB Designs Leaf Earrings
You would never know at first glance, but these delicate leaf earrings are actually made from upcycled bike tubes. They’re carved by hand in Portland (by EcoSalon’s very own resident foodie Anna Brones) and look really great worn under a bike helmet!
$20, Etsy/AB Designs

The post Cycle Chic: Stylish Bike Gear to Get You Pedaling in Style appeared first on EcoSalon.

African-inspired prints are perfect for summer. Mix them all together or make a statement with one bold piece.

African-inspired prints are a trend that’s been around for a while, but we think it deserves some attention since it’s so perfect for summer. Be daring and mix your prints, there’s no such thing as too much – anything goes with this trend. You can even wear all these picks together if you want to. Support sustainable development in Africa by ensuring that you buy pieces that are made by local artisans who make a fair living wage.

ASOS Africa Bra Top in Rhino Print
A quirkier take on the print trend, this handcrafted stretch bra top features a cute hand-drawn rhino print in poppy greens and oranges. The ASOS Africa collection looks to traditional East African fabrics and prints and reworks them with a modern sporty aesthetic in a punchy acid color palette. It’s produced in collaboration with several small communities in Africa, enabling them to earn a sustainable living through their craftsmanship.
$41, ASOS

Light Gives Heat Bold Moss Pearl Necklace
This necklace is the perfect complement to your African prints. It’s hand-crafted by the Suubi women in Uganda from beads made from recycled paper. By making and selling these beaded necklaces, these women are able to make a living wage, helping them create better lives for their families.
$20, Light Gives Heat

Della Treasure Hunt MacBook Case
Since you’re looking all stylish, your computer should too, right? Dress your MacBook up in this fun, protective case from Della. It’s 100% vegan, made from sustainable materials, lined with local Ghanaian fabric, and thinly padded for protection.
$38, Della

Doreen African Print Peplum Top
The ultimate convergence of two trends – print and peplum – this African print peplum top is one-of-a-kind and handmade in New York. Made from 100% cotton blue printed fabric with gold detailing it works really well with a pair of skinny jeans.
$35, Ann Jodes/Etsy

Wrapped Bangles by Mikuti
Mikuti‘s original banana bark bracelets have been all dressed up with local Tanzania wax fabric. Made using a unique wrapping technique, the vibrant colors of the fabric enhance the natural earth tones of the bark, creating gorgeous printed bangles that are surprisingly versatile. They come in stacks of three and should really be worn together.
$68, Mikuti

AFIA Staple Skirt in Neon
AFIA’s bright, colorful staple skirt is the perfect summer piece. It’s easy to dress up or down, but always makes a statement. It’s made from handpicked cotton wax fabric from the markets of Accra and hand-sewn by cooperatives in Ghana who are paid a fair wage for their craft.
$100, AFIA

The post On Trend: African Prints appeared first on EcoSalon.

Ten great DIY bracelets that will keep you busy crafting all weekend.

Wearing an item that you’ve made yourself feels really good, and getting compliments on something you’ve actually made is totally satisfying. Why not take some time this weekend and make a few summer bracelets for yourself? We’ve dug around to find you ten of the best DIY bracelet tutorials out there. It’s time to get crafty.

Big Beaded Cuff Bracelet
Sometimes you just want to wear a piece of jewelry that demands attention. But why spend the money on shiny baubles when you can just bling them out yourself? This DIY beaded bracelet from Style Me Pretty is totally easy to make with nothing but an old cuff, shiny stones of some kind, and a glue gun.
Difficulty level: 1 of 5

Safety Pin Bracelet
I may be partial since I used to make these a lot back when I was in college, but safety pin necklaces are very simple to create. It does take some time to get all the small beads onto the pins, but you should be able to make one of these in about a half hour. This DIY safety pin bracelet by Instructables uses the larger pins, which I think is a nice touch that also keeps it from looking too home-made.
Difficulty level: 1 of 5

Sailor’s Knot Bracelet
If you’re planning on rocking that nautical look this summer, you’ll need the right kind of arm candy to match. A basic sailor’s knot bracelet like this is easy to make – all you need is twine and a can (or other round object) that matches the width your bracelet needs to be. Check out the tutorial from More Design Please and give it a shot. You can make anything from belts to headbands with this technique too.
Difficulty level: 2 of 5

DIY Leather Bow Bracelet
A sweet alternative to a plain leather cuff, this DIY bow bracelet by Oh the lovely things is very simple to make if you are a bit handy with the glue. All you need is a piece of leather, scissors, leather glue or super glue, thread and a snap button.  You can also make these from any kind of sturdier fabric, it doesn’t have to be leather. Either way, it’s totally adorable.
Difficulty level: 2 of 5

Recycled T-shirt Knotted Bracelet
We all have old tees lying around – why not put them to use by making bracelets out of them. It’s also a great way to use of fabric scraps that you have lying around (and it doesn’t have to be a T-shirt, it could be any kind of soft fabric). So pretty and simple to make. Learn how to get knotty in this video tutorial by this old dress. You could mix colors to make a fun summer version too.
Difficulty level: 2 of 5

Friendship Bracelet
Most of us have made these at some point in our lives. Well, it’s time to dig up those old friendship bracelet making skills again, because these childhood staples are quite fashionable nowadays. Once you master the technique, here demonstrated by Honestly WTF, you can start playing around with different color variations and thicknesses. The possibilities are endless. Just don’t forget to actually make some for your friends, because they’ll want some.
Difficult level: 3 of 5

Floral Bangle
Big bangle bracelets and floral prints are all the rage this summer. This clever DIY bangle by P.S. I Made This combines the two in a simple and clever way, paying homage to the art of decoupage. The project is an interesting mix of technology, craft and nature and involves snapping pictures of pretty flowers with your phone. Intrigued? You should be. This can, of course, be done with any other kind of print as well.
Difficulty level: 3 of 5

Mystery Braid Leather Cuff
Ever wonder how some of those leather cuff bracelets you see are braided, yet seem to be made from one unbroken piece of leather? That’s called mystery, magic, or trick braiding, and it involves manipulating a single piece of leather with two slits into a braided strip by twisting and turning it in the right ways. In this DIY tutorial, Martha Stewart herself demonstrates how to make a simple leather cuff using this technique. Mystery no more.
Difficulty level: 3 of 5

Braided Hex Nut Bracelet
Hardware stores are great sources for jewelry making. Hex nuts are great for DIYing, and are super affordable too. Braided into a bracelet they look surprisingly elegant. Who knew? This DIY bracelet by Honestly WTF is fairly easy to make, if you can master some basic braiding skills.
Difficulty level: 3 of 5

Crocheted Utility Cord Bangle
This bangle is an interesting mix of sporty utility cord material and crafty crochet technique, and the result is incredibly sophisticated. It does require a certain amount of skills with the crochet hook, but that, and cord, is all you need to make this utility cord bangle. This tutorial from Blog a La Cart makes the process easy to follow. Keep it simple or use a thin metal chain to add some bling.
Difficulty level: 4 of 5

See Also:

DIY: 10 Things to do With an Old T-Shirt

DIY: 10 Summer Shorts You Can Make At Home

DIY: 10 Statement Earrings You Can Totally Make

Top photo: Honestly WTF

The post 10 DIY Bracelets To Make This Weekend 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

The post Made in the USA: Stars & Stripes 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.

Seven sustainably savvy wedge heels, perfect for wearing to all those outdoor summer parties.

Summer soirées are often held on lawns, which require that you choose your footwear wisely. Trust me, I’ve tried to wear pumps to BBQs, but those heels just sink right into the grass. Wedges are comfortable and won’t slide down into the grass, and they happen to be very on trend for summer as well. Here are seven of our sustainably savvy favorites.

1. Naya Eternal

This summer is all about happy, bright color. These wedge sandals from Naya have a super flattering shape and come in a range of delicious colors, including this mustardy yellow. The woven detailing on the heel makes them feel summery and special. Made from vegetable tanned leather.

$145, Planet Shoes

2. Cri de Coeur Nico in Black/Gold

If you’re in a happy disco-sort of mood, these open-toe cut-out booties are the perfect shoes for summer festivities. Inspired by Andy Warhol’s muse, the ‘Nico’ features contrasting metallic panels and a partially covered wedge. Handmade in Los Angeles from all vegan materials such as sustainable wood, ultra-suede made from recycled plastic, and eco-PU.

$380, Cri de Coeur

3. OlsenHaus Mrs Roper-Red Print

This fun summer shoe perfectly channels two of summer’s big trends: bright color and prints. It will look great with anything from a casual summer dress to a bikini. OlsenHaus shoes are always 100% vegan and manufactured according to Fair Trade and ethical business practices. These are made from faux suede, cork and printed cotton fabric.

$265, OlsenHaus

4. Marais Oxford Espadrille

Marais designers Catherine Chen and Haley Boyd design shoes that are fit for girls that spend a lot of time on the move. With this shoe, they’ve put a spin on a canvas oxford by adding an espadrille platform and side cut-outs. Featuring a comfortable 3-inch heel, an open toe, lace-up closure, and matching grosgrain trim around base, these espadrilles come in four basic, wearable colors.

$125, Marais

5. Calleen Cordero Maria Wedge

For a slight down-to-earth vibe, try these Maria wedges by Calleen Cordero. The nude color scheme makes them go with pretty much everything, making them an instant wardrobe staple. We love the wood heel, which is easy to walk in too, because of the platform in the front, and the solid brass buckle details give it some edge. Handcrafted in North Hollywood, California.

$459, Calleen Cordero

6. Rhino Wedge from Mink Shoes

These fun, yet highly wearable platform wedges feature a stacked bamboo heel and is made from recycled fabrics. Mink Shoes adheres to a strict policy of animal preservation, protection, and safeguarding in its designs. Each shoe is extremely unique and is offered in limited editions. We love the cute handmade bamboo charm on the ankle strap.

$430, Moo Shoes

7. Cork Wedge by Swedish Hasbeens

Inspired by vintage sports and great athletes of the past, these cork wedges from Swedish Hasbeens are made from naturally dyed leather and cork — which is a renewable material. They are a great way to subtly incorporate that sportswear trend into your summer wardrobe, but will look great with feminine dresses as well.

$211, Swedish Hasbeens

The post 7 Summer Wedges appeared first on EcoSalon.

EcoSalon’s West Coast Fashion Editor Rowena Ritchie shows us how a few key sustainable buys dresses up her $1 thrift store find jumpsuit and takes it from loungy to art deco-inspired 70s glamour.

Ever wondered how our editors channel this season’s trends to complement the favorite pieces in their own wardrobes? Well, look no further. Rowena Ritchie is EcoSalon’s West Coast Fashion Editor and her style is best described as “The Art of the Layer.” It’s starts with sleek basics like skinny pants and fitted tees in matching shades and builds from there. It’s an easy approach that allows her to accessorize with the vintage bits and bobs she’s collected for years – plus it suits the highly changeable San Francisco weather. “When I found this black crepe de chine jumpsuit in the $1 bin at my local thrift store, I knew it was a keeper,” she says. ” I’m drawn to the color black like a vampire to blood and despite my best efforts to lighten up, I’m invariably dressed head-to-toe in it. ”

While this jumpsuit is perfect for lounging, with a few key sustainable buys it will take her from day to night all year round.

Organic by John Patrick Perforated Cardigan Sweater
“I love the perforated detail, which reminds me of snappy golf wear from the 1930s.” It’s also the perfect way to channel summer’s big sportswear trend and still keep the look distinctly feminine. “100% merino wool never lets me down. It lasts forever and never pills or pulls.” It’s made in the USA, and the lemon yellow color is a great way to break away from black.
$280, Beklina

Celeste Printed Silk Peplum Bustier by CrOP by David Peck
“This top is a total splurge, but how cool would this be layered over my jumpsuit?” The peplum is also one of summer’s hottest silhouettes. Throw on some strappy heels and red lipstick and you’ve got a screen siren look with a modern edge.
$385, CrOp by David Peck 

Rachel Comey Macrame Belt
“This belt by Rachel Comey adds flattering definition to the waist and a relaxed 70s feel.” Hand knotted natural cotton macrame with leather worked ends. Belted around around the cardigan, it creates a look that’s smart and comfy at the same time. This is a good piece to keep an eye out for at thrift shops or, if you are the crafty sort, make yourself.
$240, Beklina

Alkemie Phoenix Fan Necklace 
“This Egyptian style Phoenix fan necklace is killer. I’m a big fan of the style of the 30s and 70s and all roads seem to return back to the decorative motifs of those times.” Classically inspired jewelry is definitely making a big comeback, and that one statement piece can really take an outfit to the next level. “The Phoenix is also a symbol of rebirth and the perseverance to rise out of challenging situations, I like that idea.” Handmade in Los Angeles, CA, from 100% reclaimed metal.
$209, Alkemie

Alexandre Herchcovitch X Melissa Patent Troupe Wedge Brogue
“Ever since my trip to Sao Paulo last year, I’ve started a bit of a collection of Melissa‘s rubber shoes. The Brazilian brand’s designer collaborations, like this one with Alexandre Herchcovitch are truly inspired. “They’re great for incorporating a silly pop edge to an otherwise moody look – they’re so wrong that they’re right, If you know what I mean.” We do.
$96.11, Asos 

The post EcoSalon Editor’s Picks: Rowena Ritchie appeared first on EcoSalon.

Long midsummer nights require easy-breezy wardrobe staples in subtle, flattering colors.

Traditional Swedish midsummer was celebrated on Friday, although there’s no reason why we shouldn’t continue to celebrate the height of summer. Pure whites, metallics and shades of pink festive and easy to wear and will look great with your summer tan. It’s important that you wear comfortable shoes that don’t have pointy heels, since summer parties are often held on lawns and involve dancing.

Weimar Dress by Prairie Underground
Summer is all about easy shapes that move with you, and this butterfly-sleeve Weimar Dress by Prairie Underground does just that. Made in the USA from 100% organic cotton, it is the perfect warm weather dress. A natural waisted seam flawlessly hugs your curves and is the perfect base for a wide belt.
$162, Juno & Jove

JADEtribe Tie Dye Scarf
Handwoven by a women’s collective in Laos, this tie dye scarf by JADEtribe is a perfect cover-up for those sometimes chilly summer nights. Made from 100% silk, it feels great against warm summer skin too. The tie dye patterns is playful and subtle at the same time — a great way to add some color to your summer wardrobe.
$68, JADEtribe

Kim White Equestrian Belt
This wide equestrian belt is sculpted and contoured in the back to fit your body just right. It’s the perfect way to add some layers to that simple white summer dress. The metallic pewter color leather has just a little bit of shine, and will work with many different pieces in your closet.
$110, Kim White

Neuaura Bell Silver Flats
At some point during those long summer night festivities you’re going to want to be dancing, and that requires some seriously comfy shoes. These jute-wrapped ballerinas by Neuaura are made from silver vegan leather with a flexible rubber sole. The lace-up detail in the front is a subtle nod to summer’s big sportswear trend.
On sale for $79.99, Neuaura

Hand Dyed Tote Bag
The Textile Arts Center recently opened a retail shop in Manhattan. These ecologically sustainable tote bags are hand dyed and hand printed with natural dyes. Logwood, indigo, madder, cutch, walnut, and Brazilwood to create three unique shibori color combinations. All proceeds from handmade TAC products go to support programming for children and adults, aimed at preserving the art of hand-crafts.
$25, Textile Arts Center

Andy Lifschutz Gaia Crystal Studs
Brooklyn-based jewelry designer Andy Lifschutz is always seeking new ways to combine his signature artisan style with raw elements such as reclaimed metals, wood, bone and stone. These studs from the Gaia Crystal collection are handmade in NYC from 100% Reclaimed Sterling Silver. Each piece is custom made and takes about two weeks to make.
$113, Andy Lifschutz

DIY Flower Crown
Finish off your look with a pretty flower crown. With a few simple tools, a bit of patience and a bouquet of great flowers, they’re super easy to make too. Here’s an easy tutorial.

The post Midsummer Nights appeared first on EcoSalon.

Get ready for Rio+20 by dressing in these picks from some of Brazil’s top eco-designers.

As Rio+20 – the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development – kicks off this week, thousands of game changers in the sustainability world will flock to Brazil. We do hope that good things come out of it. The one thing we know for sure is that we want to look the part while discussing how to create the future we all want. What better way to do that than by wearing these picks from some of Brazil’s foremost eco-designers.

Osklen Calca Fem Colour Shine Casual Jeans
These light blue jeans will look great with everything this summer. Pair them with bright colors fun a fun summery vibe or add a flowy white top for a more toned-down look. Oskar Metsavaht, designer of Osklen is one of the most influential voices of Brazilian design and a pioneer of the country’s new luxury movement, using the most innovative high-tech eco-fabrics in his collections. As a long-term environmental thinker, Metsavaht is also the founder of the non-profit e-Institute, dedicated to raising awareness for sustainable human development.
Approx. $194, Osklen

Thin Coconut Bangles by Wild Berry
Handmade by artisans in Brazil, from scrap materials generated in the processing of juices from fruits in the Amazon, these carved coconut bangles are a great addition to your summer wardrobe. Wear them to the beach with a colorful bikini or pair them with a formal dress for one of those summer parties.
$7.99 for a set of three, Wild Berry

Bikini by G Dias Swim
We can’t talk about Brazil and not include a bikini, can we? Local girls seems to live in them and the country does have a high rate of swimsuit models per capita. It seems only fitting that one of them – Gabriela Dias has created her own line, which celebrates the female figure and has both bikinis and one-pieces in vibrant colors with unexpected details. Dias is committed to ecological and social responsibility, and carefully hand-selects all fabrics, and all suits are handmade in Brazil by skilled local artisans in certified facilities.
The Perfect Cup & The Low Riser, G Dias Swim

Osklen Psychedelic Backpack
The backpack is hotter than ever, and what better carry-all to bring with you when exploring all that Rio has to offer (besides high-level UN-discussions). Designed by Oskar Metsavaht of Osklen, this one has a practical, utilitarian shape and a colorful psychedelic pattern that is sure to turn heads.
Approx. $487, Osklen

Melissa + Campana Papel Flats
This latest collaboration between the Campana Brothers and Melissa has double Brazilian appeal as both the famous designer duo and the shoe brand hail from there. The model is inspired by the Campana brothers’ paper creations (“papel” means paper). The bronzy color works with almost everything and looks really great against tan summer skin. Melissa shoes are sustainably crafted in Brazil from MELFLEX, a technologically advanced injected thermoplastic that easily molds to feet for the most comfortable fit around, and they’re totally hypoallergenic, water-resistant and recyclable.
$88, Kaight

Ecotece Butterfly T-shirt
This hand-embroidered T-shirt is made from 50% recycled PET and 50% cotton and features a butterfly patchwork print that is unique for each tee. The Ecotece institute was founded by São Paulo-based journalist Ana Candida Zanesco in an effort to inspire people to dress more consciously. The butterfly represents transformation, the cycles of life and the constant new beginnings. How fitting for a summit on sustainable development.
$47, Ecotece

Ecotece Paste Retece Necklace
Also by Ecotece, this colorful necklace would look great worn to the beach along with a bikini. But, of course, you could also use it to spice of a simple outfit. Made from scrap materials by female artisans who are part of Projecto Retece, a cooperative that provides a safe, sustainable source of income for these women. 100% of proceeds from the sale of this piece goes toward supporting Projecto Retece.
$21, Ecotece

Escama Studio Chica Rosa Pop Top Mini Clutch
This fun mini clutch now comes in a range of new colors, including a delicious bright orange. It’s hand crocheted with over 200 post-consumer recycled pop tops and each piece comes with a hang tag bearing the signature of the person who made it (you can also read more about them on the website). If you would like to send a thank you note, click the email icon and they will translate your message into Portuguese and forward it on. The artists work in co-ops outside of Brasília, Brazil. which offers women and men in the community a means to earn a living wage through handicrafts and provide a setting where friends are made and self-esteem is regained.
$46, Escama Studio

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