GRN EVENTS

Shopping in Style

By Kenesha Hylton, Foodie

Call me funny but, I have a love/ hate relationship with shopping for food. First of all, I love to cook; but I hate running around the store looking for all the ingredients like I am on a scavenger hunt, then usually standing in line for at least 30 minutes… even in the “express” lane or self-check out (where there is always a new convert to self-service who doesn’t know how it works)! To make shopping even more hairy I use to get looks from the store check-out clerk when they would ask “Paper or Plastic” and no matter what choice I made I often would get a groan, especially since I shop at either Whole Foods or Henry’s both stores – both are big on being green. So finally last year in Orange County I started bringing my own shopping bags to the store.

Lots of stores try and push you to buy their logo shopping bag for $1.99 to $3.99 a bag, but if you like to be unique and you like stylish things I suggest getting your own bags that make a statement. My favorite shopping bag is one that I got from a friend that has really cute pink and green dragons on it. Since I believe we should all shop in style I am giving you a list of my favorite five stylish shopping bag websites:

Re-usable shopping bags have taken a turn for the stylish. Make Love Not Trash carries a line of handbags, accessories, and re-usable shopping bags made out of natural or eco-friendly materials and decorated with non-toxic printing technique.
Ella Vickers Recycled Sailcloth Collection is the most refined & quality built on the market.
It’s hard to do a top 10 handbag story without including one of the trends that started it all…recycled candy wrappers. Check out Ecoist.
Get in the groove with Shagbag… be a stylish hipster as you shop till you drop
Want to create your own stylish design? Go and order one at GoGreen-bags.com

Posted in Design, Eco Beauty, Fashion, Food, Going Green

Pretty in Pastel

By Marilee Movius

Spring is in full swing with summer just around the corner. The sun is shining and I can’t stop thinking about this season’s inspirations. Romance, whimsy, cotton candy colors, girly frills, sequins, flounces, ruffles and barely-there sheer. Mix in a little floral print or gingham and you are good to go! Just keep in mind…pale and interesting. With nights being a bit chilly, it is all about layering. Don’t run to the store just yet, you may have some items in your closet that are staples for this “pretty” trend.

Your inspiration: PASTEL CUPCAKES

Every girl has a favorite piece of pastel lingerie. The silky or chiffon piece with a lace trim. Layer a nude cami under a lacy top or a pastel skirt over a silky slip, but let the sexiness peek just outside the hemline. On cooler days, layer your white or creme blazer to complete the look.

Chanel has set the look for the season.

Clogs and thicker strapped heels are hot for Spring and Summer. Instead of shopping with mainstream brands, why not choose the more sustainable version. Swedish Hasbeens are sexy, chunky-heeled and ethically made to order from sustainably harvested wood and vegetable-tanned, natural-grained leather. With an array of colors to choose from, I personally enjoy the all nude version. It goes with everything!

For a more eccentric styled look, try pairing them with a pair of your sheer ankle trouser socks in Easter egg colors. Choose solid colors with even a flint of sparkle. Steer clear of really busy prints and patterns. Try going for colors that are in the same color range as the shoe.

To top off the look, go for the firey red pout to really make your face light up with the pastel colors. Try the natural option. I really like the Burt’s Bees in Zesty Red. It lasts a long time and I know that it has less earth-harming chemicals than its competitors. Help the environment help you!

There are plenty of ways to wear this season’s pretty and feminine trend by restyling your own wardrobe or purchasing products that are eco-friendly. Check back next week for more Sustainable Fashion Friday.

Posted in Eco Beauty, Fashion