Go tribal with eco prints

by Naomi

Tribal prints are going to be huge this summer so embrace your inner tribeswoman with these gorgeous, vibrant pieces.

Komodo is a member of the Made By initiative, which helps brands improve the social, economic and environmental conditions under which they produce. This Prism dress is made of cotton and available from Ascension for £70.

ASOS has just launched ASOS Africa, a brand working with artisans and small producers in Africa. The results are pretty exciting; juicy brights, muted nudes and geometric prints in easy-to-wear summer separates.

Cotton Printed Jumpsuit £75

Cotton Printed Harem Pants £50

Cotton Printed Tie-Waist Shorts £40

Facts: Komodo: Made By, cotton dress. ASOS: ASOS Africa, small producers and local artisans, cotton jumpsuit, harem pants and tie-waist shorts.

Now t-Hats something!

by Naomi

Ok, sorry for the cheesy headline, but it's a Friday and I like a good cheesy headline to celebrate the arrival of the weekend!

For those of you that, like me, love a little headgear, Vivien Sheriff is one designer definitely worth checking out. The British brand designs and makes stunning hats and headpieces here in the UK. It's never too early to start planning your outfits for the races and with these little beauties you will be spoilt for choice!

Clearly I'm not the only one that thinks Vivien Sheriff is fab - it has been nominated for British Headdress Designer of the Year in this year's Bridal Awards and for Wiltshire Business of the Year.

Check out more designs at www.viviensheriffmillinery.co.uk

Facts: Vivien Sheriff, hats and headpieces made in the UK.

Nancy Dee rocks our world!

by Lorna

It’s a really good sign when you find a new ethical label and are already deciding in your head which of the dresses/ jumpsuits will become top of your current wishlist! This happened with Nancy Dee. Specialists in “day to night jersey” the Nancy Dee look is heavily influenced by retro prints and vintage-inspired shapes. I love love love the prints and the sassy style of the cuts. The ethos of the label is to create directional, versatile pieces that translate easily from home to office to evenings out. All fabrics are made from natural and sustainable sources, such as super soft soy bean, luxurious bamboo and organic cotton and the collection is produced at Fairtrade factories in India. The eco conscious sisters who run the label, Tamsin and Seraphina, are on a mission to prove that jersey doesn’t always have to mean casual! Don’t take their word for it though, check out these lovely jersey pieces...

These dresses are so gorgeous in fact, that half of the styles on the website have already sold out! Luckily here at Eco Goddess headquarters we’ve had a sneaky peek at the new collection and it is truly luscious! This is not the last we’ve seen of Nancy Dee and thank goodness!!

Check out the current collection and sample sale here www.nancydee.co.uk

Oooh I think I love you!

by Naomi

I discovered Lie Down I Think I Love You at the Pure fashion exhibition and felt my Eco Goddess fashion heart skip a beat!

The London-based boutique makes handbags (in the UK) that are sweet like ice cream on a hot summer day (wouldn't one of those be nice?!) They are made from locally sourced biodegradable leather and finished off with beautiful vintage silk scarves. The two pictured below are from the Sweetheart Collection. At £165 a pop they will require a little penny-saving, but are gorgeous enough for a roll-around-in-the-hay type love affair.

See www.liedownithinkiloveyou.com

Facts: Lie Down I Think I Love You: Biodegradable leather, locally sourced, vintage scarves.

Ethical Designer May Cortazzi shortlisted for UK Fashion Entrepreneur 2010!

By Lorna

Exciting Eco Fashion news!!!

Ethical designer May Cortazzi (previously featured here!) has been shortlisted as a finalist for the UK Fashion Entrepreneur Awards 2010. The shortlist of five was announced at a ceremony at London Fashion Week, selected by Paul Alger, of UK Fashion Exports, Maurice Mullen, Head of fashion at Evening Standard, legendary designer Anne Tyrell and Sarah Mower, the ambassador for Emerging talent at The British Fashion Council.

The shortlist was selected after 12 finalists presented their thoughts and ideas of developing the fashion industry in the UK. Finalists will visit Indonesia in March, on a tour that aims to provide a ‘short hand’ of the industry with the chance to meet industry leaders as well as peers, to understand how business is done there. This is an amazing opportunity for talented individuals to increase their international networks and gain valuable insights.

May is the founder of ethical fashion label Regenerate Clothing, director of fashion at Shop (based in Nottingham) and an ethical fashion campaigner and mentor.
She comments on the news,

"I am thrilled to be on the Shortlist. I feel honored and extremely lucky that I have this opportunity to expand our networks for Regenerate Clothing and Shop both nationally through the Young Creative Entrepreneurs Network and Internationally! I am really looking forward to travelling to Indonesia with The British Council and understanding more about art and fashion culture out there, and hopefully will be able to build some life long business relationships."

This award champions those who are passionate about fashion, innovators looking for entrepreneurial ways to move the UK fashion industry forward and looking to broaden their international business opportunities build network.

For more information on May Cortazzi please visit:-www.regenerateclothing.com

http://www.viewtheshop.co.uk/

Get foxy for the Fairtrade Fortnight!

by Naomi

There are lots of things going on in celebration of the Fairtrade Fortnight and here is one of my favourites! Aura Que makes some delightful creations (handbags, purses and scarves) by working with fair trade producers and small family businesses in Nepal, and is offering 10 per cent off until the 7th of March.

I particularly like the Bucket Bag, incorporating leather and fabric made from banana fibre yarn which is 100 per cent natural and produced sustainably. You can use either the long or short handles and they are available in slate blue (pictured), beige and black for £149 before discount. With free P&P what more do you need?!

Facts: Aura Que. Sustainably produced yarn, fair trade producers.

Get swapping!

by Naomi

Just a quick one to update you on some eco fashion news hot from the newsdesk. (Well my inbox at least!) Ascension is launching a SWAP SPOT at its London store on St. Christopher's Place starting tomorrow! You can swap your unwanted pieces for something new from the swap rail and the SWAP SPOT will run throughout Fairtrade Fortnight until the 7th of March meaning you have plenty of time to swap to your heart's content.

Any items left over at the end of the swap will be donated to TRAID which will then recycle or resell them with proceeds going towards their recycling activities and workshops.

Find out more at www.ascensiononline.com and www.traid.org.uk

Extra 15% off all Clearance and Spring Clean sale stock at Ascension!!

By Lorna

Great new Eco Goddesses.... the sale at Ascension just keeps getting better! Ascension are now offering an additional 15% off all Clearance and Spring Clean stock. More exciting than that, they have also added some gorgeous pieces by Fin and Bllack by Noir into the online sale. This Fin asymmetric dress is my fav! It was £240 and is now only £72! Made in India from super soft organic bamboo this dress is really elegant and drapes beautifully. The tiny straps make it elegant and chic, all in all the perfect party wear. 

Check out ascensiononline.com but don't forget to enter code FIFTEEN at the basket page when shopping! Enjoy!! x

Something sweet for spring!

by Naomi

As much as I like the snow it feels like this winter has gone on forever! Fortunately I have come across these little beauties to get us in the mood for spring!

Nubar has created this mouthwatering set of polishes called Pastel Fever that are right on trend with this season's pastel shades. They are so sugary sweet I can't help but feel like spring might be on its way. Pink Creme and Lavender are my favourites! They are vegan and free from toluene, phthalate and formaldehyde - bonus! Buy for £8 each at www.beautyshed.co.uk

I came across Body America beauty products last week whilst having on one of those days where you wish you had just stayed in bed. Its pretty pin-up packaging combined with the fact that it uses 72 per cent organic ingredients caught my eye and the divine flavours really put a spring in my step. I have been using the Toast to the Coast lip butter, which contains passion seed oil, vegetable protein and Vitamin E, and it tastes so good I can't put it down! (Even my boyfriend likes it!)

Other yummy flavours include New York Cheesecake (strawberry and vanilla), Vermony VaVaVoom (green apple, maple and blueberry), and Southern Belle (peach and mango). Products include body butters, body washes, body mist and body scrubs. Everything is free from parabens, BHT and urea and it is all dermatalogically tested. Prices range from £4.99 for the lip butter to £10.99 for the body butters and scrubs: buy from Alesindi or Harvey Nichols.

Facts: Nubar eco friendly nail varnishes - phthalate, toluene, formaldehyde free, vegan. Body America - organic ingredients, paraben, BHT, urea free.

Emma Watson collection hits People Tree

by Naomi

It would seem that Emma Watson has officially flown the Harry Potter nest; her much anticipated collection has officially launched at People Tree and thankfully there's not a whiff of a wizards' cloaks or itchy school tights!

Unlike many of the 'celebrity' collections, there's a real sense of Emma's personality and input in the designs. The Brown student has drawn on preppy and nautical inspirations to form a collection of student-chic stylish and relaxed basics including polo shirts, vest tops, chunky knit jumpers and tank tops. The collection is Fairtrade and uses organic cotton. Prices are around £20 for vest tops and upwards of £50 for knitwear - time to get saving those pennies!

Facts: Emma Watson collection for People Tree, organic cotton, Fairtrade, eco and ethical celebrity collection.

Eco jeans at bargain prices

by Naomi

Calling all Eco Goddesses! Ascension is offering £30 off denim for one week only so if you are looking to invest in some wardrobe staples, now is the time. They offer a selection of fits and colours. These organic skinnies by Sage are wonderfully versatile and at £29 they are even cheaper than most on the high street!

Facts: Ascension Sage jeans, Eco denim, Organic cotton.

Go Eco for Valentines

by Naomi

Valentine's Day is almost upon us so for all you lovebirds, here are some Love-themed gift ideas!

Eco & ethical valentines gifts for girls:

Celebrate the day with some bubbles! Vintage Roots offers a selection of organic and vegan Champagne, such as this AOC Champagne Carte d'Or for £21.75. Team with some yummy Divine chocolate hearts or a hamper for maximum impact.

Underwear is always a great choice, so check out Knickers In A Box, or Enamore for some beautiful creations. For the girl that loves designer, Stella McCartney has a super-cute selection of Fruits of the Week Knickers, (pictured, around $200.)

Thinking of popping the question? Issues surrounding the manufacture of fine jewellery are some of the most pressing (mining can be environmentally destructive and I'm sure you have heard of the problems surrounding conflict diamonds) so make a stand and go for a ring that is both beautiful and guilt-free.

Fairtrade jeweller CRED offers designs that are contemporary and conflict free:

Pictured is the Oval Ruby Trilogy Ring (£1,555), Brilliant Ruby Trilogy Ring (£1,130) and the Teal Sapphire Trilogy Ring (£1,230). Other conflict-free designs can be found at Brilliant Earth and James Allen. Vintage rings are a good option environmentally and offer old-fashioned glamour. Adin has a great selection of gorgeous pieces.

For the boys...

This pure wool Kile jumper by Komodo (right) will help keep Jack Frost at bay, and will be an investment with wool tipped to be the fabric of Autumn/Winter 2010! Down from £97 to £58 grab one while you can! This bag by Hug (left) is made from recycled tyres and offers an understated edge to the traditional 'Man-Bag' (£55). Quail also offers some stylish shirts that are Fairtrade, organic cotton and manufactured in the UK. Priced between £45 and £55 they won't leave too much of a dent in your going-out fund either!

If you want to treat your man and put on a show, check out Organic Pleasures, a pioneer in eco-luxe eroticism! It offers ideas from the nice to the naughty, such as these seamed stockings for £5.75 which are made in the EU.Betsy La Belle offers some gorgeous Burlesque-inspired treats such as these nipple tassels which are locally handmade - ooh la la!

Last but by no means least, for the male valentine that likes to be pampered Green People have created this gift set, containing face wash, shave gel and moisturiser which is free from artificial fragrances, SLS/SLES and parabens. Priced at £28 it can be bought at Ascension.

Calling all pin-ups!

By Naomi

As a fan of all things Hollywood Glamour I don't think I have been this excited about a fashion find since the launch of a Vintage & Retro charity shop in my hometown. UK fashion brand Tara Starlet combines an ethical and environmental attitude with a love of fashion from the 30s, 40s and 50s and its pieces are just delicious; from playsuits, and high-waisted shorts to day dresses and peep-hole blouses. The only difficulty is trying to pick which item I want the most!

As it is still pretty nippy outside I am drawn to this super-cute Cosy Cape (£75), also available in a peach shade perfect for Winter to Spring:

Ooh la la!

I also love these Sailor Slacks (£56), which are a chic alternative to skinny jeans and are also available in tweeds that are great for work!

Ahoy there Sailor!

Duo Tara and her mother design and manufacture in the UK using recycled fabrics and trimmings where possible as well as end of roll fabrics to create limited edition pieces. See http://www.tarastarlet.com/ to buy!

Facts: Tara Starlet; Ethical vintage glamour; UK made; recycled; salvaged fabrics.

New Year.... new lil black dress!!

By Lorna

Fear not ecogodesses! ...amidst all the chaos of the January sales I have searched the globe for the best LBDs. Whether you rock your style simple and classic like a modern day Audrey Hepburn or you prefer an edgier catwalk look, I have found the perfect LBD for you... and naturally they are all on sale!

My fav is the ‘Layla Dress’ by Ascension. It is a really beautiful sophisticated cut with an obi style belt tie to nip your waist in. Each dress is carefully hand embroidered by Indian Artisans with gorgeous tonal stitch detail around the neckline, shoulder and belt. This means that each dress is unique and you can wear it with pride knowing its fair trade! Now only £54.50 (was £109.00) at www.ascensiononline.com

Next up is the totally gorgeous People Tree ‘Strapless Party Dress’. The 100% silk dress is sure to steal the party limelight, it has pleat front detail, a ruched back panel and feature pockets. The cloth is hand woven in Bangladesh and the straps are removable making this dress super cute and adaptable! Was £160 now £80 at www.ascensiononline.com

And finally, no ‘top ethical LBD’ list would be complete without a nod to designer Julia Smith... This edgy dress with on-trend accentuated shoulders is made from recycled polyester and has long sleeves, which can be turned up to reveal batik lining. Rock this attention grabbing dress with black opaque’s and killer heels. £240 (was £320) at www.fashion-conscience.com

Ascension ‘Layla dress’ available from www.ascensiononline.com

People Tree ‘Strapless Party Dress’ available from www.ascensiononline.com

Julia Smith ‘Boston Puff Shoulder Dress’ available from www.fashion-conscience.com

Eco gorgeous from top to toe!

by Naomi

If - like me - you over-indulged a little over this year's festivities (too much food, wine and make-up!) then January serves as the perfect time to have a little beauty MOT. Whilst beauty starts from the inside out, a little polishing of the outside can't hurt! Over the last few weeks I have discovered a number of wonderful eco treasures. So let's start from the top!

Having a hair-mare?
If you haven't already come across Aveda, then it is time you did. They produce plant-based hair care, skincare, cosmetics and perfume, and have done so since the 70s making them arguably one of the founders of the green-beauty revolution. I tried the 'Brilliant tm Shampoo and Conditioner', (both around £12) which deep cleanse yet add moisture - perfect for ridding my colour-treated and post-party hair of all the product build-up. Made with organic aloe, calendula and camelia, and packaged using recycled materials from manufacturers that use renewable energy, they are a good deed for your hair and your carbon footprint! http://www.wantthelook.com/

Face 2010 with a beautiful face!
Boots' Botanics range offers some great organic products including the Organic Rosewater toner (£3.91). It is simply fab; gentle yet effective, and the damask rosewater gives it a romantic and feminine scent. http://www.boots.com/

One of my favourite discoveries of 2009 has to be Dr Wendy's. New to the UK, the New Zealand based brand offers pure botanical skincare that is chemical free and not tested on animals. I had read that using oil-based skincare products could help combat oily skin, but I was a little apprehensive. However, having tried Dr Wendy's Gentle Moisturizer (£31.50) I am completely converted.The essential oils of Fragonia, Sandalwood and Tea Tree, as well as Organic Lavender give it a lovely smell and a texture that left my skin deeply moisturised without being oily. Since using it regularly my skin feels smoother and is noticeably clearer. There are ranges created specifically for different types of skin, and prices for cleansers, toners and moisturisers range between £18.50 and £38.80. http://www.lucyrose.biz/

Liven up dull and worn out skin with the Lush Charity Pot (£12.50). It is a wonderful all-over hand and body cream made with cocoa butter and almond oil, which give it a very sweet smell. It has light in texture and absorbs quickly, plus every penny paid for it after VAT is donated to one of the charities or organisations that Lush supports. These include environmental and conservation causes, humanitarian causes and animal protection. If partying the nights away in pretty but hopelessly impractical heels have left your feet in need of some TLC, before bedtime simply apply a thick layer of Charity Pot to your tootsies, pop on some old socks and leave overnight - et voila, a quick foot mask! (Don't forget to wash the socks before you try and wear them again though!) http://www.lush.co.uk/

Facts: Aveda plant-based hair and skincare, recycled packaging. Boots' Botanics Organic Rosewater toner, recycled packaging, organic damask rosewater. Dr Wendy's plant-based beauty, essential oils and chemical free. Lush Charity Pot, almond oil, cocoa butter.