Eco Fashion For Subcultures: Keeping it (Dark) Green!

Posted on August 22, 2011 by Jane Faye

Gaia Noir Ecofashionista Ravenember

The fashion of subcultures such as Gothic, Steampunk or even the historically-inspired japanese Lolita look may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but these certainly have their devotees and many top designers even love ‘borrowing’ from them (remember Alexander McQueen’s steampunk stiletto boots last spring?).

These styles being a niche market, it can be difficult to find eco versions of these – organic cotton bondage jackets are not exactly ten-a-penny on the high street! And yet there’s no logic to why these things shouldn’t be available. The Steampunk community is immensely proud of its innovative recycling capabilities, and there’s arguably a large overlap between Goth and earth-friendly movements such as Paganism.

Gaia Noir therefore sets out to offer just such a thing! We use a wide range of recycled and sustainable fabrics to recreate the dramatic styles of these awesome fashion subcultures: customized upcycled bustle skirts, 100% fairtrade and organic black velvet eveningwear, burlesque fascinators made from Eco-Fi recycled post-consumer plastic felt and ethical natural feathers, and adorable organic cotton lolita ruffle chokers.

gaia_noir_ecofashionista_ravenember.jpg

Some items are unique one-offs (since they are made from carefully hand-picked vintage fabric finds!), and others can be made specially for you at no extra charge, in your favourite choice of eco fabrics and trims.

All items are handmade in Scotland, and custom inquiries are welcome.

Gaia Noir is a new (or ‘babybat’, as such things are termed!) fashion business, so the range of items is still select, but expansion into all the awesome classic styles of Steampunk, Goth and Lolita is on the cards for the future!

This post was submitted by Jane Faye.

When is fashion art, and art fashion?

Posted on June 6, 2011 by James

We are looking for best examples of when fashion is art and art is fashion?

Princess Beatrice's Hat, The Royal Wedding. Sold on Ebay for £81,100.01.

With the news that;

Princess Beatrice’s royal wedding hat has been sold on auction site eBay for £81,100.01.

we find ourselves questioning what is fashion and what is art, or is all fashion art? CONFUSED!

A question that we often find is clouded in the search for ever original pieces, designed to shock and turn shabby sheek into sassy yet sexy. STILL CONFUSED?!!!

The idea behind our question is to ask you the Eco Fashionista followers, when does high fashion rule out it’s application in high street fashion? Don’t worry we will be compiling our own set of images and examples, we will be reporting back in the coming week.

Let the Eco Fashionista see your examples………….

Fresh, Full Bodied, Fantastic Food

Posted on June 3, 2011 by James

MOGO RESTAURANT SOLIHULL

Where: Solihull Touchwood, 2nd Floor

Why: Exceptional Food and service warrants recognition

A chance encounter when travelling through Solihull in the West midlands, stopping at the MOGO Restaurant for Lunch, we were greeted, seated and wowed by the personal service and flexibility.

Why is the ECO-FASHIONISTA taking time out to mention a restaurant?

Not a usual endeavour we know, but the unique nature and quality of this restaurant deserved a mention to ensure no one misses out.

Not a restaurant for a romantic meal, nor an exclusive dinner party but the simple interior with bright colours and an intriguing story drew us in.

The food was great value and the ingredients were natural and unique, drawing inspirtation from a native African vegetable the ‘Mogo’ and like all good is acompanied by a great story.

Some people believe the mogo vegetable is a saviour, a miracle sent from above. In a time of food shortage mogo was discovered by a heroic villager named Dayo who came across this wondrous vegetable and decided to share it with his fellow villagers. As he journeyed to find more he loaded up his cart with the mogo crop and continued to share his discovery with the people; this became the very first mogo grill.

The fact that this is the first and only Mogo makes it a little special.

Make a visit if you like something natural, new and romantic!

When Scotland meets Japan…

Posted on May 13, 2011 by sarah thoms

Pheigi Macdonald When Scotland Meets Japan

To Celebrate the Sakura (cherry blossom) season, Scottish Milliner Pheigi Macdonald has launched her debut hat collection in Japan. Fusing Harris tweed and Japanese silk, this collection provides Hollywood glamour and Savile Row quality at Portobello Market prices.

Set the summer alive with Inspiration

The range is inspired by the cherry blossom springs in Japan and the blustery autumns of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland which combine in this collection to create strong, bold coloured hats which provide high quality millinery to ordinary women who demand style on a budget.

Pheigi said: “Traditional Japanese calendars split the year into 72 sekki (moments of time) meaning they celebrate changes in the seasons on average every 5 days. This close connection to the subtle changesin nature combined with her childhood growing up on rough heather moors full of life and colour presents itself throughout her work in the form of natural fibres, strong colours and a few flowers thrown in on the side.

“This environmentally aware ethos continues through to the fabrics of certified Harris Tweed which is made of 100% pure wool and helps sustain the tradition cottage industries of the home isles, and recycled kimono silk which is sourced locally in and around her new home of Niigata.

“I believe high fashion should be available to all brave enough to embrace it and thus strive to offer high end chic at real prices without losing my eco conscience in the deal,” Pheigi Macdonald said of her work.

Average prices for completely bespoke designs are around £35 for fascinators and cocktail hats.

Women can choose from any of the designs in Pheigi’s online shop www.reddragonflyakatombo.etsy.com or it is possible to request something entirely different and unique to their tastes.

Design that will make you stand out!

With racing and wedding seasons fast approaching, there has never been a better time to get ahead by getting a hat – to combat the problem as Monty Python said “The problem with the world today, there aren’t enough people wearing hats”.

This post was submitted by sarah thoms.

When farmers meet designers: let’s grow shirts and create true eco fashion

Posted on May 1, 2011 by Sebastian Runde

Is your clothing as 'Right as Rain?'

Employing the greatest designer to be found on this planet, nature itself, gives rise to a different outlook on beauty and fashion.

Is the perception of beauty man made, or is there such a thing as natural beauty? To find out, an Italian designer and an organic farmer came up with the idea of growing shirts, having nature design fashion. After a two year period of growth in the hills of Umbria, near the Tuscan border in Italy, the first harvest is ready for the catwalk.

When Francesco Mugnaini, a 31 year old designer who had previously been working in the busy city of Milan, met Sebastian Runde, a 41 year old Scottish farmer running an organic farm in Umbria, Italy, they merged their different backgrounds and experiences to come up with a rather unusual fashion project: let’s grow shirts.

Eco-Fashionista, – What could this possibly mean you might ask?

The unpredictability of nature was the seed for the idea, to plant and harvest shirts. The garments were exposed to nature’s forces by planting them into the ground and give nature time to do her unpredictable design process. The result is stunning and every single design unique.
The T-shirt was considered ideal, as it is a classic but undefined garment, there could be no better for the project. It is unpretentious, simple, like an empty canvas on which nature can create its design. Francesco designed a shirt which truly complements the body.

We aimed for a focus on the aesthetics created by nature, to offer a perception of beauty man would never be able to create.

“We produce beautiful shirts, but it is nature who makes them truly unique,” says Francesco Mugnaini.

Right as Rain, innovation inspired by nature

The materials used had to be of a kind which would react with the soil, the water or sunlight. Naturally no synthetic yarns could be used, as not to create a thread of pollution. After many tests, a high quality organic silk proved optimium choice and gave the most interesting results.
The silk shirts are produced by local craftsmen with great expertise. Sebastian Runde, as an organic farmer, is very passionate about his concern for the environment,

“Producing the T-shirts abroad in a country with low labour costs was out of question, We looked for local recourses and were very lucky, indeed. We manage to produce a garment, which is 100% made in Italy. The yarns are coming from northern Italy, the shirts are produced locally in Città della Pieve.”

The first collection of RIGHT AS RAIN™ is harvested and available on www.right-as-rain.com. An array of utterly different silk shirts for men and woman. 100% designed by nature.

Eco-Fashionista,

For further information please contact the Eco-Fashionista directly or contact@right-as-rain.com , supporting innovation and the environment is at the heart of the Eco-Fashionista.

This post was submitted by Sebastian Runde.

The People’s Prints

Posted on April 24, 2011 by James

LAURA ASHLEY WHIMSICAL PRINT JACKET

Modern concerns and slick styling take on whimsical prints in a collaboration between Laura Ashley and

People Tree this season.

Take a concept as modern and meaningful as ecofashion, mix it with a homegrown label with a long history of producing fashion that combines exceptional quality and irresistible charm, and what do you get? Why, a collaboration between the incomparable Laura Ashley and ethical fashion house People Tree, of course.

This SS11, People Tree have plundered Laura Ashley’s extensive and invaluable archive to specially select three original prints, which have been re-created in an unmistakably contemporary and workable palette of grey, navy and pink, printed on 100% organic cotton and crafted into eight effortlessly wearable, on-trend pieces. And with every piece in the collection coming in at under £100, fashionistas can benefit from both looking fabulous and having money left to spend on going out and being seen in their eco-finery.

Lazy days spent in the park with friends, summer festivals, walks along the seafront – if you’re looking for the perfect piece to carry you effortlessly through the summer social whirl, look no further than the collection’s jumpsuit, which features cuffed legs, a button-front and side pockets. Team it with glads or wedges, tousled hair, oversized sunglasses and a capacious bag for that “I don’t try, I just am this cool,” look. For a more whimsical take on summer, turn to the two dresses , of the collection – one a vintage style sundress, the other comprising a clean shift shape with round neck and cap sleeves. Both feature side pockets – essential for that insouciant look.

STUNNING PRINT DRESS

Other pieces in the unmistakably summery collection include a pair of cute flared shorts and an A-line skirt – just tuck in a tee to bring your look bang up to date. Team the puff sleeve tunic with a pair of neat capris or slim leg trousers, or reference the 50s and embrace your inner Gidget-girl with a sweet button-through bodice that nips in at the waist and flares out the hips – perfect over denim cut-offs or cropped trousers. And although we’ve now turned the clocks to Summer, the temperatures may be a little slower to follow suit – so the Laura Ashley/ People Tree’s cropped jacket provides the ideal alternative to cardigans knits in the meantime.

PEOPLE TREE IS THE TOPS

All crafted by small-scale artisans in Southern India, the pieces in the Laura Ashley/ People Tree collaboration are a perfect example of the way in which fashion that’s good at its heart can also look fantastic. There’s something rather fabulous, too, about the fusion of prints from a less frenzied, less complex time with shapes, styles and ethical concerns that are so totally relevant to us in the here and now – a reminder, perhaps, to slow down, relax, be kind to the world in which we live and enjoy the moment we inhabit. Looking, of course, a million bucks as we do so.

Jean Joaillerie Launches Eco-Friendly “Bikini Beach Bling” Collection for the Holiday Season

Posted on April 3, 2011 by Jan Roberts

Jean Joaillerie, Summers will be brighter and lighter than ever.

Jean Joaillerie Launches Eco-Friendly “Bikini Beach Bling” Collection for the Holiday Season
The 2010 holiday “Bikini Beach Bling” collection from Jean Joaillerie will revamp the plainest resort and beachwear with dazzling eco-friendly jewelled adornments for bikinis, sarongs, beach bags and even hair with handmade vintage jewelled designs from Jean Joaillerie.

Paris, France December 8, 2010

Jean Joaillerie launches the “Bikini Beach Bling” collection which will revamp even the plainest resort and beachwear with dazzling jewelled adornments for bikinis, sarongs and hair with handmade vintage jewels.

Whether it is deep sea diving in Mauritius, sun worshipping on the beaches of Brazil or surfing on the gold coast in Australia these head swirling handmade pieces are sure to add sparkle at any holiday beach resort.

Using turquoise from Tibet, fresh water pearls and one of a kind stones and ornaments found at the antique markets in France each piece is fashioned to be worn in a multitude of ways.

They can be attached to sarongs as a broach, hung from the strings of a bikini, braided through hair and come evening bejewel everything from a tube dress to jeans.

Pieces from the “Bikini Beach Bling” collection can be ordered at Jean Joailleries’ online Parisian boutique.

Jean Joaillerie accepts paypal and all major credit cards, offers complimentary worldwide shipping and gift wrapping and takes orders on line, by telephone and email.
Jean Joaillerie based in Paris, France is a fantasy jewellery line designed by Jan Roberts that offers bespoke vintage jewellery fashioned to be worn directly on jeans, beachwear, leggings, jackets, shorts, skirts and shorts. In addition to designs in the gallery Jean Joaillerie offers custom designs using the clients choice of stones and materials Jean Joaillerie also works with private and corporate clients on special orders for bookmarks, key chains, bracelets, necklaces and ankle bracelets.

These handmade one of a kind pieces incorporate quartz crystals from Brazil, turquoise from Tibet, hand carved faience styled scarabs from Egypt, antique coins from Europe, wooden beads from Africa, freshwater pearls, onyx and original pieces found at the brocante and antique markets in France.

Each piece is made by hand on gold and silver effect metal chains. http://www.jeanjoaillerie.com

This post was submitted by Jan Roberts.

Emi are expanding!

Posted on March 13, 2011 by Emi Clothing Limited

EMI on the move, why has the Eco-Fashionista decided to include such a short snippet?

EMI CLOTHING EXPANSION, SUMMER EXCITEMENT

Because we are so excited to hear of in brand growth and the prospect of a special line for the summer sun, the buzz word being watch this space.

Emi launched in 2009 with an ethical jewellery line. We then expanded into recycled jewellery and started to work along side undiscovered designers. Now, in 2011 we are launching our ethical clothing line which is made from 100% Lycocell – a sustanable fabric which is better for the environment. The collection launches late April/May this year…stay tuned for more!

This post was submitted by Emi Clothing Limited.

‘Battle against the bland’

Posted on February 26, 2011 by Queenie and Ted

Battle aganist the Bland - The Eco FASHION WAY!

Queenie and Ted (Linda Gray and Kally Laurence) are fine artists who have now opened a customised clothing shop at 144a Columbia Rd, London, E2. They pride themselves in producing quality clothing that will not be seen anywhere else and are on a mission to banish the bland high street look that can dominate our wardrobes. All garments are sourced, designed and made by Q and T in east London.
Q and T are passionate about recycling and utilise pre-loved jackets and other garments to create wearable art. Pieces of granny’s old tablecloth and vintage fabric are used to make appliquéd motifs that depict everything from birds to bugs. Stitched
text and jewel-like buttons are often featured on the jackets and make each garment a true one-off. Customers can enjoy the thrill of acquiring a one of a kind piece of clothing that will not cost the earth, in terms of price and the environment.

Q and T Prices for a unique, jacket with soul start at £75. If there is a design that takes your eye but it is not in your size or colour preference the designer-makers are happy to create you one within 4 weeks. A bespoke service where highly individual design
needs can be discussed is also available for £120. Customers are encouraged to bring their own garments to the Columbia Rd shop where they will be given a Q and T makeover.

The reasonably priced accessories are all up-cycled in some way too and include button jewellery and embroidered brooches. Original paintings and textile art adorn the walls – recent themes have included budgies and jam and even the signage is recycled as it’s made from old fabric and trimmings. You’ll receive a warm
welcome from Q and T as they are passionate about what they do.

If you also believe that clothes should be comfortable, quirky and far from humdrum then you will be welcome at the Queenie and Ted customised clothing shop at 144a Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG. It is open between 12.00am and 4.00pm on Saturdays
and 9.300am-3.00pm on Sundays. Appointments for the bespoke service can be organised at your convenience. More information and the online shop can be found at

www.queenieandted.co.uk.
Contact@queenieandted.co.uk
Tel 07986874928/07941427660

This post was submitted by Queenie and Ted .

Uncommonly Beautiful Accessories!

Posted on February 8, 2011 by Sarah Keen

Uncommonly Beautiful, the simple is never the same!

Uncommonly Beautiful Recycled Accessories is an anti landfill fashion accessory label established in 2006. The pieces demonstrate an imaginative approach to transforming waste into something covetable and unique. One-off and limited edition pieces are made from abandoned furniture, wine boxes, suitcases, scrap leather, broken jewellery and fashion industry waste. Traditional textile and industrial process are applied to these materials, giving them a new lease of life.

Combining inspiration from the past with graphic patterns and structures from organic forms, the jewellery pieces create fresh, modern and layered stories. Something disregarded has risen in status, something rejected given a dynamic new form.

The brand provokes us to look at waste materials in a different light, challenging our perceptions of what we consider broken or useless and creating new, fresh, modern fashion forward products.

go to www.uncommonlybeautiful.com for more info and to but online!
Follow us on twitter search UBRA.

This post was submitted by Sarah Keen.

Eco Fashionista UK

Eco Fashion Blog for all Eco Fashionistas in the UK & Ireland