As Editor of Red Magazine, what is the most important style/conscious/fashion/life advise you'd like to communicate to your readers?
For me, the most important thing in life is seeking joy – it can come in your relationships, your career, the clothes you wear and the way you live your life. It means making meaningful choices and also recognising the wonderful things you already have. Being appreciative and practising self-acceptance can help you make great strides to living more joyfully.
Do you get a lot of subscribers mail to the office? What is the most talked about subject among your readers?
Less letters now and more emails! Wonderfully most of the correspondence is positive, with readers commented on the pieces in the magazine that speak to them. I like to think that you can be a Red woman, whether you’re 16 or 60 – because it’s about a shared spirit and a desire to live a certain way.
Who is your style inspiration and why?
There are a few women who constantly inspire me – former J.Crew creative director Jenna Lyons, who championed mixing high and low fashion together and wore stripes on repeat. Stylists Martha Ward and Anna Bromilow, who are unapologetically romantic but so cool with it and Gwyneth Paltrow because that mix of Hamptons preppy and Cali beach girl is my own sweet spot too.
What is your Oramai favourite piece and why?
The Nomade suit in Klein Blue is heaven. It fits beautifully and has so many elevating details – the high, paperbag waist, the button belt, the oversize jacket with mother of pearl buttons, but most of all the colour. That deep, iconic shade of blue is as flattering as is it timeless.
What does sustainable fashion mean to you?
Making smart choices – not just in what you buy, but how you wear that piece once you have it. Buying fabrics that you need to wash less, designs that will stand the test of time and items that have the versatility to stay in your wardrobe for years to come.
Please give us 5 tips to live an everyday more sustainable life.
Buy less but better in every area of your life, not just fashion, but homewares and food. Only buy it if you really need it, love it and will use it.
Walk more, stop taking the car, rely on public transport or jump on your bike.
Make circular choices – vintage clothes and furniture come with their own stories. Environmentally and aesthetically they’re just better.
Eat less meat. But also make smarter food choices across the board. How many airmiles has your coffee garnered? Can you switch your Guatamalan bananas for Kentish strawberries?
Follow her @sarah.tomczak
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You’ve accumulated an impressive following online as a cultural entrepreneur what initially inspired you to create your cultural-focused account?
I had started my Bil Arabi brand over 16 years ago and it had its statement was to promote our culture and language and thats why few of my friends started calling me a cultural entrepreneur . It is a mission of pride of who we are as Arabs and our beautiful culture.
Which items are staples in your wardrobe and why?
Staples items are pair of cool jeans, white shirt and navy blazer, its a go to outfit for a casual day and travel look.
A jumpsuit is also an item i love as i can dress it up or down and it would always be different.
I see you like champagne, what is your favourite champagne and why?
Ruinart blanc to de blanc it is. It's a very subtle one and no headaches there.
As the Creative Director of Bil Arabi, who is your muse and what inspires you for the designs?
Women with dedication and women with the sense of what is right and just are my muses. I am inspired by meaning and color. Words that embody love and have a story i can tell.
What are your five tips to live a more sustainable lifestyle?
I have always tried to be sustainable, before it becomes a topic ! i would not give you 5 tips but i think One has to be considerate of how we spend our money and on what and if we do... we make sure to make the best out of it for years to come.
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
The Amalfi is the favorite, I love how light the fabric is and its a dress that I can wear all day and look chic, so whats not to like there!
Follow her on @nadkanso
]]>Maria Is wearing the Amalfi Dress Long in Hibiscus
What does considered fashion mean to you?
It means stopping to think before buying and considering what you already have and the wardrobe gaps you're looking to fill. I’d advise editing your wardrobe at a minimum on a seasonal basis so you can consciously look for pieces to fill gaps rather than following trends or buying quick fast fashion fixes. It’s also about considering sustainable choices and buying pieces preloved or those made using sustainable materials. I love following Instagram accounts with beautifully curated preloved collections and shopping at boutiques or with smaller brands, the pieces tend to be better quality, are often more sustainably made and the production runs are smaller so there’s less wastage. I also think if you buy good quality, timeless, classic pieces that you’ll wear year after year then you can’t go wrong.
What prompted you to start your style blog?
I've loved fashion since I was little and used to go to my aunts shop which was a treasure trove of pieces sourced from India but I decided to pursue a career in TV. About 5 years ago I changed job from being a post producer to working more behind the scenes and I really missed the creativity of my previous role. I realised I could merge my love of fashion with my passion for photography and film by creating my Instagram account and sharing my finds and stying tips to hopefully inspire others that fashion over 40 doesn’t have to be dull and also share wonderful small brands and boutiques.
Who inspires you?
Strong women who know what they want and follow their dreams regardless of the adversities life throws in their way. Right now Emma Raducanu is so inspirational, especially to young people, I’m really excited to watch her career unfold. I also find Michelle Obama hugely inspirational and loved reading her autobiography.
What are your top tips on how to lead a more sustainable everyday life?
To make small, reasonable changes that you can maintain. This year I’ve actively started buying more preloved clothing - I love the thrill of finding pieces that I’ve coveted and couldn’t afford new and now have Rixo and Ganni pieces hanging in my wardrobe. We’re also exploring changing to an electric car in the next couple of years. Calculating your carbon footprint is a great way to understand the changes that can make the biggest impact, small changes like recycling, switching to reusable drinks bottles/cups, avoiding plastic packaging and reducing red meat consumption (I haven’t eaten red meat since in 27 years!) all makes a difference.
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
I absolutely love the Amalfi Long dress - it’s a timeless classic piece with beautiful detailing and the drawstring waist allows you to wear it cinched in or as a relaxed fit. Plus it has the most beautifully swishy skirt. It’s a piece that I’ll wear year after year dressed up or down.
Follow Maria for more inspiration @thatgirlwiththebob
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You launched your own business, Window Fleur, in the midst of a pandemic - how did this impact the way in which you established your brand?
Starting Window Fleur during the pandemic has made it a tough undertaking for sure! And you might not guess this but the greatest challenge of all has been getting our hands on the plants themselves. As plant lovers, it’s been great to see a huge boom when it comes to interest in gardening but this has put massive pressure on the plant suppliers - with some of the biggest players totally running out of plants! At the same time with so many events in the horticultural world's calendar cancelled, plant growers greatly reduced their growing numbers which again affected the plant supply later into the year. But we stayed positive and used that extra time to focus on our service and open some great dialogues with our customers to take their ideas on board to make Window Fleur a brand that not only brightens up peoples homes but really fits into peoples hectic lives. Each lockdown throws up a new set of challenges and setbacks but you just have to try and change your mindset and set different measurable for success. It’s all about those little wins.
How does your background in graphic design complement your work for Window Fleur?
Being a Graphic Designer has been a massive help when running Window Fleur. It allows me to create a lot of our design work myself, and gives me free rein to be as creative as possible with Window Fleur. My design training has also given me that eye for detail and colour which I hope is reflected in our plant choices and styling.
How do you sustainably source your materials?
We do our best to work with local suppliers, and ensure that all our packaging is fully recyclable. In all areas of the business we try very hard to consider sustainability, and the impact it may be having on our planet. We often choose plants that attract pollinators to try to increase their food supply in cities. We have created our summer ready-planted refill in collaboration with Burt's Bees!
In the horticulture world there can often be a lot of plant wastage, so we have partnered with a local charity where we donate any leftover stock and they use it in local community gardens around London.
What are your top tips on how to live a more sustainable everyday life?
I always have a bag for life in my handbag so even when I do a last minute pop to the shop, I don't ever need to use a plastic bag. During lockdown I fell in love with walking, so I now try and walk everywhere I can, to reduce my carbon footprint.
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
It's got to be the 'Cartagena Dress' it's so effortlessly beautiful and cool for these hotter summer months!
Frannie is wearing our hand-embroidered 'Plant a Tree' T-Shirt made by our charity collaboration with Saheli women.
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The Whering App has launched! Tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the business and how you turned your idea into a reality.
The ‘I have nothing to wear’ dilemma feels universal and that sensation of being trapped in indecision only too familiar. For me, part of the problem isn’t having nothing to wear, but having nothing new to wear. We keep buying because we think that just one more item will unlock our ideal wardrobe – but how can it if we have no accessible inventory of what we own?
For me the system was broken; the vicious cycle of not being able to see what you own, impulse buying (never getting it quite right) and the lack of inspiration in the styling process meant only one thing, we had to take it digital and harness the power of machine learning to hyper-personalize our fashion experience. I really just wanted to make my mark on improving access to products that help us reuse what we have- a space where you could make your closet work for you (and the planet).
Having studied History and Politics and started your career in Banking, what prompted you to make the switch into the world of fashion?
I absolutely loved working in the Consumer and Investment Management Division at Goldman Sachs - and still manage my own portfolio - but I founded Whering in June 2020 out of a profound desire to democratize the personal styling landscape (after having worked on the Stichfix IPO whilst at the firm). I felt we fundamentally had to change the way we interact with our clothes (i.e. upend the throwaway culture) and thought the timing was perfect to bring to life Cher Horrowitz’ Clueless wardrobe app.
How does the app offer styling solutions tailored to individuals? Do you work with stylists behind the scenes?
We’re using machine learning to offer tailored styling suggestions that enable you to view your wardrobe entirely differently, receive outfits ideas you’d never have thought of and get that jolt of novelty not dissimilar from buying something new. Our aim is wardrobe zen; and a good half of that is item cohesiveness. We help you identify what you really need and what pieces can unlock combinations you had no idea existed.
Being the founder of your own business isn’t easy - how do you unwind?
I love yoga - the Life Centre in Notting Hill is my go to. Otherwise long baths, good reads and phone calls with my girlfriends when I need a pick me up!
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
Amalfi Long in Klein Blue (or white!) - I just love how versatile and effortless it is. The linen is such great quality that the piece feels durable - a perfect wardrobe staple!
What are your top tips on how to lead a more sustainable lifestyle?
1. Refocus: Make yourself a wishlist - sleep on it, debate it, fight it and if you still come back to it, it deserves to find a place in your wardrobe. I've learnt over the years to negate the cheap and easy buys by looking inwards first (aka your digital wardrobe: hint Whering), evaluating what I really need and will bring be continuous joy (for the longest possible time) as well as identifying and saving up for dream pieces that will serve me in my journey. Shifting your mentality to investing in quality creates a special relationship with a piece and fundamentally makes you fight harder to take care of it, style it differently and possibly resell it (circularity is a thing guys)
2. Normalise: renting, thrifting and swapping (soon on Whering) are the greatest ways to step away from over consuming for the wrong reasons and shift into a more playful (yet circular) relationship to clothes. For me, this step is all about upending the 'buy, use, dispose' model many of us (myself included) have lived by in the last two decades. Allowing yourself that freedom to experiment with fashion by renting pieces you wouldn't want to own forever (for any occasion not just a wedding), buying preloved pieces on depop or vestiaire usually allows you to buy better quality for cheaper and borrowing pieces (sharing really is caring: for people and planet) is a no brainer if you want to channel your friend's awesome aura for a day/night
3. Unlearn: break your bubble and diversify your feed. Again, slightly biased because my personal mission is to get us to reuse what we own - but - by removing the constant subliminal messaging from the wrong brands, influencers and communities and focusing instead on following accounts that empower with their mission, educate and tell real stories about what they do we consume less and better. Connecting with smaller designers, slow-production brands and ecosystem stakeholders is a powerful way of helping you identify what 'things' you really want and need and what else is just white noise we're all overwhelmed by. Good On You also has all the goss on brand ratings - so look em' up before you follow.
]]>Caroline's Style Hacks has become a hugely popular blog - what first inspired you to start it?
I started the blog back in 2018 after friends and family encouraged me to share my styling tips and ideas. I'd worked in retail years before and I missed the industry too.
What’s your best bit of styling advice?
Always wear the size that looks best on you - don’t always go by the label. No one knows if you’ve had to size up. Clothes that are too tight never look good.
I am also obsessed with proportions, mainly to balance our body shapes because an outfit looks better if it’s balanced.
How do you think the fashion industry can change to adapt to a more sustainable world?
Core collections and repeating lines year after year that are popular with customers, with a focus on pieces that can transcend seasons. Using sustainable or recycled fabrics is also key.
It’s been a strange year. In the midst of lockdowns and restrictions, how have you looked after your own wellbeing?
During the past year I've really tried to keep some sort of routine. Exercising most days has been so helpful for both my mental and physical health.
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
The White Ibiza Set is a beautiful combination that I would wear year after year; the little red details make the set pop, without being too trend-led.
Click here to shop the Ibiza Set...
What are your top tips on how to lead a more sustainable lifestyle?
Buy less and buy well. Take your time with purchases and ask yourself, do you really need that must have item? Will you get 30+ wears out of it? Consider buying pre loved; support brands with transparent manufacturing practices as well as using sustainable locally sourced fabrics.
I’ve also started using reusable make up remover pads and sanitary towels. We can’t all become perfectly sustainable overnight, but I truly believe any small changes will help out planet.
You can follow Caroline @carolinesstylehacks
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You've accumulated an impressive following online - what initially inspired you to create your fashion-focused account?
I started my Instagram after I’d given up working in Retail Fashion. I missed putting outfits together for customers and also missed the merchandising I used to do in the Store. Creating daily Flatlays is how I started and that was exactly what I’d been doing work wise ! It went from there and progressed to my chatty outfit Stories, which I really feel are my USP ... I can chat about clothes and outfits for hours! Instagram is so great for inspiration whatever your interests are, whether it’s interiors, fashion, garden ideas, cooking ... there really is something for everyone.
Which items are staples in your wardrobe and why?
I couldn't be without a good crisp white cotton slightly oversized shirt (so many ways to style). A pair of really great fitting Jeans and a Cashmere knit. You can always pull an outfit together when you’ve got good classic pieces in your wardrobe.
How do you ensure that your love for fashion doesn't compromise on sustainability?
Buy well and buy less is my motto. A good piece of pure wool or cashmere knitwear will last you years compared to cheaper manmade fabric knits that loose their shape. Looking after your clothes means they stand the test of time. And back to classics again, don’t get caught up with fast fashion, find your style and choose classic items.
It's been a strange year. In the midst of lockdowns and restrictions, how have you looked after your own wellbeing?
During the last year, daily walks and yoga have been my saviours. I practise Yoga every single day (just a short practice, little and often makes all the difference) and I have to get out for a walk everyday. Being outside always clears my head and calms me if I’m feeling stressed. Never underestimate the power of the great outdoors!
What are your top tips on how to lead a more sustainable everyday life?
Sustainability is so important for us all to strive towards. If we all make small changes then big changes will happen.
I’m cutting down on single use plastics, avoiding pre-packed fruit and veg, and generally being more aware of how I can make any sort of change that will benefit our planet. It’s almost going back to how our grandparents lived: proper bars of soap instead of liquid soap in plastic bottles, using paper or reusable cloth bags instead of plastic - I’ve used net shopping bags for years and years, I even have one my Aunt crocheted which is 45 years old!
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
The Oramai collection really appeals to me, I love the durability of linen and there are some fabulous timeless pieces in the collection. The Boyfriend shirt is an absolute classic and the Amalfi Dress is something you’ll wear at home or on holiday, for everyday or for a fabulous occasion. Exactly as versatile as our clothing should be.
Shop our Boyfriend Shirt here...
You can follow Pia @piavibekegrace.
]]>Giulia and her daughter wear our adorable Pink Amalfi Matching Set.
As Partner of Oramai and our Head of Sales, what do you love most about working for the brand?
Firstly, I truly love the brand and the philosophy behind it. Also, I am a great believer in the importance of the people that surround you in life and at Oramai we are very lucky with the people we work with, from our extraordinary employees to our wonderful wholesale partners and suppliers. Last but not least, my relationship with Isabella: our differences give me new knowledge and fresh energy every day, but sharing the same strong values makes it easy for us when it comes to making business decisions.
How do you envision the future of Oramai?
Bright of course! We have fabulous and exciting projects for the future. We're now increasing our team and opening a new office in Milan, which will allow us to expand our product offer and increase our wholesale distribution. We're also soon to launch our first retail store. Our 2022 calendar is already full of activities and events about sustainable and ethical fashion or related to things and people we like and believe in.
You're also a mother - how do you balance work and family life?
Good question! My children were born 13 months apart and they are both under three. Today, they are the meaning of my life but when I discovered I was pregnant with Domitilla, Leone was not even 5 months. At that time, I felt I had no choice but to be a mother and put my career on hold. It hasn’t always been easy, like many moms, I felt lost and lonely from time to time. I now realise how lucky I have been to have had a choice that other women are not offered and I am thankful for that. Now that I am back to work, every day I have to find my own balance and set my own priorities. I guess I do as every (superhero) mom does: I try to do my best and give as much as I can to both. I sometimes have this well-known feeling of not giving enough one way or another but my life is full of love for my children and husband and I love what I do. When I feel this way I repeat to myself that all the positive things in life come with a bit of a sacrifice, but it is totally worth it.
How do you unwind when you're not working?
In so many different ways! Most of my free time is with my children and husband but I can definitely combine my family with my favourite activities. What I love most is traveling and I can’t wait to being able to travel again…near, far, long or short stay as long as I discover new places, colours, new people, smells and flavours, and all the feelings that come with it. Being Italian, I also find cooking for other people a nice way to wind down; I cherish spending time with my closest friends and cooking for them gives me joy. I also have a teenagers’ passion for makeup, beauty creams, hair products etc…and I spend crazy amount of time in perfumeries.
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
There are a lot of pieces from the new collection that I adore and I can't wait to receive them all! However, so far I have been wearing the Long Amalfi Dress in White on so many different occasions. It is such a perfect piece to have in your summer closet! I bought it when I was pregnant with Leone and I can’t leave anywhere without it in my suitcase since.
What are your top tips on how to lead a more sustainable lifestyle?
My key word is respect; when I started thinking about how I could truly respect what surrounded me and the meaning of it, my way of valuing people, my environment, things I owned and the use I was making of it completely changed. My lifestyle automatically started turning into a more sustainable one from the products I consumed to my job. It didn’t necessarily start with big things but it has been and still is a constant engagement.
Dominique styles our Amalfi Short Dress in White.
You've travelled all over the world - which is your favourite travel destination?
So many! I believe we are the equation of the people we meet and the places we discover and enjoy.
I spent an unforgettable two years in India, so it has a special place in my heart -
such a different culture and aesthetic: plenty of colours, perfumes, and harmony within chaos.
How have your travels influenced your style?
I am definitely inspired by all my travels, not only for fashion but also for home décor and art. I'm always looking for new peculiar stores, galleries or a Flea market where I could easily spend a whole day. I love clothes that have stories behind them.
I am maybe a bit a Boho chic, 70’s Dreamer lady.
Which item from your wardrobe do you take with you wherever you go?
I have several must-haves in my daily beauty routine, like my Tom Ford perfume, but to be ginger and fair-skinned means I always need a good sunscreen, my timeless Borsalino hat and a large, glam pair of sunglasses.
During Summer, I love beautiful fabrics and my revisited Kimonos, and
in Winter I am addicted to coats that I have collected over the years.
And of course my organic Oramai dress for this summer ça va sans dire!
You're also a proud mum, do you have any advice for women just starting their own motherhood journey?
I am a proud and blessed mother, but is there a recipe to be a perfect mum? Just be yourself: unconditional love as only a mum can give and trying to spend cheerful quality time together, and listening without judging is a good start.
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
I love my Amalfi Dress: it's timeless, and a wonderful invitation to Summer! I’ve been working in the Luxury Fashion Industry for a long time and it's great to see that we're finally all more concerned about our environment and aware about sustainability.
What are your top tips on how to lead a more sustainable lifestyle?
I walk as much as I can every day; I avoid massive plastic packaging, and I prefer to shop at my local friendly grocery store.
I always mix & match with my wardrobe of vintage pieces as well.
You can follow Dominique @dominique_madame.
]]>Malin styles our Nomade Suit Jacket. Shop the look here.
Your music has taken you all over the world - what has been the biggest highlight of your career to date?
It's hard to pick one! New Years in Brazil is always great and very special - this year will be my 4th New Years in a row playing for the same organiser. Also, Burning Man is amazing because of the setting and vibe.
More recently, you've been studying sound healing. Can you explain to us what that involves?
I like to describe sound healing is a form of ‘effortless meditation’. People who find meditation difficult often find that the sounds help to relax them, but there's a lot more to it. Everything in the universe is vibration. When you put your body to an ultimate relaxed state you give it a chance to heal itself. Sound healing can be really efficient to treat stress, anxiety, depression etc. It can also improve sleeping patterns and focus.
Your work involves long hours, long flights, and late nights - how do you stay calm amongst all the chaos?
It's challenging for sure. Saying no is a start: people will try to book you on flights which means sleeping 2 hours before heading to the next show in a different city or country. Also resting in between gigs is important. You can’t do all social activities before and after that people invite you to.
You've worked for a number of famous fashion brands. Tell us about how that came about and what it was like.
It's fun when I'm asked to create a specific vibe based on the collection in question, but these types of preparations also take hours and hours of research depending on what they want. I’ve also produced music for ads and shows. It’s really fun and creative.
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
The Nomade Suit Jacket: it's so flattering and goes with so many different outfits.
Our Nomade Suit Jacket in White.
What are your top tips on how to lead a more sustainable lifestyle?
I don't like it when DJs preach about sustainability and then fly around the world every week (sometimes on private jets), but I guess every little bit helps. As someone said, "we don’t need 1000 people doing zero waste perfectly, we need millions of people doing it imperfectly". I guess shopping more mindfully is a start, to buy more sustainable pieces and support brands who focus on this. As a DJ, we can of course also tell organisers and promoters that we won’t play at events with single use plastic cups for example.
You can follow Malin @malin.linnea.c.
]]>Nomade Suit in White. Shop the look here.
What first sparked your interest in health-conscious living?
Seven years ago I became infected with parasites (which I didn’t realise until this year), at the same time as having a big spiritual awakening... think Bridget Jones on a beach in Thailand! It pushed me onto the path of awakening to understand my body and to heal. I’m so grateful for these nudges from the universe and the parasites became my biggest teacher.... I even thanked them when I let them go this year.
You often discuss the practice of meditation - what are its main benefits?
I talk about meditation as one modality of healing, but really we need to adopt a more multidimensional approach to healing. Healing is about calming the mind, balancing the emotions, purifying the spirit and cleansing the body. Meditation is amazing for soothing our minds and regulating the body’s nervous system, but much of our thoughts come from what’s happening deeper within our body. I truly believe trying to meditate without doing other healing tools is like trying to swim with one leg!
Your masterclass teaches people how to fulfil their mission; what's one piece of advice you always give?
That the path to upgrade your life starts with cleansing the body.
How would you describe your own everyday style?
It's Boho Chic... is that a cliché? It's the Costa Rica feels!
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
The Amalfi Long Dress in Klein Blue; it's such a powerful and classic statement piece.
What are your top tips for someone wanting to heal their body from within?
To focus on multilayered healing. By this I mean to not only focus on food - it’s definitely important to physically cleanse the body with the intention of loving yourself to clear stagnation and nourish the gut to help the body raise its frequency, but at the same time you have to pay attention to the mental, emotional and spiritual things that arise. To heal from within is to know that healing is not one dimensional but layered. This is the focus of the Cleanse to Ascend Method, a program to heal the body and elevate one’s life onto a new level. It’s the process that led me to let go of my parasites, and have even bigger spiritual awakenings than I ever thought possible.
You can follow her journey on @instagram
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Naomi styles our St Tropez Shirt Dress. Shop the look.
Congratulations on having had the courage to quit a job that wasn't right for you to land your current one as Marketing Director of Bumble. Who is your everyday inspiration and why?
My mother. She raised me as a single parent whilst running a global consultancy business and from a young age, she ingrained in me the importance of empowering others - particularly women - and that there is a force behind the collective voices of women who are striving to make real change. That has always stuck with me, and it's something I'm proud to put into practice at Bumble, whose mission is focused on empowering women to make the first move.
Naomi wears our St Tropez Shirt Dress. Shop here.
What has been challenging so far?
I’ve always found it tricky to find the right balance between work and free time and I found lockdown blurred the lines even more. Over the past year, I've found it challenging to make sure I'm prioritising my well-being as well as focussing on work. When everything is being done from the same space, it’s easy for the day to roll on without you realising you haven’t stepped outside for a walk.
To differentiate between my working day and evening, I have made a conscious effort to finish work at the same time each day and take my puppy Rocky for a walk with my husband. I’m also a big reader and make sure that I read at least a few pages each night to help switch off. It’s these simple things that relax me and give me clarity, meaning I can be my best self in and out of work.
Which is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
The Portofino Black Playsuit - I love playsuits. I love the cut and simplistic style. It will be a perfect item to wear as it starts getting warmer.
What is your go-to everyday outfit?
We’re still working from home, so right now, it’s a pair of Lululemon leggings and a cosy knit jumper.
What are your five tips on how to lead a more sustainable everyday life?
1. You don’t have to purchase everything! For clothes you may only wear once, renting is a great alternative to purchasing. I use By Rotation and love their ethos of renting what you need and lending what you don’t - I’ve currently got my dress listed to rent on the platform! Using apps like this and being part of the circular economy show you can easily make sustainable choices without compromising on quality.
2. Local is best - Wherever possible, I try to purchase products that are locally sourced. From skincare to delicious fruit and vegetables, it’s amazing what you can find in your local area once you start looking
3. Recycle and reuse - It’s so easy to recycle products now and I always try and purchase products that use recyclable materials. I’ve also started purchasing refillable products more to reduce waste
4. A little goes a long way - Every sustainable choice you make has an impact, however small.
5. Keep learning! I’m definitely on my journey to become more sustainable, we can all always do better when it comes to making environmentally friendly decisions and purchases. I find that reading more about sustainability and our impact on the environment inspires me to make better choices.
You can follow Naomi @naomiwalkland.
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What does a sustainable lifestyle mean to you?
To me, it’s all about making a conscious effort to not be wasteful and reduce your impact on the planet.
What do you love most about working for Stylist?
That I get to do what I love every day, which is writing, interviewing, editing. But it’s also really nice to work for a brand that has values in line with my own.
What are some of your favourite sustainable brands?
This totally depends on what I’m looking for. Riley Studio, Organic Basics and ByFar make great basics. Re/done for jeans. Veja make gorgeous trainers, while Alohas make great sandals. For something special Paloma Wool, Baum Und Pferdgarten and Stine Goya are great. But you can also rent some of these brands from fashion rental services such as Rotaro. If it’s something you’re only going to wear once, why buy?
What, or who, inspires you every day?
When it comes to work, I find other journalists doing brilliant work a source of inspiration - I often book mark pieces I've loved to return to when I'm lacking direction or confused about how to make a piece I'm working on come alive. I also love listening to podcasts such as Francesca Steele's Write-Off and Longform which interview writers about their work and career journey - it satiates my nosiness. In life more generally, I’m inspired by the books I read, the places I go and the amazing people in my life.
What are your top tips on how to live a more sustainable everyday life?
You have to do your research, I think. I buy vintage or used as much as I can (who doesn’t love a good Ebay trawl?) or from brands I know make an effort to reduce their impact on the environment. You also have to be organised to be sustainable - it’s in rushed moments that we often end up buying single-use plastic bottles of water and that kind of thing. I also think it’s important to not put the weight of the world on your shoulders, though, and do what you can. The more you incorporate sustainable practises into your life the more it becomes a second-nature part of your routine.
You can follow Hannah @hannahkeegan.
]]>Who inspires you?
So many other fellow creators inspire me daily. I also love following my photographer friends and seeing their street style shots.
What are your go to styling tips?
Invest in basics and styles that work for your body shape. Good basics are the foundation of your wardrobe; they can make any outfit feel and look more effortless. Balancing proportions is another one: if you're wearing an oversized top, for example, then keep your bottom half fitted; and vice-versa. And of course, keep it simple: less it more.
What is your favourite Oramai piece and why?
The boyfriend shirt, simply because it's such a classic shape and style.
Available to shop here
What does the modern woman mean to you? Who is she?
I think that the modern woman is multi-faceted. She is hard-working, confident, and effortless when it comes to style.
What are your tips on how to live a more sustainable everyday life?
Quality over quantity.
]]>
Who is your wellbeing muse?
So many people come to mind who I look up to and I don't think there is one person who encompasses everything I have learnt, everything I embody and stand for and everything I believe in and apply to my daily life. For me it is about variety and I really emphasise the importance of trying lots of different things, finding what works for you, and cherry picking things from various people and sources. In food I love The First Mess, in wellbeing I love learning about the science things and am obsessed with Caroline Myss. For mindfulness and self, I love Tony Robbins, Byron Katie, Jack Canfield and Chopra. I'm not sure if they're muses or more inspirational mentors!
What is your go to moment for yourself in your daily life?
Probably the mornings. I like to create a strong ritual to start the day well.
What was your main purpose for launching Qnola?
To create something nourishing and energising for breakfast that was easy and quick to prepare, and didn't leave me feeling sluggish or bloated.
What is your favourite way to enjoy your granola at the moment?
Right now we're making chia seed pudding and using Qnola as a topping. I also love making cashew cream, stewed berries and adding Qnola. And in the summer we has Acai bowls every week which are my favourite way to enjoy Qnola. We've also just launched two new flavours so I'm often just snacking on them straight from the packet.
Please let us know your top 5 clean eating restaurants in London?
Please share with us your top tips to embrace conscious eating in our daily life?
It's simple for me, just whole, fresh produce cooked many ways. I love autumn for this as you can combine so many amazing seasonal items in such nourishing ways. I'd say eating consciously is about many things - and its not just what you eat but how you eat. Take time, make things slowly when you can, slow down and breathe deep before eating, chew thoroughly, focus on food away from screens or other distractions, and choose natural ingredients that are functional and beneficial in the body. But also have an open relationship with food. Don't make rules or restrict yourselves - i was the most out of shape ive ever been when i did that. Practice a good relationship with food. Enjoy it, eat less healthy things when you feel like it (I see nothing wrong with indulgent meals and treats when they're handmade with quality ingredients). And have the wine too.
What is the easiest you can recommend for us to incorporate wellbeing into our daily routines?
Self inquiry. For me, taking time regularly to check in with yourself and communicate with yourself is key for success, happiness and fulfilment. Deep dive and start trying to understand your emotions, your goals and your blocks. We all want to live a happy life and achieve our dreams, but it requires constant checking in, understanding our energy and moods, being compassionate, increasing our self worth and taking realistic steps forward. This doesn't sound easy but journaling every day for even 2-5 minutes can help develop this practice. Other than that, drink plenty of water, move daily even if its just a gentle morning stretch or a short stroll, and laugh. Connect often with loved ones, dance and express, and do things you enjoy.
Follow her journey on @dcopperman
]]>What was it that sparked you to change your focus from fashion blogging to promoting ethical practices?
Andrew Morgan’s 2015 documentary The True Cost really sparked change for me. It truly opened my eyes to what was happening in the fashion industry behind closed doors, I knew our clothes were made in unethical ways but never to this extent. As I was watching The True Cost, immediately followed by my own research I decided I could no longer continue supporting such a harmful industry. It really was a black and white decision for me, that I had to start promoting ethical practices from that day on.
How did your audience respond to the change?
I had mostly a positive response - especially with those closest to me (friends, family and industry based friends). People reached out wanting to learn more, asked for advice and some even thanked me for inspiring them to take small steps in becoming more sustainable.
What is your top tip for shopping for sustainable fashion in London?
I love shopping in London because there are so many second-hand clothing stores. You’ll find an Oxfam, independently owned thrift store or a vintage shop in almost every neighbourhood. My top tip would be to play it by ear, if you find yourself in a different area of London open Google Maps and search for either of the following - charity shops, vintage stores, second hand. Be open minded when going into second-hand shops, some days you may find an absolute gem and sometimes you will find nothing! Regardless, I recommend trying out the same shops at least 3 times.
What are your favourite sustainable brands?
Ooo tough question, there are so many I love! But to name a few … I adore Maggie Marilyn (NZ designer), Riley Studio, Organic Basics, ROOP, Birdsong and of course second-hand sites like Depop and Vestiaire Collective.
How does sustainability come into your life outside of fashion?
I'm a big advocate for action on climate change. Outside of fashion I am constantly keeping up to date with the latest headlines, research and data on climate change. I also strive to be as sustainable in my everyday life as I can be. I have made eco-friendly product swaps like using a menstrual cup, reusable cotton pads, a safety razor and a reusable water bottle. However I would like to point out that I’m not perfect, I still have a long way to go in being as sustainable as I can be. For instance, I’m vegetarian but not 100% vegan, I don’t drink milk or consume eggs but I eat cheese and products containing dairy.
What was your biggest challenge when changing to a more sustainable lifestyle?
So far, I would say my biggest challenge has been trying to fly less. Being from New Zealand, I aim to go back home at least once a year but this means I have to catch two long-haul flights. Taking a long-haul flight generates more carbon emissions than the average person in dozens od countries around the world (according to the Guardian). But there is no logical alternative to flying to the other side of the world. However, I have cut down on flights to Amsterdam (where I regularly visit family) by taking the Eurostar.
What are your top reading tips for a sustainable awakening?
I recommend consuming an equal balance of good and bad information. I sometimes find myself being so consumed by the negative facts, stories and history of climate change because I honestly find it somewhat more interesting. However what’s bad without the good, and only reading negative information is not good for our mental health. Here are some books I have read and love:
Wardrobe Crisis by Clare Press
Losing Earth by Nathaniel Rich
No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference by Greta Thunberg
This Changes Everything by Naomi Klein
I also signed up to the UN CC: e-Learn courses, which is a learning partnership initiative where you can learn about climate change through courses. Better yet, it’s FREE! I took the Climate Change: From Learning to Action course and learnt so much. Some of the courses only take 2 hours while other can take up to 12 hours. I highly recommend taking a look and setting aside half an hour each day to get through a course - https://unccelearn.org/course/index.php
What is the most important thing you would encourage our readers to do to make a positive change?
While it’s great to live sustainable as an individual, it’s more important to be an activist. As individuals we need to make as many changes as we can but without real change from the big coperations and the governments, our individual efforts are minuscule. Join climate change groups, sign petitions, take part in protests (these don’t have to be IRL), contact your local council, write to fast fashion brands, share resources on social media, ask questions and keep pushing for a better future for our planet and people.
Follow her journey on @nadinebanks
]]>What inspired you to launch your high-performance and science-focused skincare brand?
Combatting inflammation has been a central target of my entire medical career. I began medical practice in anti-inflammatory-focused orthopaedic medicine. I translated some of this innovative clinical research from joints into skin in 2002 when I launched my medical aesthetics clinic in Dusseldorf.
When my patients asked me to recommend a post-medical treatment skincare regime, I surveyed the market and found I could not recommend anything. It was all aggressive ingredients and marketing fluff.
So I originally set out to create a patients-only skincare regime built around anti-inflammatory ingredient science. It took me several years, but the result was my Dr. Barbara Sturm range, a high performance skincare regimen that I formulated out of advanced ingredient science. The stars of my products are the ingredients and the science that underpins them, which I combined in formulation medleys that impart beautiful, healthy skin.
My passion, and my inspiration, comes from my mother who was a chemist and my grandmother who was a pharmacist.
Dr. Barbara Sturm wearing the Ruffle Top
What does the modern woman mean to you? Who is she?
A modern woman can be many things, but independence and a no-limits attitude are two of the hallmarks.
Professionally, I have been fortunate to call friends some amazing modern and entrepreneurial women, and they all share these inspirational traits – total devotion to their customer and an insane work ethic.
Your philosophy to achieve the #SturmGlow are: fundamental nutrition/hydration, healing the skin matrix rather than harming it with aggressive approaches, and reducing the visible signs of irritation. Since the skin is the body’s largest organ would you agree that my practices in choosing organic fabrics is as important?
Everything that touches your skin effects your skin. Anything aggressive that touches your skin triggers inflammation, which is the root cause of most skin dysfunction.
I think what’s really important is that the fashion industry as a whole is moving away from fast fashion and choosing sustainable brands and companies that exercise social responsibility. #OramaiWomen play a huge role in this by only using sustainable materials and working with organic farmers without compromising on quality - I also expect the industry as a whole to tailor their future sales strategies with a focus on quality over quantity.
What is your greatest achievement so far?
Professionally, I cried with joy in the shower after Net A Porter agreed to take on my Dr. Barbara Sturm skincare. That was my big break.
Picture from her recent Italy trip @bbsturm
What are your tips on how to live a more sustainable everyday life?
When consumers accept only sustainable goods and reject those that are not, it creates systemic change by forcing corporate sustainable behaviour, so use things that are the product of ethical choices. At Dr. Barbara Sturm, our ingredients and components are locally-sourced wherever possible, and we use only healthy, safe and non-aggressive ingredients. We continue to reduce our packaging and our new sets and kits come in reusable cotton and velvet bags. We are rigidly cruelty-free, without the fine print exceptions that most beauty companies have.
Avoid waste. I was brought up like most Germans never to waste anything, especially food. As a child we were always given just the right amount of food so nothing was ever left on our plates. I do not like wasting anything; food, electricity, water. I always make sure wash cycles are full and lights are off and we recycle everything we can at home.
Re-think your travel needs to the essential. A lot can be accomplished in a telephone call or a Zoom meeting and we don’t always need to jump on an airplane to get something done. This is sustainable of both the environment and our own personal energy.
Be aware of pollution. Most of our global cities have air quality that is unsafe for human health. Study the reasons, and insist on change.
Follow her journey on @drbarbarasturm
www.drsturm.com
]]>
Your currently working on the development of a feature film and the series + 1, a series about modern women and the next level of equality. Please tell me more what a modern women means to you.
A modern woman for me is someone who realises the evolving woman in her, and finds ways to push the limits and borders of her time to make the world progress in positive directions. This woman assumes her age and learns from her previous ages as much as she strides into her coming age in elegance and force.
She is someone who decides to inspire with her own strength and achievements and who helps other women, and men to rise with her, because she knows that she will grow when others rise with her. She is someone who manages to wear many hats at the same time; A hard working woman, a lady boss, a loving person, friend and mother. She does not deny her female powers but she uses them to restructure the unequal gender balance that her ancestors have struggled with.
She takes it upon her shoulders to be a role model and inspire previous generations, her own, and coming generation to see women and men as a delicious plate of gender characteristics that enriched the world instead of boxing those in with unjust human rights.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is a strong tool of expression, statement and empowerment. If it is used in the right way, with awareness of the signals and connotations it sends out, I believe it is a very important ingredient in a woman’s strive to be the best version of herself. It’s like a costume, you choose how you want people to look at you and then you assume it, then become it.
When you direct, what's your go to outfit?
For shoots: Jeans, t-shirt, Nike sneakers, leather jacket.
(Comfy with attitude to sum it up)
For meetings, same but with slightly sharper fashion twist.
(Inspire and assure to sum it up)
I think the modern woman / the modern consumer is someone that doesn't compromise on ethics and values, taking into account where the material is sourced from, how it is produced and who is involved in the process. Someone that wants to invest in the future. Do you agree?
I fully agree and I think it is becoming a very important topic in conscious living. We need to be aware that fast fashion is extremely destructive and that it is only harming us, not making us prettier. I am not saying fashion should not be accessible but we need to see it as a long term thing and make style the centre of our choices. We need to think it through and dress in line with our being, values and aspirations. Looks reflect choices and I fully believe that goes for ethic choices as well.
What does sustainability mean to you? Is it something you include in your everyday life already or is it something bigger you are working on like, maybe the next movie? Or not at all?
I try as best as I can to integrate sustainable thinking in my everyday life, although I still feel ashamed of how I don't do enough. It feels like it’s never enough, there is so much to bring back to life, of what mankind has abused and destroyed. I'm trying and educating myself and trying to live better. I have not yet come to find a way to integrate it in a next movie or project but maybe you just planted an idea : )
You recently became a mum, congratulations. Has this affected the way you live your life to live in a more sustainable way - for the next generation ?
I think having a kid is the major wake up call for a human being in this day of age to question the way you live and push u to be better be better. I am grateful of what the next generation is teaching me and I always strive to learn more from them so I can give back more.
Whats your go to sustainable tips.
I'm sadly not the best one to answer because I live in London, where recycling really still is terrible. But I would say, in short what I try to focus on is.
1. Donate trees whenever I fly.
2. Bike and walk anytime before the car if possible.
3. Think through my actual needs when I consume, don’t get the unnecessary.
4. Know who you’re shopping from.
5. Recycle as much as your country of residence allows you too. The goal should also be. If it’s bad, try to do more.
Whats your go to brands and why.
I have the joy to be surrounded by great creatives and designers that I wear with joy. Barbara Cassasola is one of them for classy allday and evening wear. Her Ethos is very intact as well. I do wear a lot of Nike. I wear a lot of Nike too. Apart from the fact that I love their aesthetics, their social impact is something I stand by and support. I am also reviving my love for vintage and try to shop jeans and jackets there more now. Then I mix it all up.
Whats your favourite movie character and how has she/him inspired you.
Don’t have a favourite movie character but I do have a favourite movie icon, David Lynch, cause he does whatever he wants and its always deep and insanely badass.
What is the all time movie we non movie people (me) should watch that has changed your life?
I find that question eternally hard to answer because we are all not all the same in taste and different things gets us going. But here are a few ones that I find has that timeless quality, artistic sophistication and human depth that just somehow will move us all and set marks in the history of cinema:
Persona (Bergman)
Inception (Nolan)
Lost in Translation (Coppola, Sofia)
Moonlight (Jenkins)
Force Majeur (Östlund)
Call Me By Your Name (Guadagnino)
Whiplash (Chazelle)
Mulholland Drive (Lynch)
Parasite (Ki-woo)
Shoplisfters (Kore-eda)
As Told to Isabella Broden
Photography by Valter Franco @Uique
Read more about her projects here.
Teodora is wearing the Nomade Suit in the Swedish countryside outside Torekov.
Dana Thomas on stage at Business Of Fashion Wearing The Nomade Suit Trousers.
is the author of Gods and Kings and the New York Times bestseller Deluxe. She began her career writing for the Style section of The Washington Post, and she has served as a cultural and fashion correspondent for Newsweek in Paris. She is a regular contributor to The New York Times Style section and has written for The New York Times Magazine, The New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, T: The New York Times Style Magazine, and Architectural Digest. In 2016, the French Minister of Culture named Thomas a Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters. She lives in Paris.
Her latest book Fashionopolis The Price of Fast fashion & The Future of Clothes is our founder Isabella Broden's highly recommended book.
Available here.
]]>
Rana Good wearing the Dream Set Skirt.
What led you into the world of travel & lifestyle journalism?
After receiving my master’s degree in journalism, I was an editor at a website called Société Perrier where I covered travel, music, fashion, nightlife and art. I gained a really comprehensive overview of all things lifestyle and started getting invited to review properties around the world, which I loved and started my love for travel writing. The website eventually folded (RIP) but I had established a lot of great relationships and immediately transitioned into freelance travel and lifestyle writing.
How do you see travel changing in the post-covid world?
I think people are going to be much more conscientious about traveling, both in terms of their health and the impact it has on our surroundings. I expect people to travel less and make it more meaningful. Additionally, I think there’s going to be an increased popularity in “private” vacations — villa rentals, treehouses and standalone bungalows since people want to minimize interactions with others and avoid contagion hot spots.
Rana Good wearing the Dream Set Skirt.
What was your inspiration to launch Naïra?
I grew up in Switzerland and didn’t see a lot of diversity in media when I lived there. Then I moved to the US and while it’s much more diverse, I still felt that women of color were underrepresented. I wanted to create a platform that celebrates and empowers women of color, and also provides engaging content for people from all backgrounds covering beauty, travel, style and culture.
What does sustainability mean to you?
To be less wasteful and try to preserve the planet the best we can. We’ve done a lot of damage to the planet already so we need to act fast and decisively to ensure we don’t cause further harm. Using less plastic, allowing fewer chemicals to enter our environment and consuming local products are the top things that come to mind.
'Sustainable Travel' has been identified as one of the top trends for 2020. Can you share some tips on how to travel more sustainably?
Sure! To me there are micro and macro aspects to traveling more sustainably. On the smaller side, doing things like bringing a refillable bottle or snacks from home creates less waste. Similarly, using refillable containers for beauty products rather than buying travel-size items that get thrown out is a small yet significant step. On the larger scale, avoiding air travel when possible is important, and if you do, flying direct is more sustainable than with layovers. Staying at eco-friendly properties which use clean energy, buy and serve local food, and avoid plastic waste is also helpful.
Rana Good wearing the Dream Set Skirt.
Would you say you are a conscious consumer? How do you incorporate a sustainable living in your everyday life?
I would say that I am, although there are definitely still areas of improvement for me. I’m trying to adopt an attitude of replacing things rather than getting something new, whether that’s bringing my own shopping bag, refilling a product (for example olive oil or vinegar) at a filling station shop or buying a second-hand piece of clothing. I’ve set a hard rule of only being one retail clothing item per month because I do not want to contribute to the waste the fast fashion industry produces.
What are your go-to sustainable fashion brands?
I like Oramai, Reformation, Lunya, and the swimwear brand FISCH. They make stylish yet comfortable items that are eco-friendly.
]]>She essentially grew up in the fashion industry and has seen it from many angles. Her successful career as a model has brought her to realise the real need in the industry for a shift towards sustainability. We couldn’t be more proud to see her wearing Oramai, and want to promote her latest campaign a IGTV series on #SustainableSundays where she shares her passion to live a more sustainable life.
Arizona wearing The Ibiza Set Top
6 tips on how to live a slightly more sustainable life:
https://www.instagram.com/tv/B8EO12GF45i/
1. Focus on materials that you bring into the home.
2. Buy second hand furniture.
3. Educate your self.
4. Educate your friends, family and colleagues - share.
5. Read the labels.
6. No one is too small to make a difference.
Clean your house without plastic:
https://www.instagram.com/tv/B7gMuBfF1nR/
My favourite products (not ad - just passion)
Plastic free water soluble sachets: @iron.and.velvet
Bathroom balm: @mangleandwringer
Plastic free cleaning cloths: maistic.com
Glue: @coccoinaofficial
Laundry detergent: fysiocosmetics.com
Arizona wearing The Ibiza Set, made with 100% GOTS certified Organic Linen and hand stitched in London.
How to be a sustainable mother:
https://www.instagram.com/tv/B86UgGflENu/
Bath oil: @bamford
Soap: @bamford
Kids second hand clothes: @familyaffaire
Organic cotton baby grow: @johnlewisandpartners
Organic cotton pieces: @newbielovers
Muslin cloths: @camcam_cph
Vintage baby clothes: @ebay
Nappy cream: @weledauk
Nappies: @ecobynaty
Baby powder: @drhauschkagb
How to shop sustainable for your house with Vintage Furniture
https://www.instagram.com/tv/B8WQJfylePx/
I’m going to take you through my home and show you all my favourite pieces...
Arizona wearing The Ibiza Set available online now. Here
Discover her #sustainablesundays serie here
]]>“This space allows for women to openly discuss the challenges they face and it’s amazing to see the support these women give each other.”
“Though our women did not begin as professional tailors, they had a certain understanding of stitching passed down from mother to daughter”
Louise Wearing the Ibiza Set
What made you inspired to start your blog?
I was filming a makeover show and getting a lot of messages on social media, about fashion tips, confidence tips- even dating and careers. I started my career writing for magazines, so I thought- why not launch a version of that for myself, and be able to answer all those questions in one place?
What is your go to everyday outfit?
Very simple: a good fitting pair of jeans, Sezane tee, loafers, and a blazer or cashmere sweater. I am more about quality rather than quantity now, when it comes to my closet!
What is your tip for a more sustainable lifestyle?
Every little bit counts. Sometimes we don’t bother with small changes because they don’t seem worth it, but it’s a start, and if everyone follows suit, then we can make much bigger changes.
Louise Wearing the Ibiza Set
What is your must have beauty product and why?
I love Aurelia CBD serum.
Moving back to the English Countryside from LA, what is your favourite thing about the countryside?
It is a total change! The fresh air, the views of rolling hills, the country pubs, and discovering adorable sleepy villages as we drive around.
Louise Wearing the Ibiza Set
Photographed with, BondiBoost's Australian-made salon professional formulations are developed by industry experts using high-quality ingredients sourced from local Australian suppliers. At BondiBoost we are passionate about making professional-quality haircare with all of nasty stuff left out – parabens, sulphates and animal-testing are a no-go.
We are also passionate about giving back. The charities we support are ones that we are personally invested in, and as long as we're in business, we will continue to donate, drive awareness and make a difference in people's lives. By purchasing BondiBoost, you are helping to support these worthy causes. Together we can make a difference.
Read more on https://bondiboost.com.au/
]]>Rosanna Falconer, brand consultant and co-founder of FashMash, shares how summer holiday style can be done sustainably, showcasing some of the many brands that are creating high quality, fun and stylish summer fashion with both people and the planet in mind.
THE CLASSIC
From the beach bars of Mykonos to the eternal chic of the French Riviera, white has always worked in the heat. In fact, I’d say, any man on holiday in a white linen shirt transforms instantly to Jude Law in The Talented Mr Ripley. This organic cotton linen skirt by Oramai, trimmed with colourful riff raff ribbon, reminds me of a skirt I lived in one summer as a child. Clearly, the classics never date. It’s got an excellent twirl (essential for any summer skirt) and looks elegant styled with this ECONYL® regenerated nylon swimsuit by Casaraki.
These cat eyes are by Pala Eyewear: they’re so light you barely notice them and best of all for every pair bought, they donate prescription glasses to a person in need in Africa, giving them access to education and better job opportunities. Not to mention their use of non-petroleum plastic and cases handwoven in Upper East Ghana, creating new income in a developing community. I love their ethos: “Let’s not talk sustainability. Let’s do it.”
Here’s to summer, sustainably!
All images credit: George Ryan
Article from Eco-Age
Meet the woman behind the campaign, Nina Gualinga.
"WE NEED ALTERNATIVES TO FOSSIL FUEL EXTRACTION. WE BELIEVE IN THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF INNOVATIVE COMMUNITY PROJECTS. WE DO NOT MERELY ENVISION A DIFFERENT FUTURE, WE ARE BUILDING IT"
What is Hakhu?
Hahku, which means let’s go in Kichwa, is an organization that is dedicated to promoting sustainable development projects in league with small indigenous communities within the Ecuadorian Amazon. The idea of founding The Hakhu Project came from years of working in advocacy with indigenous communities in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Our communities face imminent threats from transnational companies and governmental departments over the demand for, and extraction of, our natural resources. We have collaboratively created a grassroots indigenous organization in order to directly implement local programs and projects to help mitigate these threats.
What is your mission?
Our mission is to empower indigenous communities in order to protect our rainforests and ancestral knowledge for future generations. As our first project, we have chosen to create Hakhu Amazon Design. This initiative aims to provide a unique opportunity to indigenous women in the Ecuadorian Amazon and beyond to utilise our cultural and artistic heritage in such a way as to protect our territories while providing them with a sustainable source of income through selling unique bespoke handcrafts via an online platform.
Nina wearing Oramais 100% organic Nomade Linen Suit and The Boyfriend Shirt.
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