Sexy Sustainable Style

Amika Styling Tools Create the Runway Looks in NYC

2010-09-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

When you think of Fashion Week, you think of backstage chaos and prepping before the big shows. Well, let me tell you about a recent experience I had that was like no other I’ve ever seen…

Compliments of my PR friends at Tractenberg & Co., I had an exclusive backstage pass to the GreenShows at the Metropolitan Pavilion last week. My objective: to get the inside scoop on what really goes on behind the scenes during “hair & makeup.” I wanted to get up close and personal with the hair team responsible for turning the long straight locks of the Samantha Pleet models into SEXY, SILKY CURLS.

Curls?! For any girl with stick straight hair, I’m sure you can imagine this is a hairdresser’s worst nightmare… That is until they were told Amika would be sponsoring the Styling Tools & products that would help create the fabulously curly looks!

By the time I arrived on the scene…I swear there was no hair struggle in sight. Stylists were crowded around each of the models – sometimes 3-4 per girl! but they were working in a rhythm rather than a teased frizzy…

I watched as they wrapped sections of straight hair around the Amika tourmaline curling barrels; waited a few seconds before releasing the strands so the smooth waves could cascade down the models’ necks. I was awed at how easy it was to curl hair as straight as a toothpick and for the hair to remain curly for hours on end without spraying it with concrete!

What makes Amika’s curlers one of the best?! They feature a tourmaline barrel fused with ceramic. Tourmaline is a natural source of negative ions and far infrared heat, which provides faster styling with less damage. The negative ions eliminate frizz and close the hair cuticle to create smooth, shiny hair. The clip free curler doesn’t tug or break the hair either.

Say bye-bye to the hair crimp your old school curler used to make and say hello to one of these stylish Amika curlers! Trust me; you’ll get the waves you’ve seen celebrities rockin’ on the red carpet for months.

xoxo,

Mia

The Stars were Shining during FNO, but ILORI had the Shades to Kick Up the Brightness

2010-09-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

138 Spring Street, NYC

Ok, ok…so I’m a bit tardy on my posts about SS11 Fashion Week. I can’t help it though…I’ve been caught up with the hustle and bustle of all the shows that it gets sticky to find time to write my recaps! Heck, you should see the hurricane that hit my place…I think Igor already touched down!

Anyway…my girl and I joined thousands of others last Friday for Fashion’s Night Out (aka FNO) and we hit the town starting in SOHO. Among our numerous stops were John Varvatos - they served sweet killer vodka & lemonade drinks; Chanel - they were offering FREE manicures which showcased 3 of their new nail colors and last but certainly not least, ILORI (pronounced ĭ-lôr-ē) – this high-fashion eyewear boutique was offering up cute EcoBag totes with any purchase of their fabulous shades.

ILORI’s a leader in distinctive eyewear so it didn’t surprise me that they’d come with a new idea for FNO. The flagship store on Spring Street was crowded with beautiful people and not only did we enjoy trying on all the trendy shades, but we also got to see our Eco tote bags personalized on the spot with a hip ink print. Check out the bag they sent me home with!

After ILORI I swung down to the Meat Packing and ran into the likes Celebrity stylist Robert Verdi, fashion designer Robin Brouillette, and Peoples Revolution founder Kelly Cutrone.

I hope you enjoyed FNO as much as I did!

XOXO,

Mia

Women's Mafia - 3 Winning Designers Show

2010-09-13T07:09:00.000-07:00

"Design by Phoung My"

It’s been a long exhausting weekend, and now it’s back to the grind at work. I haven’t had my first cup of H2O yet (I don’t drink coffee), but I’ll try my best to stay awake and give you a quick recap of what went down over the weekend.

Unlike the average Joe, I kicked off my weekend on Thursday and attended the Women’s Mafia fashion show at Tela Design Studio in the Meat Packing district. This sold out event featured the top 3 winners of the “Are You Runway Ready” competition. People lined up shoulder to shoulder to catch a glimpse of the SS2011 designs of Phuong My, Dominique Auxilly and PRIESTESS NYC by Cody Ross.

Hands down I thought Dominique’s designs stole the show. Her fitted bodices, with flowing fabrics made every girl in the room swoon. I heard an outpour of women saying they wanted this dress or that…I even heard one fashion stylist say she’d love to get married in one of the dresses!

Here’s a look at one of my favorite Dominuque designs of the night:

Photos by Arthur Eisenberg

I hope you enjoy the looks as much as I did.

xoxo,

Mia

2010-09-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

FASHION ALERT EMAIL!!

MAY I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION PLEASE!! I want to tell you about your chance to snatch up an Olivia + Joy bag at over 50% OFF the retail price!! Here's what THE LUXURY SPOT has to say:

"It’s fall, and that means it’s time to update your wardrobe. We’ve got an ultra-cute bag from Olivia + Joy for only $34 with free shipping that normally retails for $78. Olivia + Joy is the line that celebs are going wild over for their trendy styles, and animal-friendly materials. You can rock this bag with leggings, jeans, heels, or some gorj mini dress that’ll make everyone jealous of your style.

Katherine McPhee was recently caught in her Olivia + Joy bag, and you’ve been seeing this line pop-up in Life & Style Weekly, AM New York, and NBC’s Today Show. We suggest scooping this one up fast because we have limited quantities, and the price is insanely low! Check out the full description here."

This is a steal! I'm already on The Luxury Spot's site ready to buy.

xoxo,

Mia

It's NYC SS2011 Fashion Week!!

2010-09-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

I'm baaaaaack. I know it's been ages since I last posted, but to be honest, I felt so ashamed of neglecting my site after I had started working full time again that I needed to go to blogger rehab.

But here I am 1 year later...My life is certainly different now - I'm working a 9-6pm job 5 days a week & still trying to maintain friendships and a social life after work. I didn't realize how zapped I'd feel after working 9-10 hr days (just because my hours are 9-6 doesn't mean I don't work free overtime). I often long for the old days of my fashionista ways i.e. running around the city day & night visiting showrooms, meeting designers, and eco-fashionistas like yourselves! It'd be nice to have my cake & eat it too, but let's be realistic, life doesn't really work like that...a girl's gotta pay her bills.

Don't be fooled however to think that I've been completely M.I.A. I'll definitely be out this week and next for the Spring/Summer 2011 Fashion Week here in NYC.

There are plenty of shows to attend, and even a few back stage appearances at the Metropolitan Pavilion next week for the Samantha Pleet show. I'll be getting the behind the scenes exclusive during the pre-show hairstyling sponsored by Amika. Celebrity and fashion stylist Michael Dueñas will be heading up the team, using Amika ceramic and tourmaline curlers and stylers as well as the Obliphica product line made from the magical healing fruit of the Sea Buckthorn!

All I can say is stay tuned...(and keep an eye out for me this week!)

xoxo,

Mia

5 Organic Foods you Should Eat

2009-07-23T11:48:00.000-07:00

Do you ever find yourself dazed and confused while staring at the shelves of the grocery store trying to figure out which organic foods you should buy? Let's face it, organic foods are not always affordable; some cost an estimated 10% - 40% more. So how can you determine which foods are the most important to buy "green"?

Eating these 5 organic things will go a long way toward protecting your body & our air and water from toxic chemicals:

1)Dairy

2)Lettuce (Fact - conventional lettuce has some of the highest levels of pesticides)

3)Apples (Fact - apples are the 2nd most commonly eaten fruit (after bananas), and rank high on the toxic pesticide list)

4)Marinara Sauce

5)Meat (ex. choose free-range beef)

Have a great weekend.

xoxo,
Mia

The Hip Side of Vegan – Affordable Sneakers with a Stylish Edge

2009-07-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

Did you ever imagine that you’d be able to find hip sneakers that are eco-friendly (vegan to be exact), well made and inexpensive?! Well believe it or not, they do exist – thanks to Autonomie Project! Check out this stylish pair of crisp white low-tops. These pristine white “ethletic” kicks are far from looking like “nurses shoes” (no offense). Made with 100% fair trade-certified organic cotton canvas uppers and an FSC-certified* natural rubber sole, these sustainable sneakers will have you walking in style for miles for only $54!

Autonomie Project is dedicated to helping communities around the world produce fashionable, vegan, sweatshop-free sneakers and wearable fashion/accessories. Autonomie’s sneaker line also includes edgy high-tops with hand-painted graffiti style art.

Check out Autonomie Project now to see what style suits your tootsies the best!

*FSC-Certified means the rubber was actually tapped from a tree in a well managed and growing forest instead of being made from chemicals like other rubber products.

Click here to read more about Autonomie Project.

xoxo,

Mia

Can’t take the Heat? Stay cool with Doie

2009-07-17T07:33:00.000-07:00

Me in my Doie dress.

When its sweltering hot outside like today and you’re feeling dewy, I suggest you get yourself some Doie.

Doie’s designs, created by Sara Krisner, are made from breathable earth friendly fabrics such as organic cotton, bamboo jersey and silk. Doie’s designs won’t disappoint. There’s something for every fashion conscious chick. Sara’s styles capture the essence of both coasts – East & West. Sara & her collection, Doie, were based in NYC for quite some time, but now they have found a new home in Los Angeles.

Aside from earning style points in my book, Doie’s collection made from bamboo jersey and organic cotton will keep you looking and feeling cooler. Bamboo’s breathable fabric can keep you 2 degrees cooler. Organic cotton is another great fabric to wear during the summer because it’s a natural lightweight fiber.

I don’t play around when it’s hot outside… If I have a choice to keep my core temperature 2 degrees cooler just by wearing bamboo, I’m all for it!

Check out Doie’s latest designs and read more about the designer and her inspiration behind her eco-fashion line.

Use the code spring30, for 30% off of the Los Angeles Collection.

xoxo,
Mia

Lotion Police – Here to “Repair & Protect” You

2009-07-16T06:14:00.000-07:00

PUMP, PUMP – that’s the sound I hear every morning when apply my daily dose of Sibu Beauty facial cream. All I do is pump 2 squirts of this light and non-greasy cream into my hand and apply. In just a matter of moments, I’ve got my face covered and protected.

Being the beauty junkie that I am, I have plenty of other face lotions lying around that I can use, but none really seem to compare to Sibu Beauty’s special paraben-free lotion. What makes Sibu Beauty’s facial cream unique is that it’s made from the “holy” sea buckthorn berry found high up in the Himalayas. This “magical” berry is packed with nutrients including:

· Omega 7 (3,6, & 9) fatty acids - which helps boost collagen production to battle the onset of wrinkles

· Vitamins & Minerals

· Antioxidants (carotenoids & flavanoids)

The custard color lotion has a pleasing citrus scent and is ideal for daily use. I apply it each morning and night after washing my face (typically with Sibu Beauty’s Cleanse & Detox Facial Bar). This facial cream has the strength of a SWAT team… “It creates the perfect barrier to moisturize, rejuvenate, repair and protect.” Plus, aside from being paraben-free, Sibu’s lotion is cruelty-free and contains NO dairy, yeast, wheat, gluten, sodium or preservatives.

Note - A little goes a long way... I’ve been using my Repair & Protect lotion religiously for over 3 months now and I’m only ½ way through the bottle. Visit Sibu Beauty today to learn more & get your own bottle.

XOXO,

Mia

A Simple, Inexpensive Modern Twist to Create a New Outfit

2009-07-14T08:13:00.000-07:00

Are you tired of your clothes, but can’t afford to spend time or money shopping for something new? Don’t fret; I’ve got a quick and simple solution for you... Go into your closet, pull out one of your favorite figure flattering dresses or skirts, and add a stylish new accessory to it like the Lina Rennell Wrap Belt.

This 100% organic cotton & linen blend belt is simple, timeless, and does wonders for cinching your waistline and defining your sexy curves. Plus, belts like Lina’s are an inexpensive way to spruce up any tired old outfit.

Visit Beklina.com to view Lina Rennell’s handmade belts. I guarantee you’ll love the modern twist her belts add to any outfit.

Enjoy your day!

xoxo,
Mia

Work & Play in Sexy Sustainable Wedges

2009-07-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

Want a shoe that’s perfect to wear in the office and then straight out the door to happy hour? I've got what you're looking for...the Olsen Haus Wit wedges. These natural linen microfibre sandals are ideal for any work/play combo. In my opinion, they’re kind of like the "mullet of shoes" (but in a good way, of course!).

The natural beige color and peek-a-boo toe captures the modern “business in the front” look, but as soon as you catch a glimpse of this wedge from the side, you’ll see that it’s all “party in the back” (thanks to the 1” electric pink wedge)! The Olsen Haus vegan wedges were definitely made for walking…Strut your stuff around the office all day, then head right out the door for a little fun in the sun with your friends. There’s really no need to put high heels on after a long workday. These low wedges give you just enough lift to make your butt look perkier and without tiring your feet out. You don’t need to worry about having stinky feet either. Linen is a fantastic natural fiber that breathes well. Between the peek-a-boo toe and its breathable fabric, the Wit will keep your tootsies cool and dry.

Check out more of Olsen Haus’ fabulous vegan styles @ Olsenhaus.com. I guarantee you'll find some sexy sustainable styles.

I'm heading to the beach now to catch some rays. :-)

Enjoy your day!

xoxo,

Mia

Toxic Free Home Remedies that Repel Pesky Bugs

2009-07-10T08:11:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh I can’t stop scratching these annoying mosquito bites on my legs! I’ve scratched them so many times now that they’ve now turned into giant red welts. I don’t own bug spray because I’ve heard nightmarish things about the chemicals they often contain, but I refuse to can’t confine myself to my apartment just because I’m afraid to be bitten again. Luckily for me I came across a few easy home remedies that will help me battle those blood thirsty suckers the next time I’m outside.

Here are a few toxic-free green suggestions to repel insects:

#1 Pepper Spray
This works great for ants and other small pests.

• Boil 2 or 3 cups of water.
• Add about ½ to 2/3 cup of chopped hot pepper. Let marinate for a few minutes.
• Run the mixture thru a sieve to remove the peppers.
• Put the liquid in a squirt bottle and use when necessary.
• Be careful not to spray directly on foliage.

#2 Pure Vanilla Extract

Dab a little on your wrists, neck and behind the ears. Many insects don’t like the smell.

#3 Chem-Free Bug Off Mist

• Mix witch hazel with a few drops of tea tree oil, lavender oil, or peppermint oil in a squirt bottle.
• Lightly mist your body.

You can also add one of these essential oils to an unscented organic lotion for a bug repelling moisturizer.

#4 Lavender Works Mosquito Miracles

Stop the bites!

• Rub a lavender flower behind your ears, wrists and neck.
• Not only will you smell great but mosquitoes will leave you alone.

If you’ve already been bitten & you’re dying to stop the itch, I suggest coating your bite marks with:

• A baking soda/water paste
• A paste of plain oatmeal (cooked)
• Rubbing alcohol
• Scotch tape - some people say to put pieces of tape over the bite marks & it stops the itch!

Enjoy the weekend and watch out for those pesky biters!

xoxo,
Mia

P.S. - Don't wear perfume! Bugs are attracted to the scent.

Don't Fry like an Egg - Try an Eco-friendly Sunscreen

2009-07-08T06:49:00.000-07:00

“Hellooo Maria. Pale is the new tan” says my girl Sarah. Ok ok…yes she’s probably right, I know it’s safer to stay out of the sun, but I can’t help myself. I look like Kermet the Frog when I don’t lay out on my lily pad and catch some rays.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. Almost 50% of Americans who live to the age of 65 will have skin cancer at least once. We rely on sunscreen to help protect our skin. But chemicals in conventional sunscreens have been linked to a host of health problems. For example, common ingredients in chemical based sunscreen (as opposed to mineral blockers) such as benzophenone, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate may mimic the hormone estrogen.

Luckily an eco-friendly solution exists. Mineral based sunscreens containing titanium or zinc seem to be a healthier option, and do not appear to contribute to coral bleaching (a significant problem occurring because of the sunscreen’s chemicals washing off in the water).

There really is no such thing as a “healthy glow,” but if you’re determined to scorch your skin in order to get some color, you should at least prepare for it. It’s important to pick a sunscreen equipped to protect us from harmful UV rays. It’s equally important to ensure that our sunscreen doesn’t contain any toxic ingredients, such as petrochemical additives (derived from petroleum) Petrochemicals are often found in moisturizers and can cause severe allergic reactions.

Here are some sunscreen choices that aren’t laden with suspicious-sounding chemicals:

Aubrey Organics Green Tea Protective Sunscreen – this sunscreen doesn’t contain any petrochemicals and protects the skin with titanium dioxide, a mineral that deflects burning UVB & UVA rays off the skin. Also, the organic green tea ingredient shields the skin from cancer-causing free radicals, and the organic shea butter ingredient keeps the skin well-hydrated. Available for $8.50 at www.aubrey-organics.com.

Also, our pals at Burt’s Bees make chemical free sunscreens.

Don’t be a fool and try kamikaze tanning (i.e. tanning with no sunscreen). Apply sunscreen before heading to the beach or park this summer & be safe.

xoxo,

Mia

Linen - It's Not Just For Miami Vice

2009-07-05T09:41:00.000-07:00

My ever so hip & sexy guest blogger, Elena a.k.a. EcoDiva, has provided me with some fashion insight that I unknowingly have been following long before my days of consciously living more sustainably. Read what Elena has to say about a sustainable fabric style that's cool & not just in a Miami Vice sort of way...
Mia's Photo:(Me wearing my linen shorts & Viper Black organic tee. See my big box of recycling in the background too?!)

Linen is another great green fiber that we've forgotten. Some of my favorite summer gear includes fabulous linen tie pants. And who among us has not coveted the perfect tailored linen jacket. If you are among the non-linen-wearing, I will now convert you and answer some of your burning questions about linen and EcoDiva fabulous clothing:

What is linen? Linen is the fabric obtained by using parts of the stem of the Flax plant.

What is the difference between flax and linen? “Flax” refers to the plant and the fibers (flax plant, flax seeds, flax yarn), whereas “Linen” applies to products made from flax (linen fabrics, linen clothing, linen tablecloths etc.)

Which part of the flax plant contains the fibers used to make linen? The flax fibers used to produce linen are contained in the central part of the stem of the plant.

Why is linen so highly regarded as a textile fiber? Linen is luminous, clean, soft and strong. The brightness of linen comes from the nodes in the fibers that reflect light and the fresh feel and scent of washed linen is a luxury for your body. Linen has traditionally played a leading role in fashion; nearly every designer has experimented with this fiber.

How is linen created? First the pulled flax plants are left in the field (“retting”) for a certain period of time, allowing the fibers to separate naturally. Then the process begins by “scotching”—a process that extracts textile fibers from the bark and separates them from the wood particles with crushing and breaking motions. Finally, the flax fibers are combed into smooth, even slivers that will be spun into yarn.

When did linen originate? Linen is one of the oldest textiles around. It dates back to ancient times, making it difficult to say exactly where and when it originated. Known since antiquity, flax
is the oldest textile fiber in the world. The earliest traces of its use date to 8000 B.C. when the Egyptians Pharaohs were wrapped in linen fabrics at burial because of the quality, natural nobility, and strength of the material. Linen reached Europe when the Phoenicians bought flax in Egypt and later exported it to Ireland, England and Brittany. Today European linen is the most treasured luxury fabric in the world.

Is linen eco-friendly? Yes! Flax needs very little chemical fertilizer to grow and once the fiber has been extracted from the plant, it supplies a number of useful by-products, including flax oil (used to produce soap, cosmetics, paints, printing inks etc.) and fibers (paper and even the American dollar contain flax fibers). Nothing is wasted. Now that’s got the EcoDiva stamp of approval.

JohnPatrickOrganic.com

UndertheCanopy.com

TheGreenLoop.com

OrganicSelections.com

Signing Off...EcoDiva
Learn more about Ethical Luxury and theEcoDiva at theEcoDiva.blogspot.com

2009-07-04T14:04:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!

Trader Joe's - Not so Friendly to our Friends of the Sea

2009-07-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

As a member of Greenpeace, I periodically get email updates from them informing me of what's going on with on in the environment & our waterways... Here's some surprising info that I read about Trader Joe's market. A little food for thought.

xoxo,
Mia

The email:

Traitor Joe here. I'm up to my eyeballs in red list seafood. My stores have so many red list fish on ice, that I’d bet there aren’t any left in the oceans. Seafood gets red listed if it’s fished using methods that harm ocean habitats or other critters, or because there just aren’t that many of the fish around anymore. But have I helped save them? Heck no!

Greenpeace released the third edition of their supermarket scorecard and Trader Joe's came in at the bottom of the list again (17 out of 20). Ouch! In fact, this is the third time Trader Joe’s scored as the worst of the national supermarket chains surveyed about sustainable seafood. Just call me your one-stop-shop for ocean destruction.

If ocean destruction bothers you, and you want Trader Joe’s to get out of the business of trading red list seafood, then visit my website traitorjoe.com, and do something about it. Send a singing fish telegram to Trader Joe's and tell them to stop destroying the oceans and passing the guilt onto their customers.

But, I hope you won't, though, because that way I can keep confusing my customers, all while turning a profit.

From the bottom of the barrel,

Traitor Joe

Manly Men & the Natural Products that make them look Hot!

2009-06-30T13:15:00.000-07:00

An alchemist can turn metal into gold, but Kaia House can turn your skin into pure radiance. Even scruffy Joe Schmoe can be transformed into a handsome gentleman… How you ask? It starts from the neck up. Indulge your hair and skin with Kaia House’s nourishing natural products that are both Safe and Effective, as well as Animal and Environmentally friendly.

If you haven’t been hiding under a rock these past few years, you’ve probably noticed that men are picking up on a lot of the beauty tips and regimens that women have been following for decades. Maybe you’ve even caught your man red handed dipping his fingers in your anti-aging night cream before! The truth’s out…men want in on the same great natural beauty/health care products that women have, but they want their own versions - MANLY versions.

I’ve found these “manly” products for men! And just to prove that I know they’re great, I had my friend Nick test them out before giving my seal of approval.

For the scalp: Kaia House Organics Peppermint & Tea Tree Shampoo

Nick said, “The shampoo smells great and feels really nice. It lathers up very well and I don't need much to get a lot of lather. It's also totally clear and that makes me feel like it's more natural and not full of chemicals.”

Kaia House knows how important it is to care about what we put on our bodies. That’s why this minty fragranced shampoo is sulfate-free and enhanced with Pro-Vitamin B5 that helps to strengthen brittle hair.

For the scalp: Kaia House Organics Green Tea & Rosehip Conditioner

Nick said, “I've never thought my hair really needed conditioner. It went in easily and rinsed out easily and left my hair feeling soft and smooth.”

Kaia House’s extra moisturizing conditioner leaves hair feeling silky and helps improve shine without weighing hair down.

For the face: Biotique Bitter Orange Nourishing Lotion for Men

Nick said, “The lotion is absolutely great. I think it smells nice and has a neutral odor that's not masculine or feminine. I definitely feel like it leaves my skin softer and fresher and has no oily feeling at all. I have a Vera Wang after shave lotion as well and I actually like this one better.”

BIOTIQUE's light moisturizing lotion nourishes the skin with natural Vitamins and is great for combating ingrown hairs from shaving.

Check out Kaia House to view their wide variety of men's, women's, and children's products.

xoxo,

Mia & Nick

“Face in a Case” Mineral Makeup

2009-06-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

Me & celebrity lifestyle blogger Micah Jesse @ Steve Nash's Party

I am without a doubt, a girl on the go. Ask anyone who calls or messages me, and they’ll tell you that I’m always making a mad dash from one place to another. My days start early and usually end late (sometimes even into the wee hours of the next morning). Life in the city can be unpredictable too. You never know where you might go or who you might bump into – After I left the cmarchuska trunk show @ The Green Room NYC last Wednesday, I ran into Fat Joe @ Milk Gallery and Steve Nash @ his party being held at Hudson Terrace. (It was an unexpectedly busy day – I even lost a shoe that night!) But the one thing I never worried about was how my face looked. Thanks to my Dieci Colori “Face in a Case” mineral makeup kit, I kept my face looking fresh and colorful.

Dieci Colori cosmetics make life easier for busy women like me, who are looking for a convenient and natural way to enhance their beauty. Marie Gaglioti, president of Dieci Cosmetics has designed an innovative cosmetics line (among others beauty & wellness product lines) that is simple, chic, and healthy for your skin.

Dieci Colori uses micronized minerals to protect and gently correct skin tones. The minerals have powerful light reflective properties that hide imperfections and reveal your skin’s natural radiance.

My make-up case comes complete with:
• Multi-colored Mineral Powder
• Mineral Matte Blush
• 3 Mineral Matte Eyeshadows
• Mineral Shadow
• Large Shadow Eyeliner
• Shadow Applicator/Blender Brush
• Lip Liner
• Lip Stick

This line offers an array of wearable, hypoallergenic formulas and classic shades. There is also a vast assortment of lipsticks, shadows, and eye and lip pencils featuring the latest colors. Plus, you’re not just limited to that… blend different shadow shades and blushes together to create your own unique colors!

Check out all of your color options and products at Dieci Colori.

xoxo,
Mia

Organic Baby on Board?!

2009-06-26T10:21:00.000-07:00

This little sailor is growing big & strong because he eats organic!

I think not. Or at least not until I find a good man & get married (something that might take me a lifetime to do. LOL) :-) Anyway, organic baby food may be an odd topic for me to write about since I don’t have children, but it’s still makes sense to me considering my best friend just had her 2nd child. It’s important that “Auntie Mia” knows what to feed the little bambinos when I go and babysit.

Here are some facts that Ideal Bite taught me about why it’s better to switch to ORGANIC – Trust me…Mother Nature & your baby will reap the benefits.

• A Tasty way to Health - Organic versions don't contain the fat, fillers, salt, and sugar you normally find in “regular” baby foods. And since those little munchkins like to eat non-stop (so they can grown strong & healthy), the toxins in conventionally grown foods (sprayed with nasty pesticides) will potentially cause them harm.

• Mounds of topsoil - Organic farming can produce 6 inches of healthy topsoil in as little as 50 years (it takes nature about 3,000 years to produce the same amount of topsoil).

• Do it Yourself & Save - Preparing your own baby food can save you major bucks. Something we all want to do during economic times like these.

Some Premade Options

• Jack's Harvest - organic purees in heart-shaped "cubes"; first stage includes yummy Papplesauce (peach, apple, and cinnamon). You can also try Tasty Baby or Gerber Organics

• Happybellies Dry Cereals - organic, mixed-grain cereals with probiotics; perfect for your baby's first venture with solid foods ($24/six 7-ounce canisters).

• Earth's Best Baby Food - organic jarred options tailored to your baby’s different developmental stages. ($5/six 2.5-ounce jars).

DIY Options

• Wholesome Baby Food - an online hub for baby food recipes and info.

xoxo,
“Auntie” Mia

My Memorable Organic Dinner

2009-06-25T09:07:00.000-07:00

You may have heard through the grapevine (via Facebook or Twitter) about the delicious dinner I cooked recently for some friends in Brooklyn… The cruddy weather had finally cleared up enough to be able to celebrate the onset of summer with some good eats & company. Friday night was my night to shine. I became Susie Homemaker/Chef “Boyar-Mia” and displayed my culinary skills to all.

The goal that night: show my friends how easy it is to cook a healthy meal & as JT would say, “bring sexy back” into the kitchen.

I whipped up a Mexican themed feast for about a dozen people. The menu included fresh ingredients from Whole Foods and locally grown fruits and vegetables from my neighborhood street vendor. I lugged about 20 lbs of groceries and a few kitchen accessories in 2 reusable bags.

For the appetizers, I served up organic baby carrots, humus dip, and cheese & crackers for everyone to nosh on while I slaved over the hot stove. For our entrée, I made organic chicken & beef tacos, homemade “dirty” rice with fresh vegetables, and sweet potato fries…Then came my killer dessert! I baked gooey brownies served with vanilla bean frozen yogurt topped with fresh blueberries & strawberries.

At times the counter got messy from all the chopping & dicing…but thankfully in my bag of supplies I had my new set of OK Kitchen accessories from Organic Pure Life. My OK Kitchen set included 2 kitchen towels, a dish cloth, and a pot mitt all made from 100% organic cotton ($26). What’s good about organic cotton is that it’s grown WITHOUT the use of harmful chemicals, pesticides and fertilizers. And the threads are colored with low impact dyes.

The towels were very absorbent for wiping up spills and drying dishes. My favorite accessory from the set though is the pot mitt! It’s very plush and created a protective shield so I wouldn’t burn my hand when I moved scalding hot pans in and out of the oven.

Check out the wide variety of personal & home products Organic Pure Life has to offer. And remember, you’re helping replenish and maintain soil fertility by going organic & sustainable in the kitchen. A healthy home = a happy planet!

xoxo,

Chef Mia

P.S. – I’m up for cooking again if someone supplies me with the space!

RYANN CLOTHING TRUNK SHOW AT GOMI NYC - Thurs 6/25

2009-06-24T09:47:00.000-07:00

Gomi NYC, the sustainable clothing and lifestyle store, is hosting a trunk show for the fashion forward women’s line, Ryann.

Come join me and a bunch of other fashionista's during this great shopping event! Here are the details you need to know...

When: Thursday June 25, 2009 from 5-8 pm

What: All of Ryann's current spring and summer pieces will be marked 10-15% off. In addition, for the trunk show event the entire store will be marked down 20%-50%.

Where: Gomi is located at 443 east 6th street between 1st Ave and Ave A

About: Ryann is made locally (here in NYC's garment district) from all sustainable fabrics. Gomi carries a wide assortment of local and international sustainable designers, as well as sustainable shoes, skin care products, house wares and gift items.

Good Eats: Wine and cheese will be served to all attendees as well as the chance to win a raffle prize.

Yummy! I love when I get to munch while I shop. Hopefully my sipping action doesn't show when I hit the volleyball court to play in my game afterward. hehehe

xoxo,
Mia

Preserve Razors – An Eco-Friendly Way to Shave

2009-06-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

Tired of staring at your itsy bitsy bikini or hip swim trunks just sitting on the closet floor?! Well get ready to wear them! The forecast claims we’re finally getting some bathing suit weather this weekend. The only question is… are you prepared?

Sometimes we’re in such a rush to get outdoors that it’s easy to forget things like your water bottle or even sunscreen, but there’s one thing you CAN’T FORGET to do…SHAVE your legs or possibly your hairy ape chest (I know some of you guys like to keep it clean and smooth).

Seriously, make sure you defuzz before rushing out the door to show off your hot bod at the beach or in the park. It’s easy to do with all the innovations in shaving, and now we’ve got an eco-friendly option too!

Pick up a Preserve® Razor and get silky smooth results without sacrificing performance. Preserve Razors have titanium-coated blades and a lubricated strip for comfort. The ergonomic handle makes it easy to grip and control even during the sudsiest showers.

The razor’s handle is made from 100% RECYCLED plastic, including, 65% of it from Stonyfield Farm’s yogurt cups, and lastly it’s fully recyclable! The blades are easy to replace and the packaging doubles as a reusable travel case which can be returned for recycling by using Preserve’s postage-paid label.

You can buy Preserve’s eco-friendly razors and other Preserve products online or stop by your nearest Target, Trader Joe’s, or Whole Foods to select them in person. They're pretty cheap too - I saw a 4 pack online for only $6.95. Enjoy the shave!

Features:
• Handle is made from 100% recycled plastic, including 65% from Stonyfield Farm® yogurt cups

• Titanium coated blades with Vitamin E and Aloe lubricating strip

• Replacement blades available in packs of 4

• Handle also works with Personna® Acti-Flexx® and Gillette® Sensor® blades

xoxo,
Mia

Super Discounts: Handbag Sample Sale in NYC!

2009-06-22T13:47:00.000-07:00

Listen up New Yorkers! You’re all invited to Jane Marvel’s first ever Sample Sale where merchandise will be up to 50% off!

Who: Jane Marvel handbags

What: Jane Marvel’s sustainable handbags are lightweight and made from laminated canvas (making them virtually waterproof – something we seem to desperately need with this weather we’ve been seeing) and have a polyester lining. All of the products are Vegan, which means that the handles and trim are NOT made from leather. PETA lovers will be happy with this I’m sure.

When: Tuesday, June 23^rd – Thursday, June 25^th from 10AM to 7PM

Where: 499 Seventh Avenue - 3 South, on the corner of W. 37^th – NYC

What’s it worth to you: Now is your chance to clutch your hands around on one of these fabulous eco-bags for a mere fraction of the retail price! My inside source has informed me that some items will go for as low as $5!! (the top of the price range won’t max $85) You can't beat those prices for these high quality bags.

It’s CASH ONLY – so make sure you swing by the bank on your way to Jane Marvel’s 1^st sample ever Sample Sale!

xoxo,

Mia

Stay tuned for some more info about other eco-fashion sample sales going on this week! You’re not going to want to miss out.

Organic with a Twist of Edge

2009-06-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

It’s funny how some people think just because I live uptown, that I must dress only like an “uptown girl” (think frilly skirts & sweater sets). In reality, I pride myself on being a fashion chameleon and having the ability to adapt and blend my style to fit my surroundings. With that being said, don’t expect to see me all dolled up in a fancy dress when I’m hangin’ in SoHo or the Lower East Side… Instead, you’re likely to see me in an outfit that’s got some modern edge. Cue Ryann (designed by Raina Blyer) into the picture - one of my favorite NYC based eco-brands known for its precise detailing and timeless looks that capture a “punch of downtown.”

Last night I was tasked with getting ready to meet a friend for dinner & a movie downtown, but the only problem was I didn’t know where we were actually going! Was I venturing to eat at a hole in the wall or one of the city’s most posh restaurants? I had to solve a fashion equation but I was missing some key factors. All I knew was:

I was headed to “downtown destination unknown” and needed a light jacket to battle the chilly air & rain, plus a look that would make me feel over or under dressed at the restaurant.

My wardrobe solution? I paired a hip colorful top with black skinny jeans, slipped my feet into some heels, and reached for "Mick" - my razor sharp, fitted black organic cotton motorcycle style jacket by Ryann. I love the sheen of the "Mick" jacket because it gives the appearance that it’s made from leather (without actually using leather or pleather). Plus, the seams are sewn in a way that cuts the body in all the right places, and the off-centered zipper and wide collar & lapels add extra style to this fashion forward must.

The question now is, did I solve the equation properly?! I think so… we ended up at Cafetasia for a tasty Thai fusion dinner & went to see a foreign flick @ Sunshine Cinema on Houston before heading over to Alphabet city for a nightcap at one of the local bars. My sexy biker eco-chic style fit the neighborhood perfectly.

xoxo,
Mia

Beauty Contest Deadline tomorrow!

2009-06-20T13:28:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I just wanted to remind you all that the Belegenza Hair Care contest ends tomorrow evening. Click on the link above and enter for your chance to win some great eco-beauty products! All you need to do is post a comment with your best eco-beauty tip.

xoxo,
Mia

Eco-Fashion Interviews & Photo Shoots

2009-06-19T10:38:00.000-07:00

This week I ran around NYC and Jersey (yes, that’s right – I said Jersey), to film footage for my upcoming videoblogs & more!

On Tuesday morning, I took my eco-fabulous self down to AuH2O (Kate Goldwater’s store in the E. Village – 84 E. 7th St.) and shot some footage with CNN! Kate had asked me to participate in a special feature they were doing about her and the new store and of course I couldn’t refuse. I had been planning to interview her on camera, but this time I really got a taste of what it’s like to be mic’d up & filmed by a “super camera.” (I made sure to touch up my makeup before the red light beamed & the HD lens caught a close up of me). We filmed me shopping in Kate’s store while I pulled a little double duty and interviewed her. (Stay tuned for the airing date).

Hanging in Astor Place - Just finished filming with CNN - rockin' my organic cotton dress by Ryann. (FYI -TEICH has this dress in colors!)

The next day I returned to Kate’s store for round 2 of filming, but this time I was capturing footage for my new blog site, Verde Chic, which will be launching in mid-July. (It’s been a long time coming and honestly I can’t wait!) The filming & running around never seemed to stop. After interviewing Kate, I popped into TEICH (next door) and snatched a few of Allison McGowan’s latest handbag designs.

My timing was impeccable. While I was perusing the rack of eco-clothes (FYI - TEICH sells clothing & jewelry in addition to handbags), I received a message that I was scheduled for a photo shoot with photographer Linda Strobert the next night at her studio in West Orange, NJ!

I began to trip a lil. Nobody had even told me about Thursday night's shoot... what was I going to wear?! I had a TEICH handbag as my accessory, but I couldn't just show up naked with a handbag! Maybe PETA would approve, but I highly doubt my parents would. ;-)

I saw Linda's photos of Donnie Klang from Diddy’s Making the Band 4, and I wanted to look as smokin’ as he did so maybe my picture could be framed and placed next to his.

Picking up the cmarchuska dresses @ The Green Room NYC. I love my Globo Bag from AGreenDay.org - it's a stylish & environmentally friendly way to protect garments.

Thankfully it took just 1 call to The Green Room NYC (where cmarchuska’s clothes are rep’d) and I got my hands on two new dresses. I hustled out to NJ last night for the shoot, and by the end of the day, I think I got some great shots. I can’t wait to share them!

xoxo,
Mia

Father's Day Gift Ideas

2009-06-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

I love my mom, but truth is I’m daddy’s little girl. :-)

I’m always telling everyone how cool my dad is…He’s incredibly artistic, very intelligent, super fun & very loving. My “pops on the rocks” as I’ve nicknamed him, is a well rounded guy. With that in mind, I know there are so many directions I can go with my gift options. It's actually hard to just choose one!

Here are some great eco-gifts you might want to consider this Father’s Day (Sunday, June 21^st). I came across them while I was reading an electronic (paperless - think saving trees) newsletter from Kiwi Magazine:

Athletic Dad - Give your golf-club swinging dad a new way to "hit the green" with 100% recycled Dixon Earth Golf Balls ($30). These new golf balls conform to USGA standards, and deliver the same distance and spin as traditional ones. The packaging and balls are made from 100% recycled materials. They’re the perfect gift for an eco-savvy Dad.

On the Run Dad – My father doesn’t have a cell phone (strange I know), but in this day & age, almost everyone’s dad has a smart phone or some other techy gadget (i.e. BlackBerry, iPod, or GPS). For a dad who’s always on the go running from meeting to meeting, why not buy him the Solio Hybrid 1000 Solio Charger ($80)? He can use this solar charger anywhere—just one hour in the sun will give him about 15 minutes talk time or 40 minutes of MP3 music.

Green Thumb Dad – Does your dad love to fiddle around in the yard and garden? Surprise him with Gardener’s Supply Company's Organic Tomato Success Kit ($70), which has everything he needs to grow his own organic crop. What sets this system apart from others is its self-watering capabilities—less work for Dad!

Show your father how much you love and appreciate him by giving him an eco-gift this year.

xoxo,

Mia

Free Play Tickets to see Anne Hathaway Perform!

2009-06-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

Ok…so I realize the weather hasn’t really been cooperating lately, but there are bound to be some hot days in the mix, and when there are, I’ve got a FUN & FREE activity for you to do rather than sitting cooped up with the A/C on!

Did you know that indoor central air produces 4.8 pounds of CO2 per hour?! Not only is the A/C killing our environment, but I bet it's also killing your bank account. My suggestion is you and a comrade (your roommate, a date, your best friend) step out into the fresh, breezy nighttime air and see a hilarious Shakespeare play in Central Park. Romance is in the air! :-)

From now until July 12th, turn your A/C (and the boob tube) off and head over to the park to catch an open-air theater production of the Twelfth Night staring Anne Hathaway (the Devil Wears Prada fashionista). The play is a comedy about a girl dressing up as a boy who falls in love with a guy.

Tickets are limited and you can only get them at Central Park’s outdoor Delacorte Theater the day-of (max. 2 per person). Here’s the info:

Twelfth Night at Shakespeare in the Park; Tuesdays-Sundays, 8 pm through Jul. 12; The Delacorte Theater, 81 Central Park W. Tickets issued day of show, starting at 1 pm.

And get this…if 10,000 New Yorkers were to turn off their A/C (and TV) and head out to the play (or just out of the house), it'll have the same CO2-reducing effect as planting 43 trees! That’s a green thought I like.

xoxo,
Mia

The Pigeon & Me – A fight for my bag

2009-06-14T07:36:00.000-07:00

Forget The Taking of Pelhem 123 (which by the way is a great movie to see, especially if you’re a New Yorker), let’s talk about Pigeon 234: The taking of my hall!

I grabbed my new Cork Design handbag and was rushing down the stairs yesterday; when suddenly I froze dead in my tracks. I had just come face to face with a pigeon hanging in my stairwell. I was terrified. What if I scare him and he tries to peck my eyes out?! I didn’t know if he’d be like Hitchcock’s crazed flock.

I shrieked like a little girl and tried to shoo him away with my cork button sling bag, but what I really needed was a sling shot. My swinging bag didn’t seem to threaten him at all. In fact, I swear I could see a twinkle in his eye as the bag swung near his head. He was eyeballing my bag as if he wanted to get his talons on it. Then it became apparent to me. He was obviously looking for a tree to perch on, and my bag was the closest thing to it.

It didn’t matter how badly he wanted to perch himself on my bag’s shoulder strap. I’m not a pirate and he certainly wasn’t my parrot.

There’s a history behind the birth of my bag and no way was I giving it up! My feather lite bag was handmade in Portugal before making its way to NYC. It came from a cork tree that took 20-25 years to mature before its bark could first be harvested. Then, it had to wait another 9 years before it could be removed again & it only gets harvested 3 times in its life (before damage occurs to the tree).

My organic bag went through a long process to get here and it’s precious to me. Come fire or water – I know we’ll make it out together because it’s resistant to both! Plus, if I ever get it dirty, all I need to clean it with is a little soap and water.

Check out the variety of styles and cork patterns you can get YOUR next bag in. My button sling bag has the tiger pattern. The envelope bag is another one of my design favorites.

xoxo,

Winner

Panning for Gold in the East Village

2009-06-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

Hmmm the Blogger Hounds must be out and barking because FireFox is in hiding in a hole and won't come out to load my site properly so I can post comments. For all of you who are wondering where Kate's AuH2o store is located, you can find it at 84 E. 7th St. near the corner of 1st Ave. in the East Village. It's right next door to TEICH - another chic eco boutique that I recommend checking out.

xoxo,

Mia

A Hipster's Gold Rush Uptown

2009-06-11T20:25:00.000-07:00

Designer Kate Goldwater & me

I’m getting back into the groove of things and as Mickey D’s says, “I’m lovin’ it!”

Tonight was a special night…it was a night filled with a bunch of firsts for me. It was the first time I wore my adorable Andy Top by Ryann (I'd been dying for an occasion to wear this tank), the first time I’ve ever been able to stroll out of my apartment and walk 20 feet to an event (an eco-fashion event at that!), and the first time I got to meet Kate Goldwater (eco-designer & owner of AuH20 boutique) in person!

I feel like a lucky girl – I hit the jackpot tonight.

When I found out that Kate was hosting an eco-fashion show on the Upper East Side (sooooo far uptown in the midst of all the 2nd Ave. construction – smack dab where my lucky-ol tush lives), I knew I had NO excuse for not being there. Besides, it’s eco-fashion, my eyes were burning for a peek.

Kate threw the event to celebrate the opening of her new boutique in the East Village, but I was so happy that she brought the eco-fashion love to my hood. The music was funky just like Kate’s fun and sexy designs. I was thrilled to see that her clothes are designed for women with REAL bodies – curves - or as Fergie says, “lovely lady lumps.” I was also pleasantly surprised to learn that Goldwater’s hand-sewn clothes don’t cost a fortune even though her last name might imply otherwise.

My guess is her core audience is college students looking for some hip original pieces (which are everything in Kate’s collection) with some LES/E. Village flare, but this uptown girl definitely wouldn’t mind rockin’ a few AuH20 styles. I think I’ll be paying a visit to Kate’s new boutique mighty soon. Plus, my girl Allison next door at Teich told me the other day that she’s got some fantastic pieces of recycled jewelry – perfect for any girl with any style. Basically I’m guaranteed to find something in this store that I like…and if for some crazy reason I can’t, I can always bring in some old clothes I don’t wear anymore and ask her to sew me up something new! I’ve heard this girl is a sewing wizard. ;-)

I had so much fun tonight and all the people I met were great! I can't wait for another event like this one.

xoxo,
mia

Contest Giveaway Instructions!

2009-06-10T09:18:00.001-07:00

WIN your own samples of Belegenza Shampoo & Deep Conditioning Treatment (plus a few other secret eco goodies) by doing the following:

1) ADD yourself as a Sexy Sustainable Style FOLLOWER or include your name & email address (so I can figure out who you are if you win - FYI - it's probably easier to just become a follower) and read the new “Luscious Hair the Belegenza Way” post below written by our guest blogger Sarah. (Follow me on Twitter and Facebook too if you want to continue to get updates on more contests & giveaways).

2) Post a COMMENT to the article with your best “green” beauty tip and briefly explain in a few sentences or less why you recommend it...

CONTEST DEADLINE - We will be accepting comments for 1 week until 10pm EST on Wednesday, 6/17. The comments will be reviewed by a panel of judges and the follower with the best “green” beauty tip will be crowned. The WINNER will be announced on Friday, 6/19.

I can’t wait to hear what your favorite green beauty routines are!

Good luck!

xoxo,

Mia

Luscious Hair the Belegenza Way – Contest Giveaway!

2009-06-10T09:04:00.000-07:00

Sexy eco words from Sarah...

After the births of both of my two children, it seemed to me that my hair became thinner and was falling out much more than normal. Was I going crazy as a result of some kind of postpartum delirium? Where were my thick, fast-growing locks (one of the few cosmetic benefits of pregnancy) that I enjoyed so much? After talking to a few other moms and doing a little research, I found out that when a woman is pregnant, your hair actually grows more quickly than usual. It can even become shinier and more lustrous due to the hormonal changes involved and all the healthy things we force ourselves to eat for 9 months.

But my super model hair did not last long after giving birth, and after a few short months, it began falling out at an alarming rate. Now, I don’t want to scare anyone out of motherhood, I am not talking about bald spots or peek-a-boo scalp, or anything like that. But trust me, I could tell the difference… Enough so, that I started buying many different brands of hair care products, all of which promised to restore my hair to its pre-mommy state and bring back the shine and body. I was filled with excitement when I was given the chance to try out two Belegenza hair care products. I chose their GrowOut Shampoo and Strengthener and DraMatic Daily Volumizing Conditioner. I have been using the salon-quality shampoo and conditioner for a little over a month now and seen great results!

The Belegenza hair care line is unique because the ingredients are natural and thus safer for the body and our environment. Plus, Belegenza products are free from many of the chemicals found in traditional shampoos and conditioners (such as parabens, phthalates and silicone). The company is also committed to eco-friendly packaging and shipping.

According to the Belegenza website, The GrowOut Shampoo that I have been using is effective for growing new hair because it is without the harsh chemicals that can literally “suffocate” your hair over time. In theory, when the hair is healthier, there is less breakage and the hair will grow faster.

A pretty green color, the GrowOut Shampoo has a light, fresh smell that is neither artificial-smelling nor fragrance-y. Although the product does not foam up as much or as fast as traditional, store-bought shampoos, it still produces a nice, soft-feeling lather. The DraMatic Daily Volumizing Conditioner is for fine hair, like mine, and contains vitamins and anti-oxidants to bring out more body in your hair. I can definitely tell that my hair is softer and shinier after using both the products and I love the smell!

Because the products are all-natural, they are gentle enough for my seven-year-old daughter to use. My daughter also has fine hair that she too has been trying to grow out, and I can’t wait to see if the Belegenza products will make a difference. In the meantime, her hair looks bouncy and feels so soft. Because of Belegenza’s commitment to the environment and their reasonable prices, they are now a must-have on my list of beauty products. Not just for girlie-girls, I recommend Belegenza for the whole family.

xoxo,
Sarah

Vitamins Shmitamins…Here’s my honest opinion

2009-06-09T08:54:00.000-07:00

You’ve probably heard of Vitamin Shampoo or seen one of their many commercials on TV. Well I recently had the opportunity to try their Acai Berry & Guava shampoo and I’ll tell you, I wasn’t impressed. I’ll rate the product an A for smell – the exotic fruity berry did smell deliciously awesome, but I was truly disappointed when I applied the shampoo to my head. Vitamin Shampoo is paraben free and sulfate free which has important health benefits, but I felt like I had to squirt practically half the bottle to my head in order to get enough lather to wash my scalp and coat the hair to its ends. My hair is barely shoulder length, so why should I need to use a half dollar amount?! It may be infused with vitamins and antioxidants, but if you keep using this product the way I had to, you’ll soon find yourself with an empty bottle and running to the store for more. Why create more waste and spend more money buying another bottle, when you can just buy a shampoo that gives you great results for less?!

My girl Sarah discovered a new hair care line that works wonders for her hair…stay tuned tomorrow (5/10) to see what she’s recommending for her entire family. You’ll also have the chance to WIN a FREE sample for yourself!!

xoxo,
Mia

Green tip of the day...

2009-06-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

Have too many newspapers piling up around your house?

Here's an idea for what you can do with them...

Take them to a local animal shelter. They can be used as potty pads and line the bottoms of the animals crates and more.

Ahh the World of Twitter & it's Tweet Surprises

2009-06-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

I’m still a novice when it comes to using Twitter…I’m like the little kid who jumps up and down when he discovers that the circle block fits through the circle hole. I’m excited when I make discoveries (seemingly insignificant to most “tweet” pros at this point) that will benefit others. This morning I rolled out of bed, tapped my iPhone’s Twitter app, and began updating my SexySustainable (fly my way) status when a “follower’s” new tweet caught my attention. The tweet was music to my ears – a shopper’s delight! Get 20% off when you shop @ Project Green Label and use the code DIANA at check out.

Project Green Label has a few cute basics for men, women, and babies. It’s a young clothing line whose designers are on a mission to create environmentally friendly “threads,” while educating others on how to live greener and then benefits of doing so. I might have an opinion or two about some of the models they used in their photos, but I think the site is worth looking at, especially if you can get eco-fashion at a discount. Something I think we all can appreciate during times like these!

Project Green Label steers clear of conventional textiles such as “regular” cotton (sprayed with tons of toxic pesticides) and synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester (which are derived from petroleum – aka oil). Instead, the fabrics they use include bamboo, hemp, recycled cotton and organic cotton. Project Green Label also has a partnership with The Arbor Day Foundation, and a portion of their profits are donated so new trees can be planted!

Check them out quickly and save yourself 20% if you find anything you like.

Enjoy your day!

XOXO,
Mia

P.S. - Please let me know if there are any other sales we can all benefit from!

Paint Me Pretty, Skip The Car Paint and Fumes

2009-06-05T06:15:00.000-07:00

The EcoDiva's post couldn't come at a better time...I'm looking down at my nails right now and the chipped polish is screaming at me to come off and be repainted. Let's read what Elena has to recommend.

Practically growing up in a beauty salon led me to believe that the smells of the salon equaled getting beautiful. Nobody ever told me that those smells I was inhaling had the power to do some serious damage.

Today, we know better and have the options to paint our nails with something other then, well, the equivalent of automobile paint and formaldehyde.

Until I had a baby, there was rarely a day that you would find my nails naked. After years of polishing and buffing, my nails were oh so pretty on the outside, but yellow and brittle underneath. Once I (was forced to) stopped wearing nail-polish, and let my nails go au natural (ok, this was not so much fun for the EcoDiva used to being polished and pressed) my nails actually had a chance to breath and turn back to a color that I did not recognize...skin color.

Now that I have more time to focus on my nails (still not as often as I used to), I don't have to bear to go bare any longer. Today, there are some fabulous nail companies creating colors that coat, last and don't contain that nasty tri-fecta of ingredients we ought to avoid: Dibutyl Pthalate, Formaldehyde and Toulene – This trio can stay in your system and generate internal toxicity.

Here are some great polishes to try :

Zoya: Not entirely free of chemicals, at least using nail polish alternatives such as Zoya if you must have gorgeous, well-groomed nails, ensures that you’re not absorbing the worst offending ingredients. Not only are they the longest wearing natural nail lacquers, but they come in over 60 luscious, fashion forward colors. (from FutureNatural.com). The one in the picture, Malia, is currently rocking out on my toes!

Honeybee Gardens
Waterbased Nail Enamels - Singles
French Manicure Kit
Odorless Polish Remover

Suncoat Naturals
Waterbased/Solvent Polish Remover

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva
Check out more amazing Ethical Luxury finds at EcoDiva.blogspot.com

Burt's Bees 25th "Burt Day" Party Giveaways!!

2009-06-03T12:14:00.000-07:00

Have you heard the BUZZ around town?! Burt’s Bees is hosting a “Burt Day” party, and YOU’RE ALL invited!

This year, Burt’s Bees is celebrating its 25-year commitment to The Greater Good, Earth-friendly products, natural ingredients and environmental sustainability. To kick off their celebration, Burt’s Bees is bringing the “Burt Day” festivities to the web (like right here at Sexy Sustainable Style). This party is gonna be rockin’ til June 20th!!

They’ve got a great interactive online experience I just had to share. Learn some fun facts & celebrate everything that makes Burt’s Bees a leader in natural personal care… i.e. their effective natural formulas, Earth-friendly ingredients and packaging, and respect for all beings.

Burt's Bees fun fact:

Do you love to party?!… Here’s your chance to participate in Burt’s Bees Exclusive 25th Anniversary Giveaway & Join in the Fun! Act fast & you might be the lucky one to get your hands on some awesome Burt Day Presents!

• In keeping with the tradition of giving back, Burt’s Bees will be giving away 25,000 lip balms online until June 20th. They’re giving away 1,000 balms a day…Click here now to enter for your chance to receive a free lip balm.

(PLEASE NOTE - The giveaway starts anytime between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. EDT, but no one knows exactly when! To equal the odds and give you the fairest chance at a free balm, Burt’s Bees randomized the giveaway to start anytime between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. EDT. It could be anytime. For instance -- it may be 9:15 AM one day, 10:25 AM the next, or 11:51 AM the day after! It’s like the lottery! None of us knows when you’ll be able to enter to win… that's what makes it so much fun! And if you don't get it one day, you'll get your chance another. The balm giveaway goes through June 20, 2009.)

• Burt’s Bees will be giving away 1,000 FREE lip balm coupons good on your favorite balm — Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil, Honey, or Beeswax—mailed directly to your address. Click here now for your chance to enter.

I hope you're all one of the thousands that get to enjoy some great Burt's Bees goodies! Check out the Burt Day video at the bottom of the page too.

xoxo,
Mia

Tranquil Natural Bath & Body Products for my Recovery

2009-06-02T11:00:00.000-07:00

You’ve probably noticed that I’ve been under the radar lately… I’ve been laying low since last Thursday trying to recover from having my 4 impacted wisdom teeth yanked out. I don’t mean to scare anyone, but the pain has been excruciating. The meds I’m on have done diddly squat and my face is still unrecognizable whenever I catch a glimpse of my reflection in the mirror. Fortunately, I’ve been able to take refuge at my parents’ house in PA and rest. So I left the glitz & glamour of the big city behind and packed very little for this trip knowing that I wouldn’t be getting out much. I did however pack a few travel bag essentials that I’m so grateful to have at a time like this…

What were those goodies in my bag?

Paula Van Dyck’s handmade Bath and Body Naturals products! As she does for all of her customers, Paula personally made me two of her natural body mist sprays (Tranquility & Sensual) and her Aloe and E body wash gel (Synergy Citrus).

I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoy using these products. Whenever I feel flustered or discomfort, I close my eyes, spritz my face with Tranquility, and breathe in deeply. I concentrate on finding inner balance and peace as I smell the light aroma of lavender, ylang ylang & chamomile essential oils. Although the mist’s scent lasts briefly (no toxic chemicals are used), I find that 2-3 sprays are just enough to get me refocused and calm again.

In addition to my sprays, I couldn’t leave home without my bottle of Synergy Citrus body wash. A little drop of this refreshing glycerin based gel goes a long way and definitely lifts up my spirits. My face may feel like it just got punched by Mike Tyson, but at least my body smells great & feels silky smooth and moisturized thanks to the Aloe & Vitamin E ingredients. Lather up with a loofa to wash away dead skin cells or use it as a shave gel… I promise Synergy Citrus body wash will always cheer you up & keep you feeling clean.

Bath and Body Naturals’ products are AFFORDABLE and ALL NATURAL which means no synthetic detergents, animal ingredients, or preservatives are used. Paula only uses 100 % pure essential oils, high quality fragrance oils & natural colors.

Here’s what Paula has to say in her own words: “I have never had one customer complaint in all the years I have been in business. My number one priority is customer satisfaction. If it isn't right, it gets made right. Another successful move I have made over the years is to listen to customer inquiries. When people e-mail me and ask for something special or custom, I usually can accommodate their needs. I have found a real niche in supplying customers with unscented products. It's amazing how many people have allergies, don't like scents, or have post medical needs from having chemo and radiation, for example.”

Visit Bath and Body Naturals today. I love their products and I think you will too.

xoxo,

Mia

P.S. - I'll take any suggestions on how to make the pain and swelling in my mouth go away!

Green 4 Life With a Little Pink Water Bottle

2009-05-31T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone...Here's a new post from Elena Lipson, the amazing EcoDiva. She's been my green angel this week swooping in and saving the day with her informative posts while I recover from having all 4 wisdom teeth extracted. Let's see what great info she has for us this week!

Over the last several years, we have all learned about the long term damage that plastic causes to our environment. According to the CRI - Container Recycling Institute, 'Each day in the US more than 60 million plastic water bottles are thrown away. Most end up in landfills or incinerators, and millions litter America’s streets, parks and waterways." This is quite a wake-up call and should make each one of us pause a moment before grabbing the next bottle of Fiji. Unless you are an avid recycling genius, there must be a better path for us than choosing an item we will use for a few minutes then inevitable toss.

In my own home, I have a filter in my fridge and a portable pitcher filter that I fill and use several times a day. I utilize these two filtration systems to fill up our stainless steel bottles before leaving the house. The problem I've found in filling the bottles at home is that when I'm out and about, I am out of luck.

I have to admit that I've been guilty of buying plastic bottles in a pinch. I've been told how clean the county drinking water is, but I guess I've become a bit picky about wanting filtered or spring water whenever possible.

Recently, a great new product caught my eye a few months back and last month that makes perfect sense. A beautiful pink bottle arrived in my mailbox and made me very happy. The amazing thing about this lovely pink , seemingly normal stainless steel bottle (besides the great color) is that hidden inside, is it's very OWN FILTER!!

The facts from the company: 'ECOUSABLE INC. introduces Ech20, a 25 ounce stainless steel water bottle with a built in filtration system. It utilizes EcoUsable's proprietary ionic adsorption micro filtration system, which eliminates more than 64 contaminants. Each 25 oz. 304 food grade stainless steel water bottle is non-leaching, BPA-free, reusable, lightweight, and taste-neutral.

The Ionic-Adsorption Micro-Filtration System is an entire water filtration plant within a portable bottle. The patented Ionic-Absorption Micro-Filtration reduces up to 99.99% of the following zones of contamination:

* Aesthetics: unpleasant taste, odor, clarity, chlorine, sand, sediment and Radon 222.
* Biological: Pathogens such as cryptosporidium, giardia & other cysts and spores.
* Chemicals: toxic chemicals, detergents, pesticides and other harmful industrial and agricultural wastes.
* Dissolved Solids: heavy metals such as aluminum, asbestos, copper, lead, mercury and others.

Now I don't have to worry about running out of water. I do have to wait a few seconds as the water filters. But that hasn't seemed to be a huge deal. One thing I would change is the straw attachment which is the only way to drink the water from the bottle. While it's easy to use and flip up as needed, I found it to leak a bit. Barring this one correction, I think this idea is AMAZING and will save many, many plastic bottles from lingering in a landfill thanks to your truly.

Check them out for yourself....https://www.ecousable.com/store/store.php/products/Metallic-Red-Filtered-Stainless-Steel-Water-Bottle--25oz {https://www.ecousable.com/store/store.php/products/Metallic-Red-Filtered-Stainless-Steel-Water-Bottle--25oz}

Here are some more amazing features of the ECH2O:

* removes up to 99.99% of pollutants as you drink
* drink from tap water, streams, rivers, lakes and pools
* emergency preparedness survival bottle
* filters everything but salt water
* 100 gallon capacity - 378 liters
* replaces up to 757 half liters of bottled water
* safe alternative to plastic
* high-quality food grade 304 L.N. stainless steel
* durable, lightweight, reusable and 100% recyclable
* BPA Free
* non-leaching & toxin-free
* no inner lining, clean tasting
* non-slip base
* holds 22 fluid ounces (650 ml) with filter inserted

Enjoy!

Signing off...EcoDiva
Check out more amazing Ethical Luxury finds at EcoDiva.blogspot.com