Shop Like You Give a Damn: New York Fashion Week Top 5 Vegan Looks

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Lela Rose

Can Vegans be stylish?

I had a nice chitty chat chat with a near and dear friend the other day who also bore the scars from the grueling student and nightlife lifestyle we shared in NYC several years back (and no, I won’t tell you exactly how many….)

She was prepping to work the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week circuit for the public relations company she works for and was sharing all the dirt on what was in store. Need I also mention she stated that The Green Shows that bring luxury and offer ethical fashion are one of the fastest growing segments at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week?

I must admit I sometimes envy the fast she stayed in the concrete jungle while I headed down south, but our conversation ignited vegan and Southern pride as she literally salivated from all the buzz about Nashville’s culture uprising.

She was thrilled about our second annual Nashville Fashion Week and that’s coming from a snarky New Yorker.

I, however, was absolutely wowed by her run-ins with Grace Coddington, Diane Von Furstenburg and Rihanna, but she was more incredulous that her former label-whore sidekick (that would be me) had gone vegan on her!  “Don’t you miss Jimmy Choo or Balenciaga sample sales?” or “You can’t say you got rid of everything with leather materials right? What about that burgundy Chloe satchel that you treated yourself to?” I just had to laugh and say, “Hell. Yes. I. Did.”

Just in time for NYFW, I led her to this informative and compelling video hosted by revered fashion designer and animal activist Stella McCartney. Please join me in exploring the huge variety of fashionable shoes, belts, purses and wallets that aren’t the product of a cow’s violent death.

My darling Kate, this blog’s for you! X. O.

Here are my top 5 (well, 6…it was a tie for #5) selections from the runway:

5. Rachel Zoe

Zoe does faux and texture comes alive!

5. Mara Hoffman

Mayan and meteorite patterns make our world go round.

4. Betsey Johnson

Menswear with a hint of whimsy makes for the perfect outfit to do cartwheels in.

3. Samantha Pleet

Gold halos don’t distract from the Romanticism.

2. Lauren Moffatt

You learn in school, that it’s all about the presentation.

1. Libertine

Retooling vintage threads into glamour excess is nothing short of spectacular!

What were your favorite shows and presentations?

See you all next Sustainable Sunday!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Ashley Hylbert Photography.

Shop Like You Give a Damn: Rebel with a Cause – Margaret Ellis

I was introduced to the alluring Margaret Ellis through a mutual friend at an event and recalled thinking, “This woman has a compelling story. I just know it.” I’m no Ms. Cleo, nor do I regularly attempt to look into a crystal ball to see what the future holds, but… I just knew.

I was well aware of Margaret’s flourishing jewelry business of 28 years. Margaret Ellis Studio boasts both a wholesale division and a thriving retail location in Nashville’s chic and historic Cummins Station building. What I didn’t know is Margaret is a loud and very proud animal rights activist who chose the veg-life in 1967 and hasn’t looked back since.  I recently had the fabulous experience of enjoying a delicious vegan meal at her home with her still smitten husband and business partner of over 30 years, Fred, and the one and only Pinky!

Who isn’t smitten with Pinky?

Here’s my interview and the reason why Margaret is my special Valentine:

SLYGAD: Share your story on what motivated you to choose a vegan lifestyle. What hurdles did you face since you chose to do this before it was really supported by businesses and consumers?

Margaret: I became a vegetarian in 1967–before almost anyone (especially in Nashville) was into it. I was strictly motivated by animal issues. I just decided that if I couldn’t kill it, I had no business eating it. The hurdle has always been just finding something to eat, especially in restaurants.  I had a whole lot of salads and baked potatoes. During the time between 1967 and 2008, I went through a few periods where I broke down and ate fish.  That always bothered me, so I made a decision to never do that again after visiting a market and seeing live fish crowded into a tank.  It really disturbed me.  I became vegan in 2009, and feel it is a permanent change.  I just realized that dairy is bad for me and presents a very unhappy situation for the animals involved.

Margaret + Pinky

SLYGAD: How has animal rights changed your life and how has it inspired your work?

Margaret: I have been into this for so long I don’t know how it has changed my life, I think it has just been my life.  I’m not sure how it has inspired my work.  I think that compassion inspires everything that a person does.

Quite simply, my favorite piece in this collection. Hope my Valentine sees this post.

SLYGAD: Who are some of your style muses?

Margaret: Madonna is a huge favorite of mine.

The egg pendant on this necklace is divine.

SLYGAD: I don’t challenge that choice at all, especially after that Super Bowl performance.  What current trends bring you glee? Make you shudder?

Margaret: I absolutely hate fur.  It makes me very unhappy to see someone wearing it. However, I am into Rodarte.

The perfect necklace to layer and switch up your look. Look at all the detail!

SLYGAD: Even us ladies in the fashion industry love to nosh, what are some dining establishments and foods that are worth each and every calorie?

Margaret:  Locally, I love Cha Chah. Arnold Myint is never frustrated by my veganism, and I have had some wonderful meals there.  In New York, I like Spring Street Natural and Gobo.

Thanks Margaret!

To check out Margaret’s beautiful collection, stop by her Cummins Station store or shop online.

Before I sign off, I must wish my tiny Valentine and muse for becoming an animal activist, Chico, a very Happy 12th Birthday! I adopted him from the Humane Association nine years ago and my life has been full of joy and unconditional love ever since. Remember to show compassion and love to your furry friends on Tuesday.

Chico Ming

See you all next Sustainable Sunday!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Ashley Hylbert Photography.

Shop Like You Give a Damn – Fresh Gear from Nooworks

“It Costs A Lot Of Money To Look This Cheap” Dolly Tee – $30.00

I have been crushin’ on Nooworks, an ethically sourced urban apparel and accessories brand, since I first met them at Project Apparel Market in Vegas a few years back. Their fun aesthetic, fresh perspective and reasonable price points have kept me smitten.

Jennifer D’Angelo founded Nooworks in the summer of 2004 after launching a successful line of t-shirts inspired by her dog, Noo Noo. The company has grown organically, each season riffing on new ideas. This season’s riffs include denim, outerwear, jewelry, sunglasses and much more. All are designed and manufactured in the San Francisco Bay Area using organic and other green materials whenever possible.  Nooworks is handmade in California at a very reasonable price point.  That just doesn’t happen very much anymore. Here are a few of my favorite pieces.

Finally the perfect frock to wear with your sh*tkickers! Made in the U.S. of A, baby.

Country Star dress – $108

Do you still have a point to prove even in your dreams?

Nooworks Pillows – $34

 

Yea, whatever he said…

“Eat Right” – $30

As if these price points weren’t enticing enough, Nooworks is offering a special Stella Shops discount. Use the code ‘ShopLikeYouGiveADamn‘ when you check out online and receive 25% off your order! Now that’s a snazzy deal. Thanks Nooworks!

See you next Sustainable Sunday!

XOXO,

Marcia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Ashley Hylbert Photography.

Shop Like You Give A Damn – Meet Liz Lovely & Win A Sweet Treats Package!

Cowgirl Cookies – Chocolate Chip like Cookie Dough – 1 pack of 2 cookies – $3.99

Liz Lovely brings you cookies with a higher purpose. As Liz puts it, “Authenticity from start to finish. That means an uncompromising commitment to perfection, and a relentless approach to social responsibility. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t prioritize profits over people or the planet.”

Liz Lovely Goals

1. Make real food using 100% natural ingredients.

2. Create good jobs that promote healthy & balanced lifestyles.

3. Bring hope & joy to people living without dairy, eggs, and wheat.

4. Promote cruelty-free living by being a certified vegan bakery.

5. Use green packaging alternatives as much as possible.

 

Liz Lovely + Cowboy Dan

Many times when I first mention vegan and/or gluten free cookies to non-believers, they roll their eyes at the thought. Must I admit there are some less than desirable options out there? Sure. But, aren’t there less than tasty versions of cookies made from milk, eggs, butter, and gluten too? Absolutely. You just have to find the brand, baker, or beg mom, to make the kind that puts a smile on your face and some extra lbs on the scale.

 

Gluten Free German Chocolate Cake Cookies – Fudge, Walnuts, and Coconut – 1 pack of 2 cookies – $3.99

Peanut Butter Lovely Oh’s – $6.95

I have already enjoyed the Peanut Butter Lovely Oh’s. Comprised of vegan creme , these sandwich cookies are to die for!

It’s Giveaway Time!

Here’s how you can register to win a Lovely Bunch Sampler along with a Liz Lovely tee and hat. You need to do everything listed in order to be eligible to win. Registration ends Thursday, February 2 at 11:59pm. A winner will be drawn randomly from the entries we receive by Sunday, February 5. The winner will be notified via email, so make sure we’re able to contact you.

1. Sign up for Liz Lovely’s email list here.
2. Like Liz Lovely on Facebook and/or follow them on Twitter.
3. Post this Shop Like You Give A Damn post on your Facebook and/or Twitter.
4. Comment on this post and tell us what your favorite flavor of cookies is and if you have a favorite brand of vegan or gluten free treats. Don’t forget to make sure you include your email so we know how to reach you if you win!

Get an extra entry by signing up for the Stella Shops email list in the right sidebar. You can have Shop Like You Give A Damn delivered to your Inbox every Sunday!

If you live in Nashville, you can purchase these delectable treats at The Turnip Truck or you can buy direct online at LizLovely.com.

Good luck and see you next Sustainable Sunday!

XOXO,

Marcia

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Ashley Hylbert Photography.

Shop Like You Give A Damn: Cri de Couer – These Boots Are Made For Flauntin’

I first featured ethical footwear collection Cri de Coeur in a Shop Like You Give A Damn post last February to introduce you to the line. They keep bringing the cruelty free heat and I just had to share with you the two boots I am currently coveting.

Florence Tasseled Wedge Boot in Ebony -  $495

Named after fabulous indie-rocker Florence Welch, of Florence + The Machine, (I mean have you heard her new album Ceremonials yet? It is brilliant!!) this platform wedge boot will entice any dame who is seeking to infuse fun and flair to her wardrobe. I adore the unexpected tassel and asymmetrical design elements that Flo herself would surely appreciate!

Hand crafted in Los Angeles and made from faux patent leather and reclaimed wood makes this a solid sustainable style must-have.

Addison Lace-Up Wedge in Rust -  $450

The must-have shoe of the season, Addison is so transitional in your wardrobe from cuffed denim and fitted cargos to textured tights paired with dresses. The platform wedge and lace-up styling make these booties a snap to strut your stuff while the contrasting off-white patent vegan leather buckle strap separates it from the hum-drum pack of less than worthy booties! The 1” wedge is also made from reclaimed wood while being made cruelty free in the U.S. of A.

Finn Platform Cutout Sandal – Originally $390. Sale Price $292.50 

Gorgeous kicks, right?! Don’t’ forget to check out Cri de Couer’s SALE section that is chalk full of beautiful shoes including the Finn Cutout Platform Sandal available in Camel for $100 off!

Don’t’ wait until Spring to wear these lovelies… pair this sandal with slouched socks and leggings and boogie the night away!

Leave a comment and let me know which of these three coveted items is your fave and how you would work them into your wardrobe.

See you next Sustainable Sunday!

XOXO,

Marcia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo courtesy of Ashley Hylbert Photography.

Shop Like You Give A Damn – Threads for Thought

Taylor Swift in Threads for Thought featured in US Weekly

I first came across Threads For Thought when I fell head over heels for the collection at Project Apparel market in Las Vegas a few years back. How could I resist putting in wholesale orders for this comfy sustainable collection? Threads For Thought began as a small business manufacturing and marketing graphic tees made exclusively from organic cotton. They gave back to charity, promoted a cleaner environment advocated for peace, and now they’ve grown into a complete lifestyle brand.

They continue to work closely with several highly regarded charities, notably the International Rescue Committee (the IRC) and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to promote and support the excellent work they do in the areas of humanitarian and environmental response.

Here are a few of my favorite pieces.

Hacci Color-Block Hoodie $68.00

Estara Dress $34.00

Tara Tank $8.00

Flannel Shirt Jacket $125.00

You can order online or scoop up some pieces of this wallet-friendly line (tanks are only $8 and perfect for layering!) at Whole Body. Even Nashville’s own Taylor Swift is a fan and has been seen flaunting this apparel made from organic cotton and plastic bottles too. How adorbs is TayTay in the bow tee shown above?

Have a happy Sustainable Sunday! See you next week.

XO,

Marcia

Photo by Ashley Hylbert Photography.