Shop Like You Give a Damn – Mother’s Day Manicure

Happy Mother’s Day sustainable shoppers! I hope you are enjoying a leisurely celebration with the lady in your life, perhaps even toasting over an intoxicating mix of orange juice and champagne?

Treat your mum and yourself to a manicure today by picking up a beautiful shade of Zoya nail polish.  This brand offers up vibrant colors to liven up your nail beds but excludes the use of harmful ingredients such as Formaldehyde, Toluene, Dibutyl Phthalate, and Camphor.  Mommas from the animal kingdom can rejoice too, because Zoya also happens to be cruelty-free and vegan friendly too.

Here are a few of my favorite shades! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the enormous collection of hues, use Zoya’s helpful Color Finder to help guide you.

Tru

Bekka

Annie

Tallulah

Celebrate life today and see you next Sunday!

XOXO,

Marcia

 

 

 

Shop Like You Give a Damn – This Broad Has Been Woo-ed

Stella Shops own Cindy Wall and Marcia Masulla with Woo Skincare & Cosmetics owner Woo Caroland.

Spring just sprung and we’re already enjoying the balmy sun-kissed days, and besides being attacked by pollen and bonding with your BFF Allegra, this season is a beautiful time to be in Nashville.

Spring also instigates a transition in your beauty routine to adjust to the climate, AKA another excuse to shop. We like to keep it real here at Stella Shops.

My excuse to shop was justified when I attended a Girls Night Out event at Woo Skincare & Cosmetics located in Green Hills.  Sure, there were tasty bites coupled with Wootinis along with makeovers and door prizes, but the draw for me was that owner Woo Caroland teamed up with Agape Animal Rescue as her non-profit beneficiary for the event.

Meet Buster Brown who was rescued by Agape along with 95 other pups from an abuse case in Kentucky. This two-year old Chihuahua/Pomeranian mix greeted me at the event and is available for adoption! If you’re interested in adopting my man B or any other homeless animals from Agape, click here.

I was also introduced to cruelty-free La Bella Donna mineral foundation ($55) by Woo makeup artist Diana. This fabulous loose powder is available in 12 shades and offers up SPF 20 sun protection along with superior coverage and staying power. Did I mention that it doesn’t clog pores either? I can’t speak for you, but I despise the feeling of a layer of makeup on my skin so this lightweight formula comprised of only four ingredients is the perfect solution for me!

Woo has two retail locations that include spa services in Nashville and Atlanta but you may call to place orders too.

Now go outside and enjoy this gorgeous weather and I’ll see you next Sustainable Sunday!

XOXO,

Marcia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo credit: J Bryan Dill

Shop Like You Give a Damn – Save the Ta-Ta’s!

The devastation of Cancer has plagued my personal life for two decades. It all started when my mother broke the news to me when I was eleven years old that she was diagnosed with a terminal form that was spreading rapidly through her body.  The “C” reared its ugly yet consistent head again throughout my twenties with personal bouts of the ovarian version and most recently with another terrifying occurrence six months ago.  Needless to say, I am very aware that regardless of the status of my remission, this will be a lifelong battle for me. Cancer shouldn’t get it twisted though… this broad is the definition of sustainable and will always come out the victor.

Let me introduce you to Women Rock For the Cure.

 

This Nashville based non-profit organization was formed by four friends and is committed to connecting and supporting young women facing breast cancer. WRFTC works to build awareness and provide outreach programs through the power of the entertainment industry. All proceeds benefit the organization’s outreach efforts, including the Young Survivors Retreat, which brings together young women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Compelling work, right? Consider attending the upcoming annual Pink Trash Ball to show support for this important cause while gaining an excuse to bust out your most splendid pink party dress. Special performances by Tiffany (yes, yes, that Tiffany!) and supporting musical acts will share the Mercy Lounge stage with Betsey Johnson Nashville for their finale fashion show. Tickets range from $25-50 and you may purchase tickets here.

For all of you loyal readers, here is your opportunity to win an exclusive Stella Shops Save The TaTa’s prize package that includes two tickets to the Pink Trash Ball and a Buddie Bra.

A girl has to protect her assets with some style!

This delightful sports bra is designed with two pockets directly above the curve of a woman’s breast and is specifically designed to hold your most important needs such as your cell phone, personal or gym ID, key, money/debit card, nutritional packs, inhaler, MP3, etc.  The front, back and two pockets are double lined for comfort and to prevent your belongings from coming in contact with your skin.  Everything you place in your pocket stays in your pocket.  No ISSUES – No SWEAT.  Your needs are endless and now your hands are free.  I am sure that Carla is sighing with relief as I am breaking up with my not-so-chic fannypack for this new buddie.

 

Here’s how to get your official entry in! We will announce the winner on Wednesday, May 2^nd.

Step 1: Post the link to this Shop Like You Give Damn post to your Facebook and Twitter and link it to @StellaShops.

Step 2: Comment on this post on what fashionable pink item you are currently coveting! Here’s one of my faves from Betsey Johnson… of course!

Best of luck to everyone! See you next Sunday.

XOXO,

Marcia

 

Shop Like You Give a Damn – Healthy Meal Planning on a Budget

Recipes.

Sure, that word is certainly not a part of my every day life, as I seem to have the same kitchen sensibilities as a frat boy…well at least a vegan one. However, I felt compelled to write this post, because some of the reasons I get from others on why they won’t entertain a vegetarian or vegan diet are because:

“It’s too complicated and I don’t have the time to dedicate to that…”

OR

“Eating healthy is too costly.”

I’m here to debunk that myth by sharing one of my favorite healthy recipes and also provide information on an upcoming workshop that will demystify Healthy Meal Planning On A Budget!

Lemon Couscous with Chickpeas, Cilantro, Raisins and Almonds (from Shape magazine)

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS

1 1⁄2		cups water
1		tablespoon olive oil
1		teaspoon salt
1⁄2		teaspoon cumin
1⁄4		teaspoon turmeric
1⁄4		teaspoon cayenne
10		ounces whole-wheat couscous
1⁄4		cup golden raisins
1		cup slivered almonds
2		cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2	oz	tablespoons shallots, minced
1⁄4	oz	cup carrots, peeled and finely chopped
1⁄2	oz	cup cilantro leaves, chopped
1	oz	lemon, zested and juice

 

INSTRUCTIONS

In a small pot or Dutch oven, combine the water, olive oil, salt, cumin, turmeric and cayenne. Bring the mixture just barely to a boil, stir in the couscous, cover and remove from the heat. Let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff up the grains with a fork. Cover and let stand for another few minutes while you prepare the mix-ins.

In the meantime place the raisins in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Let stand for 5 minutes so the raisins get re-hydrated and plump.

In a small frying pan, toast the almonds over medium heat. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn—this will only take about 3 minutes.

In a medium salad bowl, toss the couscous with the remaining ingredients. Drain the raisins and add them to the bowl, along with the toasted nuts. Taste for seasoning and serve.

As you can see from below, this dish won’t blow your caloric intake budget either!

Nutrition Score per serving

(2.5 oz. couscous

1/4 cup chickpeas) 395 calories

88 g fat

1 g saturated fat

70 g carbs

6 g fiber

12.6 g protein

1.8 mg iron

50 mg calcium

200 mg sodium

 

Whether your motives are to look smashing in a string bikini this summer, feed your family with thoughtful healthy options, or flirt with a veg lifestye, I have a fun and informational upcoming event that will lead you in the right direction. My friends at The Turnip Truck Urban Fare and I are hosting a FREE Healthy Meal Planning On A Budget workshop that will guide us through the store with ease as we plan and budget for meals that will not only fulfill our tastebuds but also leave our wallets with a higher self-esteem too! All attendees will receive 10% off of their groceries that evening and also enjoy a $5 gift card too. Spaces are limited so RSVP now.

 

Besides, isn’t it more enjoyable to shop for a dazzling sustainable wardrobe when your body feels strong, healthy, and confidant?

Share some of your favorite healthy, vegan or vegetarian recipes in the comments section! My tastebuds need you.

XOXO,

Marcia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo courtesy of Ashley Hylbert Photography.

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Shop Like You a Damn – Love Life & Live Clean with Essential Oils

This Spring, I am especially inspired by infusing fresh scents into my beauty regime, so that naturally led me to EO^®. EO^® stands for Essential Oils.

On the EO^® website, they describe themselves as “a family owned and operated, Certified Organic Manufacturer of personal care products using the highest grade natural and certified organic ingredients. We create products that are natural, gentle, effective and free from animal testing. We know that providing a product with integrity and sustainability is a choice and we make this choice consciously to ensure that only the finest products are created.”

I personally first came across their revitalizing French Lavender Everyday Shampoo during a visit at the PETA headquarters in Norfolk, Virginia. The pure scents and nourishing formula from this bottle had me hooked!

How could you not get giddy from all of these benefits:

- French Lavender Essential Oil soothes and nurtures.
- Gotu Kola revitalizes hair follicles to improve hair growth and health.
- Quinoa Protein, high in Amino Acids, fortifies, conditions and repairs hair.
- Hibiscus, rich in Alpha Hydroxy and Amino Acids, rehydrates keratin fibers adding luster and smoothness.
- Panthenol and Glycerin aid in moisture retention, increasing elasticity and thickening hair.
- Organic Calendula, Chamomile and White Tea botanicals harmonize and replenish.
- Aloe Vera and Vitamins A & E improve scalp health with powerful antioxidants.
- Organic Jojoba, Coconut and Olive Oils lightly condition restoring softness.
- Papaya, Evening Primrose, Alfalfa and Pomegranate Extracts nourish and revitalize hair.
- pH Balanced and Biodegradable to condition naturally.

 

Due to the fact that I change my hair color nearly as often as I do my shoes, the Rose and Chamomile Protective Conditioner literally saves my tresses with its combination of therapeutic ingredients in a moisture rich conditioner which enhances color while providing a protective barrier to processed or chemically treated hair.

EO^® doesn’t just stop at hair care products… NO WAY! You can scoop up aromatic blends in their skincare, bath, shave, soap, perfume and sanitizer lines and even pet products too! With a selection of scents to try that include splendid pairings such as Grapefruit & Mint or Coconut & Vanilla, your nose will always be aroused.

You can scoop up EO^®  in Nashville at The Turnip Truck or Whole Foods. However, don’t forget to check the EO® website often for their Monthly Promotions so you can bag some fantastic deals including 50% off their Revitalizing Lotion For Legs & Feet and Organic Lip Balms (only $1.50!) through April 22^nd.

I’m off to getting into more mischief, so see you next Sustainable Sunday.

XOXO,

Marcia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Ashley Hylbert Photography.

 

 

 

Shop Like You Give a Damn: Manolo Blahnik Goes Green!

Do I smell progression? Why, YES I do.

2011 Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation award winning Eco-designer, Marcia Patmos, of M.Patmos, has collaborated with the one, the only, Manolo Blahnik for a capsule Spring shoe collection that is just divine.

Says Patmos, “I am always researching sustainable materials and developments. I love the idea of tilapia skin because it is a by-product of the food industry that would otherwise be discarded, but it’s actually a beautiful material perfect for small leather goods. I love bringing the idea of sustainability into the luxury market — it doesn’t have to be limited to T-shirts and grocery bags.”

Three sustainable materials are in the blueprint for this snazzy high-end collection that will set you back around $645 for flats and up to $900 for heels this Spring.

Rent or shoes? Shoes or rent?

Straps are comprised of renewable plant fiber raffia while sustainably farmed discards of tilapia (which resemble snakeskin due to their textured scales) will fool us all throughout the bulk of the shoe. Add in ethically harvested cork (did you see last’s week’s ode to cork?) for the comfy insoles and gorgeous heels.

Marcia Patmos and Manolo Blahnik are some of my new personal style heroes especially because of this quote, “It was cool working with Manolo to bring the ideas of eco-chic away from Whole Foods – no offense!” The fashion industry certainly has a transitioning stake in supporting the green movement too! Going green isn’t just granola folks….

Which of these sporty and colorful trendsetters do you covet? Do share!

See you next Sustainable Sunday.

XOXO,

Marcia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo courtesy of Ashley Hylbert Photography