I’ve been trying out a variety of different sustainable brands lately. Check out which ones I’m loving and hating.
10×10 Spring Challenge: 10 Pieces, 10 Outfits, 10 Days
After reading articles on how to appreciate what you have more, I stumbled across Style Bee’s 10×10 challenge. She developed a challenge to force people to become more creative with their clothes. While she was going through a shop-free fast she decided it would be the perfect time to create a challenge where she only wore 10 items for 10 days. Since I love a good fashion challenge, I decided to try.
Rules:
- Pick any 10 items you already have in your current closet
- Style those items in 10 different ways
- Use 10 days to do it
PJs and workout clothes also do not count. Lee, from Style Bee, recommends that if you’re a beginner you start off with:
- 2 Pairs of Shoes (1 heel + 1 flat)
- 4 Tops (Consider pieces that layer well like a fitted long-sleeve, a button-down, and a cardigan)
- 1 Dress
- 2 Bottoms
- 1 Top Layer
I ended up picking 2 pants, 1 dress, 2 jackets, 4 shirts, and 1 pair of shoes. If I do the challenge again, I would pick a cardigan instead of a pink blazer because it is comfier and more versatile. Otherwise, I really liked my picks. I think for the summer challenge I would pick a few skirts instead of jeans.
Nonetheless, here are the 10 different outfits I ended up creating. If you want to see these outfits in action make sure you check out my Instagram page here.
Day One | Friday
I felt like a total rockstar in this outfit. There is something about a solid black and white outfit with a pop of color that always looks good. I ended up hanging out at friend’s new house (talk about major adulting) after work. I can’t believe I’m starting to embark on the age where my friends are all growing up. Please make it slow down ASAP please and thank you. This bag was definitely the highlight of this outfit due to it’s bright color.
Day Two | Saturday
I did absolutely nothing on Saturday and it was soooo nice. Most weekends I’m running around with my head chopped off so it was so lovely doing nothing. Well, I did take these pictures with a makeshift tripod (I set up my camera on a stool outside my house and hoped to God that my neighbors wouldn’t see me acting crazy). This layered outfit is perfect for spring because you never know how cold it is really going to be. Plus, I’m a huge fan of olive and light denim paired together.
Day Three | Sunday
Easter Sunday was a big day for me! I started the day going to church with my mom and ended the day with watching my brother propose to this girlfriend! Talk about a good day! An awesome outfit to match an equally as awesome day. I was slightly worried about doing this challenge during Easter because I knew I needed a fancier dress for Church. I ended up being able to transition this dress a few different ways. If I were to do the challenge again I would have picked a dress without a pattern because it was a little too recognizable for my taste. However, I would have still picked this bright yellow because it is perfect for spring!
Day Four | Monday
The best thing about this challenge was that it convinced me to pull out this scarf I purchased in high school. I bought this neck scarf thinking I would wear it one day and never did… until now. I love how the pattern looks contrasting with the stripes! This is definitely an outfit I would have never of tried if it wasn’t for this challenge so I’m super soaked about that.
Note: I did have to cheat on this day! It ended up randomly snowing so I needed to pull out my winter coat. I ended up wearing that winter coat on top of some of my outfits as the challenge went on. I felt guilty, but Lee said herself that this challenge is meant to be fun not stressful. Thus, I felt like it was okay for my first time ever trying this challenge.
Day Five | Tuesday
This outfit definitely got the most compliments out of all of these. One of my coworkers told me he liked my shirt three different times. I mean, I love a good green shirt but I’m not sure it deserved three different compliments. Anyway, I did end up tucking this shirt into my pants and throwing on my white belt just because I wanted to make sure I didn’t show any of my belly at work. During this challenge, I ended up wanting to wear this green shirt the most because of the bright color and soft texture. The power of a good t-shirt is really underrated.
Day Six | Wednesday
Since my coworker complimented my green shirt from the day before, I was worried that people would notice that I’m wearing the same shirt. Not one person noticed. This challenge was definitely a great way to refocus on the fact that not everyone cares about what you and other people wear. Often times what you say is much more important than what you wear. As someone who is very passionate about fashion, this is something that often escapes my reality. My work is very casual so it was really nice to be able to wear a fancier dress to work without it being a really big deal. 
Day Seven | Thursday
Thursday was just another casual day at work. I love wearing my chambray top like this because it is the comfiest thing in the world. It’s like wearing a thick cardigan but wihtout the extra warmth. Out of all these outfits, this one was definitely the comfiest.
Day Eight | Friday
I wore this outfit to work but ended up throwing on my white belt from this outfit and making the necklace a lot shorter (check Instagram if you want to see the real deal). Robert came to visit me this weekend so we ended up going out with my friends to see a live band and play some games. I did end up switching into my outfit on day one but with blue jeans because I would be devastated if anyone split alcohol on my white pants. None of my coworkers noticed that this was the same stripe shirt I wore on Monday. My boss even complimented my top.
Day Nine | Saturday
I didn’t end up wearing this outfit the entire day because I was actually taking future blog pictures (eek, I’m so excited to show you them later). I love this outfit but it would have been a little too dressy for the day. I ended up going to Puerto Vallarta with Robert, taking pictures, and then watching Deadpool… laugh all you want but it was a great movie! I could definitely see myself wearing this outfit for a girl’s brunch or spring birthday party.
Day Ten | Sunday
If you followed my Instagram stories, this actually wasn’t what I wore on Sunday! Since I took these pictures on Saturday when I was planning out these outfits, I thought I was going to wear this. I ended up getting a little bit more creative and throwing on a thrifted belt alongside my chambray button up. I love this outfit too but definitely loved wearing a belt that I rarely get to wear instead.
My takeaways
I ended up trying new accessories that I wouldn’t have otherwise.
I loved being able to try out new accessories in order to spice up different outfits. It definitely made my challenge myself to rethink how I wear things and how to make them unique. Plus, I found out what items I gravitate towards more than others. I’m loving these white jeans and my green shirt!
No one noticed that I was wearing the same items over and over again.
Literally, no one noticed. I thought for sure someone would have said something about wearing my white pants twice during a work week. No one noticed or cared. This was a great reality check that not everyone cares about what you’re wearing so you might as well wear something that makes you happy. For instance, I’m never trying the wooden basket bag trend… maybe the woven ones but definitely not this bag. It’s more important to find stuff you like wearing instead of what other people like wearing.
I need to appreciate what I do have more.
It’s so easy to get swept up into the idea that I constantly need to buy new articles of clothes to keep things fresh. I really need to look at the items I already have and develop new ways of wearing them. Plus, I really need to appreciate that I’m fortunate enough to have all these clothes.
It’s more about a positive attitude than what you’re wearing.
People don’t care what you’re wearing, they care about who you are as an individual. It’s better to be positive and optimistic than negative and pessimistic. People want to be around you because of who you are not because of what you wear.
What do you think about the 10×10 challenge? Would you ever try something like this? What is your favorite outfit out of these 10? Let me know in the comments down below.
As always,
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How to Wear Your Chambray Button Down Three Different Ways
If you’ve been following along with me on Instagram you would see that I’ve been diving headfirst into the 10×10 challenge. For those who don’t know, the 10×10 challenge is a challenge that forces you to only wear ten items for ten different ways. For more information on what is included and discluded check out my story here.
Since I’ve been doing this challenge, I’ve been trying to come up with unique ways to wear my chambray button-down other than wearing it like a normal shirt. Here are the three aesthetics I’ve come up with during the challenge:
Casual
Layer the chambray top over a casual tee to create an effortless look.
For the days where it’s rainy and you’re running around doing errands, throw on a button-down chambray to add some texture to your outfit. I love wearing a chambray top like this because it is lighter than a cardigan while still giving you the extra warmth. Plus, it adds a little pop of color to an otherwise colorless outfit.
Preppy
Layer a stripe long sleeve shirt over the chambray top and have it peek out ever so slightly.
For the slightly chillier days, an easy way to warm yourself up is to layer a chambray top underneath a long sleeve shirt. In New England, this is the way we survive the awkward spring temperatures. In the spring, we never know if we’re going to be cold or hot so it’s better to layer and then take off the layers if we end up getting too warm. Plus, it automatically makes it look like you put a lot of thought into your look. If it doesn’t warm up soon I might have to wear this exact outfit for Memorial Day!
Feminine
Tie the dress at your natural waist to create a natural hourglass figure.
Out of all three of these looks, this one is my favorite. I’m a sucker for a good dress styled in a different way. If you recall, this dress was actually spiced up with a suede jacket before. To create a softer look for this bright dress, I decided to tie up a chambray top on my waist. The soft hue of the chambray top tones down the loud dress. Also, by tieing the buttondown at my natural waist it creates a very flattering silhouette. This is my favorite trick for making a dress into a skirt because it creates a very flattering contrast.
What is your favorite way to wear a chambray top? Let me know in the comments down below. Also, be sure to check out the rest of my 10×10 outfits on my InstaStory… only three more days to go!
As always,
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Half United: 7 Donated Meals for Every Purchase
Do you ever fall so hard for a company that you just want to scream from the rooftops so everyone knows about them? That is how I feel about Half United. In 2009, two siblings made an incredible company out of only $200. Their mission is that for every product a customer buys they will also be purchasing seven meals for children in the USA, Haiti, Fiji, and Cambodia. After running the company for almost 10 years, the company has donated over 800,000 meals to children in need.
I recently picked up two new items from Half United and wanted to share with you my little Half United Haul.
The way Half United helps these areas in more detail:
USA: Helps implement farming programs into schools. This allows meals to be packed for the hungry, food to be planted, and community gardens maintained. Half United works with the local communities to help improve daily lives.
Haiti: Each beaded item from Half United is supporting the livelihood and well being of artisans in Haiti. Each beaded item is created by men and women in Papillon. The beaded item is then hand-signed and completely unique.
Fiji: The funds sent to Fiji go towards supporting sustainable, thriving feeding projects at the “NCTC” primary school. Half United has funded sweet potato farms, student garden projects, honeybee farms, chicken coops, and more.
Cambodia: Half United has teamed up with the EAI orphanage in Phnom, Penh Cambodia. EAI focuses on empowering children emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
Necklace
Half United sells different products ranging from slogan tees to jewelry. The big attraction is the necklace made from recycled bullet casings to represent the fight against hunger. I love the idea of using something negative and turning it into something good. I talk more about my necklace in my first Half United post.
Bracelet
The bracelet pictured is supposed to represent Half United’s connection with Fiji school NCTC. Half United provides meals to these children in need as well as fund the school for long-term sustainable employment. The Fijian people work on beehives to create wax and honey for profit.The brass hex nuts and washers on this leather bracelet represent the rugged farm tools needed to grow healthy food. The symbol of the hexagon represents the shapes in beehives. The leather in this bracelet is from Georgia and the bracelet itself is assembled in Wilmington, NC at the Half United headquarters. I absolutely love the idea of working with beehives because of how necessary it is to have bees in our ecosystem. Saving the bees was actually one of my first “socially responsible” posts I’ve done on Peculiar Porter. You can check out that post here. (I can fully admit now that the dress in this post is waaaaaay too short)
Slogan T-Shirt
As someone who travels and is really diving blindly into the line of sustainable/eco-friendly fashion, I was thrilled when I saw this adorable slogan tee. I’m a sucker for any white graphic tee and this one really poked the inner wanderluster in me. This same shirt also comes in black and they have other adorable slogan tees that say “Giving Back is the New Black” and “Fighter”. Stay tuned on a few posts coming up because I’ll be styling this shirt ASAP.
Have you ever heard of Half United? What do you think about repurposing bullet shells and using them for good? Let me know in the comments down below.
As always,
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11 Winter Outfits to Get Inspiration From
I have some very exciting news… the ground is finally thawed and there is no snow to be seen! That’s right…. spring is finally here. I decided to do a little recap on my “winter” outfits just in case you missed something or if you wanted to read one of my lovely posts. As a blogger, it is so hard to take pictures in the winter because it is always so cold and if you’re too layered you look like a stuffed cabbage. Thus, most of these outfits are secretly worn with another jacket on top of them… I won’t tell if you won’t!
Remember during New Years where the temperature wouldn’t get above zero? Well, I certainly remember begging Robert to take pictures of this outfit in the fridged cold. We actually ran to a van to bring us to the Skytop Lodge. Check out how you can layer to your advantage in my post “The Ultimate Styling Tricks to Staying Warm in Below Zero Weather“.
My commute to work is still an hour long but I’m thriving thanks to the tips and tricks found in this post. Check out my favorite podcasts and radio stations to listen to so that I don’t go crazy. P.S. I can’t tell if I’m getting better or worse at driving as the weeks go on…
After coming back to my hometown, I found myself doing the exact same things over and over again. I’ve been trying to find new places to go near my hometown (like this art gallery) and decided to write a few tips on how to find these new places in your own hometown. Check out this post here. (Also, this vest is my absolute favorite thing to wear in the cold winter).
After I graduated, I applied to over 100 different jobs and went on some crazy interviews. After doing all the hoops and jumps, I ended up with a job that will really help my future. Check out more about what finding a job after college is like by reading this post.
This post is definitely perfect for this upcoming season because I show how you can transition some of your favorite winter clothes into your spring outfits. Check out this post here. Also, thumbs up to embroidered pants… I cannot get enough of them.
This was one of those weird days in February where it was warm enough to take my jacket off for a split second. Sadly, the next week the weather dropped to fridged temperatures and I need more than a light jacket. If you’re like me, I get pretty bummed around mid-February and it lasts usually throughout March (the worst of all months). It is usually because of days like this one where I thought it would finally get warm and sunny out. Check out how I combat my winter blues by reading this post.
I’m obsessed with this feminine dress from Urban Outfitters. Something about the sleeves was really calling my name. Since Rob and I have been doing a lot of weird activities for date night, I decided to make a list of date ideas for the cold, winter months. Check out those ideas here. One of my favorite dates so far was going to this aquarium in Norkwalk, Connecticut.
The pink blazer that does all the talking is this one right here. If you don’t already have a blazer in your closet it is time you invest in one. They can add so much to an outfit and they’re a staple that will never go out of fashion. Check out more of my reasons why you need a pink blazer here.
I watched the True Cost on Netflix and it changed my entire perspective on the fashion world. Since watching this documentary, I’ve been thinking more and more about what I’m consuming and if it is really benefiting my life and others. I admit, I’m a self-declared shopaholic so it has been hard but I’m really trying to follow my tips found here. If you read any of these posts it should definitely be this one. Plus, if you really have enough time you should definitely watch the True Cost. I cannot recommend it more.
Wrap me up like a big burrito all spring long. I love wrap dresses almost as much as I love burritos… and that is saying something. Check out how to style the wrap dress this spring by clicking here. Plus, the best part about wearing wrap dresses is that you can wear them a thousand different ways. I plan on doing a 10×10 challenge in the month of April so stay tuned for that.
Following up with trying to think more about how I’m consuming, I bought these adorable white jeans from Everlane. In this post, I talk about how much work goes into one pair of jeans and how we need to rethink the way we buy our denim. You’d be surprised by how much denim effects our environment.
What was your favorite post or outfit? Let me know in the comments down below.
P.S. Happy Spring!
As always,
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Sugarfina’s Adult Candy Stole My Heart
Anyone can attest to the fact that I have the biggest sweet tooth. I get it from my mother. She literally brings bags upon bags of candy home weekly. What’s packed in her car? None other than a huge box of rice crispy treats. No wonder she gave up candy for Lent. I can’t blame her though… there is just something so satisfying about a sweet treat.
One of my good friends, Mickey, surprised me and my friend a box from Sugarfina. I may or may not have received a text from Fedex ruining the surprise. I texted my friends worried that I ordered something in my sleep… or while I was drinking. I was pleasantly surprised to find this adorable gift from Mickey. Pleasantly surprised doesn’t even describe it enough… I was thrilled! I always wanted to try Sugarfina and never had the chance to!
Sugarfina was started by a couple, Rosie and Josh, who decided it wasn’t fair that kids got to have all the fun when it came to sweets and adults didn’t. After that, they taste tested candies for two years, built a store, and now deliver delicious treats all over the world. Talk about a sweet gig. So how do they taste? Let’s find out…
Tequila Grapefruit Sours
“Infused with Casamigos Reposado tequila, these tart grapefruit slices are a sweet sip of Jalisco’s finest.”
Tastes like: Your tongue is being sucker-punched by large grapefruits and then being lightly massaged with the tequila. Basically, it feels like you’re on an all-inclusive spring break.
I’m a huge tequila fan. I know, that makes the vast majority clench their stomachs in fear. I don’t know what it is but I think it’s such a fun drink! Plus, tequila always brings me back to singing Tequila song by the Champs junior year. Can’t quite tell if that is a good thing or a bad thing. Out of all three flavors, this one was definitely my favorite because of how intense the flavor was.
Pale Ale Pints
“These refreshing gummy pints have a bright citrus flavor and a sweet, smooth finish.”
Tastes like: Citrus and vanilla mixed in a sweet cocktail. You’ll get transported back in time to where you had your first sip of alcohol.
Surprisingly for a gummy that is modeled after beer (not the biggest fan of beer), I really liked it. It has more of a sweet vanilla taste instead of a powerful beer taste. Plus, since Mickey picked out gummies that correlate to our friendship, this one definitely fits in well.
Cowboy Cactus
“Ride off into the sunset with these little cacti, full of prickly pear flavor.”
Tastes like: A subtle bite of pear with a sweet aftertaste. You feel like you’re back in elementary school and trying to figure out long division for the first time.
Out of all the gummy shapes, this one has to be my favorite. What can I say? I’m a huuuuge cacti fan. that doesn’t even describe it. I swear one day I’m going to have to do a little haul for all of the cacti things I have including candles, posters, cups, shirts, bags, and accessories. I really cannot get enough! This gummy was no exception. Also, the flavor did not disappoint!
As I was looking at the company’s page and seeing all of the different flavors I found this incredible chocolate bar. Oh my goodness, I was practically drooling watching this video so I had to share it with you.
Have you ever tried Sugarfina’s “adult candy”? What flavor would you want to try? Let me know in the comments down below.
As always,
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Everything You Need to Know About Buying and Selling Clothes on eBay
eBay rocks my world. It allows me to make money without even having to move from my bed… okay, sometimes I do have to leave my bed to mail out a package. But other than that, it’s smooth sailing. If you haven’t tried to sell or buy clothes on eBay or you just don’t know where to begin, this is the post for you.
A few years ago my cousin started selling tons and tons of clothes, comic books, action figures, etc. on eBay and I didn’t think twice about it. It just seemed like unnecessary work for “little” return. Little did I know that he made way over a thousand dollars just from selling clothes on eBay. My green eyes turned a little bit greener when I thought of the cash I could make just by selling the clothes in the back of my closet. Not only could I make money from selling my clothes, I would be giving my clothes to someone who will appreciate them instead of throwing them away. After all, only 10% of clothes donated to charity get sold… the rest gets thrown away or shipped to countries who don’t need any more clothes. Also, if I wanted to donate money to charity I could donate my earnings directly to charities through eBay. So instead of throwing away your clothes let’s put them to good use.
Selling Tips
When I first started selling clothes on eBay, I was a little overwhelmed. Where do I begin? I called up my cousin and asked him for some tips and tricks and this is what we came up with.
Start off by looking what other people are pricing the same items for.
Before I list an item, I always look what other people are selling the item for and if they include shipping or not. I usually end up putting my item $1-$2 cheaper than what other people are selling their stuff for. This way people are more likely to buy my item for cheaper.
Measure everrrrrryyyythaaaanggggg.
One thing I was absolutely clueless about was making sure all of the measurements are listed on jeans, belts, and so forth. Make your life easier and just look at this guide to figure out how to measure your pants. For shirts, make sure that if you think it runs a little small or large you put that in the description. It’s all about behind honest on eBay.
Take pictures of every corner of the item.
Take pictures of labels, pattern, tags, buttons, hemlines… if you think of it you should take a picture of it then do it. Also, if you are selling something that has a rip or stain (which I personally do not do) make sure you take a picture of it so people understand what they are buying. If you don’t you could get a bad review and people will become more hesitant to shop from your store.
Add personality into your captions.
This is my absolute favorite thing to do on my eBay page. I love mentioning what someone can wear an item with and how fabulous they will look. I can just picture a total stranger reading my words and being super amused. Plus, this might make someone want to buy more because they can relate to the buyer. Make sure you include descriptors like “only worn once” or “it was the back of my closet since 2009 and has never been worn before.” The better the description, the better the outcome.
Shipping Tips
The hardest part about selling clothes is figuring out how to do the shipping. However, once you figure it out it will be second nature to you.
Don’t include free shipping with your jeans.
Jeans are typically heavy so they cost around $5-$7 to ship. This can be half of what you’re selling the jeans for so make sure that you calculate the cost of the shipping in the cost or just say shipping “$6.99” or whatever it is to ship. Sometimes I sell my pants for a super low cost because I know shipping is going to be so much. It all depends on if they’ve never been worn before or if you just bought them directly from J.Crew.
Shirts typically cost between $2.50-$4.50 to ship.
Since shirts are typically lighter you can make the shipping costs much lower. If you buy a scale (which I highly recommend you do) you can measure it the shipping cost before you put the listing up. It also helps when you do have to finally ship the product.
High priced items: include free shipping.
Personally, I think it is polite to include free shipping when someone is buying a big priced item. I sold a pokemon card for $150 and didn’t charge the customer shipping. Obviously, a little card didn’t cost that much to ship but I think it makes the sale go through that much easier.
Buying Tips
You know that awesome feeling when you return something that you weren’t really sure that you loved or not? You then get store credit or your money back and you feel this odd sense of power. Okay, maybe just me. The best part about selling clothes on eBay is that you have money you can either save or you can put back into finding something super cute.
Make sure you read all of the descriptions!
I almost bought a shirt that had a stain on it without even knowing. Just as I was checking out, I noticed the little description saying that there was a faint stain on the front of the shirt. That was definitely enough to deter me from buying the shirt. Also, sometimes the titles get mixed around when you’re posting so make sure that you’re actually buying the right size.
Play around with bidding wars.
This one is very new to me and it’s oddly thrilling to play the little dancing game. I’m currently in a bidding war on a beautiful Free People top. Fingers crossed that I win it because it is the cutest thing in the world. My tip would be to wait until the very end to bid the shirt up.
Search your favorite companies with descriptors you might be looking for.
Instead of just searching the name search key things you may be looking. This may be the textile-like “lace” or it could be a vibe like “edgy”. This will help narrow down the search and hopefully weed out the sellers that you’re not looking for.
What is currently on my watch list:
Free People Top, Vintage Belt, Feed Bag, Button Skirt, White Madewell Jeans
What do you think about selling or buying clothes from eBay? Have you ever done it or do you use sites like postmark? Let me know in the comments down below.
As always,
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Rethink the Way You Buy Jeans
Let’s talk about America’s favorite piece of clothing: jeans. I’m jean obsessed. Growing up my brothers used to mock me because of my different colored jeans. They even had a song for when I wore my pink pair… “Logan pink pants Porter” still rings in my ears to this day. Nonetheless, my love for the classic pair of jeans has never faded.
It didn’t occur to me how jeans were actually made until I watched the Trust Cost. I figured cotton and a little bit of stretch make the ideal jean. I knew so little about how much jeans and the cotton production ruin the environment surrounding the factories and cotton farms. I never knew that although cotton is only planted on 2.4% of agriculture land, it accounts for nearly 11% of pesticide sales in the world. I never even though of the beloved plastic elasticity in my jeans being the exact reason why it is so hard to recycle jeans. The more I researched the more I started to feel guilty about the cheap pair of $12 jeans I found at Marshalls. Who made those jeans and what conditions were they made in? I started asking myself more and more questions and found myself researching until the wee hours of the night. That’s when it occurred to me that needed to make a vow to stop buying cheap, fast fashion jeans and either thrift of invest in ethical jeans that will last. So when I was looking for a new pair of white jeans, I found Everlane.
Jeans | Boots | Sweater (Sold out… Similar) | Jacket (Similiar) | Belt (Same on eBay)
Everlane is a slow fashion company that focuses on basics with a touch of creativity. The reason I found this basic store so incredibly comforting is that they show the factories that make their clothes on the website and then break down the cost of the item directly (see their jean factory here). I know, wild. So let me take you through the process of making these jeans and explain to you why these ones, in particular, are the white jeans you need for spring.
“Belly” washing machines that are used in standard denim manufacture plants waste up to 1,500 liters of water per pair of jeans (about 132 Gatorade coolers).
Depending on where you live water may not seem that important because it always seems like it is raining or snowing (ex: these snowy pictures). But 35% of the world’s population doesn’t have proper access to clean water. Instead of wasting all of that water, Everlane’s factory, Saitex, uses a closed water system and super-efficient jet washing machines. The result? Only .4 liters of water is lost due to evaporation. By being conscious of the water consumption, Everlane is making a difference in jean production and the community around the factories.
Often times factories in developing countries dump polluted water back into the waterway, which directly affects the surrounding communities.
Saitex recycles 98% of all used water and when it comes out the other side, it’s so clean you can actually drink it. You don’t have to worry about Everlane’s factories polluting the surrounding areas. Instead, you can have a clear conscious buying a pair of wicked cute jeans.
Most denim factories use an insane amount of energy for their factories because they have to constantly dry the jeans.
Saitex airdries 85% of their jeans and the rest of the jeans are dried with energy coming from solar panels. This has allowed their factory to reduce energy usage by 5.3 million kilowatts of power and reduce CO2 emissions by almost 80%. Kudos for clean energy!
All denim creates a toxic byproduct called sludge.
No matter how clean a denim factory is, jeans will still create a byproduct called sludge. This byproduct is nearly impossible to get rid of until Saitex found out that when you mix sludge with concrete the toxic material can no longer leech into the environment. The factory uses this method to make concrete bricks to build affordable homes. So far, Saitex has built ten homes with these bricks. So not only are they creating jeans but they’re actually creating homes from a byproduct!
My top four picks for your white jean wardrobe:
Everlane ($68) | Able ($128) | Amour Vert ($178) | DL1961 ($188)
So if you’re ready to buy another pair of white jeans for this spring and summer why not buy a pair that is better for the environment. When you’re buying a pair of jeans that are better quality make sure to check what the jeans are actually made of. Look for the ratio of cotton to spandex and make sure that you’re not just buying a cheap pair of jeggings that will only last a few washes. A good pair of jeans will be made out of either 100% cotton or 99% cotton with 1% spandex. Staples, like jeans, that you wear again and again deserve to be invested in.
What do you think about Everlane? Did you know how jeans were produced? Let me know in the comments down below. (Also, I’m very curious if you think it’s wrong to wear white before Memorial Day… I clearly have no shame).
As always,
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How to Style My Favorite Spring Trend: The Wrap Dress
Ummm… is it spring yet? I literally cannot stand another northeastern. We’ve literally had a snowstorm every single week for the past three weeks and I’m so over it. Although I do admit, it’s March and I oddly hum Christmas tunes every time it snows. Hey, it’s never too early to be in the holiday spirit.
So unlike mother nature, I’m ready to bring out the spring outfits as soon as possible. Bring on the floral print, pops of color, and a whole lot of sunshine. If you saw my summer barn wedding guide, you know that wrap dresses are a curvy girl’s secret weapon. It hits you in all the right places and makes you look like a million bucks. Seriously, invest in one that you know you’ll wear again and again and you can thank me later.
Go for a bold color for double the impact.
To me, yellow isn’t that bold of a color because it’s just something I’m naturally drawn to because of my pale skin and reddish-brown hair. What I mean by a bold color is picking something that is bright as can be. This yellow is bold because of how in your face it is. It can easily be toned down with some neutrals like this black jacket and booties or it could be played up with a green jacket and white shoes. Regardless, it’s fun to play with something out of your comfort zone once in a while.
Don’t be boring, try something daring.
The fun thing about wrap dresses is that they have so much added texture to them. For example, this one has florals and ruffles so it creates this extremely dramatic silhouette. Just like I did in this post, I love mixing this edgy, studded jacket on top of a feminine dress. It’s an outfit that instantly makes me feel like I can take on the world. Plus, it such a mix of textures that no one will ever expect so you’ll look instantly chic.
Ditch the flats and wedges and grab a classic, black bootie for the perfect winter to spring transitioning outfit.
Don’t sacrifice your little toes just yet! I love pairing booties with literally everything. They will look perfect next to your feminine dress due to their inherent need to be edgier than flats. Personally, I love the comparison of the leather jacket and booties next to this floral dress because it adds so much interest to the look. You almost don’t know where to look without being super overwhelmed… my kind of outfit.
Try wearing your dress as a skirt to get double the use.
As you probably know, I’m trying to incorporate more and more sustainable ideas and principles into this blog. What better way to achieve this than bringing up ways where you can get the most use out of your wardrobe! The best part about dresses is that you can wear them in so many different ways. Throw a shirt over the dress and you now have a skirt (seen here) or throw a turtleneck under the shirt and you now have a warmer look (seen here). With different colors, graphics, and accessories, you can make so many interesting outfits out of one piece. To me that is the best part about style: you get to be creative with it.
Personally, I can definitely see this dress in a million and a half ways. I can see it being paired with a bright green shirt and a jean jacket for a more casual look. I can see it with a pair of strappy sandals for when it finally stops snowing. I can also see it without a jacket to finally embrace the warm weather. Don’t stop at just one look… find a few ways to wear it!
How do you feel about the wrap dress trend? Let me know in the comments down below.
As always,
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A Day in My Shoes: Thursday Uptown Boot Review
If you’re not already aware, I’m an Instagram fanatic. I love the pictures, the advertisements, and mostly the Instastories. I can spend hours watching my favorite bloggers do mini haul videos, talk about their day, and videos of them traveling. (My favorite blogger’s Instastories are Emma from Emma’s Edition, Mallory from Mallory on the Moon, and Juliette from Juliettiful).
A few months ago when I was scrolling on my feed, I found an advertisement for Thursday Boot Co. and their amazing Instagram. These sleek shoes have a buttery leather texture, a smooth finish, and they have the cutest styles. I couldn’t love a boot more. I decided to flip through their website and I was quickly distraught because I love every single shoe. How could I pick just one? I ended up deciding to get the Uptown boot in black because my suede booties from J.Crew couldn’t handle this rainy-snowy, New England weather.
Order a size up in the Uptown Boot.
When they finally arrived, I was super excited and literally couldn’t wait to slide my foot inside the adorable boot. Sadly, the pair I ordered was just a smidge too small so I had to send them back. The process was incredibly easy. I simply printed out a packing slip and sent it back to the warehouse. They then sent me my new pair of boots (in a size up) a week later.
After looking at the reviews, I probably should have known to order a size up. I’m almost always a 7.5 shoe in everything and I never listen to reviews because my foot always ends up fitting. This was definitely the one exception so make sure you order a size up!
Thursday Boot Co cares about the people who are making the boots.
Thursday boots are made in New York City, Arkansas, and Lyon. Thursday Boots believe in fair labor and environmental conservation. Once a quarter, each manufacturing factory is visited in person to ensure that there is appropriate labor, operational maintenance, and that the waste management protocol is being followed. Since the leather industry is constantly bombarded with unfair labor and environmental practices, it is so refreshing to find a company that cares about the repercussions of working with leather.
What is the quality of the leather and boot?
I am pigeon toed which means I pretty much ruin all of the shoes I own. What it really means is that my big toes face one another and constantly rub against each other. This often makes the side of my shoes wear out. Instead of constantly trying to get around the fact that my feet are destructive little animals, I decided to opt for a shoe that I knew would withstand such torture. Thankfully, these durable leather boots are perfect for the job. The buttery leather is made of such a durable leather that has been able to withstand my awkward toes.
Not only are they durable enough to withstand my devilish toes, but Thursday owns up the process of making leather. Leather can be a very taxing material because it requires tons of chemicals and waters that often affect the areas surrounding. Thursday only works with tanneries that can provide traceable material records and receive high marks from the Leather Working Group for environmental practices and chemical management. By creating this promise they’re changing the standard for other companies.
Also, the boots are handmade! Each pair of boots goes through over 80 different steps before you get a pair. Talk about hard work and commitment to make the best shoe.
Would I buy another pair?
Oh, heck yes. I’ve already been eyeing the Duchess Chelsea Boot in black. This boot would be perfect for Sunday errands, touring big cities, and going pumpkin picking in the fall. I would also totally get this boot in the brown because I’ve actually never owned a brown boot! I could see myself rocking it in the spring with all my lighter colors.
Why the Uptown boot?
They literally go with everything! I could dress them up with a bold dress or style them down with jeans. I can wear these boots to anything! I personally love throwing on little socks and scrunching them down to create a really relaxed look. Here are just four ways I decided to style them:
With socks at Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, Connecticut
With a girly blazer at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas
With a flirty dress at Terrain Garden Café in Weston, Connecticut
Lastly, with a bold dress that will be on the blog very soon…
So how would you style these adorable little booties? Have you ever heard of Thursday Boot co? Let me know in the comments down below.
As always,
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(This was not sponsored by Thursday Boot Co… I’m just in love with their boots)
Clean Reserve’s Citron Fig: an Ethically Made Perfume (Review)
If you saw my post from Tuesday, you know I’m pretty much diving into the world of sustainable, ethical goods blindly. No actually, you could probably put a blindfold over my clueless head and I’d be in the same exact spot. But one thing I do know is that I need to start researching more and more about what and how I’m consuming products.
During the Christmas season, my boyfriend gave me Clean Reserve’s Citron Fig perfume and not only did I fall for the delicious smell but I fell for the company itself. (Props to Rob for really knowing how to give good gifts). The more I researched Clean Reserve and their sustainability practices, the more I started to love the company. They not only use reusable materials, clean energy, eco-friendly oils, but they even pay their workers fairly. Literally, what more could you love about a company?
Fragrance Notes: Ginger, lemon oil, cardamom, mandarin, mint, copaiba, sandalwood, cedarwood, and musk.
What it Smells Like: Having a really good dream and then waking up to the soft glow of the sun on your cheek. It also has the possibility of taking you back in time to the moment where you were first able to ride a bike without training wheels. Hey, I warned you.
The Perfume’s Inspiration: Inspired by a free-spirited confidence that awakens when you realize your true potential.
Perfect for: The up and comer (aka totally me because I’m still trying to figure out the big, bad adult world).
How long does it last: 6-8 hours
Sustainable Ingredients: They procure Cardamom from a local supplier in Guatemala who works directly with native Guatemalan farmers. This allows Clean to guarantee that the local farmers receive a higher profit for the essential oils and a steady income. Working directly with the communities in the Amazon and providing them with technical and financial support ensures the sustainable sourcing of Copaiba Oil and an increase of income for the farmers.
There are so many reasons why I think this is such an incredible company but the main one is that they are actually paying their farmers a living wage. My mom grew up on a dairy farm and from this, I know how hard farmers have to work in order to get the job done. Most of the time farmers are undercut by big corporations even though the farmers are doing all of the hard work. You often see this in any type of farm work from cotton farming to milk production to even essential oils. Companies like Clean Reserve are putting a stop to this unfair practice. I couldn’t be happier to wear their playful scent because of this.
For more information about their sustainable practices including their packaging I decided to pull this super informative picture from their website:
Now that I know more about their company I literally want to try them all… is that bad? If I had to try another one next it would definitely be the Sueded Oud because we all know how I feel about patchouli (if you don’t definitely check out my weirdly obsessive blog post on this candle. But Sueded Oud is apparently for “the boss” so I might have to wait a while until I get to that level!
Have you ever heard or smelled perfumes from Clean Reserve? Let me know in the comments down below.
As always,
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