Good morning, everybody and happy Friday. It is ridiculoulsy gorgeous outside in New York- you LA types have this type of zero humidity warm and comfy weather all the time, but in the Northeast, when the mercury rises, it's usually frizzed out hair weather as well. Happy as could be for the dry and warm air, with a gentle breeze to boot.
I thought about this list of five this am and decided I wanted to go with five for giving or sustainability- in this rabid consumer culture, it stands to reason that we should be purchasing products thate are making the world a better place, or helping artisans in parts of the world that need it the most. I've written a few pieces of late about the importance of brands showing their hearts are in the right places and how brands of the future are going to have as many CSOs (Corporate Social Officers) as CEOs. In this post tranpsarent era where everything counts, the whole notion of how we view the companies we purchase goods and services from has changed- it's no longer enough to just provide- smart brands are showing their corporate social responsiblity as a key component to build brand loyalty, and I for one like to buy stuff that makes me feel good- not just because it's a great lipstick or shoe or pillow for my sofa, but also because it's helping out those in need. So without further adieu, here are five do great things that I love that love the world back; spending money never felt so good:
IN PEACE eau de parfum- Available at Space NK, this lovely scent just in time for Summer helps the efforts of Women for Women International, which supports female survivors of war and gives them the tools and means to lead better lives and rebuild. This scent is a yummy blend of Pimento and Freesia, French Iris, soft Mimosa and Suede- with top notes of White Musk, Sandalwood and Tonka Bean (a fav of mine) for a sultry, sexy scent that goes with all your boho summer looks. Sounds complex, but so are the problems of our world, so grab this scent and help change lives.
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Organic by John Patrick tank dress- I am always in search of the perfect cotton tank dress for summer- I love to wear these as blank canvases for all my cool summer jewelry and scarves and beaded sandals. I just love, love, love this dress- putting it on is like a second skin- not because it's overly clingy but because the cotton is so vey soft and light- perfect for the heat and a great base for all of your summer accessories. I also love his bias cut slips to throw on for sexy summer nights- gorgeous and available on his site...
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http://www.junoandjove.com/store/index.php?product=ORGANIC-BY-JOHN-PATRICK-TANK-DRESS-WO11354
http://organicbyjohnpatrick.com/product.jsp?id=56
Helina dress from Lemlem- This piece is so lovely in person- I spotted it at a store in my neighborhood and fell in love with it- I am a huge fan of ethnic inspired looks for Summer- nothing more chic than a look like this with bronzed skin, platform espadrilles, and delicate jewelry- like gold bangles or layered, thin necklaces. Lemlem is a line produced by Liya Kebede, the gorgeous Ethiopian model and World Health Organization Goodwill Ambassador who is trying to support and invigorate the artisan class in her homeland. And though Ethiopia is on emergent watch for people who see which nations will prosper next, there's still a big divide between the haves and have nots, so supporting this cause and looking fantastic by doing so is a win beyond win. I can even see this fab dress with a cute blazer for summer workwear.
Scarves from A Peace Treaty- This amazing company is run by a friend of mine's BFF and is a fantastic resource for incredible scarves- I adore all of these and think they could double as sarongs over your favorite bathing suit or wraps for all of those overly air conditioned restaurants and office buildings you'll be frequenting this summer. They are impossibly chic, and the co-owners have an interesting story in that one is a Pakistani Muslim and one is a Libyan Jew. They work with craftspeople in 8 different countries to help encourage independence, preserve artisanship, and support peace. PS- their jewelry is divine as well- absolutely one of my favorite brands for sustainable goods around.
Home goods and more from Histoire- Oh, this site. I not only love ethnic pieces to wear, I love them in my home as well. I am crazy for all things Ikat this day when it comes to home accessories these days, and I am obsessed with this table runner that does double duty as a scarf- gorgeous for summer table setting when dining under the stars. Loveliness. There's also many other perfectly curated pieces on this site- and they donate a portion of their profits to the communities that make these beautiful items. A great resource for home stuff that feels in line with my gypset soul. This pink runner is sold out, but the earth toned one is still available, as is this fabulous Feed bag from Guatamala that is a great tote for a book, some sunscreen, and any other essentials you'll need for a daytime roadtrip or picnic and takes me back to my Deadhead days. Fantastic.
https://shophistoire.com/tessera-ikat-runner-scarf-fuchsia.html
https://shophistoire.com/feed-guatemala-bag-zebra.html
There's so many other amazing brands doing great things out there- I love Shop4Sight (http://shop.4sightsunglasses.com/) that pledges to give a pair of glasses to those in need when you buy a pair- and their choices are really cool and well priced. If brands are being called to task as to what real "value" they bring to society, shopping well is a great way to know that your dollars are being used to do good things, and I encourage you to shop responsibly whenever you can- we all can contribute to the world if we want to, even if it's as simple as feeding your shopping beast within (mine always seems to be hungry PS. He/she needs to be put on a major diet). Some of us may think we don't have the time to volunteer, but we all have time to help the world, even if it's one purchase at a time. Cause that's what's up this feel good Friday in the 718. Peace, love, and let's make a better world. XO