You Are What You Wear: Changing For The Greater Good

In an effort to clean up my act, I've started to become more conscious of all of the choices I make on a daily basis. From the food I eat to the words I say, I'm trying my best to clean up my act.

One area that is completely new to me? Fashion choices.

Now don't get me wrong - I've read about eco-conscious shopping here and there, but it's something I've put on the back burner for no good reason. Let's face it - fast fashion is cheap and easy. But is it worth it in the long-run? I don't think so.

As a longtime vegetarian, I have always strayed away from clothing made out of animal products. But what about fair trade? Eco-friendly? Sweat shops? There's so much going on out there that many of us don't know about and that can be really overwhelming to take in.

As the ongoing theme in my life right now, I say to you: "One step at a time." 

To get you (and me) started, here are a few resources I'm really digging right now:

Wear No Evil Greta Eagan knows her stuff when it comes to mindful shopping. This book lays it out for you: what goes on in the fashion industry, how to clean out your not-so-friendly closet and resources for rebuilding your wardrobe as well as your makeup drawer. Score.

The Kind Life Even though this website covers all of the bases of a vegan lifestyle, Alicia has some great articles on brands she believes in and that are doing the right thing when it come to cruelty-free style. 

Kate Fletcher is kind of amazing. Focusing on sustainability in fashion, Kate believes in using reusable and safe materials when it comes to the clothes we put on our bodies. Her book, Fashion & Sustainability. is incredibly comprehensive and educational. Did I mention she's brilliant? I highly recommend her books, articles and blog posts!

I'm hoping this is just the beginning of a happier and more harmonious relationship with my future purchases and I can't wait to slowly rebuild my closet. Stay tuned for specific product reviews in the very near future! 

Do you have any product or company recommendations for me to check out? Leave them in the comments below. 

Friday Favorites 4.11.14

To recap my pretty wonderful week, I thought I'd share a few things I've been loving lately.

1. Brendan Brazier is a freaking trailblazer and I love everything about him: his protein powder is kind of like superhero magic fairy dust. And this cookbook? It's full of great recipes that taste delicious but also make you feel like that superhero fairy hybrid on a regular basis.

2. Kombucha is kind of an acquired taste and I happen to be one of those weirdos that love it. My favorite right now is the Lavender blend by GTS.

3. Speaking of an acquired taste, seaweed is definitely a flavor that took me awhile to warm up to. All of a sudden I love it, especially when it's mixed with gourmet popcorn. 479 is a responsible and inspiring company and their popcorn line is full of innovative flavors and only the best ingredients. I can't get enough.

4. I stumbled upon this Etsy store via Instagram. Super Love Tees are all about spreading the love via spiritual messages and are printed on super comfy and adorable clothing. I own the one above and it's my favorite item to wear when I need a little inspiration in my life.

5. Slowly but surely, I'm phasing out as many chemical-based products as possible. My first order of business was to find a foundation that not only looked good but was a little more eco-conscious than those drugstore brands. Tarte may be a little pricey, but I think the trade-off of knowing what you're putting on your skin is totally worth it.

6. I've been a Bust fan for over a decade, so I finally decided it was time to subscribe. This magazine is all sorts of wonderful. Like sassy and strong ladies? This is your jam.

7. Kind of a random favorite, but I'm all about camo for the spring. I love mixing a camo print with something more girly, like a v-neck shirt or a floral pattern. It's a great balance of tough and feminine and I dig it a whole lot.

What have you been loving lately? Food, fashion, or otherwise - I'd love to know!