If you haven’t already, please enter to win a gorgeous vegetable-tanned leather tote by eco-friendly handbag designer, Beth Springer. And below, learn a little more about Beth, how her company is environmentally friendly, and what she does to “create a little less waste.”
- Can you explain a little exactly HOW your bags/business practices are eco-friendly?
My ethos: Do no harm. I am big believer in environmental sustainability, so my bags are made with nature in mind. Because I want to tread lightly on the earth, I employ the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle to every aspect of my business. The goal is to get as close to zero waste as possible. To that end, Beth Springer Handbags:
- uses no extraneous hardware. Metal feet are absent on the bottom of my bags because 1) those little metal feet use our precious natural resources, require a highly toxic process to coat, and do not biodegrade 2) feet are redundant on my bags because the leather I use can sustain long years of use without wearing through.
- uses all remnants. I endeavor to use the entire hide. You can find note cards, ribbon cuffs, and one of a kind purses at my studio in Venice- all made with waste materials. Come on by!
- uses no filler- most leather bags today use a thinner leather to save money, and then back that leather with vinyl. It is a hidden environmental disaster. Most Beth Springer bags “stand on their own”.
- uses organic linings – adding 100% organic hemp/cotton linings to several styles starting with the Spring 2008 collection. Check out my /Ecovertible /the trim is reclaimed leather – that means the leather has been saved from the land fill and made into something beautiful for your pleasure. Ecovertible is also lined with organic hemp linen.
- works with vegetable dyed leathers. Vegetable dying uses plants to color the leather. Very earth friendly. All our leather is by-product as well, and the suede is organic pig.
- are produced 100% in America. That reduces the carbon foot print of production and delivery to you!
- uses tags that are made from recycled paper, attached with organic hemp cord and printed with soy ink. My company uses CFL lighting, and goes carless one business day each week. Our paper is all 100% post consumer. I ship in reused boxes whenever possible, so the boxes are ugly but the world remains beautiful. Please recycle or reuse them. I do! (I reuse stuffing and packing too)
- Why is it important to you to make your company & bags as environmentally friendly as possible?
The planet we live on is so beautiful and there is only one of it! I want to be a source of additional beauty and added enjoyment in this world, but not at the expense of this world or its creatures.
- What challenges have you faced in this endeavor?
There are many less vegetable tanned leathers than those tanned with chrome, so I have fewer materials to work with than traditional designers.
- What bag are you carrying today?
I am carrying the Market Tote in natural (the giveaway bag!). Inside I have Snatch for my make-up, and a Lashed (new item) for my wallet. Tonight when I go out I will carry a Slim in Medici
Market Bag: $715
- What are your best sellers? Which are your personal favorite bags in your collection?
The best selling large pieces include styles Copra, Soft-T, Market Tote. The small pieces include Clam Shell, Wrist Slip, Snatch.
Snatch: $114
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Clamshell: $145
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- For the giveaway, I asked each entrant to tell me something they’d do to “create a little more love and a little less waste in the world.” I was inspired by your desire to do this through the design & creation of your handbags, but what else do you do to create a little more love and a little less waste?
I like this question! I have really tried to create ‘a little less waste’ on a daily basis. Of course I recycle everything and I compost. I reuse food containers instead of buying saran wrap or new containers. I use handkerchiefs instead of Kleenex…2 days a week are ‘car free’; I don’t buy trash bags… 5 minute showers…unplug unused appliances…CDF lighting…Some day, I would really love to own a ‘green’ home…Until then, I will just keep doing what I can.
To enter the giveaway for Beth’s Market Bag in Natural, please visit the original post. Giveaway ends 6/20/2009. Also, use code GreenGrechen for 25% off Beth’s handbags through 6/20/2009.
(originally published at Grechen’s Closet July 14, 2008)
Interview with Crystalyn Kae, designer of Crystalyn Kae Handbags
First, I’d love it if you can share with our readers what you’re wearing today? What’s your favorite piece in your closet? How much of your closet is made up of eco-friendly pieces?
I’m a pretty simple, classic gal in terms of daily ‘uniform’. Today I’m wearing an organic cotton tee by Makool, Taverniti So jeans and dansko clogs. Coincidentally, all of which were trades with various designers or boutiques I sell my designs to. My absolute favorite piece of clothing is by Carol Young/ Undesigned – it’s the black caterpillar knee skirt. It wears and washes well, and goes with everything. Since my closet is only 6 feet away from my fabric cutting table, I have learned to simplify tremendously, and use accessories to add ‘flavor’ to my outfits. Most of my eco-fashion comes from thrift stores or from boutiques here in Seattle that support local designers.
What inspired you to start an eco-friendly line? What kinds of materials do you use? Why?
When I started out in 2001, I discovered a huge lot of amazing wool pants, that seemed like a no-brainer to use them to make handbags. I get such a thrill finding unique vintage textiles, leather, and fabrics and incorporating them into my designs. I use an ever-improving alchemy of washable synthetic fabrics, USA manufactured textiles and eco-friendly components in each bag I make.
I am aware of the impact that the apparel industry currently has on our environment, and I want to do my part to lessen my company’s footprint. It is important to me to source my materials locally, re-use whenever possible, and hire local seamstresses. I was very inspired reading ‘Cradle to Cradle’ and use it as a guide to implement even more eco-friendliness in my business, designs, and lifestyle.
What are some of your best-sellers? What are some of your personal favorite designs?
My all-time best selling bag is the Metier Square shopper – it’s a slim, classic tote that is perfect to carry files, paperwork and a laptop for work. They range in price from $155 – $265.
My most unique and eye-catching bag is the Soiree Pleated Drawstring, which is part of a limited-edition series featuring vintage botanical prints tucked inside kick pleats. They range in price from $215 – $285.
My personal favorite designs are whatever my most current one-of-a-kind project. I just added a new page on my site, dedicated to my experimental, unique pieces
I believe in taking a “holistic” approach to greening my wardrobe; while I’m not opposed to buying organic cotton t-shirts from Banana Republic or Wal-Mart, I prefer to support smaller boutiques and designers who focus only on earth-friendly design & production; I love the idea of as few steps as possible between me and the products I buy. Do you agree? Why do you think it’s important for consumers to consider the company behind the product, as opposed to just the product?
oh yes! I am so glad that you make that differentiation. There’s so much more to ‘eco-fashion’ than just the materials it is made out of. It is important to consider where the item was made, who made it, and the quality of construction. Purchasing from a small company that produces their designs domestically means that you are investing in your local economy, decreasing your carbon footprint, and helping to promote humane working conditions.
Do you have any eco-living tips for our readers? What are some small things we can do at home, and in our closets to make a difference?
My wardrobe eco-tip is to invest in high-quality, easy-care garments that are classic and will last for ages. Then accessorize!
Live close to work, use a car-sharing service like Zipcar, or even better: WALK! It is the best way to make an impact on the ozone, offset gas prices, lose weight, and enjoy your life!
(originally published at grechen’s closet June 29, 2008)
Interview with Anna (buyer) and Rajat (owner) of Nimli
What are your favorite pieces in your closet?
Flattering and easily dressed up or down, the EcoSkin Peridot Dress is one of my favorite dresses in my closet for summer events.
Basic black in the perfect length, this Doie Bamboo top has the perfect amount of detail with trumpet sleeves and a bamboo-patterned tie at the back of the neck.
What inspired you to open an eco-boutique? Do you have a brick & mortar store and your website is an extension of that? or is your boutique only online?
NIMLI is an online store only, however that’s not to say we won’t be opening a store sometime in the future! Nimli was founded in New York City in 2003 by Rajat Arora, a vegetarian since early childhood and an advocate of an organic way of life. Conscious of the pertinence of preserving the environment, Rajat created Nimli with the vision, hope, and philosophy of making it possible for people to adopt a sustainable lifestyle through an extensive offering of green products and services.
Nimli is one of the most environmentally mindful retailers due to our practice and policy that requires all designers to ship their products directly to our customers. This results in placing a much lower carbon footprint by eliminating the unnecessary step of shipping items to a warehouse for future re-shipment. Further advancing this model and striving to become completely carbon neutral, Nimli purchases Green Tags to offset the carbon released from shipping, energy consumption and other business activities. We embrace a way of life that supports goods that do not cause suffering and damage to the environment. Living in such a manner involves cultivating products and services that avoid harm to animals and prevent the depletion of the Earth’s natural resources.
What are some of your best-sellers? What are some of your personal favorites from the boutique?
Myth & Ritual Sack Dress:
Mad Imports “Tusk” Bag
JaK Random Think Green Cuff
Cheeky Monkey Seahorse Pendant
Azuri Reversible Pashmina Shawl – in 110 Colors!!
Lilipad Studio Handpainted Step Stool
I believe in taking a “holistic” approach to greening my wardrobe; while I’m not opposed to buying organic cotton t-shirts from Banana Republic or Wal-Mart, I prefer to support smaller boutiques and designers who focus only on earth-friendly design & production; I love the idea of as few steps as possible between me and the products I buy. Do you agree? Why do you think it’s important for consumers to consider the company behind the product, as opposed to just the product?
We agree that consumers need to consider the company behind the products or the retailers they support. There are a large number of corporations that are merely green washing or trying to cash in on the green trend. While they market & offer some green products, the majority of their business is made up of non-green products which they continue to push with profit as the prime motive. We are aware it takes time to move towards new sustainable products, however large companies have enough resources to make this shift today but they don’t. Therefore, it’s extremely important for consumers to support smaller, independent businesses that only produce or market sustainable products and adapt policies within their organizations.
Do you have any eco-living tips for our readers? What are some small things we can do at home, and in our closets to make a difference?
Some basic things everyone can do without much effort is recycle everything that can be recycled. You’d be surprised how much is recyclable. Shop for as many green and sustainable products as possible by always being conscious of your purchases, whether its clothing, personal care or home products.
We are a consumer society and by shopping consciously we can solve a great deal of global issues.
(Take 20% off your order of regularly-priced items at Nimli with code grechens08)
(originally published at grechen’s closet June 26, 2008)
Interview with Ursula Stahl of Envi Eco-Boutique
First, I’d love it if you can share with our readers what you’re wearing today? What’s your favorite piece in your closet? How much of your closet is made up of eco-friendly pieces?
Today, I’m wearing organic denim jeans by Del Forte, a striking new top by Beau Soleil (100% bamboo jersey with recycled leather straps) and red “kashmir” pumps by Terra Plana (vegetable tanned leather and recycled rubber soles). My go-to outfit of choice that will bring me from a day at the store to after-work drinks with friends!
What inspired you to open an eco-boutique? Do you have a brick & mortar store and your website is an extension of that? or is your boutique only online?
We just celebrated the first anniversary of our brick and mortar boutique last month! Envi is located on Newbury Street, the heart of Boston’s shopping district. We love our location because it is accessible to our loyal local clientbase and we also have the unique opportunity to meet and interact with visitors from around the world who visit Newbury Street for its charm on a daily basis. Our website is an extension of the store that allows us to share our collection with the rest of the world. We are thrilled to unveil the totally redesigned and upgraded shopenvi.com to those who can’t make it to Boston to check out what’s new on a regular basis.
What are some of your best-sellers? What are some of your personal favorites from the boutique?
A personal favorite of mine this season is the Pleated Swing Dress by Bahar Shahpar. This dress is a piece that defines modern eco-fashion. It combines a striking silhouette with sustainable fabrics without even a hint of crunchiness! We’ve had several clients wear this dress to weddings and cocktail parties this season.
We also LOVE everything that comes from our best-selling line, Covet. Bostonians are taken by the detailing and styling of this fashion-forward brand. Many tops can be worn forward and back, skirts double as dresses… they really understand the concept of making something edgy yet functional and explore eco-fashion’s limits.
I believe in taking a “holistic” approach to greening my wardrobe; while I’m not opposed to buying organic cotton t-shirts from Banana Republic or Wal-Mart, I prefer to support smaller boutiques and designers who focus only on earth-friendly design & production; I love the idea of as few steps as possible between me and the products I buy. Do you agree? Why do you think it’s important for consumers to consider the company behind the product, as opposed to just the product?
As an owner of a small business I always gravitate towards supporting other boutiques and small businesses in my personal life. People are constantly asking us how we feel about the eco-to-the masses approach that has spread from H & M to Wal-Mart. While I cannot speak to any other retailer’s practices, labor and quality, I don’t feel any resentment toward them. We are in favor of growing awareness and educating consumers on the important role green fashion plays in the industry. In fact, it is amazing for us to see the growth over the last few years that we have been involved in creating a green business. Skeptical and somewhat dismissive stares have been replaced by a sense of understanding and excitement when we explain our concept. However, with the amount of media attention and the fact that eco is going mainstream we now feel it is important to let people know that green fashion is not a trend but a viable, growing segment of the fashion industry.
Do you have any eco-living tips for our readers? What are some small things we can do at home, and in our closets to make a difference?
One tip I like to remind Envi shoppers is to think about the whole process. It is not just about the carbon footprint associated with creating a garment but what happens after you buy it – washing, drying, ironing, etc. It’s all about making small changes in your daily life – so wash those garments in cold water, line dry and be conscious of the energy you consume!
(check our list of coupon codes for a current Envi coupon code)
(originally published at grechen’s closet June 25, 2008)
Interview with Heather Smith, Owner/Founder of Coco’s Shoppe
First, I’d love it if you can share with our readers what you’re wearing today? What’s your favorite piece in your closet? How much of your closet is made up of eco-friendly pieces?
I am wearing my favorite Burning Torch recycled pearl button dress today with my Stella McCartney sandals.
my other fav piece in my closet for summer is the oh so versatile beau soleil tube dress
most of my closet is eco friendly now…i have reworked a lot of my ‘older’ clothes from seasons ago to be current and hip….i.e. my closet restyle….ahhh, the closet restyle…a.k.a. closet therapy. well, any of my clients can tell you it is a heck of a lot more rewarding than laying on a stiff leather couch recounting all your woes…and you’ll leave the session looking fresh & fabulous.
this is a true ecoFashion extravaganza in your home…do you have cargo khakis or perhaps some bootleg jeans circa 1998. let’s just see what you have on those hangers or what has been folded up on that shelf for seasons on end. restyling means recycling your clothes so you can wear them again with the same gusto you had buying them the first time.
What inspired you to open an eco-boutique? Do you have a brick & mortar store and your website is an extension of that? or is your boutique only online?
Online only.
I started CocosShoppe.com to give fashion & beauty savvy shoppers a place to find the current brands they love as well as new indie brands and always know they were buying something sustainable or eco-conscious … by educating them why one piece at a time (with each product description).
Also, I am personally obsessed with eating organic/natural/free range foods or using natural beauty products…and already knowing what goes on my skin and in my body…..wearing fashions and knowing why you buy and ‘voting with your dollars’ is very important to me.
This is my little quote: “Ladies need not be concerned with the beauty indulgences of lipstick, lingerie and the latest fashions… but rather the brand & composition of these products and their ramifications on health, the environmental and generations to come.”
So it was only natural that I became interested in what goes into the fashion I buy….how it affects me and again what I put on my skin….but also how it affects the environment (how these fibers that make the textiles are grown and harvested)….how they are dyed (what goes into our water)….and how the affect our micro and macro economies (i.e. indigenous cultures who may grow the bamboo….or how organic cotton is so superior to conventional cotton…and how not buying petroleum based fashion, polyester, effects world politics…wow).
I also love fashion, beauty, shopping and being a girl…I say ‘your only a girl once!’ … With that said…’we only get the planet once too’
What are some of your personal favorites from the boutique?
Burning Torch,
Lucy Notions headbands and
Virids Luxe are my favorites!!
I believe in taking a “holistic” approach to greening my wardrobe; while I’m not opposed to buying organic cotton t-shirts from Banana Republic or Wal-Mart, I prefer to support smaller boutiques and designers who focus only on earth-friendly design & production; I love the idea of as few steps as possible between me and the products I buy. Do you agree? Why do you think it’s important for consumers to consider the company behind the product, as opposed to just the product?
Locally owned or small biz’s….even if online like CocosShoppe.com….because I reduce my carbon footprint by not having all the energy overhead of a store front and deliver all my packages to the post office on my official cocos bike…is sooooooooo important. but big guys create the supply & demand for ecotextiles and this is very important too…..
(here’s a fabulous picture of Heather and the Official Coco’s Bike…I love it!!!)
Do you have any eco-living tips for our readers? What are some small things we can do at home, and in our closets to make a difference?
Have lots of beautiful plants and flowers….always! and hang to dry……keep your clothes looking lovely and save tons of water!
Take 25% off your order of regularly-priced items at Coco’s shoppe with code GCLOSET
