VaVaVaVEGAN » fashion

Fair Wages For Formal Wear

jen — Thu, 05 May 2011 10:03:17 +0000

Okay, I admit that it’s unlikely there will be a silkworm workers’ union forming anytime in this era. Not to mention, you really can’t put a price on a life – or the lives of millions of silkworms, to be exact.

But with prom, graduation, and wedding seasons approaching, you’ll likely be on the lookout for something seamingly more formal. So consider a silk-free silhouette like this elegantly eggplant, super chic Chiffon-Trim Charmeuse Dress by Vera Wang. You’ll be a knockout draped in decadence and a compassionately clad silkworm life-saver.

[$78 by simply vera by vera wang at kohls.com]

Emergency Exit Attire

jen — Sun, 01 May 2011 23:00:52 +0000

A.K.A. The Bathrobe – And by emergency exit, I’m referring to when your bf is taking out the Sunday morning trash and spots a plump little pal in your apartment’s communal backyard. The only rational next step in this I-swear-this-happened-to-me-this-morning scenario is to grab the most convenient garb on hand and rush outside for a wildlife sightseeing adventure. With the temperature picking up a tad, my pj’s usually range from au natural to barely butt-covering Hello Kitty sleep sets. Luckily, when the (appropriately named) Chubby Cubby groundhog viewing occurred, I was ready to dash out the door with my Skull & Crossbone Short Microluxe Robe. Ultra lush and oh-so faux, it has the option to tie tightly to minimize mishaps.

[$24.99 by thro ltd. at overstock.com]

Faux Find: Creamy Dreamy Coating

jen — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:49:46 +0000

True, I’ve already pondered the pleather or not question, pointed out the pitfalls of a poorly done piece, and raved about a former fave. But as the seasons change so does my wardrobe – with the addition of this white hot non-leather jacket from Torrid. Bronze hardware coupled with its luscious cream color make it a spring equinox essential.

Plus, did I mention I’m a sucker for pyramid studs? ::swoon::

[$49.97 at torrid.com]

Temporary Tat, Permanent Message

jen — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 11:19:37 +0000

Props to stars like Leona Lewis, Ricky Gervais, and Spice Girl Melanie C. for being HSI human billboards. They were seen and snapped sporting these temp too-cute tattoos to raise awareness about the Humane Society International’s Cruelty-Free 2013 campaign. After admiring their mini mammals accompanied by the message ““End Animal Testing,”make sure to leave your mark on the HSI’s online petition.

Kudos to the Human Society International for this fashionably trendy think-ink campaign!

Wild Thing, You Make My Heart Sing

jen — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 20:24:17 +0000

As it started out, there was nothing good about Good Friday. The rest of the working world was off while I sat enslaved at my desk, the salon outside frantic with the usual frenzy of Friday clients. For the past three days, I had been sharing my space with resident furball, Dav, a plump little squirrel who I secretly named after eco-savvy haircare collection Davines. Given many missed opportunities for a wild escape, Dav finally left the building after a heated supply room stare down. Unexpectedly, she was not thrilled with her new found freedom, but rather comparatively clawing her way through the concrete to creep back in. It was soon discovered that her desperate attempt to return were in hopes of retrieving three babies she had apparently hidden in the ceiling. In a bold, building-breaking move, our Inventory Manager/on-hand animal-rescuer hammered a tiny hole for her to enter through. We then watched in awe as Dav carried her cublets to safety, each one clinging to her as she scaled the roof. What could have been a conference room catastrophe turned out to be a heart-warming wonder that left everyone feeling a little more grateful that day.

P.S. If you find yourself in a bind with a little ball of fur and are far from adept in animal assistance, contact the Wild Baby Rescue Center in Blairstown, NJ – or check out their helpful hints for dealing with wildlife.

[$4 by animal outfitter on cafepress.com]

Hop To It: Sterling Style

jen — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 09:38:10 +0000

Spread the word that cruelty-free is the way to be! Need some hand-crafted help? Check out Christy Robinson’s collection of creatures carrying a message. My appropriately Easter fave is her Cruelty-Free Bunny Pendant, complete with a sterling silver flat cable chain.

[$20 at christyrobinsondesigns.com]

HM Replay: Earth Day Birthday

jen — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 10:36:52 +0000

If you missed last year’s spring/summer addition of Holistic Montclair, here’s your chance to have at it. Yours truly appeared as a guest writer for the style section of this locally produced publication.

Vegan Style – And For Under $25

Among many things, April is the month of our Earth’s Birthday, making it subject to a lot of fun and inspiring activities. Being the stunning socialite you are, I bet you’ve got your itinerary down and a sustainable soiree or two on the agenda. And you’ve pre-picked the perfect party outfit, right? Oh. Not quite? Well, I’m a firm believer in multi-tasking, so while saving the earth this spring, why not save a little dough on some celebration savvy style. So what to wear to get a little festive? When in doubt, keep it casual and animal conscious, of course.

Spring is usually synonymous with an abundance of outdoor things, so spare yourself a sprain by making sure to sport the right stemware. Girls, try the World Peace Vegan Flip Flop from VeganChic.com ($24.99). Not only 100% vegan, but absolutely ethereal with its peace sign printed foot-bed and peaced-out pin detail.

Guys, check out Urban Outfitter’s Faux Leather Plimsoll. This exclusive to UO item comes in bold blacks, natural navys, earth tone tans and a few other hues. Cooler than canvas and much more animal-lovin’ than leather, for $24.00 these sneaks are a definite steal. And hey, they’re local!

Next, nothing makes a fashion or social statement like a comfortably candid statement tee. BustedTees.com’s Stop Animal Testing ($20.00) is printed on fine jersey cotton, made right here in the U.S., and is available in both male and female sizing. The quirky quip and witty word play proves that just because you care about a serious cause, it doesn’t mean you have to be so, well, serious. Some organizations can resort to scare-tactics and in-your-face offensiveness to get the word out, when really it’s just not necessary. Instead, have a little fun with your animal-friendly flamboyance.

Ladies, if you’ve been keeping up with the media mag trends this season, it’s likely you’ve been lavished with pages upon pages of prints. But animal prints aren’t the only way to channel your wild child side this season. Support the protection of endangered species with a WWF top from Forever 21, a fave mall-day destination. My pick? A pretty zebra printed one for only $15.80. Scope out the mini panda pal in the corner as reassurance that a portion of the proceeds go directly to the World Wildlife Federation.

Finally, there’s nothing more in fashion than a stylish smile. Keep yours caffeinated with Crazy Rumors Perk Lip Balm ($3.95) from AlternativeOutfitters.com. I know it’s taxing being a confident, conscious and cost-effective shopper, so choose a lip latte flavor like coffee bean to pump some energy back into your pout. Made from jojoba oil, shea butter, soy wax and vitamin E, they’re 100% vegan and all natural.

I’d say you’re pretty much set for any spring flings that get penciled in your planner – or maybe it’s more like added to your iphone calendar app. Either way, don’t forget April is also Go Orange for Animals Month.

Triple F: Celebrating Fur-Free Fashion

jen — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 20:54:38 +0000

For the third year in a row, Born Free USA offered indie fashion designers the chance to win big – for themselves, animals, and the environment – by showing off their fur-free creations. Among the celeb judges are outspoken animal supporter/actress Kristin Bauer, editor of E The Environmental Magazine Brita Belli, international designer Elizabeth Emanuel, and Summer Rayne Oakes: eco-model, activist and green living expert. Stayed tuned for the 2011 winners announcement. And in the meantime, check out a few pics from past years’ animal-lovin’ lookbook.

Faux Find: Plush Overload

jen — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 01:00:02 +0000

How super cute are these? I’m almost tempted to wear one to the office.

[$15.90 by jewelryville on etsy.com]

Faux Find: Cuff ‘Em

jen — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 14:05:07 +0000

I doubt it’s surprising that I’m all in favor of some peaceful protest for whatever cause you choose to be passionate about. (Ahem. May I suggest some animal rights activism?) But out of respect for rules, regs, and town law enforcement, I’m opting to carry pleather cuffs, as opposed to handcuffs, as a must-have accessory. For a little bit of dazzle, dare to don this faux leather Black Flat Silver Studded Crystal Gem Wristband from Torrid.

[$12 at torrid.com]

This spring especially, we’re all in favor of some peaceful protest for whatever cause you choose to be passionate about. (Ahem. May I suggest some animal rights activism?) And in favor of respect for rules, regs, and town law enforcement, I’m opting to carry pleather cuffs, as opposed to handcuffs, as a must-have accessory. For a little bit of dazzle, dare to don the faux leather Black Flat Silver Studded Crystal Gem Wristband ($12.00) from Torrid