Every now and then something reminds me why I set off to live a more conscious life to begin with. It hits me like a ton of bricks. Reading an article about unfair wages, a news story about injustices beyond my control, learning about yet another company with shady business practices that we all, it seems, must conform to. All of these have been little reminders this week, and the best thing I can do is in some small way make a difference. Even though the things that weigh on me lately have little to do with shopping or design, I like to think the things I write about will help someone else take that first step to a more conscious life too—even if it starts with buying your next blanket from one of the sites on my list as opposed to the mass-produced alternative. Even a blanket has its implications. Sometimes I don’t see it that way, and sometimes it’s the only lens through which I look at the world. When thinking of all these heavy topics, we make a choice to be hopeless or hopeful.It’s a conscious decision.
ethical shopping
Fair trade Guatemalan bags
I can’t get enough of the ‘ethnic’ trend right now. In fashion, design, and decor, stunning color combinations and pretty, intricately woven threads are mixing with bohemian eccentricity and breathing new life into both styles. I recently thrifted a cute “woven” bag that I love, but am saving my pennies specifically for an authentic Guatemalan beauty like the ones below. Let me tell you, the designs are endless. Generally no two are alike. They’re definitely investment pieces, but I can’t see me getting sick of one of these any time soon, not to mention the amount of money I’ve spent on lower-quality pieces over time…
I actually wear a lot less color in everyday life than my style posts + pinterest boards show. but then I get lost in color, pattern, texture. and then I think, maybe it’d be best to stick with something like no. five, subdued but no less of a statement piece. Are you into the woven trend yourself? Sources below.
mu’s bags / one world projects / altiplano / hiptipico / five + six both from athinaeum
4 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Product
For years now I’ve been working toward making my own purchases (clothing, crafts, beauty, food… basically everything), more ethical and sustainable. It’s something I think a lot more people would pay attention to if they only had the resources. More and more I’m finding that they’re out there, they just take a little digging! So, I’m bringing the resources front and center for anyone else who’s considered the impact of their purchases.
[Read more…] about 4 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Product
Mid-winter essentials
Two things: One—I know it’s a stretch to say it’s mid-winter. But December always feels like winter though it’s really not, and California does winter differently anyway. Two—It may or may not be 80 degrees in Los Angeles as I type this. After a chilly few days it suddenly got warm and my apartment didn’t get the memo. I’m currently cozied up in a warm blanket and long sleeve, hoping that opening the door will heat my livingroom up a bit!
Herringbone Scarf, Check Tunic, Handmade Grey Preppy Shoes, Pin Dot Socks, Notebooks, Lip Balms
So yes, my essentials this time of year may be a little different than they’d be in the Pacific Northwest. I don’t need rainboots or a wool coat, but a thick dress and circle scarf is appropriate for most climates, I think. Investing in a good pair of close-toed shoes would be a smart move, especially those of us who wear flats + sandals whenever possible. I also added in a notebook, because who can survive January without one? I have this set from Scout & Catalogue and it’s the perfect size for tossing in any of my bags. Resolutions, goals, plans… So much to jot down. A couple of lip balms from Spirit Beauty Lounge (while my favorite Etsy shop is on vacation), and tall, but not too thick, socks make for a cozy day in or out around town.
This roundup (and all of my roundups) features exclusively indie + ethically created + handmade products. Click the links above to explore the different shops and designers!
What goes with you everywhere in January?