5 Tips for Eco-Fashion Photographers (and Influencers)

Today, the world of fashion is revitalized as it seeks to confront the footprint that it has left on earth with the rise of eco-fashion.

Eco-Fashion Photography

Eco-fashion, or sustainable fashion, has caused many brands to shift how they approach the operation of their entire business — from manufacturing to marketing. As fashion is responsible for up to an alarming 10% of greenhouse gas emissions across the globe, brands strive to cut CO2 emissions by reducing overproduction and waste, supporting biodiversity, and making ethical sourcing and production choices.

In this new dawn in the fashion industry, photographers and influencers are key players. While not directly involved in the CO2-emitting production processes of clothes, they are critical messengers that give shape and form to the advocacies and sentiments of the industry. As eco-fashion continues to grow so too should the eco-fashion photographer and their models rise to the challenge. Here are some tips on how to incorporate sustainability into your work.

1. Invest in Highly Durable Equipment

Before becoming an eco-advocate, you first need to practice what you preach. As a photographer, one way to become more eco-friendly in your line of work is to invest in durable equipment that will last a long time. This reduces your carbon footprint (and saves you a lot of money!). To this end, mirrorless cameras are highly durable as they have fewer moving parts than DSLRs. Many of them also use electronic shutters which further reduce the chance of breakage. You can also use secondhand cameras to reduce e-waste.

2. Work with Sustainable Brands

As a professional photographer, it’s important to choose carefully which brands you partner with by making sure that their sustainability goals and practices align with yours. Fortunately, many smaller brands these days are incorporating sustainability into the very root of their businesses. This results not only in unique and dynamic designs that show up great in shoots, but will help you promote the eco-agenda as well. Be sure to incorporate eco-friendly jewelry in your shoots, which makes use of recycled materials and natural substances like nuts and clay to create unique pieces that represent sustainability.

To know which brands are genuinely upholding sustainable practices, check their story and mission, previous campaigns, and even their environmental, social, and corporate governance data report if it’s publicly available.

3. Incorporate Pre-Loved Clothes in Your Shoots

Other than being a sustainable habit, incorporating pre-loved clothes into your work helps you create standout and versatile looks for a cheaper price. You may even encounter vintage pieces no longer available on the market. Beyond this, renting pieces extends the life of clothes by up to 9 months, reducing their carbon, water, and waste footprints by around 20-30%. As attitudes towards secondhand clothing change, iconic brands like Valentino have also begun getting creative through giving their vintage pieces a second life, highlighting the glamor in vintage.

4. Capture the Production Process

One of the biggest challenges to sustainability is the lack of recognition for the abusive working conditions that many workers face in factories. But as a photographer, working with sustainable and ethical fashion brands may allow you to showcase what positive production environments look like by drawing focus to the workforce and the process behind the fashion you shoot. This image from Indigenous Designs highlights the artisans at the heart of their Fair Trade fashion production.

Not only does this help celebrate the people and the craft behind the clothes, but it also helps build consumer trust for the brand.

5. Make a Statement with Your Platform

If you’re going to work with innovative fashion produced with great sustainability, then you should match it with a concept that reflects its impact. This is what Stella McCartney did in 2017. Working with photographer Harley Weir, their campaign photoshoot drew attention to the waste generated by fashion. Don’t be afraid to get creative and incorporate striking novel elements.

Being an eco-fashion photographer can be a rewarding experience when you give purpose to your art. By incorporating sustainability in everything from your gear and partnerships to your art direction, you can effectively call attention to the beauty and vitality of eco-fashion.


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5 Amazing Eco-Friendly Gifts for Your Female Coworkers

Whether you’re celebrating an accomplishment or doing a holiday swap, choosing gifts for coworkers can be a challenge. Homing in on your coworker’s interests and passion can help you select a meaningful gift that she’ll love.

An office desk with computer

If your coworker prides herself on living a sustainable, eco-conscious lifestyle, you’re in luck. Here are some fantastic eco-friendly gifts for your female coworkers.

1. A Desktop Garden

Putting together a desktop is an excellent gift for your eco-conscious coworker. This creative project can be scaled for any budget and style and also works well as a group gift. 

When creating a desktop garden, consider the location of your coworker’s desk. If her desk is away from the window, you’ll need to find plants that thrive in a low-light environment. If she has a nice spot, look for bright, sun-loving plants and flowers.

Desktop gardens offer several eco-conscious benefits. They can help purify the air without requiring another drain on the electricity. Furthermore, flowers improve mood, memory, and focus to create a happy, healthy work environment. 

2. Sustainable and Ethical Jewelry

Jewelry often gets overlooked as a gift for coworkers out of fear that it could be inappropriate. By no means should you purchase your coworker a diamond bracelet or give her jewelry if she never wears any. However, if your coworker is known for accessorizing, an affordable piece of sustainable and ethical jewelry is appropriate. 

Look for a jeweler who uses recycled and natural materials to make their products. Consider the symbolism of the piece you choose. Selecting something with a positive message or association is a nice way to share your good wishes with a coworker.

3. Eco-Friendly Lunch Kit

Food packaging and single-use plastics are one of the main offenders against our planet. Things like sandwich bags, plastic wrap, disposable cutlery, and plastic straws add 130 million metric tons of waste to landfills in a year. While most of this comes from major corporations, every little bit of effort counts. 

Put together an eco-friendly lunch kit for your coworker. Include things like bamboo utensils, cloth napkins, stainless steel straws, beeswax and fabric food savers, and glass containers. This gift is a simple gesture that’s both practical and meaningful to someone who cares deeply about the environment.

A keyboard next to an wrapped gift

4. Water Bottle from a B-Corp

A B-Corp is a business that shows proven positive impacts on society and the environment. These for-profit organizations must adhere to rigid standards to achieve their certification. While purchasing a reusable water bottle is a nice gesture, it’s also important to confirm that the producer also uses sustainable manufacturing processes.

If your coworker already has a tried and tested water bottle, choose a travel mug or another vessel instead. You can even get stainless steel beer growlers and wine tumblers for the coworker who enjoys a nightcap after a long day at work. Pair your gift with a sample of your coworker’s preferred beverage for an added touch.

5. Natural Soaps and Lotions

Putting together a collection of natural, handmade soaps and lotions is another great, eco-friendly gift for a female coworker. Look for local makers at small stores and craft markets to support your community. You can also get natural hand sanitizers and beauty products to create a self-care gift basket.

These simple, meaningful gifts are perfect for an eco-minded coworker. Choose one or multiple items from this list to make an impact, both on the recipient and the world around you.


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woman holding bouquet of flowers

Single on Valentine’s Day? 5 Ideas to Keep You Smiling All Month Long.

We’ve all seen the myriad Valentine’s post for lovers. Heck, we’ve done one ourselves on sexy lingerie for Valentine’s Day. But for many people, being single on Valentine’s Day can lead to melancholy or loneliness. Don’t despair! Not only are there literally millions of other folks who don’t have a “Valentine,” but there are also some fun and creative ways to celebrate while caring for yourself. Here are our top 5 tips to make this your best Valentine’s Day yet.

Start with a Spa Day

Spas run all sorts of specials and deals for Valentine’s Day. You can get the same discount on those gift certificates if buy them for yourself and have a day-spa treat! What’s better, most gift certificates are given as gifts on Valentine’s Day, so they’re often not actually used until after Valentine’s Day. That means you can get it on some low-cost, self-love with easy-to-get appointments in early February.

If you can’t get to the spa, arrange for some wonderful at-home relaxation with the help of a portable sauna blanket from the Heliotherapy Institute.

Feed Your Ex to a Tiger!

Calvin the Tiger from Wildcat Ridge Sanctuary

Support charity while letting go of a bad breakup or just having a really good, healing belly-laugh by feeding your ex’s name to a tiger. Wildcat Ridge Sanctuary is hosting a My Bloody Valentine fundraiser for their big cats. According to their website “… for a mere $35, we’ll feed that cold, cold heart (in the form of a bloody jello mold) to a wildcat and send you a compilation video. For $75, we’ll make it personal, feed it to a wildcat and send you your own custom video.” They’ve even got some pretty dramatic videos of the tigers having a go at the molds. But really, it’s all in good fun and no one gets harmed. In fact, it helps them continue their mission to provide a safe, natural, lifetime home for captive-born wildcats in need.

Side note: I’m a vegan, but tigers are NOT. These big cats need their meat to stay strong and healthy. Getting little treats of different foods and meals presented in different ways is great enrichment for the tigers!

Make it Cozy

Nina pajama set from FaeriesDance.com

Ok, so you’re relaxed from the spa, you’ve gotten a good laugh at your ex’s expense, it’s time to get cozy in some ultra-soft, organic loungewear. From fair trade pajama sets to snuggly fleece loungewear pieces, picking something from Faerie’s Dance’s sleepwear selection will make being single on Valentine’s Day seem outright joyous.

Indulge in Chocolate, but Skip the Heart-Shaped Box

single on Valentine's day? Try this skull shaped candy from Lagusta's luscious

Ethical, vegan chocolate company Lagusta’s Luscious is featuring a Valentine’s Day “Love is Dead” chocolate skull. From their website, “Just in time for Valentine’s cheer to be interrupting us at every corner, (grocery store aisles! television ads! public displays of affection!) we have made you a pretty sizeable chocolate skull, filled with our favorite assortment of seasonal bonbons. Share it with a lover, a friend, a family member, or smash it open yourself. No matter what your intentions, it’s the sweetest form of February self-care.”

Once you crack open this skull, it even contains an anatomically shaped heart along with other treats inside. It’s an activity as well as a dessert. Half the fun is smashing the skull. How will you do it?

Wear Inspiration

Being single on Valentine’s Day is really not a big deal. Each of us needs to find joy and pleasure in commonplace things. Celebrate the everyday inspirations in your life with one of these thoughtful jewelry pieces by The Artist Jay. Each comes with a card to help you remember to be mindful in some way. They’re handcrafted in the USA using recycled aluminum, and an ideal gift to yourself for Valentine’s or really, any time at all.


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10 Summer Outfits To Waltz Through The Hot Season

Are you struggling to find the perfect summer outfits to don this year? Well you’ve landed on the right webpage. In this article, I’m going to give you some oh-so-stylish summer looks that you can wear comfortably and flaunt proudly, because everything here consists of natural fabric and organic clothing options. So without further ado, let’s get into the list of the 10 best summer outfits for 2021! 

1. Work Hard, Play Hard 

Browse through organic clothing at Faerie’s Dance to find the best summer outfits

How many of you are late to work because you can’t decide what to wear? Is your head screaming “I have nothing to wear”, while your wardrobe is literally choking on clothes? Don’t stress, because Faerie’s Dance has the perfect workwear for you! Pair this chic jacket with these comfy pants and white bamboo cami, and accessorize with this cute matching recycled glass neckpiece and earrings. Voila! You’re ready to be the eco-chic boss lady.           

2. Working From Home 

Bamboo polo and linen bermuda shorts make the perfect summer outfit

If you’re still working from home, or maybe have always worked from home, the perfect summer outfit is business on the top and comfort on the bottom. Mix and match formal tops or polo shirts with comfortable, classy shorts and get productive.

3. Thank God It’s Friday!

Find summer outfits at online clothing shop FaeriesDance.com

What can be better than knowing that the weekend is FINALLY HERE? Knowing what you’re gonna wear to that weekend night out. Well stress no more, ‘cause this halter dress will make you look the hottest in the room. Keep your makeup and going-out essentials in this VHS bag and there you go! Not your style? Browse through our summer maxi dresses to find your personal favorite.

4. Sunday Brunch Time! 

Three organic cotton pieces to make the perfect summer outfit

A perfect Sunday consists of two main things – waking up late and having a Sunday brunch with your family. And to make the most of it, you need to wear the comfiest summer outfits. Since you couldn’t decide what you’re gonna wear (that’s why you’re scrolling through this article, right?), I suggest you wear this basic white tee with this flowy skirt and wrap your wrist with this cute li’l organic cotton bracelet.   

5. BRB… Outfitting for the Grocery Run

Outfit combo showing organic clothing, dresses and sustainable jewelry

Who says you don’t need to look cute while going out to pick up groceries? What if some producer/photographer discovers you and wants to sign you for their next movie/shoot or you bump into your next great love at the coffee bar? Either way, why take the risk? Always go out looking and feeling good about yourself — try any of our beautiful dresses with an elegant, grounding necklace, and thank me later! 

6. Finding Zen at yoga class (or the gym)! 

woman wearing organic cotton pants and workout bra for a summer outfit.

Need to find some calm and grounding at yoga class or work off steam at the gym? Don’t sweat about your outfit. Pair this organic clothing duo (skinny pants + workout bra) with virtually any top in your closet and you can go directly from… well, anywhere… to the studio or fitness center. 

7. I Got Asked Out!

Summer outfit with eco-fashion dress and recycled metal bracelet

Swiping right on your crush is fun, but when they swipe back at you – it’s a DATE! Date dressing can be so nerve-racking. It’s important to look your best while also feeling comfortable! Going out with your crush can already be a nervous affair, you don’t need your clothes to cause you any more discomfort. EcoSkin (a Faerie’s Dance exclusive brand) makes eco-fashion dresses that look like a million bucks, while feeling like you’re wearing pajamas! Pair it with a simple recycled artisan bracelet, and go with a natural makeup look.

8. Meet Me At The Beach

Recycled plastic swimwear for the perfect ocean-friendly summer outfit

Right one or left one? Pick your favorite one or pick both! Both of these bikinis are made from recycling plastics and ocean waste into comfortable, ocean-conscious swimwear. Have fun in the sun, swim like a fish, dance with the waves, and when you’re finally done with water splashing just relax at the beach wearing this beautiful coverup

9. Time to Walk the Pup

organic cotton leggings paired with a hemp top for an eco-friendly summer outfit

Complement your pup by looking as cute as him/her! Wear these stylish organic cotton leggings with a comfy two-tone top and play fetch with your little buddy. Don’t forget to take some sweet pictures of your pup and then post them on social media.  

10. It’s A Lazy Day

bamboo shorts and tee for a lazy-day summer outfit

There are days when we want to overachieve and then, there are days when we want to do nothing. For the latter, you would just want to curl up on your couch; binging on your favorite snacks while watching your favorite TV shows. Guess what? You should do it often. It’s not about being lazy, it’s actually about taking a break from your busy life, which is really good for your mental health. And for the outfit part, pair this bamboo tee with these matching bamboo shorts and just chill!

Okay now you don’t have to thank me for helping you out in picking the best summer outfits because I’m more than happy to help! Just don’t forget to share this article with your girl squad to help them too. And check out Faerie’s Dance for more organic clothing for every season.  

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Green is the New White: Sustainable Wedding Dress Styles for Any Season

A rack of multiple ethical wedding dresses

If you are planning a wedding, there are lots of great ways to make your day as eco-friendly as possible without sacrificing on glamor and magic. Sustainable wedding dresses are just one of the greener trends that are turning the wedding industry upside-down, and these beautiful pieces can easily be styled for any type of wedding. Read on to learn about sustainable and ethical wedding dresses and how you can do good while looking stunning!

Why the Conventional Dress Just Doesn’t Cut It Anymore

Wedding dresses — by definition — are not sustainable. An intricate work of art that takes upwards of 20 feet of fabric and at least two weeks to make, a typical wedding dress will only be worn once before sitting at the back of a closet and ultimately heading to the landfill. Add to this the fact that most wedding dresses are made of pesticide-heavy silk and/or synthetic fabrics like polyester that don’t break down easily, and you have an environmental conundrum on your hands!

In recent years, values-based wedding planning is leading more and more couples to avoid fast fashion and choose eco-friendly options for their weddings — from recycled card invitations and plastic-free table settings to intentionally mismatched bridal parties and sustainable wedding dresses.

Ready to discover your perfect, eco-dress? Here are our top suggestions:

Embrace the Charm of Vintage Styles

Styles come and go, but fortunately, time can transform passé into vintage! Your mother’s or grandmother’s highly-prized bridal gown could soon become the perfect ethical wedding dress style when it makes a grand re-entrance on your special day. If the original owner is happy for you to make some changes, you can easily transform the dress with a few small adjustments to make it your own.

If dear granny’s dress isn’t your style, hit the thrift stores and e-stores to browse sustainable wedding dresses in an endless array of silhouettes. For something a little more modern, you could also buy a second-hand dress from a friend or online. Don’t shy away from low-back styles while you’re shopping, either. You can always add a bra directly to your dress so you don’t have to worry about straps showing.

Set the Pace with a Trendy Rental Gown

Another easy and budget-friendly approach to sustainable wedding dresses is to rent a gown and tux for the day itself. The ultimate closed-loop approach, rental gowns reduce your footprint to a fraction of the (environmental) cost and eliminate the question of what to do with the dress after you’re wed.

An antique black sewing machine

Make Your Dress from Recycled Fabrics

For the more crafty among us, making your own wedding dress gives you free rein on the design and can save you a lot of money in the process. If you have the time and are so inclined, consider making your dress sustainable by sourcing recycled fabrics that don’t cost the earth. Some excellent fabric sources for ethical wedding dresses include:

  • Factory offcuts
  • Used wedding dresses that are beyond repair
  • White cotton bedsheets and lace curtains from friends or a thrift store
  • Excess fabric offered through Freecycle or Craigslist

Depending on what you find, you can create an eye-catching piece that is either all one color (bedsheets!) or multi-tonal. Either way, some basic patterns for sustainable wedding dresses and a few days at the sewing machine could result in a one-of-a-kind dress that you’ll be proud to wear down the aisle.

Go for a Versatile Two-Piece

Another option for sustainable wedding dresses that won’t go to the landfill is a two-piece top and skirt combo that you can wear in the future. Buy a pre-matched set or shop around until you find a combination that works and top it off with a cream-colored shrug or fitted jacket (hello, future job interview outfit!)

Apart from saving on precious resources, investing in a set that you can wear again-and-again lets you keep this special part of your life forever and relive those precious memories time-and-time again.

Invest in a Dress that Does No Harm

A final alternative which we personally love is to shop for sustainable wedding dresses that are made to do good. The perfect solution for a traditional wedding gown that does good for your style and the earth, ethical wedding dresses minimize pollution and are sewn by workers who are paid fairly for their work.

These flowing dress styles available in bamboo and Tencel™ are the ideal replacement for conventional silk and feel wonderfully soft on your skin. Dresses made from organic cotton and linen are the best choice if you want a little more shape and stiffness to your outfit and can be woven to include stunning embellishments such as embroidered details and beading.

A variety of ethical wedding dresses on hangers.

Brands Matter

When shopping for sustainable wedding dresses, be sure to do your homework and find the brand that best suits your values. The best brand will be one that has a transparent supply chain, economizes on energy, and uses materials that are pesticide-free and fully biodegradable. You can even keep the good vibes going by donating your dress to a charity you cherish.

Shopping for the Honeymoon and Beyond

Once you’ve thought about how to shop sustainable wedding dresses, don’t forget to prepare for the honeymoon! Eco-chic, ethical lingerie, and comfortable organic sleepwear are essentials for enjoying your first moments as a married couple, and remember a few flattering organic dresses and jackets, too, for strolling around your destination!

Choosing to shop ethical wedding dresses and clothing for your wedding and beyond will not only inspire your guests but will get your family off to a great start with values you can live out in your home. Explore our collection of eco-friendly formal dresses to find your perfect fit, and say “yes” to the dress today!


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Be Eco-Friendly and Save Cash with These Citric Acid Cleaning Tips

2020 is finally over, and here’s hoping that 2021 will be a better year overall! At Faerie’s Dance, we love to start the year with a clean, fresh home so we feel relaxed and refreshed after a hard day’s work selling organic clothing. Of course, since we’re focused on green living, the harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances of commercial cleaners definitely aren’t our thing.

Natural Citric Acid to the Rescue

Lemons and homemade lemon cleaner bottle

It’s not just the composition of commercial cleaners that poses a health or environmental problem. According to current recycling data, we’ve dumped more and more plastic waste into the environment over the years. This is quite a dire situation considering that plastic waste materials are non-biodegradable, dangerous to wildlife, cause waterways to clog, and are just an eyesore. Plastics can come from anywhere, and that includes containers for our household cleaners.

But what if we told you there’s actually a way to reduce or even eliminate using commercially sold household cleaners? That means there are fewer containers that will go to the waste disposal facility, at least from your household. But then, imagine if all homes follow suit. Now that’s doing the environment a favor! Not to mention the money that you’ll be saving.

Making your own safe, eco-friendly, and affordable household cleaner is easy. You only need to use citric acid. Now, before running to the drugstore or some laboratory supply store, you might check your cupboard, fruit basket, or refrigerator first. That’s because you can find citric acid in fruits like lemons, oranges, and limes. It’s what gives these fruits their tart, sour taste.

How to Create and Use Your Very Own Homemade Cleaner

Get rid of your commercially bought cleaner—which contains harsh chemicals—and create your own citrus-scented all-purpose cleaner. Here’s how:

  1. In a 1-quart measuring jar, mix a quart of leftover peels from citrus fruits. Rinds from lemons, oranges, grapefruit, or lime are perfect. Fill the jar with white vinegar.
  2. Close tightly and place in a sunny place. Leave the jar for around two weeks to complete the infusion process.
  3. Strain the liquid into a clean, sealed jar. Don’t throw the peels; you can use them as compost.
  4. To use, pour half a cup of this infused vinegar to a spray bottle. Add 2 cups of clean tepid water, 20 drops of lemon essential oil, and a generous squeeze of citrus fruit. Close and shake well.

Here’s another recipe in making an all-purpose homemade citric acid cleaner

  1. Combine vinegar, baking soda, and hot water in a bucket.
  2. Add the juice of half a lemon, orange, or any citrus fruit. You can also drip the rinds in.
  3. Stir well until everything is well mixed and the baking soda is dissolved. Allow to cool.
  4. Transfer your homemade cleaner to a spray bottle or squeeze bottle.

Use your effective, nice-smelling, eco-friendly cleaner the way you use your commercial cleaner. Spray onto the surface to be cleaned and wipe with a clean damp cloth. The citric acid eats away stubborn dirt and stains while leaving a citrusy scent.

Your homemade cleaner may also smell like vinegar, especially if the brand of vinegar you used is quite strong. Don’t worry though because the vinegar scent rapidly dissipates. What remains is a fresh citrus scent.

WARNING: avoid using this citric acid cleaner on tiles, countertops, and other surfaces made of natural stone. The citric acid can dissolve the calcium carbonate in the substrate. Frequently using this cleaner on natural stone surfaces may cause pitting and holes.

Other Home Uses of Natural Citric Acid

Your homemade citric acid all-purpose cleaner is just one of the hundreds of ways you can use citrus fruits for household purposes. Here are a few more ideas:

  • Cutting boards are havens for parasites found in meat, fruits, vegetables, and other foodstuff. Fortunately, you can easily sanitize and deodorize smelly cutting boards the eco-friendly way. Cut a lemon in half and rub it all over the cutting board, squeezing as you go. The juice cleans and disinfects the board naturally, and you don’t have to worry about dangerous chemicals contaminating your board.
  • Cutting boards are havens for parasites found in meat, fruits, vegetables, and other foodstuff. Fortunately, you can easily sanitize and deodorize smelly cutting boards the eco-friendly way. Cut a lemon in half and rub it all over the cutting board, squeezing as you go. The juice cleans and disinfects the board naturally, and you don’t have to worry about dangerous chemicals contaminating your board.
  • Cutting boards are havens for parasites found in meat, fruits, vegetables, and other foodstuff. Fortunately, you can easily sanitize and deodorize smelly cutting boards the eco-friendly way. Cut a lemon in half and rub it all over the cutting board, squeezing as you go. The juice cleans and disinfects the board naturally, and you don’t have to worry about dangerous chemicals contaminating your board.
  • Cutting boards are havens for parasites found in meat, fruits, vegetables, and other foodstuff. Fortunately, you can easily sanitize and deodorize smelly cutting boards the eco-friendly way. Cut a lemon in half and rub it all over the cutting board, squeezing as you go. The juice cleans and disinfects the board naturally, and you don’t have to worry about dangerous chemicals contaminating your board.
  • Slice a couple of lemons, limes, and oranges. Put them in a small bowl filled with water. Add in a teaspoon or two of white vinegar. Put the bowl in your microwave and cook for five minutes. Open the microwave, let it sit for a minute, and wipe any spills. Now your microwave smells fresh and clean!
  • Removing stains and soap scum from your bathroom is easy. Simply sprinkle some salt on the area. Rub the salt using half a lemon, squeezing as you scrub the salt. For tougher stains, use a bathroom scrub after squeezing lemon juice on the stain. Let dry and wash away with plain water.
  • The tarnish from your heirloom copper pots, cups, and ornaments can easily be removed. Squeeze the juice of a single lemon into a bowl. Add a teaspoon of lemon and stir until the salt is dissolved. Dip a piece of cloth and rub the tarnish off the copper. Use gentle pressure to avoid scratching the copper.

Conclusion

Using natural citric acid is an awesome way to recycle or repurpose your extra citrus fruits. They are all-natural and biodegradable. Clean, sanitize, disinfect, and freshen up your home the safe and eco-friendly way.


Faerie’s Dance published this article with assistance from Lillian Connors, Senior Content Developer at ACT-ENVIRO. Here’s a little about her.

Lillian Connors

Throughout Lillian’s career, she always looked for ways to contribute to the environment in recycling efforts, while providing valuable information with her written articles. She’s deeply into green practices, cherishing the notion that sustainability not only makes us far less dependent on others regarding how we live and do business but also contributes to our planet being a better place to live on. When she is not trying to improve the things around her (and herself, for that matter), she likes to lose herself in a good book and sip on an occasional appletini.


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Artistic Fashion – Turning Pen and Ink Drawings into Wearable Art

Modal art scarf spirals purple
Loveleen Saxena’s “Bold Spirals” Scarf Shown Full Width

We love fashion, sustainability and ART! At the 2019 Sustainable Fashion Forum in Portland, we met artist Loveleen Saxena, and fell in love with her pen and ink drawings. For the last few months, we’ve collaborated to bring you her bright, bold artwork printed on sustainable modal scarves using low-impact water-based inks.

Our first four art-inspired scarfs are online now. We thought you might want to know more about the artist and this fantastic alliance. So we sat down with Loveleen to talk about what inspires her.

Faerie’s Dance: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Loveleen Saxena in Modal Scarf
Loveleen poses in her “Spirals and Circles” art scarf

Loveleen Saxena: Hello everyone! I am a self-taught artist based in Katy, Texas. I have been dabbling in art since I was a kid. Creativity has always been a part of my life and career. Getting my education in architecture and construction fostered creative expression in a different way for me.

FD: How long have you been creating art?

LS: I rediscovered my love for art six years back when I started carrying my journal during lunch walks in Downtown Houston, while working in my corporate job. And I haven’t stopped since then.

First few years I made art to de-stress. And I loved sharing my work online. I never intended to become a full time artist. In 2014, my husband and I took a seven month backpacking trip to ten countries. That was a game changer. It gave me the courage to continue following my heart and live a purposeful life. Life that is in alignment with my truth.

So when we came back, a year later I decided to leave my career in construction and dive full time into art, along with starting a business with my husband.

It’s been a beautiful and unique journey so far!

I can say creativity is my meditation. My spiritual practices and creative expression have helped me learn so much about myself.

And that’s what inspires me to create everyday. So I can share those nuggets of wisdom with everyone, through my art. My vision is to awaken our inner joy, to spread love and see beauty in simple things. And I feel so grateful I’m doing that everyday.

modal art scarf sleeping beauty
Loveleen shows off the “Sleeping Beauty” Scarf

FD: Where do you create most of your art? Do you have a home studio, or prefer to work outside in nature?

LS: I have a home studio but my entire home is my workspace! Some days I work in our backyard, some days in the dining area and some days in my studio.

I just take my pens and paper and find a spot that calls me that day. I find it so freeing to create when I feel inspired. Be it a coffee shop, during my bus rides, in the plane or train, by the beach, in the park and even while I’m in a waiting area.

I do love working outside in nature the most. Especially during mornings. Making art while listening to birds is a precious experience.

FD: Are there particular places or things that inspire new designs for you?  Where does your inspiration come from?

LS: Nature is my biggest inspiration. Hanging out in our backyard and talking to our trees is one of my favorite things to do.

But my spirituality is the force that brings out new designs on paper. Without my spiritual practices I don’t think I would create the way I do now.

My drawings express and celebrate nature, our connection with everything in the Universe and lessons that we’re here to learn in the school of life.

When I create, I am not Loveleen – the artist anymore, I become a vehicle to let the Divine wisdom and creativity flow through.

Bold spirals art modal scarf
Loveleen enjoys a cuppa wearing the “Bold Spirals” artwork scarf

FD: Are there particular artists or art styles that influence your creations?

LS: There are few artists and illustrators that really inspire me. One of them is Lisa Congdon, another self-taught artist who began her creative journey in her 40’s. It’s her stories and her journey to become a successful artist that inspire me to continue on my own journey. Then there is Lizze Snow. Her pen and ink work is amazing and I learn so much from seeing her work.

FD: All of the designs we currently see are line drawings, is this your preferred method of creation or is this just what calls to you at the moment? 

LS: It’s been my preferred method for the past 6 years. Although I am not fixed upon using it only. I dabble with acrylics and even mixed media. I love pen and ink because I feel more in the flow with this medium. Plus this medium gives me the freedom and simplicity to create wherever I am. That’s how I started, making doodles in my bus ride. My favorite pens to use are Sakura microns.

FD: Does your color inspiration come after the work is finished or do you have colors in mind as your creating?

LS: Both. In my bigger original pieces I start with color and then draw over it. And in smaller pieces, I typically finish the drawing and then play with colors.

FD: Do you have a personal favorite art piece of yours?

LS: Oh I love every piece that flows through me. They might not be perfect in a traditional sense, but I love them because with each piece I grow a bit more.

There are a few which are extra special because I clearly remember when I created them. One of them is called “Journey of Life”. I created it on my birthday, a few years back. I love it because it captures my inner growth throughout the years. And I feel it’s the growth we are all going through, no matter how unique our journeys may be.

FD: Do you have a personal favorite art piece from any other artist?

LS: It keeps changing as I change 😀

“Inner Beauty” art by Loveleen

FD: Have you ever considered printing any of your artwork on other clothing pieces?  I personally would love to see your “Inner Beauty” on a skirt!

LS: Yes I have! It’s my vision to collaborate with brands and designers and have my art on their beautiful and sustainable clothes, such as dresses and skirts.

Right now I’m working with a small startup for the art printing, and I use the options that are offered by them, which are limited.

FD: On your blog you wrote “I barely shopped from 2015-2018 because I wanted to invest in pieces that match my values (sustainable, ethical, fair trade).” How do you shop differently now to ensure your values are reflected in your choices? 

LS: Oh it’s completely different how I shop now! Before shopping was a therapy for me. Now it’s only when I need something that I shop. Many years back going to the mall was an adventure. But I don’t do impulse shopping anymore. In fact, I don’t feel the desire to do so anymore.

And since it’s more challenging to find sustainable options in the shopping malls, I mostly shop online. 

I research brands, read their mission statement and their practices. I follow them on social media. I read blogs and reviews to get a feel for their brand. I have a few favorite brands now, and I am on their email so if I come across something that I love, I invest in it. I have added Faeries Dance to my list too!

I only shop a few times a year, even less. And when I do I invest more in sustainable pieces.

FD: Sustainable, ethical clothing does cost a little more (and it should since workers are being paid fairly for their labor and environmental impacts are priced into the garments rather than being something for governments to deal with later).  Do you have a strategy to afford new items like saving up to buy pieces or filling in gaps with thrift finds or budgeting for clothing?

LS: My shopping style and strategy has shifted tremendously in the past few years. I use what I have in my wardrobe to it’s maximum life. And I shop only when I intuitively feel the need of certain things. When I get that feeling I start looking for sustainable options. I buy versatile pieces – colors that complement each other and pieces that I can wear on different occasions. So I do invest more in each piece because I know their true value. I do always have a certain budget in mind so I stick to that, unless I find something that really makes my soul dance! 

modal art scarf into her eyes
Photographer Nasim Hoomanrad gets creative depicting Loveleen’s “Into Here Eyes” Scarf

FD: What is your favorite wardrobe piece and why.  What calls to you in fashion?

LS: While my go-to wardrobe pieces include jeans and tee, my favorite are scarves. And lately my modal scarves.

I have loved scarves for a long time because they’re the most functional pieces in my wardrobe. I can dress up by adding a scarf, I can cuddle in them when I’m cold. Scarves are something I wear no matter what season.

Fashion for me is what can bring out my inner beauty. Comfort, ease, versatility and sustainability are the few things that I go for. I go for things that light me up. Pieces that can bring out my true essence. Pieces that feel right when I wear them. Lately the sustainable pieces I have invested in do that for me. Because I know their true value plus they resonate with what I stand for – living in harmony with our own selves and with the environment.

FD: Is there anything else I haven’t covered that you would like to add?

LS: If you want to learn more about my work or my creative journey check out my website www.loveleensaxena.com

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The High-Waisted Panty is Back (and More Sustainable Than Ever)

Marilyn Monroe high-waisted panty
Marilyn Monroe Poses with her Dog in a High-Waisted Bikini

Imagine if you will, a lacy, sexy, panty, ethically made from sustainable materials, that actually sits high on the waist, covering your belly and making you feel retro gorgeous like Marilyn Monroe. It’s not a fantasy! These elusive high-waisted, organic cotton panties actually exist!

High-Rise Panties Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande Shows Off Her High-Raise Panties. © M.A.C. Cosmetics

When jeans went low-rise more than a decade ago, so did panties. As a middle-aged woman, wearing undies that accentuated my pooch belly did not make for a happy time for me. But over the last few years, high-rise panties have returned with a vengeance, and gone green! Performers like Ariana Grande (left) and Beyoncé (bottom) have shown off their figures in high rise panties, pushing this retro revival forward.

High-Rise Bikini on Beyoncé
Beyoncé Sports a High-Rise Bikini.

The eco-friendly version of this movement is primarily being spearheaded in Europe, with companies like Swegmark of Sweden, and Peau-Ethique in France showcasing high-waisted panties made from organic cotton and certified Fair Trade. Peau-Ethique even went one step further, making a retro high-waisted panty with an attached garter belt for extra sass. At the start of this trend, we got a humorous, thoughtful write-up from Girly Girl Army about our high-waisted Infinite Support Brief.

Organic Cotton High Waisted Panties from Europe
Three High Waisted Panty Options all made from Organically Grown Cotton
womens bamboo high-waisted brief underwear
The Anything But Basic Bamboo High Waisted Brief

More recently, San Francisco-Paris collaboration brand, Les Lunes, released the simple, but ultra-flattering, Anything But Basic High-waisted panty made from a luxurious bamboo fabric. It has less “support” and tummy control than the Swegmark panties and a bit less pizzazz than the Peau-Ethique options. Instead, it comes in at a lower price and has a silky texture surpassing the other options in comfort and barely-know-its-there wearability.

With so many luxury, ethical, sustainable options available, even the most dedicated low-rise fan might want to grab a retro high-waisted panty for under their favorite skirt or dress. What would you choose: flirty lace, tummy-controlling support, barely-there bamboo or a simple organic cotton basic made right here in Oregon? Whatever you decide, we think the retro indulgence of high-waisted panties is back to stay.

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4 Unique Tips to a Greener Halloween

Halloween is my favorite holiday.  Confession.  It’s not just for the trick-or-treating, October 31st also happens to be my birthday.  So my childhood was filled with costumes and candy AND cake and presents.  Seriously, it was better than Christmas.  Like most things, though, Halloween has a dark side (pun intended).  With the majority of cocoa harvested by children and single-use costumes ending up in landfills, it’s time to Green your Halloween.  We can all still experience the unbridled excitement of my childhood Halloween while making just a few changes towards a much more sustainable holiday.

1. Buy Fair Trade Candy

Organic, Fair Trade Halloween Chocolates
Sjaaks Halloween Bites

Avoid the child labor and sweatshop conditions and buy Fair Trade candy.  Yes, it will cost more.  Honestly, that’s the point.  The candy we’re buying from companies like Nestle and Hershey is cheap specifically because the producers are not provided a living wage.  A luxury like chocolate shouldn’t be the driving cause of poverty in remote African villages.  By paying a little more for your chocolate, you can ensure that the cocoa growers earn a living wage and have the opportunity to send their children to school.  Here are some great companies making fair trade chocolates and candies.

Sjaak’s Chocolates – Not only does Sjaak’s make fair trade, organic chocolate bars, but they also have Halloween tubs and chocolate bars inexpensive enough to give to trick-or-treaters.  They also happen to be vegan and seriously delicious.

Endangered Species Bug Bite Chocolates
Endangered Species Bug Bites

Endangered Species Chocolates – Another reasonably priced, fair trade, organic chocolate company.  The Bug Bites make perfect Halloween give-a-ways.

Equal Exchange – Try their minis for giving out to trick-or-treaters and be sure to stock some full-sized bars for yourself. 

Lärabar – For a sweet treat that’s a little healthier, but still well-priced, try Lärabar’s bites or kids versions.  All versions are fair-trade.

Alter-Eco – A bit pricier, but well worth it. They sell only full-sized bars rather than minis.  You can buy these organic, fair trade bars by the 12-pack to save a few bucks, and they’re having an autumn special.  Use code Autumn20 for 20% off with free shipping on orders over $65.

Ocho Candy – If you want more traditional “candy bars” rather than straight chocolate bars, Ocho makes fair trade, organic “fakes” of your favorite brands. They also have Halloween bulk minis for the trick-or-treaters.

organic, fair trade candy
Go Max Go Jokerz Bar

Go Max Go – Another fair trade, non-GMO “candy bar” company.  They don’t do minis, but bonus, all of their “fakes” are vegan (and delicious – I’ve tried them all!).  You can purchase 12-bar boxes for 10% off.

Madécasse – If you really want to take the next step in sustainable chocolates, Madécasse is the way to go.  They don’t just source their cocoa from Africa under fair trade conditions, they make the entire chocolate there.  It creates jobs and provides better living for whole communities.  At $4.50 per bar, you may not want to give them to the trick-or-treaters, but definitely treat yourself.

Lagusta’s Luscious – If money isn’t a worry, check out this luxury chocolate brand.  Yes, their prices are high, but it’s oh so worth it for a little indulgence.  They use locally sourced ingredients from small businesses and only fair trade certified chocolate.  Unique truffle combinations really make this brand stand out.

Organic, Fair Trade Autumn Chocolates
Lagusta’s Luscious Autumn Truffle Box

Organic Fruit Snacks – Don’t want to give chocolate at all?  Give the kiddies organic fruit snacks.  There are numerous varieties that have no palm oil or high-fructose corn syrup out there.  Many companies also offer multi-pack sizes like Annie’s or Yum Earth.

2. Find a Creative Re-Use For Your Costume

You’ve probably read time and again that it is more sustainable to buy a used costume from Goodwill or ebay.  Both have huge Halloween sections, and that will also save you some money.  While that’s a great tip, I would also suggest that you consider ways to re-wear your custom after Halloween.  Turn your one-time outfit into something you can wear over and over again.

The Wedding Dress – The year after I got married, I couldn’t figure out what one is supposed to do with this expensive wedding dress, so I wore mine for Halloween!  (I won the award for “most authentic”.)  If you’re divorced or your wedding dress no longer fits properly and you’re not saving it for a child, cut out bits to make it fit, cut out some strips along the arms and bottom, dirty it up a bit and go as the Corpse Bride!

While this might be too extreme for most women (and maybe it’s better to donate it, anyway), how about trying one of these other tips?

Pirate Costume – Go as a pirate and make plans to visit your local pirate festival in spring or summer.  Pirate festivals invade both coasts every year.

Renaissance Faire Faeries
My friend, Grisel and I reuse our Faery Halloween Costumes for the Southern California Renaissance Faire, circa 2001.  She creatively re-purposed a bridesmaids dress.

Renaissance Costume – There are a surprising number of times a Renaissance costume comes in handy.  Get a good one and dazzle everyone at your local Renaissance Faire.  They happen all over the country.  (I was once invited to a Renaissance-themed wedding.)  Go as a wench, and you can wear the costume earlier in the month for Octoberfest, or get a traditional Irish Renaissance dress and wear it to your local Irish Festival.

Faery Costume – You and your children can dress up as matching Faeries and save the costumes for your local Faery Festival.  Faeries have also been spotted at Pirate and Renaissance Festivals as well as at the Oregon Country Fair.

Disney-inspired Costume – Be a Princess on your next trip to Disneyland.  If you’re a runner, join in on any of Disney’s character-themed runs where costumes are encouraged.

Comic Characters – My nephew got an anime costume for Halloween, and then wore it to his local Comic Con.  Yes, the San Diego one is the biggest, but they happen all over the country.  This is a great idea for super hero costumes as well.

Cross-over Holiday Costumes – Dress up as Santa or the Easter Bunny and then play that character for the kids on the holiday.  If you’re family likes a twist, dress up as the Christmas version of Jack Skellington.

Dressing up for Fairs and Festivals really enhances the enjoyment, and if you’re re-using an otherwise single-wear costume, all the better.

Of course, once you are done with a costume, be sure to donate it, sell it or trade it at a future Halloween Costume Swap.

3. Avoid the “Fast Fashion” Trap

Witchy Night Shirt

Every year big box retailers break out the holiday-themed version of Fast Fashion.  Rows of Halloween-themed apparel line store shelves.  I admit that in my younger days, I had to have a new Halloween-themed shirt every year.  Of course, now, I’m much more environmentally aware and I avoid those types of cheap and unsustainable garments.  That’s why this year, I was so thrilled to find cute fashions that were wearable any time of year, but had just enough of a Halloween tie-in that I could get my holiday fashion fix on.

Faerie’s Dance has a new brand that makes 100% certified organic cotton womens printed tops and tunics along with matching accessories from recycled cotton scraps, all knit, cut and sewn in the USA.  The screen printing uses only water-based inks, and the fabric dyes are low-impact.  We’ve already placed multiple orders, but for right now, check out our Cat Moon series (below) along with the Witchy Night Top (left).

The handwarmers and scarves make equally fun gifts at Halloween, Christmas, Hanukkah or any Fall or Winter birthday, especially for cat lovers, full moon romantics, or astronomers. 😉  We have more designs and colors coming in November, too.

This iconic Cat & Moon Design can be worn any time of year, but is particularly fun for Halloween.

4. Donate Your Pumpkins and Compost Your Jack-o-Lanterns

Whole pumpkins and carved jack-o-lanterns shouldn’t wind up in landfill!  Jack-o-Lanterns can easily be composted or cut up and added to your yard waste bin.  Cut them up before they start “melting” on your porch.

If you like to decorate with whole pumpkins around the house and yard, consider donating them right after Halloween while they’re still in good condition.  Who wants whole pumpkins?  Why, big cats of course!  Check out this big guy having some fun with his first pumpkin.

In Oregon, Wildcat Ridge Sanctuary takes pumpkin donations.  Call them at (503) 625-0812 to set up a donation.

In California, contact the Wildlife Waystation at 818-899-5201.

In Florida, visit Big Cat Rescue or call them at 813.920.4130.

I’m sure there are many others around the country.  Do a local search to find out if there is a wild cat sanctuary near you that would love a post-Halloween treat.

There are so many ways to green Halloween and all your holidays.  Just take a moment to evaluate each purchase or decision.  Buy decorations from charity shops and reuse as much as possible year over year.  We can all still have fun while doing just a little better.  Wishing you all a glorious, frightfully fun Halloween.

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Finding Your Perfect Organic Bra – Cami Bras

Want to know more about organic cotton and natural fiber bras and which styles might work best for you?  Join us for our 10-week long organic bra video series.

Today’s episode focuses on Cami Bras.  Cami Bras are a subset of the “Bralette” family. They are always sized as S, M, L instead of 34B, 36B, etc. and they pull-on over the head as opposed to having back closures. It’s a very simple style that tends to be flattering for A-D cups.  Because they are easy to make, a lot of clothing companies that don’t specialize in bras make them.  So you need to watch out for sizing!  Cami Bra Tops, also sometimes referred to as Yoga Bras, tend to come in a wide variety of colors and prints, which definitely adds to the fun of this particular style.

Bras highlighted in this video:
Soy Lace Cami Bra (XS – 2XL) This one runs small, Kayla is wearing an L.
Grace Bra Top (S – L) This one runs large, Kayla is wearing a S.
Cami Bra Top (S-L) This one runs true-to-size, Kayla is wearing a M.
Eve Panty – the panties that match the Grace Bra Top.
Sri Yantra Yoga Bra (only L left), orange bra shown on hanger.

You can also get whole life wellness information from community nonprofit Moon Cycle Medicine, Inc.

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