Stop and Smell the Roses

As I prepare to head off to Portland, Maine to see our best friends (so excited!), I wanted to share one of my favorite Maine products with you: Duet Perfume from 2 Note Botanical Perfumery.

It's a really interesting scent, one that I can't get enough of in summer and spring. And when I read the description again on their site, I began to see why. Duet is, apparently, a "seductive, unisex fragrance with citrus spice of Calabrian Bergamot harmonizing with the intense, floral heart of Ylang Ylang, finishing with the sensual undertone of Sandalwood. This is your aphrodisiac in a bottle!" Soooo yeah, ladies and gents, this is definitely a scent for the birds and the bees time! 

Tuesday Trend: Printed Shorts

It's not too late to embrace this fun summer trend, my friends, and there are plenty of fair trade, made in the USA, and handmade options available to choose from.

1. Brocade shorts are made by Sessun, whose designer "uses organic fibres and fair trade crops wherever possible."
2. Black and white scenic printed shorts are handmade in the USA by Shop Chant on Etsy
3. Blue plaid shorts are made by upcycling old fabrics, so each pair is one of a kind, by ReLuxe
4. African print blue tailored short are fair trade by Fair + True 

I love those brocade shorts, but I would not pair them with socks and tennis shoes like they have above.  For a night out, you could go with a beautiful, sheer sequined top from Juno and Jove (on sale!), or you could tuck in a sheer collared shirt for more of a daytime look. Add a flat sandal in the same color family and you're good to go.

1. Sequined tank is made with organic cotton by Edun and available from Juno and Jove. Edun is the line started by Bono, and they describe themselves as a global fashion brand working toward long-term commitments to develop ethical trade in Africa and emerging nations. Their designs support efforts to increase earth-friendly practices worldwide. 
   
2. Chiffon top is made in the USA by American Apparel
3. Sandals are vegan and made of recycled faux suede by Olsen Haus

Baby Love

• Red rugby striped onesie by Under the Nile Organics, made from 100% GOTS certified organic Egyptian cotton ($15.95)
• Stacking Rings are by Plan Toys, a company committed to minimizing their impact on nature--all of their toys are made from recycled rubberwood that is never chemically treated ($19)
• Chevron striped receiving blankets (27” x 34”) are printed on organic cotton and backed with thick, unbleached, US grown, certified-organic cotton flannel ($64.50 for a set of 2)
• Elephant onesie is handprinted on 100% organic cotton and made in the USA by Oh, Little Rabbit on Etsy ($14)

If you haven't quite reached the age of Baby Showers, then trust me when I say that your first invitation could come at any time, and it's always good to be prepared. If you are expecting or already have your own little bundle of joy, congratulations! Hope you likey.

The birth of a brand new little person is a great reason to make a purchase that is kind and, of course, Fair. Usually the Mama Bear will have registry of things she needs, so what I like to do is choose one or two items from the registry, then throw in my own little "flair," if you will.

• Bowties are handmade by Lil Gents on Etsy ($15)
• Converse all-star style booties are crocheted by hand by Sox That Rock on Etsy ($12.95)
• Onesie is printed on organic cotton and available from Boogaloo Bubby Wear on Etsy ($12.75)
• Guitar rattle + teether is made using one solid piece of maple wood and finished with organic flax seed oil by Rewood Toys on Etsy ($15)

Style Challenge Recap and Giveaway Winner Announced