Casual Summer Looks
/FROM CASUAL TO CHIC APPAREL
Shop Look:
7 Eco-Innovations for a Sustainable Fashion Industry
/#GOGREEN
By: Mandy Law
Did you know that textile is one of the most polluting industries in the world? It may be difficult to understand why, when that outfit you recently bought was simply nice. As with many industries today, environmental sustainability has become a big priority which has led to new innovations – more eco-friendly innovations. With resource-intensive fibers like cotton and the oil-intensive ones such as polyester, acrylic and nylon; entrepreneurs, designers and businesses have started looking for more sustainable alternatives. And so have consumers.
Here we have collected some out-of-the-box innovations in materials that can hopefully change and revolutionize – or at least improve – the fashion industry. These fibers and materials are overall more sustainable, eco-friendly, responsible alternatives to the ones we most commonly see today.
Coffee
If you thought that you couldn’t love coffee more, you were wrong! After you’ve ground and drunk your coffee, you can actually utilize the leftover coffee grounds; which is exactly what a particular Taiwanese company has done. The usually thrown out coffee ground can serve as a raw material for coffee ground fibre, which when processed with polymer, can be spun into yarn! This fibre-making process requires less energy, thus making it more earth-friendly when compared to traditional, conventional fabrics. The resulting yarn is multi-functional and can be used for sports and outdoor wear which is not surprising since big names such as Puma, North Face and Timberland are already using.
Lotus
Lotus fibers have been used for centuries in countries like Thailand and Myanmar. Due to its luxurious feel of silk and raw linen and the time it takes to hand spin and weave, it is used only to make special garments. The manufacturing process is lengthy and complicated (and most likely pricey), which is probably why those in the Western world haven’t jumped on this material; with its lightweight, soft, silky and breathable qualities.
Pineapple Leaves
Who would have thought you could make vegan leather! Piñatex is a natural, sustainably-sourced, cruelty-free material. From the leftover leaves from pineapple trees, you can make a bio-degradable, fossil fuel free leather alternative. It is also strong, lightweight and easy to print and stitch. Fibers are extracted from the leaves and then turned into textile. The fibers then go through an industrial process to become a non-woven textile, which is the base of Piñatex. Another amazing aspect about this innovative material is that it has a closed loop production. Apparently, the biomass created during the process can be converted into organic fertilizer! Meaning that it goes back into the ground, thereby closing the loop.
Eucalyptus Trees
A yarn made from sustainably sourced eucalyptus trees has been launched by a knitting company called ‘Wool & the Gang’. This yarn is 100% vegan, made from renewable energy and free from harmful chemicals. This is a form lyocell which means the fibre is manufactured from wood pulp and the processes are closed loop. After the fibers are harvested, they’re pulped and turned into yarn.
Banana Stems
Another tropical fruit that has multiple purposes is the banana, or more specifically the stems of the banana tree. Banana fibre is said to be one of the world’s strongest natural fibers and is durable and biodegradable. The fabric is soft and supple and tend to have shine to them, which has been compared to silk. Thus, making banana fibre a good sustainable alternative. It can also be used to make different textiles of different weight and thicknesses, making it a very versatile, product.
Cork Leather
Unlike other leather alternatives that are usually made from plastics, cork leather does not need hundreds of years to degrade. As a matter of fact, cork has many amazing features. This material is derived from the cork oak tree bark; making it 100% sustainable, eco-friendly, natural and not to mention, fashionable. Cork is a good sustainable alternative in bags, accessories and footwear. Cork leather is also waterproof, light-weight, tear resistant and comes in different colors and patterns. It also feels amazing!
Bamboo
Bamboo is a very sustainable crop which also grows really fast, making bamboo lyocell a good sustainable option. But note the asterisk; since the most common bamboo fabric available at the moment is bamboo viscose, it is best to avoid it. This is because making viscose still uses harmful solvents and chemicals. That being said, there is definitely a lot of potential in bamboo material innovation in the future, as it is a great renewable resource for making textiles.
So there you have it! Some eco-friendly alternatives that can change and revolutionize the fashion industry and your wardrobe, in which high-quality products meet sustainability.
Have you discovered another material worth mentioning? Please comment below!
The Haircare Collection That'll Have You #SummerDreaming
/BEAT THE HEAT
Get Your Keratin Treatment On
Summer is a great time to hit the reset button and revive those locks. Depending on if you’re dealing with super humidity or extra dry climate, the summer can take a toll on your hair. A glamorous trend for getting a smooth, straight shine that lasts is a Keratin Treatment. It’ll cost you $300 at least. But there’s another way to get the keratin treatment look without a trip to the salon.
Keratin Treatment At Home
Keratherapy’s Home Care Products all have a KERABOND technology which means their products include the ingredient keratin that bonds with other super healthy product-specific botanical ingredients for the ultimate conditioning experience.
Why is this so important? Well, your hair is made up of approximately 80% keratin. Keeping that keratin healthy is essential for a healthy shine you’re looking to achieve and you can get there with these products.
Keratherapy Moisture Collection
While I’m sure all of Keratherapy’s collections are amazing, my hair specifically needed a tall drink of water so I tried the Moisture Collection.
Packaged in this beautiful sea blue that reminds you of Miami, (that’s where Keratherapy is based) these products pack a hydrating punch. Let’s take a look.
1. The Keratin Infused Moisture Shampoo
This shampoo is amazing if you are dealing with breakage and split ends. It’s formulated with incredible ingredients such as Keratin, which reduces breakage, aloe vera, willow bark extract and witch hazel extract. Say hello to healthy hair.
2. The Keratin Infused Moisture Conditioner
If the heat is getting to your hair this summer, this conditioner will work wonders. It repairs and strengthens your hair while sealing in the moisture which will leave you with soft, beautiful hair ready to take on any summer activity.
Like the shampoo, it’s made with some amazing ingredients including keratin, collagen, jojoba oil, which helps seal split ends and wheat germ oil, which is rich in vitamins to moisturize your hair.
3. Award-Winning Keratin Infused Deep Conditioning Masque
This deep conditioning masque is an award winning masque for a reason! It’s by far my favorite hair masque I’ve ever used. And baby girl has been in this game for a while. It’s a lightweight formula that’s still super hydrating to improve your hair’s texture.
You use it one to two times per week for a silky, super shine that’s so soft. After using the Keratin Infused Moisture Shampoo, apply the masque from roots to ends, comb through and leave in for at least three to five minutes, then rinse well. For uber intense results, cover with a plastic cap and process with medium heat dryer for up to 30 minutes. Shine, baby, shine!
What’s this award winning conditioning masque made of? Keratin, jojoba oil, wheat germ oil, nettle root extract, which soothes and nourishes your scalp and persian walnut, which is extremely rich in vitamins and moisturizers.
Keratherapy’s Dreamy Products
Whether you’re wanting to grow your hair out or you’re trying to keep your hair healthy in hot, hot temps, Keratherapy’s collections is coming to your hair’s rescue. If you want to try Keratherapy’s Moisture Collection or one of their other dreamy products, go to www.keratherapy.com. Follow their Miami Vibes feed on IG @keratherapy. I’m ready for a trip to Miami and thanks to Keratherapy, my hair is totally ready for that humidity. #SummerDreaming
Luxury Home Decor For You and Your Fur Babies
/Guest Post By: Jenny Caulk
LIVE WITH PETS BEAUTIFULLY
Photo Courtesy of Fursatile
BEAUTIFUL SPACES FOR BEAUTIFUL FACES
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved beautiful spaces. There is nothing like walking into a room that has impeccable style. A luxurious home where the interior design is so well done that you know the place has had every piece perfectly appointed for a glamorous living.
In 2015, I fell in love with a sweet little puppy named Cooper. As most of you know, having a pet in the home changes, well, everything. So how do you keep the Instagram picture-perfect rooms without sacrificing style when your beautiful fur baby walks through the door?
Photo Courtesy of Fursatile
KEEP YOUR PASSION
Just because you’re living with a pet or pets in the house, doesn’t mean you lose your passion for living beautifully. I know I didn’t. Unfortunately, most of the home decor products I found had drab colors, silly patterns and possibly the biggest problem weren’t functional at all.
The trend for home decor pieces for pets focused on perfecting a dog’s house, instead of the house he or she is actually living in. I wanted beautiful furnishings for the both of us; stylish enough for me and functional enough for him. So, I took matters into my own hands.
Photo Courtesy of Fursatile
Photo Courtesy of Fursatile
Photo Courtesy of Fursatile
Photo Courtesy of Fursatile
FURSATILE
We needed products that were versatile, so I made products that are Fursatile! We started because we believe you can have it all. A luxurious home with stylish, functional and pet-friendly decor.
Fursatile was created to enhance and elevate the connection between people and pets and these products do just that. From our gorgeous luxury pet stairs, the Fursatile Step Ottoman, to our seamless and sleek Fursatile Protective cover, you will live with pets beautifully!
We have much more home decor and furnishings to offer! To check them out and learn more about Fursatile visit our website www.fursatile.com and we would love to connect on social @fursatile!
5 Key Features in the Scandinavian Approach to Design
/Guest Post By: Rini Hapsoro
THE SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN MOVEMENT
Contemporary Interiors
With the mania for hygge these past few years, chances are you have heard about Scandinavian design; an aesthetic movement widely known for its minimalist and functional values. The designers behind the movement; Alvar Alto, Borge Mogensen, Arne Jacobsen, Maija Isola–just to name a few–placed a huge impact on design and style in the 1950s and has since influenced contemporary interiors across the world. So naturally, we should ask ourselves; what is the philosophy all about?
To start off, Scandinavia does not only refer to one place––it’s several. The term traditionally refers to three northern European countries: Norway, Sweden and Denmark, which in recent times have been expanded in common usage to include Finland and Iceland (Nordic region nations). Though there are obviously few prominent historical and cultural differences, they are united under the umbrella of interior décor that is influenced by the region’s dark, cold and short days in winters.
The main principle of Scandinavian/Nordic design is to improve our daily life by using natural materials, minimalist shapes and pale colors as to maximize on what little sunlight the northern region does receive. While it has been most widely recognized in furniture, the philosophy can in fact be applied to any item that complements our daily lives; and as such has tremendously inspired our values and product aesthetics here at Jajamän!
In essence, there are five principles that Scandinavian design abides by…
1. Functionality
The design is intended to be first and foremost useful. The harsh weathers of northern Europe have pushed Scandinavians to develop a strong practical approach that optimizes limited resources while bringing a concrete solution. Functionality is therefore critical to the composition, which has similarly informed the design of our bags that ensures their practicality for daily use.
2. Nature-Inspired
Scandinavian design is deeply rooted in nature and inspired by their landscape of mountains, forests as well as natural resources originating across the region. The colour palette associated with Scandinavian designs, such as birch wood, teak, soft pastels and bright metallic shades reflect the region’s nature in its striking beauty. Likewise, the different shades of our Tottakai backpacks are inspired by the Nordic region’s natural elements; for example foss (Norwegian: waterfall), tuohi (Finnish: birch) and terva (Finnish: tar).
3. Good Design
Scandinavians believe that good design is vital to their quality of life. Clean lines, simple designs come off as inviting and elegant, as well as intimate. The idea is to be effective without the heavy use of elements. In line with minimalism, our Tottakai bags are uncomplicated and made by hand in Portugal, with cork leather as the material of choice. Material sourcing with a focus on quality and environmental impact is crucial in this aspect, with a simple formula: only what is needed is used.
4. Reliability
This is hand in hand with the idea of being functional. With an emphasis on quality over quantity, Scandinavian design stresses on creating well-crafted objects that guarantee longevity. Using cork leather, which in fact works as the perfect alternative to animal leather, allows us to create ecological bags that also carry amazing properties, such as being tear-resistant, anti-fungal, waterproof and hypoallergenic! Aesthetic-wise, the bag may not be made extravagant, but it should be well crafted as to last a long time.
5. Inclusivity
Another interesting virtue of Scandinavian design is the ideological stance it holds, with the emergence of the Scandinavian democratic and egalitarian spirit after World War II. The idea is that beautiful and functional products should be made accessible to everyone, and not merely reserved for the wealthy. Based on this principle, we firmly believe that producing good quality materials that are timeless and durable will not only reduce our environmental impact, but also encourage us to cut back on consumerism in terms of spending energy and money.
Essentially, at the heart of Scandinavian design lies functionality and craftsmanship that incorporates natural and simple elements, without eliminating its beauty. It is as much about a philosophy, as it is about a look. So check out our Tottakaj backpacks collection to see how they agree with the Scandinavian approach to design and share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
How to Make Your Home More Green
/#GoGreen
Going Green
Going green is a concept that has continued to build up steam over the past decade.
This critical concept is based on living an ecologically friendly lifestyle. While this concept is loosely thrown around, there are not a lot of people that understand what this going green entails. There are a variety of adjustments that can be made in the home to make it more energy efficient. Here we will show you some of the primary ways to make your home greener.
Smart Meter
Smart meters are devices that monitor the energy used in the home. They operate in the same manner as traditional energy meters, except they collect the data and instantly share the information gathered with the energy providers in real time. There are also software programs that the homeowner can use to monitor energy usage in real time.
Smart Outlets and Plugs
The term internet of things (IoT) is used to describe a new era of gadget, appliances, and fixtures that can be used interactively using wireless technology (wi-fi and Bluetooth). These devices can be monitored and controlled using smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Among these smart devices are smart plugs and smart outlets. These devices are used to control any appliance that is plugged into them. Using a smartphone, the user can monitor the energy use and also turn anything connected into it on or off at will.
Low Emission Windows
Low-emissivity (Low-E) windows are made from a particular type of glass that is designed to reduce the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that comes into your home. This is accomplished by the use of a film that is thinner than a follicle of human hair. This coating keeps the temperature in the home consistent by reflecting interior heat back outside the house.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are probably the most popular eco-friendly home conversion that can be made. Solar panels collect the light from the sun and convert it to electricity that can be used to power the home. California is the first state to create definitive laws surrounding alternative energy use in 2006, leading the way for the nation in this regard. In fact, it is not uncommon to see Los Angeles real estate that is built with solar panels as part of the original design.
Wind Turbine
Wind turbines work to supply electricity to the home in the same fashion that solar panels do, except turbines use the wind to accomplish this task. When the wind blows the fan-like propellers of the wind turbine, it powers an internal generator that converts the movement into actual electricity that can be used to power the home.
Eco-Friendly Home
If you want to make your home eco-friendlier, these tips will give you a head start. There are a vast number of things that can be done to make your home greener. This includes, but is not limited to, energy efficient appliances and ecologically friendly building materials. There are advancements in this field being made all of the time.
Reset With Luxurious Hypoallergenic Sheets
/SAY GOODNIGHT, ALLERGIES.
BEST HYPOALLERGENIC SHEETS
If you suffer from allergies, GhostBed Luxury Sheets may be the perfect fit for you. The fitted sheet and pillow case set is made with revolutionary Supima Cotton and Tencel Fiber.
There’s a lot of hype surrounding hypoallergenic products, and for good reason. Tencel Fiber is made from eucalyptus that is bacteria and allergen resistant. It regulates temperature and is silky smooth. The gist on Supima Cotton? It’s plush, durable stays comfortable after washing your sheets.
Since I’ve been using GhostBed’s Luxury Sheets, I’ve noticed my allergies have improved but that isn’t the only super feature this set has to offer.
Get A Grip
These premium fitted sheets have an extra-wide elastic band called GhostGrip and it will make your day putting them on your bed! If you toss and turn, no worries because the cool sheets with stay on securely. Don’t believe it? GhostBed offers an industry leading three year warranty plus free shipping.
Ultimate Comfort at Zero Gravity
While I’ve only tried the GhostBed Luxury Fitted Sheets, I already have my sleepy eyes on GhostBed’s Zero Gravity Adjustable Bed Base. What’s a bed with Zero Gravity? According to GhostBed, it all started when NASA created the Zero Gravity seating position to alleviate the compression forces of pressure on the spine and body of astronauts during space shuttle take-offs. Bed manufacturers realized the benefits that Zero Gravity would have when incorporating the position into an adjustable bed base.
They say the position relieves the pressures of gravity from the body by distributing the body’s weight evenly to permit for the right amount of needed support and that GhostBed’s Zero Gravity Adjustable Base allows for the legs and head to be raised at just the right angle to reduce back pressure and increase circulation.
Talk about ultimate comfort, awesome health benefits and resetting your well-being with a luxury sleep station.
The 3 Hottest Interior Design Trends in 2019
/YOU KNOW WE’RE TALKING MILLENNIAL PINK first
PASTEL PALETTE
There’s nothing like AOK shade of millennial pink. Just recently, Mandy Moore’s millennial pink plates broke the internet as people swooned over her chic set, like the one below.
It’s not just this gorgeous hue that’s been dominating interior spaces worldwide though, it’s the whole pastel family. Whether it’s lilac paint, mint green walls or a lush velvet pastel sofa, the colors all merge so well together. So, mix and match and go a little wild because it’s 2019 and #WHYNOT?
NORDIC NOIR
Nordic Noir is the next big Scandinavian trend showing up everywhere in home decor and challenging the beautiful, light and airy Scandinavian minimalistic trend we’ve all come to know. Nordic Noir uses dark colors and edgy materials paired with traditional minimalism to balance out the intense design.
If you want to try to add this trend in your home but concerned it would darken the space too much, use colors like gray with a rose gold metal decor piece, a ton of natural light and as always, lots of plants.
DARK KITCHENS. WAIT WHAAAT?
For years we’ve seen all-white kitchens dominate the scene. It’s a trend that has made sense because it’s seamless and flows with your home design easily. But, who says matte dark stone countertops with dark toned cabinets can’t also be seamless and flow with your home design?
This 2019 kitchen trend isn’t brand new but instead of a shiny finish we’re seeing a matte, leathered finish on dark countertops which is absolutely gorgeous. It’s a modern but classic look with a lot more edge than the all-white everything kitchens we’ve come to know. Pair the countertops with dark toned cabinets to complete the look and guarantee an interior design statement.
Keep Your Stainless Steel Appliances Shiny with This Cleaner
/SO FRESH AND SO CLEAN
SLEEK NOT STREAK
Stainless Steel appliances have dominated the market for a while and it’s a trend that’s here to stay. My guess is you have a couple, if not all, stainless steel appliances in your home or apartment rn. We all know the struggle of those smudges though. It’s important to use the right type of cleaner to keep your stainless steel looking sleek and striking without damaging it. Too expensive to not keep it looking fresh right? Try this quick solution.
TRY TRINOVA
TriNova’s Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish will take care of those smudges. The spray comes with a microfiber cloth that gets grease, dirt, grime and even repels fingerprints and dust. Check, check, check!
It’s super easy to use too. Shake the bottle, spray the cleaner on this soft cloth, wipe away your smudges and gunk, then use the dry side of the cloth to finish for a sleek shine.
TriNova’s Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish is highly-ranked and has top reviews anywhere you look on the web. Your fridge, microwave, oven and other stainless steel appliances have met their match. Ready to try TriNova?
TOP STAINLESS STEEL CLEANER, AYYYY
You can pick up TriNova’s Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish on all of our faves, #Amazon. Here’s the link http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XRGLB2M
Let me know in the comments what you think and any other tips or tricks y’all have on your stainless steel appliances!
Up Your Insta Game With This #Free Amazing App
/
NEED A NEW APP TO SLAY ON INSTA? GOTCHU. OH, AND IT’S FREE!
Read MoreGet Mermaid Vibes in Your Home
/
This creative set is a subtle way to jump on board (or in the ocean) with the mermaid decor trend.
Read MoreYour Complete Guide to Vegan Skincare Clarify Cosmetics
/
photo by clarify cosmetics
Clarify Cosmetics
100% Natural Ingredients
Vegan
Cruelty Free
Gluten-Free
Paraben-Free
Phthalate-Free
It’s a trend that is continuing to grow and for a good cause. Not only do vegan products obviously save animals and the environment, they are good for your skin. It’s a win-win. The great thing about skincare lines with truly natural and luxury products at an affordable price is that you can try it out on your skin type and feel good about making the purchase.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum : Photo Courtesy of Clarify Cosmetics
All Clarify Cosmetics products are made in the beautiful state of Oregon and the ingredients are responsibly and locally sourced which means super fresh! They avoid using water as the base of their products when possible. Clarify Cosmetics uses aloe leaf juice which means high quality concentrated formula and saving water!
This product has rose flower water and organic aloe leaf juice and is packed with Hyaluronic Acid. It softens and tones your skin delivering quick results because of the high-concentrated ingredients. I use it as directed, after I cleanse my face in the morning and night, and I apply their Daily Moisturizer right after.
Daily Moisturizer : Photo Courtesy of Clarify Cosmetics
Clarify Cosmetics’ Daily Moisturizer is light which is perfect for summer and oily/combo skin types. The first two ingredients are organic aloe juice and organic coconut oil so you can expect that glowing plump look that is so in style right now. Like I mentioned above, I put this on right after the serum.
Antioxidant Facial Cleanser : Photo Courtesy of Clarify Cosmetics
We’ve been talking about a clean face and here is what gets the job done. The Antioxidant Cleanser has ingredients like organic aloe leaf juice, organic olive fruit oil, organic rooibos leaf extract, organic green tea leaf extract, organic white tea leaf extract and sunflower seed oil. Those ingredients make the cleanser truly feel like a lotion and doesn’t leave your skin feeling dry.
Hydrating Toner : Photo Courtesy of Clarify Cosmetics
Last but definitely not least, is the Hydrating Toner. If you live somewhere hot or just feel like cooling off this summer, you need to try this. You spray it on your face, neck or hair for instant hydrating relief.
It has organic calendula flower, poppy seed oil, water, coconut water powder and more to hydrate and cleanse your skin and hair. Seriously, gotta try.
I really believe this company is honestly making a skincare line that is good for your skin, animals and the earth.
XOXO,
AOK
2019 Design Trends: Go Big or Go Home
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Whether it’s magenta velvet chairs or an Art Deco inspired apartment, 2019 is for the bold.
Read MoreWalking is So the New Running
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If you haven’t exercised in a while (me) or super stressed out, go for walk. It’s a low impact exercise you can do everyday. It’s a great way to start moving again.
Summer Nights Glo-Up Tips
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Summer days are for the beach but when the sun goes down, it’s time to glo-up. Here are your tips.
Read More