Who said looking good has to cost the earth?

Article by: Jessica Solomons

Eco-living is the new global craze attracting Hollywood A-listers and politicians alike. But you don’t have to be Al Gore or Julia Roberts to be an eco-warrior. Here’s a list of fabulous products that’ll keep you, and the earth, looking gorgeous.

Pure Genius

DKNY has recently launched a new sustainable fragrance, pureDKNY – a stunning floral scent enriched with a subtle hint of vanilla sourced right here in Africa! At present only 9% of the world’s vanilla comes from Uganda despite it being indigenous to the country, but we’re hoping this will soon change thanks to DKNY which is helping encourage long term vanilla production in the African country by not only sourcing vanilla beans for its pureDKNY fragrance from Uganda, but providing funding to CARE, a humanitarian organization working to improve the financial situation of farming families in the region. Buy your 30ml bottle of pureDKNY for R425 and do your bit to help Africa.

Bravo Batucada

Paris is known for its fashion but now it’s conquering the jewellery market too with the launch of the Batucada range of neckpieces and bangles. All of the designs are produced using nonpolluting manufacture and eco-friendly components making this a truly eco-chic collection. For stockists call 082 881 4471.

Ethical Footwear

Who would have thought that recycled rice husks, leather, bottles and foam could make such fabulous shoes? Terra Plana is proving that anything is possible with its collection of quirky, eco-fabulous shoes. Their footwear won Ethical Fashion Product of the Year at the 2007 UK Observer’s Ethical Awards and one year later Terra Plana was crowned Ethical Footwear Retailer of the Year at the Draper’s Footwear Awards. If you want to give your wardrobe a green makeover, pick up a pair of these heels now! Visit www.etailrevolution.co.za for more info.

Esse Organics

If you’re looking to make your daily beauty routine a little more eco-friendly, we recommend Esse Organics – a range of natural skincare products that protect your skin and the environment. All the ingredients in Esse products, from Baobab and Marula to soothing Rooibos, are sourced from around sub-Saharan Africa where they are harvested under Fairtrade conditions by local communities. Need more convincing?  All their products are biodegradable and packaged in recyclable glass! What are you waiting for? Click here to find a stockist near you.

The liveeco team

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