What inspired you to start By The Sun?

As a professional athlete with over a decade of experience and a lifelong involvement in sports, I have had the privilege of being surrounded by women of diverse shapes and sizes. I have always been struck by the unique beauty and power of the female form and have observed that the fashion industry often fails to cater to a majority of women who do not fit a specific mold. This realization, along with inspiration from my teammates, led me to launch By The Sun. As someone who has a passion for fashion but has often struggled to find clothing that fits properly, I wanted to create a brand that is inclusive of all women and makes them feel luxurious and beautiful in classic, timeless pieces.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?

If im being honest, check my phone for a bit. Usually, I have morning training or practice right away so I will grab my practice clothes, have an iced coffee and grab a breakfast of coconut yogurt and granola and be on my way. Some last minute kisses to my husband and kitty. Oh and lots of water!! 

What’s your daily beauty routine?

I have been a longtime and firm believer in the magic of Marie Veronique products. I use their line for my morning and nightime routine. On days where my training is light, I will also use my NuFace, LED mask, or a guasha routine for a little self care. Also, hopped on the TikTok trend of rosemary oil hair spray every day! 

How would you describe your day to day style?

Given my demanding schedule of training for 5-6 hours daily, managing By The Sun, hopping in the water for a surf when im in California, and extensive travel, I often find myself short on time. This was a significant factor in my inspiration for By The Sun, as I desired to create a brand that offers elevated loungewear that allows me to look put together with minimal effort. Whether it be pairing our Palma pants with a simple top, adding a touch of tinted sunscreen, and finishing off with timeless jewelry, I am able to achieve a sense of beauty and style.

What are your favourite materials to wear daily? 

I love love love our Palma pants. These are our signature pants that come in two inseams to include all of my taller women 😉 They are perfect to dress up or dress down and can slip on right after a long day of training. I love linen, hemp or organic cotton. Easy fabrics that always feel just as good as they look. My personal day to day style given my hectic schedule has to be effortless.

When I have an off day or am going out for the night, I love a statement piece to pair with my capsule wardrobe. Whether that is something I’ve thrifted or borrowed from my grandma’s closet, I am inspired by styling these pieces that are so unique!

How do you inform yourself throughout the day? What are you listening to, watching, reading? 

About 8 months of the year for me are spent traveling in Europe or Asia so it’s important to find ways to catch up with news. I love Podcasts including Keep It! And Pod Save The World/America. For all my romance girlies, I love Throne of Glass or The Ballad Of Never After currently. 😉

Do you have any personal life hacks for getting through the day in the most sustainable way possible?

Being part of a professional team can come with its own set of sustainability challenges. From the constant travel, to the wasted food, to the abundance of plastic water bottles, to the piles of training clothes handed out, it can feel overwhelming to try to make a difference as an individual. That’s why I make a conscious effort to do my part. I always bring my reusable water bottle to avoid using plastic, limit the number of training clothes I receive and pass them on to fans at the end of the season for reuse, and strive to reduce waste as much as possible. Sustainability in sport is often not talked about so even just setting an example and talking about how we can be better is a start. 

When I go shopping, I always make sure to consider the long-term sustainability of the pieces I am buying. I think about whether the items will fit in my closet and last for a long time, if I can find them second-hand or from a thrift store, and if I have to buy something new, I research the brand and product to ensure that it is made ethically and sustainably. I take into account the type of fabric used, how it is made, where it is made, and whether the workers are paid fair wages. Sustainability is not just about the environment, but also about how the products we buy impact the people and communities who make them. I consider how the fabrics are sourced, how they are dyed, and what environmental impact the product has before making a purchase. All these are important factors in my decision making process.

How do you wind down at the end of the day? 

I usually dedicate the end of the day to working on By The Sun, but it’s also important for me to set a cutoff time and start winding down. As an athlete, getting enough sleep is crucial. I try to eat dinner 3-4 hours before bed and then follow up with a soothing tea. I also make sure to do some recovery exercises for my body and finish off with my skincare routine, reading a couple of chapters before bed. Taking care of your body is essential for both physical and mental well-being. By taking the time to treat it properly, I am able to feel my best and have clarity of mind.

What’s dinner time look like for you?

Im a creature of habit so typically dinner is a rice or potato with protein and salad. I have a huge sweet tooth so I usually have some dark chocolate treats when I can. When I’m in Italy, i loveeeeeee a good pasta.

What does sustainability mean to you?

To me, sustainability and ethics are closely intertwined. The thought of creating something that would harm another individual is not something I can support. It’s all about the impact of what we consume and what we create. In everything I do, I strive to be mindful of this, and to work towards a better world for both the earth and the people who inhabit it. I believe that by being conscious of the impact of our actions, we can make a positive difference in the world.

What drives you to live a sustainable life?

As a professional athlete, I’ve had the opportunity to travel extensively over the past 10 years and have seen firsthand the negative effects of consumerism and fast fashion on individuals and communities. Whether it’s the impact on the people who make the clothes, or the environmental damage caused by the pollution from fast fashion, I have been deeply affected by what I’ve seen. I can never unsee or forget the harm it causes. What motivates me is the desire to create a more compassionate world. I believe that by shifting our mindset from “me” to “we” and being more compassionate, we can make a positive impact. This is a mindset that I’ve learned through my experiences in sports, where working together as a team is essential to achieve the goal.

What are your favourite pieces on Rêve En Vert?

Of course I’d have to say our By The Sun pieces 🙂 I love all that we’ve created, but specially I love our Palma pants in Sky. Baby blue and crème color block in a silk-like material. They are the definition of dreamy and I love to style them with a pair of kitten heels.

Can you tell us a bit about the mission behind she she retreats?  

They take a contemporary approach to well-being without being rigid and the guests don’t have to follow a strict schedule or enforce detoxing.  

There will be room for living and thinking one thought until it is done.  

What drew you into collaboration with them?  

What I love about Albertine’s (the founder) take on retreats is that they are dedicated to holistic creative well-being experiences. Crafting is very much part of that journey and as you know Cora, my mantra is to work an overactive mind down from the head, through the heart and out into the hands. 

Crafting rituals have always been an essential part of life, yet over time we have lost our touch and rituals have become routines.   When self-care becomes superficial, it loses its contact with the spirit. We feel a disconnect – twist and turn from one type of self-improvement to another.  

The crafting rituals I will be sharing during the retreat are all lived and practiced over years, it is such a lovely way to broaden the perspective of wellness. It becomes less about improvement and more about being in the moment, acceptance of what comes up and out. 

Take smudge binding, you pick the herbs you want and bind them with flowers and string. Every smudge will be unique and there is no need for perfection.  Yes, we will be moving through the body with the more traditional yoga poses, but there is also time for exploring how to use your imagination.

What is the focus of your upcoming retreat? 

For the physical part it, fascia and lymph health weaved into the more classical vinyasa flow.  

You want the lymphatic fluid in your body to be clean and ever-flowing. 

I like to use the visualization of the current climate disruption that is the cause of drought, uprooted dams, and floods that leave devastating marks in nature, the same system is in our bodies. Instead of focusing on the stretch and strength – the movements will guide the practitioner through the inner web that holds everything together. 

Fascia Vinyasa are carefully selected sequences where repetitive movement and stretching become one. You connect with the belly of the muscle and embrace the power of resisting instead of straining with extreme action.  

Why is it so important that this is female based to you?  

I find that the competition between women can be quite destructive. Spending time together talking or in silence can help us learn about ourselves and how to function in a community that is built on love and respect.  

How are you incorporating sustainability into the retreat itself? 

I will address social sustainability in the crafting sessions, and why I believe it is imperative that we question the current wellness industry built on acquiring financial capital on the account of natural capital. That it is important to respect the cultures that have given us this gift of exploring body, mind, and soul. Take Palo Santo that is an endangered tree, what can we use instead?

I want to show alternative ways to build a holistic and sustainable wellness ritual.  

Also, I am sure the nature that surrounds us will have an impact. 

We are staying in an enchanting 13th-century monastery, high in the hills of the UNESCO World Heritage Tramuntana Mountains in Mallorca. 

A truly unique location, that will steal your heart the minute you set foot on the blessed grounds and catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing southwest ocean views. 

What do you hope the takeaways will be for the women who join you?  

In a society fascinated by icons or finding inner goddesses, I want to redirect focus on becoming more human. 

It is the “ordinary” humans who have stood for the real revolution and evolution, I find that extremely powerful. 

I hope they can embrace their humanness and appreciate the sweet mundane task in life that help us slow down and reconnect.  

Finally, for anyone unable to attend the retreat would you have some tips for conscious living they can practice from their own space? 

Oh, I love cooking, and if the season allows, growing the produce myself.   

It is such a beautiful task that just connects me to my feet and breath. Standing barefoot in the kitchen laying out whatever is in the fridge and pantry. Dimming the lights, putting on a record or playlist.  

I recommend everyone to cook, even if it is making an omelet or a sandwich. The best part is that you can share your meal.  

Other than that, working the fascia with simple movements, you can see some on my IG page. 5-10 minutes and that tech neck is gone!

Symphony of You
 – Running the 13 – 18th of June, 2023.

A retreat where spring meets summer in a hilltop monastery near Deià, Mallorca.

Check in :

Tuesday between 4-6pm
 

Check out Sunday between 10-11pm

More details HERE! 

First of all Jules, can you introduce yourself and  tell us a bit about your background? 

I’m a Mum of two – Edward is eight and Jemima is five and we live with my husband Ollie and black labrador puppy Penny in Kent, England. We moved from London 5 years ago, and love living here a bit further out of the bustle of the city. After studying Business at university I worked in Marketing for the charity Cancer Research UK for five years. I then moved to Singapore for a couple of years, and discovered a new textile design house run by a British designer who was looking for help on the marketing front. I worked with Jane at Korla for five years and learnt about growing a business from scratch, and the ins and outs of the interiors industry. 

I’ve always been crafty and thrifty, I loved upcycling. I spent a lot of my childhood digging in my Grandmother’s fabric remnant drawers and reimagining them on her old Singer sewing machine. 

And now to Haines – how did you come about starting the company and what was the real inspiration behind it? 

Working for a textile designer, I saw first hand the waste in the industry – whether it was remnants from curtain making or rejected fabrics from the printing process. I’d come home with bags full of scraps, to avoid them ending up in the bin. People are used to throwing away the old to make room for the new, which is something that needs to change. Generally it isn’t at the forefront of people’s minds, so part of what we want to do at Haines is to inspire change.

The idea for the business came after a chance meeting at a local pop-up shop. A soft furnishings business owner was selling a wide range of high-end fabrics cheaply. They were all his leftovers, and I overheard him say what a hassle doing a shop once a year was, but he couldn’t see this going to waste. It made me think that there should be someone who could offer that luxury resale service to solve this problem, and reduce what ends up in landfill.

Designers and printers cannot avoid this surplus, all a bi-product of what they do, and something they don’t have time to deal with – it’s a real problem. So I emailed the guy in the pop-up shop after we met, we had a meeting and he was my first supplier, and still is a supplier!

In 2020 I officially launched Haines Collection – a resale platform for leftover or unwanted luxury products from the interiors industry as well as an online home for eco-conscious designers. Our mission is to reduce waste and our impact in the interior design world.

Now I look back and can see how I have combined my previous experience in a charity and for a textile designer, and developed a cause-driven business in the interiors industry.

Can you let us know a bit about the issues of textile waste…how big of an issue is this? 

We’re using the earth’s resources faster than nature can replenish it. We need to look to see what is already available before we take more raw materials. We need to reduce our waste and what ends up in landfills.

Sadly there is very little research about textile waste in the interiors industry, which indicates there is little awareness of how bad it is. The UK Homeware market is valued at £13.8 billion in the UK alone, which highlights the scale of consumption we are dealing with as an industry. Soft furnishings produce a dangerously high volume of waste that is not being addressed. The consequence of this is devastating for our planet. According to a situation report by WRAP in 2019,  in the UK approximately 900,000 tonnes of textile waste ends up in landfill (or is incinerated) every year. Homeware textiles account for 42% of it. Considering that this is almost half, I’m pushing for more research to be done in this area. We now know so much about fashion textile waste, pollution and recycling – we should be just as informed about home textiles.

And how do you think the issues of textile waste and furniture waste converge? 

I think it’s all part of the same problem, design waste is huge. I feel like the problem is so colossal, one isn’t worse than the other as they are so interlinked. It all comes out of the interior design industry so should be tackled with the same urgency.

I read recently that ‘Nearly half of London has thrown away good quality furniture that could have been reused or upcycled’. In fact I spent yesterday morning, after school drop off, pulling two lovely antique chairs out of a dumpster to be reupholstered. It’s laziness, there are so many thrift stores, and resell platforms now, there is no excuse. I do have hope though, the younger generation are being taught about sustainability and preserving the environment in schools so will have these values ingrained in them, which have been lost or ignored for decades by older generations.

How do you think we can use textiles to achieve more circularity within the home? 

I think it’s about thinking twice before you throw anything away. Consider how it can be reused, upcycled or donated. My children’s old cot sheets have been cut up and are now used as cleaning rags around the house, the cot mattress has a new cover and we use it as a dog bed. Sun damaged curtains can be made into cushions (with the good parts)… it just takes a little imagination and effort. There are so many alternatives to the bin, it really should be the very last resort. Don’t do it for you, do it for the generations to come, they need this planet to be in good shape when they pass it on.

How do you look at reducing waste within Haines as a business?

I try and look at every single element, and ask myself, ‘how can I do better?’. Even if it’s asking the team to not fill the kettle up to the top and only boil the amount of water they actually need for a cup of tea (to reduce energy consumption), it is all important because it keeps the overall concern top of mind. Quick fixes, such as recycling cardboard, buying recycled paper, or using paper tape on packages. It’s continual development – we change one thing, and then move onto the next. It all really adds up and makes a difference.

Where did your own love of repair and reupholstering come from? 

I grew up in a traditional English home so I’ve always been surrounded by family heirlooms that have been passed down from generation to generation. This is only possible if you look after and value your possessions. So repair and reupholstering is part of my mindset, it’s the only way I know. I hate waste – of any kind – and love the rich history that a piece can carry when it has been loved for generations.

What are your top tips for anyone looking to possibly salvage an old piece with new fabrics? 

For all furniture, make sure to sit on it before you buy! It needs to have a solid frame to be worth upcycling. Keep an eye out for any cracks that might cause you issues later. If you can –  pick it up, if it’s heavy it’s likely to be good quality and well made. Speak to the person selling it – what can they tell you about its past and previous life – this will give you an idea of if it’s worth salvaging or worth the price you are paying. Don’t be afraid to barter, I’m rubbish at it but force myself to at least ask the question and then it’s less of a big deal and you may save a few dollars in the process! Retailers are used to questions like that, so don’t feel like you are being cheeky. When it comes to choosing fabrics – choose something that will be hardwearing (a high Martindale/rub count) and again ask the supplier for advice. (We are regularly sent photographs from customers and we particularly love the after pictures too!) Once you have made your piece look after it, avoid keeping it in direct sunlight, and when marks or tears appear – address them as soon as they happen.

And where else in the home can you upcycle fabrics to create new pieces? 

If you are shopping with Haines’ upcycled rescued fabrics, then all our fabrics are suitable for all soft furnishings and most are suitable for upholstery. Curtains, blinds, cushions, lampshades and upholstery are the most popular pieces to create with upcycled fabrics.

If you already have some fabric that needs an upcycle, think about creating something that you need – a laundry bag, a new cushion, cloth wrapping bags (instead of wrapping paper), table cloths, the list is endless.

Finally, what does a truly sustainable home look like to you? 

A truly sustainable home is when you have really tried your best. I think it’s important for all of us to do what we can; it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of plastic you see looking around, or the possible changes you can make and give up because it all seems too much. Do what you can, take your own bags to the grocery store, buy second hand first, or give shampoo bars a try. Give it a try, one change at a time, and I guarantee in a few months your home, and life, will slowly become more and more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Sharing ideas, learning from what other people have done and together we can make a huge difference.

How did you come up with the concept?

On the one hand, as an Argentine, it was almost immediate to witness first-hand there was a large group of people who were interested in buying South American finest-quality pieces and could not access them since there was no direct and secure access. Several talks and social situations led me to easily discover that there was no one who fulfilled this need nor gave pertinent value to South American crafts in the US/European markets helping aid this demand. Adding to this is the lack of credibility and trust that is sometimes associated with small, family businesses or artisan projects that are so far away from European cosmopolitan cities. 

On the other hand, during our research and business modelling process, we discovered that existing projects -for several reasons- have a strong need and desire to sell internationally, but cannot face the international market on their own, on a sustained basis. Solving systemic issues requires coming together rather than inventing something new. At Allwina we manage the business at an international level (COMEX, Sales, Finance, Marketing, is the same people negotiating global agreements, etc.) while each of the projects that have joined us can focus on the product and the continuous improvement of their processes. Being part of the global stage requires skills from all disciplines and we wanted to address it.

 Finally, as a founder, I personally believe in the cultural importance of crafts, design and art, and the powerful role they can adopt when it comes to social and economic impact.

That’s where Allwina comes in, with the crucial role of being a bridge. We not only have our own collection but also create a thoughtful curation of textile items, so that we facilitate access to unique projects while ensuring transparency, best practices, and end-to-end reliability.

How does Allwina support different craftsmen?  

We have built a strong artisan supply chain by working hand in hand with existing projects that have been working hard for years in the making – they are strongly established back in South America but still are emerging projects, so we act as the link through which they reach the UK, Europe and already the US. That is possible because Allwina speaks both languages, the language of the rhythm and dynamics at the origin, which is key for building long-term relationships in a respectful and responsible manner,  and the language of business in developed countries. 

The direct impact on the communities that are behind us, is to generate more and more work for them. Our goal is to revolutionize those local economies, which carries many other very clear and direct positive consequences as I tell on my website.

Anything in the pipeline that we should all be excited about?

Not everyone knows that, even though our Signature Rug collection shown is large, we have a hidden gem of possible bespoke rugs for Interior Designers and Interior Design Studios. The possibilities of creation are endless with our partner’s know-how and the skilled hands of the artisans behind these creations. In other words,  we have the luxury of being able to create literally anything.

On a personal note, what drives you to live a sustainable lifestyle? 

I lived a large part of my life in a small town. I grew up in circumstances where there were not many opportunities and I always understood that sometimes growth can’t be possible if the parts don’t come together and that it is essential to do it in a sustainable way, both looking for the present and the future.

Can you highlight some of the ways Allwina is sustainable?

We are on the way; I personally believe being sustainable is an iterative process.

 Having said that, let me say that often the first thing that comes to mind is the timelessness of our designs and how long our pieces can be used, and that is an important factor in our work, indeed considered in our production formulas, but the way to be sustainable implies a general approach where not only the timeless design matters or the composition of a garment, but rather the business model of which they are a part: fair trade, interdisciplinary work, etcetera.

Being sustainable means creating together, adding value across the industry, partnering with suppliers and even those previously considered competitors. It is part of Allwina’s DNA.

Celebrating the people and processes behind Allwina is part of the journey to help educate and raise awareness, and ultimately gather responsible consumers who are willing to support the industry in making circularity and sustainability truly happen.

Can you highlight some of Allwina’s different designers? 2 or 3 maybe? 

Fernando Bach and Pablo Mendivil are specialists in the craftsmanship of handloom pieces. They were probably the first to see that the product of a loom could be an object of desire and they transformed the industry in Argentina. We are very proud of each other to be working together.

They have been working for around 20 years, and took the reins of textile production woven on a manual loom in Argentina. Nowadays they lead around 360 rural artisans dedicated to the production of high-quality handcrafted textiles, who are weavers by heritage but specialists as a result of two decades of work where they have worked 100% hand-in-hand to improve techniques and control the process in a healthy and sustained way.

Partnering Fernando and Pablo for our Rugs signature collection means our rugs are part of a Fairtrade International and B Corp certified production process.

Clara de la Torre from Manto Coats and Paula Martini are two of my favourite designers from boutique brands from back home. Both of them have a large trajectory and managed to create their own language as a strong feature of their brands. Both projects, Manto and Paula Martini, are a symbol of how textile crafts and artisanal tradition can be taken to contemporary apparel design, whilst telling a story of how to adapt to your surroundings.

Anything in the pipeline that we should all be excited about?

Not everyone knows that, even though our Signature Rug collection shown is large, we have a hidden gem of possible bespoke rugs and handmade tweeds for upholstery and interior accessories for Interior Designers and Interior Design Studios. The possibilities of creation are endless with our partner’s know-how and the skilled hands of the artisans behind these creations. In other words,  we have the luxury of being able to create literally anything.

Partnering with Fernando and Pablo for our Rugs signature collection means our rugs are part of a Fairtrade International certified production process in the origin.

On a personal note, what drives you to live a sustainable lifestyle? 

I lived a large part of my life in a small town. I grew up in circumstances where there were not many opportunities and I always understood that sometimes growth can’t be possible if the parts don’t come together and that it is essential to do it in a sustainable way, both looking for the present and the future.

The average woman uses 12 different beauty products every day (Harvard Business School) — cleansers, conditioners, hair dyes, fragrances, skin care products, scented lotions, nail polish, and makeup, to name a few. Take a quick glance at the labels, and you’ll see a cocktail of chemical components. Personal care products are made with over 10,000 chemical ingredients, some of which are linked to cancer, damage the reproductive system, or disrupt the endocrine system.

Most of the cosmetic products sold to women these days are not regulated by the FDA and can cause hazards in the long run for lots of women. These products constantly result in women experiencing negative mental health issues. Some people might be unbothered by the production of makeup because it is one of the highest economic boosters in the world, however even with so much money, lots of companies provide low quality products that can pollute our environment for hundreds of years to come. 

From biodynamic skincare to plant based collagen alternatives, these are our top 10 switches for a natural skincare routine that works, with no cost to people or planet.

1. Cleanser – FāTH Skincare Resurfacing Botanical Cleanser

2. Face Oil – Maison Made Biodynamic® Rejuvenating Face Oil

3. Face Cream – La Fervance Eclat & Gommage Extraordinaire Duo Kit

4. Face Masks – BASIUM Terra Ayurvedic Face Mask

5. Serum – Irene Forte Hibiscus Serum

6. Shampoo & Conditioner – Pelegrims Shampoo & Conditioner Duo Set

7. Perfume – EAUSO VERT SINTRA Eau de Parfum

8. Lipsticks – Madame Gabriela Sydney at 8am Lipstick

9. Body Lotion – Be Here Farm + Nature Restorative Body Serum

10. Collagen – Terra Tonics Clean Collagen Serum

About the Brand –

Le Domaine Skincare is the brainchild of Brad Pitt and scientists Nicolas Levy MD PHD and Pierre-Louis Teissedre MD PHD. Le Domaine started with a series of encounters that were all centered around a piece of land in France that has been farmed and protected by the Perrin family, who have cultivated this land for five generations. Through this partnership, the team sought to create sustainable products that fused science with nature, to bring a luxury skincare collection that delivered powerful results for well aging.

The brand was built on values that are shared by all the cofounders and the Perrin Family. One of which being that the source of ingredients affect how they perform. Professor Pierre-Louis Teissedre has been working on the Perrin’s terroir for the past fifteen years characterizing and identifying grape varietals and which have the most potent antioxidant effect to treat diseases. It is through his research there that he patented an active compound called GSM10, which is made of upcycled grape marcs from Famille Perrin. The powerful GSM10 is made up of Grenache seeds, Syrah Seeds, and skins, and Mourvèdre seeds, which together have created an antioxidant powerhouse. 

Professor Nicolas Lévy is a professor of Human & Medical Genetics and head of the medical genetics department in Marseille. Over the last twenty years, Lévy has sought to understand the mechanisms of pathological ageing. He has been leading research on Progeria, which is an extremely rare genetic disease that causes children to age rapidly. Through his research, he was able to identify novel causes of human ageing and skin ageing. He applied all his unique knowledge into a patented cosmetic active compound called ProGR3, which can slow down the signs of ageing. ProGR3 is made up of resveratrol, which is extracted from grapevine branches, apigenin from the chamomile flower, and catechin, which is from green tea. 

Le Domaine brings together Professor Teissedre and Professor Lévy’s individual patented compounds to create products unlike anything before.

Le Domaine’s Sustainability Efforts –

• Between 96.4% and 99.4% of natural origin 
• A maximum of active and sustainable or upcycled ingredients 
• Vegan 
• Fragrance of natural origin 
• Created, developed, and made in France 
• Free of silicones, micro plastics, mineral oils, synthetic oils, parabens, EDTA, sulphates, and more
• Oak tree cap is upcycled from the wood left over from the Perrin’s wine barrels 
• Almost all their products are refillable 
• Use of FSC paper 
• Always use the least amount of plastic but, when necessary, they use post-consumption recycled plastic

Le domaine Skincare Products –

The Serum –

After using the serum for a few weeks now, my skin has seriously changed. It is light and silky, and it instantly absorbs leaving the skin hydrated and plump. It is formulated with hydrating and soothing grape water and is it is enriched with two vine flower sister cells, which helps to firm and perfect skin tone. After a few weeks of using the serum my skin was noticeably smoother, less red, and some of my pigmentation had faded.  

The Cream – 

Also formulated with moisturizing and soothing grape water, the whipped and silky cream is truly nourishing.  It also contains organic olive oil and shea butter, which help keep the skin truly hydrated throughout the day. My skin has been severely dry with the cold weather, and this is the first cream I’ve used in a long time that actually soothed and hydrated by red and chapped skin. It gives the skin the most beautiful glow and you don’t need to use too much – a little goes a long way.

The Cleansing Emulsion – 

A sensitive cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin can be hard to come by, but the Le Domaine cleanser is perfect for every skin type – even the most sensitive like mine. The product has a very light and smooth texture, with a very light foam that gently cleanses and detoxifies the skin – washing away impurities and excess makeup. When you wash it away, it leaves the skin hydrated instead of tight and dry like other cleansers. 

If you liked this content be sure to check out our other beauty editorials here

Gifts for Pregnant Women

Some of the best gifts for pregnant women can be items that they use once baby arrives, so below is a list of everything a new mother will need to take care of her newborn as consciously as possible!

And if you are looking for more personal needs, our head of marketing Taylor has put together her own newborn essentials guide here!

For the Baby

Dulce de Lana’s Cosi Merino Sets – 

Made from 100% merino wool and made to fit babe for the first six months of life, the Cosi Merino Sets are an amazing gift that promises to keep baby’s temperature regulated and won’t irritate their sensitive skin. All of Dulce de Lana’s pieces are made in Mexico by hand with the most high-quality wool. Its active fibers maintain the ideal body temperature in both hot and cold conditions. Plus, it is hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and has a protective layer against stains. Given how warm and cozy these sets are, they make perfect Christmas gifts for pregnant women as well!

Soft Spot’s Soft Swaddle Bundle in Dream – 

I can’t begin to tell you how many swaddles you will go through in those first few months of life with a newborn. Use them as a blanket, a towel, or a nursing cover – they have a ton of uses! Not only are the Soft Spot swaddles beautiful but they are made from GOTS & OEKO-TEX certified organic cotton so they are truly made of the best material to touch baby’s skin.

Charlie Crane’s LEVO Rocker – 

A rocker is a must…maybe more necessary for the parents honestly. Having somewhere safe and comfortable to put baby down is a must to help soothe a tired baby so that tired arms can rest. The Charlie Crane LEVO rocker was one of my favourite gifts I received after I had my baby. Plus, they are so beautiful making them a wonderful nursey or living addition.

Mini Bloom’s Discovery Set – 

I still can’t live without Mini Bloom Toot Toot diaper balm and the rest of the line is truly the best body/hair care for babies new and delicate skin. Mini Bloom’s discovery set is such a fantastic gift for any new parent in your life, because it has all the essentials – from their life saving nipple balm, diaper rash erasing balm, and gentle hair and body wash. 

For the Parents

Jorgen House’s Sleep Bra – 

I wish Jorgen House’s amazing maternity line had been around when I first had Ayla, but I’m so happy to have their incredible bras now as I continue my breastfeeding journey. It is so vital that mums are wearing comfortable and non-restricting bras when nursing that allow easy access for baby to suckle. Jorgen House’s sleep bra is a favorite of mine because it offers support without feeling like you are really wearing anything – exactly what you want in those early days. These items are the perfect gifts for pregnant women who can use them comfortably as soon as they are post partum and even in the lead up to birth!

Luxurious Bedding – 

While I was recovering from birth, baby and I lived in bed. We were gifted fresh beautiful bedding when Ayla was born, and it made our little nest even more special and comfortable. In the UK, I would suggest bedding from Dip and Doze and in the US, I would suggest sheets from Avocado Green Mattresses – both are organic cotton and some of the favourite bedding of all time! 

Baby Carrier – 

I’m not sure I could have done anything without our baby carrier…we still use it every single day. My favourite brand of slings that are both comfortable and chic are the Artipoppe ones. I highly recommend buying their Zeitgeist Jane Goodall x Artipoppe collection because 10% of every sling purchased is donated to the Jane Goodall institute! When I think of the coolest gifts for pregnant women, Artipope is always top of mind as they have made baby carrying incredibly chic! 

A Delivered Meal or Two – 

Life with a new baby is overwhelming, exhausting, and pretty consuming so one of the best gifts you can give is bringing those new parents a few homecooked meals so they don’t have to worry about cooking. While you are there offer to wash a dish or two or hold baby so the new parents can have a moment together! One of the best gifts is always support. 

Cariuma Shoes

Cariuma’s mission is to help restore the biodiversity and the carbon-capturing potential of rainforests.

Since June 2020, they’ve committed to planting two trees for every pair of sneakers we sell. Their work starts in the Brazilian rainforest, where only 12.4% of the forest floor remains following widespread urbanization and agricultural logging. Their first planting season commenced in October 2020.

With the goal of restoring biological diversity in this essential biome, Cariuma plants over 120 tree species, based on what’s native to each site. Biodiversity ensures the forest can continue to grow and flourish without human activity, by allowing natural processes to function as they would without intervention. One tree may provide nourishing compounds to the soil, which then fertilizes other plants; another tree’s canopy makes a home for insects and animals, or gives yet another tree the shade it needs to grow.

Cariuma makes the perfect ethical present for anyone in your life. And you can know that you are helping the rainforest at the same time as you are gifting! Our favorites are the Caturis in suede!

Le Domaine

Le Domaine started with a series of encounters, all centered around a unique land, farmed and protected by the Perrin family for five generations. Their encounters here would lead to an incredible skincare line that would not only be hugely effective, but also serve a larger purpose in giving back in the medical field. 

On the Perrin land, they met Professor Nicolas Lévy, a world expert on human ageing. The Perrins also first met Brad Pitt, Le Domaine’s co-founder on their family land. It is in this terroir that the family has worked alongside Professor Pierre-Louis Teissedre for the past fifteen years to characterize and identify which combination of grape varietals had the most potent antioxidant effect to treat diseases.

Le Domaine supports medical research, especially the research on Progeria, and gives back 5% of its benefits to PROGELIFE. PROGELIFE is a start-up founded in 2014 by Professor Nicolas Levy and Professor Pierre Cau. The goal of PROGELIFE is the development till market access of Progeria treatment to help people dealing with this rare yet difficult disease. 

“It is about imitating nature’s organic cycles, its original beauty. In nature, there is no concept of waste. Every discarded thing becomes nourishment for another. This is circularity for is at Le Domaine.” – BRAD PITT, co-founder.

BaYou With Love

Founded by environmentalist and sustainable living advocate, Nikki Reed, BaYou With Love is a beautiful line of jewelry using only the most ethical practices and gems available. Through BaYou’s partnership with Greenspark, every order will support their commitment to regeneration and sustainability. Throughout the year, they alternate the impact each order makes – from planting trees to cleaning oceans to offsetting carbon emissions. 

Additionally, 100 trees are planted with every engagement ring purchased from Bayou With Love for your story of love. Currently, trees are planted through Eden Reforestation Project which is on a mission to combat deforestation by employing local communities to plant trees, providing an empowering means to alleviate extreme poverty through environmental stewardship. Eden Reforestation Projects fight deforestation and alleviate poverty by employing local communities to restore their natural ecosystems.

Eileen Fisher

Waste No More is an innovative expression of EILEEN FISHER, embodying the art and design of conscious consumption. Waste No More creates at the intersection of creativity, ecology, and architecture, and is concerned with the beauty of the discarded and the potential of the repurposed. Unused or unusable material scraps are brought together, in traditional and nontraditional ways, and transformed into wallworks, acoustic and aesthetic panels, garments, and objects. These works come from individuals, collaborations, and partnerships between people and technology; they become works for homes, hospitality and public spaces.

A truly circular venture, Waste No More is about more than the reuse of old into new. It’s an upending to the conventional cycle of consumerism: from manufacture, to use, to disposal. It’s opening up the apparel industry into multiple industries; rethinking the traditional roles of materials; rerouting familiar supply chains into surprising new systems. Waste No More is an effort to bring together art and invention, artists and businesses towards a zero-waste, high-design future.

This is the perfect gift for anyone in your life looking to be introduced to truly sustainable home goods and there are bespoke options for a unique creation.

Coyuchi x White Buffalo Land Trust

Inspired by their partnership with the White Buffalo Land Trust which is a regenerative farm working towards community empowerment with the natural world, Coyuchi has worked with them to craft this woven, 100% organic cotton napkin, covered in rich symbolism that celebrates the many facets of regenerative agriculture. A detailed bandana screenprint designed by artists at White Buffalo details the beauty and biodiversity of WBLT at work, incorporating the sun, water, wildlife, plants, soil, and stewardship that encompass this interconnected, organic supply chain. Proceeds from the sale of this product support the CampaignForJalama.org and the 1000 acre center for regenerative agriculture. The perfect sustainable home gift.

The Outfit -

We are in love with all of Olistic The Label’s pieces for a special occasion. This New Year we will be wearing their incredible upcycled silks, as they are so chic and timeless (and comfortable). The brand perfectly combines minimalist silhouettes with a contemporary bohemian touch with sustainable fabrics – what more could you want? We don’t love buying clothing purely for one occasion, which is why we love Olistic so much because each piece can be styled up for an event or styled more casual for everyday wear.

Our go-to sustainable shoe brand is Dear Frances, as they make timeless pieces that are designed to last. They focus on using sustainable materials alongside amazing craftsmanship to ensure your shoes last you seasons and seasons. Their mules are the perfect pairing with the silk dresses from Olistic the Label. Plus, they come in a variety of colors if you want to have a pop of  color!

We are also loving EILEEN FISHER‘s sustainable velvet pieces for a gorgeous luxe touch to any NYE outfit. These beautiful velvet pieces are responsibly dyed and feature fluid and lustrous, viscose silk velvet that’s washed for relaxed elegance. They are dyed without hazardous chemicals, using less water and less energy which meets the bluesign® standard. The perfect way to subtly dress-up this season!

Sustainable Hosiery

It’s amazing how much a chic pair of tights can elevate a look – one of our latest brands, Swedish Stockings, was founded with the mission to change and influence the entire hosiery industry towards sustainable production. Currently, their collection consists of more than 80% recycled materials which includes recycled polyamide, elastane and nylon. For a classic look, pair our Malva Ladder Resistant Tights with a sophisticated maxi silk dress, or for a statement ensemble, the Meja Net Tights  add a modern twist to any outfit!

Learn more about why Swedish Stockings is such an incredible sustainable brand here! 

The Makeup -

Doing something a bit more than your everyday makeup look every once and a while can be so much fun. We love to take a bit of extra time to really pamper our skin and prepare it for makeup when the occasion calls for it. Good makeup means good skincare first. Popping on a mask first is the best way to add a bit of extra hydration and glow. We love the Eclat Extraordinaire to truly treat ourselves with a bit of luxury at this indulgent time of year. Eclat Extraordinaire will dramatically Improve your skins hydration whilst visibility reducing wrinkles and restoring the skins elasticity and firmness. Combine with Gommage Extraordinaire to scrub off the past year, and turn up to the party, fresh faced and ready to welcome in 2023! It effectively eliminates impurities and irregularities caused by dead cells on the surface of the epidermis, so the skin is soft, smooth and truly enhanced!

When it comes to makeup, all of us at Rêve swear by Kjaer Weis. Not only are the finishes beautiful on the skin, but the products are made with organic ingredients with sustainable and refillable packaging. Their liquid foundation provides a perfect natural base for any makeup look, and it will definitely last you all night. Nothing is more festive than a beautiful classic red lip, and Juni makes our all time favourite. The shade Lola is a classic red that truly never goes out of style – the ultimate iconic shade. The formula also has a ton of skincare benefits, so your lips will be treated to the best organic oils while you wear it!

The Final Touches - Ethical Jewellery

For a truly festive outfit, a touch of jewellery is a necessity. Skydiamond is the world’s first carbon-negative diamond. Skydiamond work in harmony with nature’s own processes to create something beautiful and give people a creative solution to our environmental crisis!

The Eternity 0.54ct Huggie Hoops are a truly stunning staple because they pair with absolutely any outfit and add a touch of classic luxury. The Nacelle Bezel Pendant is another gorgeous and timeless piece that can be worn everyday. This pendant necklace is inspired by the modern elegance and engineering of the wind turbine, which powers the creation of Sky Diamond. Pair this with the Nacelle Bezel Earrings to complete your look!

Le Domaine

If you are looking for a sustainable skincare line that you can share with your partner, this would be it! Le Domaine is built on values that come from the earth, imitating nature’s organic cycles and its original beauty.

Made with an incredibly unique GSM10®: Resulting from more than 10 years of research on grape marcs of the Perrin Family carried out with Professor Teissedre of the University of Bordeaux, specialized in research topics related to the phenolic compounds of grapes and vines. Following the characterisation of all Perrin grape varieties, he formulated GSM10® with proven anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties (anti-MMPs – matrix metalloproteinases such as collagenase action). It also contributes to improving the balance of the skin (postbiotic action).

Le Domaine’s additional extremely innovative compound ProGR3® was created by Progelife, a French biotech company founded by professor Nicolas Lévy, MD, PHD and Professor Pierre Cau, MD, PHD. It is an original combination of natural molecules from plant extracts which targets Progerin, a mutated protein involved in 7 of the 9 mechanisms responsible of cell senescence and aging. Learn more about the phenomenal science behind the line HERE. 

For us, their Complete Routine is the ideal gift for anyone who takes their skincare seriously! The complete routine includes the Cleansing Emulsion + the Cream + the Serum.

The Cleansing Emulsion  contains no sulphated surfactants found in other cleansers. It is formulated with hydrating and soothing grape water and enriched with nourishing and active ingredients. The Cream is formulated with moisturizing and soothing grape water, organic Miraval olive oil and shea butter, as well as Ayurvedic plant extract to combat the appearance of tiredness and deliver guaranteed comfort. It has a silky whipped cream texture that leaves the skin soft and comfortable throughout the day. It also contains GSM10®, an exclusive patented active compound* that slows down the signs of skin aging. The Serum  contains a very high concentration of GSM10® and ProGR3®. It is also formulated with hydrating and soothing grape water. It is enriched with two vine flower sister cells, with complexion perfecting and skin beautifying effectiveness. It contains hyaluronic acids with wrinkle-smoothing and moisturising effects. Its ultra-silky texture is well absorbed and leaves the skin intensely plumped up. The perfect gift to start someone on a sustainable skincare regime!

VYN Sneakers

The World’s first renewable luxury sneaker, we are in love with this line and eagerly awaiting their female collection launch but for now their shoes are the perfect eco gift for men! Founded by Swiss friends Catherine Meuter and Stefan Mathys in 2019, VYN fuses a wealth of design knowledge and expertise with a genuine love of footwear built on 25 years of design experience with brands including Giorgio Armani, Reiss, Harry’s of London and Swims. VYN is utilizing the first ever changeable heel elements to lengthen the life of your favourite shoe. With longevity one of our main focuses here at REV, the idea of a sneaker that can be renewed was so special to us and we would love to encourage any sneaker lovers in your life to make the investment in a pair. 

We are loving the natural off white of the VYN Classic for a great eco gift for him that will stand the test of time. Hand crafted in Italy from premium European materials, the sneaker uniquely features four colourful, bespoke replacement heel-sets to help re-engineer, re-imagine and renew your favourite shoe. Partnering independent style and versatility with structural design excellence, VYN is the first brand allowing for personalization and renewability in your sneakers. A gift that keeps on giving.

Shop them here! 

Ranchlands

After recently learning about Ranchlands and their incredible work on conservation and sustainable land management, we were thrilled to learn there was a way to support their regenerative practices through food purchases. Ranchlands believe in the restorative power of food, for you and Mother Earth. They only create products that are healthy and nourish our customers and the land….their regenerative beef is an excellent option for anyone in your life who hasn’t quite gone full plant based yet!

Amass Spirits

AMASS is the perfect gift for anyone who loves a cocktail and clean living – the most delicious botanic spirits we have found to date! Made with plant based ingredients, their gin has a base of mushrooms for an incredibly lovely and natural drinking experience. Their vodka is distilled from marigold, chamomile, and lemon (the floral aspects serving the same purpose mushrooms do in their gin – to give a soft mouthfeel without the addition of glycerine or other chemical additives)! They also have some great candles that work well for adding to the mood!

Paradise Row Leather Goods

Paradise Row is a handbag line that works to champion & cherish East London’s heritage & talent. Paradise Row works with a local team to help preserve the ailing craft of the leather industry and partners exclusively with local creatives to promote the area’s talent; all of who live within just a few miles. Through every thread, cut and design, you can see the inspiration from the area their trade chain resides in; nothing is more authentically East London.

Amass

I love AMASS spirits because they are all natural, non-GMO, plant based and vetted by the best in the business. No artificial preservatives or unnecessary chemicals in their bottles, just plants. They use ingredients from adaptogens I love like mushrooms and Ashwagandha for a totally clean cocktail. Their Dry Gin has been a go to for Holiday parties. It’s a citrus-forward, herbaceous spirit balanced with earthy umami notes from Reishi mushroom and lion’s mane mushroom. Of the 29 organic botanicals inside the bottle, 11 come from California, with several growing in founder Morgan’s own backyard. If you are looking for special hostess gift ideas, this is such a special treat for anyone who loves a cocktail. They also have a non-alcoholic spirit too!

TUDI

Their Cast Iron Dutch Oven has become our go to. I have done every soup and stew in it! Manufactured high-quality, cast iron, coated with enamel, TUDI’s Dutch Oven has been a feature on my stovetop since the cold weather set in here in Maine. The cobalt blue is beautiful enough to place on the table, and the Classic Black would look amazing for any style kitchen. If you are looking for special hostess gift ideas that go above and beyond, this is the one.

Feldspar

These china pieces are the dream for elegant entertaining – all handmade in Devon, England by the Brown Family they are simple yet truly beautiful. Feldspar is dedicated to the craft of local and artisanal production so a great choice for anyone wanting to champion homemade items!

Coyuchi

I have been using Coyuchi for all of my table linens this Holiday season and I would highly suggest them as a gift to anyone who likes an organic table setting! Their tablecloths and napkins come in such elegant, natural colors and all are made in America with plant based materials and regenerative practices.

Fable

I looked for so long for sustainable ceramics that finding Fable was a dream come true! Their ceramics are all made in Portugal using zero waste practices and their wine and cocktail glasses are break proof so great for any wine lover in your life!

Molten 1090

Our newest glassware line is made by two sisters in East London using circular design practices and every item is hand blown. Their vases are perfect for sustainable flower gifting as well!

Sustainable Flowers

I use either Petalon when I am in the UK or here, Flamingo Estate! Both places are great to go to order a sustainable, locally grown and organic bouquet or wreath for the conscious flower lover in your life!

An elegant cast iron line using recycled materials with incredible design and colors

I have always been taught by my mother to use cast iron for cooking…she has always insisted anything cooked in cast iron just comes out better. I completely agree but have never found an aesthetic I loved with the few vintage cast iron pieces I had. Enter Kana – an elegant cast iron line using recycled materials, sustainable production and with incredible design and colors. 

Their manufacturing also ticks all my boxes for ethics. They use all BSCI and OSI certified patterns to maintain highly responsible production,and  Kana pledges to ISO14001 and ISO45001 international standards to continually improve environmental management systems. They are also members of 1% For The Planet. So this truly is feel good cookware.

Milo’s timeless design has been a feature on my stovetop!

Their Milo dutch oven has become my go to this Fall – I have done every soup and stew in it! Manufactured with 40% recycled cast iron in ethical, accountable plants, Milo’s timeless design has been a feature on my stovetop since the cold weather set in here in Maine. The emerald green is beautiful enough to place on the table, but the white has been amazing for those saute moments where you want to see everything that’s happening as you cook. 

Their Milo skillet is a dream for everything from frittatas to roasting a chicken. It’s deep enough for a good amount of ingredients – truly a classic pan. I have been using this every weekend and I love how easy it is to clean with Kana’s own products like the all natural cast iron dish soap that  is free of sulfates, phosphates, parabens and petrochemicals. It gently cleans pre-season and enamel cast iron cookware in a way that smells amazing and is gentle on pans and the environment.

They also offer eco-friendly cleaning products that are wonderful.

To boot, Kana’s pieces are dishwasher safe which is amazing for a cast iron range, so at the end of this whole process you have an easy clean up! They also offer eco-friendly cleaning products that are wonderful to work in. Their Swedish dish cloths are made from sustainably sourced cellulose, and reusable to cut down on the waste of paper towels. They also have some parchment paper I have turned to from time to time, with that being made from responsibly managed Finnish forests

This is truly a wonderful line to invest in, and also makes a great eco gift for anyone moving into a new home! Discover more at https://kanalifestyle.com!