2014 Trendologist Gift Guide: The Environmentalist

There's an indescribable, yet completely recognizable, joy that arises whenever you witness a loved one opening a present that, after carefully researching and editing down a plethora of options, he or she is thrilled to received. If only you had the time to browse stores far as the eye (or Google search) can see. Welcome to 2014, when buying the perfect present for a family member, beau or friend tends to be more sporadic than we'd like to admit. But as always, The Trendologist is here to help. This year's slew of gift guides offer ideal presents for some of the most hard to shop for individuals. By the holidays, you'll have presents for everyone on your list.

It can be our little secret, but be honest: you have a love-hate relationship with the token eco-crazed person in your life. Sure, you admire his or her dedication to the planet and a healthy lifestyle; however, finding the perfect gift for that organic fanatic is a challenge. Suddenly, the tiniest details become major game-changers. And shame on the rest of us: we should care whether or not that cozy cashmere sweater was produced locally and scorn any luxe beauty product that oozes of parabens. But honoring your loved one's sustainable lifestyle shouldn't compromise the "wow" factor of your present. These gift ideas prove that together, glamour and green make an unstoppable gifting duo.

Riyka Timothy Jumper ($176): "An ultra hip sweater, does this come with a gift receipt?" asks no one ever. With a fetching pattern, which is free of any ugly Christmas sweater associations, this jumper is versatile enough to satisfy a range of personalities and tastes.  Wouldn't this sweater look great with a pair of boyfriend jeans or pleated leather skirt? If the sartorial superiority is not enough of an incentive, the British line strives to use recycled or organic materials and practice sustainable production procedures. Now that is chic.

Bite Beauty Luminous Créme Lipstick in Apricot ($24): The eco-conscious tend to be stereotyped as a hemp-obsessed, disheveled group that refuses to wear makeup. However, numerous "glam meets green" beauty brands quickly undermine  that aged generalization. With several wearable hues and a moisture-rich formula, Bite Beauty's Luminous Créme Lipstick is the perfect stocking stuffer for any makeup addict. But to earn major points with your favorite environmentalist, don't forget to tell this gift's recipient that Bite's lipsticks are free of parabens, sulfates and phthalates. If you're not sure which hue to buy for that special someone, Bite's festive Apricot shade is Trendologist-approved.

Stella McCartney Beckett Bag (On Sale for $802): Anyone who has their finger on the pulse of fashion knows that Stella McCartney is the industry's reigning eco-queen. While many style savants adore the British designer for her cutting-edge vision and craftsmanship, McCartney's commitment to creating cruelty-free products is icing on the sartorial cake. This super sleek tote is bound to blow the green goddess in your life away. Not only is the faux leather exterior finished with a coating that's 50 percent vegetable oil, the bag's lining is created from recycled plastic bottles. Who knew recycling could yield such stylish results? With a streamlined silhouette, the bag was specifically designed to be shipped using less paper and packaging. Truly, Stella's given us the gift that keeps on giving. 

Eat Pretty: Nutrition for Beauty, Inside and Out by Jolene Hart ($16): As any environment expert knows, a sustainable lifestyle goes beyond wearing fair trade clothing and using buzz phrases such as "locally sourced" and "BPA free." Equal parts natural beauty and clean eating, Jolene Hart's book is a must-have for anyone who has an interest in beauty and nutrition. While you're at it, go ahead and pick up a copy for yourself. From raspberries for lustruous hair to nutmeg for beauty sleep, this read is packed with useful tips, making this also perfect for anyone who is looking to spruce up his or her daily routine.

Melissa Joy Manning Drop Earring ($315):  If your sustainable loved one has a penchant for accessories, they know the meaning of recycled jewelry. Vintage, right? Not necessarily. Crafted from recycled 14k gold and moonstones, Melissa Joy Manning's Drop Earrings combine eco-friendly practices with a simple silhouette that your recipient will be able to dress up or down. The jewelry brand's commitment to an environmentally sound product doesn't stop with upcycled stones. Manufactured in a "Green Certified" studio in California, the line finds 50 percent of their raw materials from the United States. But if you're looking to send this pick to the international tree-hugger in your life, they will still reap the environmental benefits. Through a partnership with the UPS Carbon Neutral Program, Melissa Joy Manning carbon offsets both domestic and international packages. Combined with the obvious beauty of these earrings? Picking these up for your green guru is a no-brainer!

Rifle Paper Co. Vintage Telephone Notepad ($8): While you may roll your eyes when your grandmother gifts you with a kitschy notepad or journal for the fifth year in a row, you are also well aware that this is a gift you'll actually use. And just when you thought that finding an aesthetically-pleasing, affordable and eco-friendly gift was more difficult than locating a needle in a haystack, Rifle Paper Co.'s collection of cutesy notepads gives stressed gifters everywhere a sense of salvation. Owned by a husband and wife team based in Florida,  Rifle Paper Co. uses FSC-certified paper stock and environmentally friendly printers. Chic and sustainable, these notepads give life to handwriting notes in an age whn taking pen to paper feels like something only your grandparent would do.

Impecca Wireless Bamboo Keyboard (On Sale for $48): Between discussions about greenhouse gasses and global warming, it's no secret that technology and a sustainable lifestyle tend to clash more than we'd like to admit. Though this pick isn't going to automatically reverse any environmental woes, your green guru is bound to feel a little more at ease spending hours hunched over a computer. Made out of 100 percent bamboo and boasting a chargable lithium ion battery, this keyboard is a more eco-conscious choice than its competitors. Cord-free and eco-chic, the environmentalist in your life will feel one with nature in their cubicle or home office.

Pottery Barn Casa Recycled Glass Pitchers ($29): Believe it or not, the environmentally conscious are just like the rest of the who accidentally forget to sort our plastics, glasses, and paper goods out of the general trash. They go out to dinner with their girlfriends (probably farm-to-table restaurants, though) and seriously ponder over some of life's biggest dilemmas. And when it comes to decorating their home, green feenes are not going to settle for some second-rate pieces. Lucky for sustainability savants, and those of us who are stuck buying presents for this particular subculture, Pottery Barn's recycled glass pitchers are like something you would use for lemon water on the coast of the French Riviera. Between using FSC-certified paper for catalogs and pioritizing the use of raw materials, its no surprise that Pottery Barn has a vast collection of recycled glassware.  Now, you can tell your best friend what to get your mutual organic fanatic.

What are you planning to gift your favorite environmentalist this year? Sound off below!

xx

Fall 2013: Trendy Tartan

Let's play a quick round of word association, shall we? When you think of the word "plaid," there's a good chance "lumberjack," "school girl," or "blasé hipster" comes to mind. This fall, designers are gifting us with a new word to associate with plaid: chic. Um, what? The notoriously macho pattern is revitalized with sleek, feminine, and ultra-sexy silhouettes as well as unexpected fabrics (and by unexpected fabrics, I obviously mean no flannel). It seems as if the sartorial table has turned, as tartan is no longer something you throw on when you're craving a lazy day ensemble. Instead, plaid is for tastemakers who want to make a statement.

Stella McCartney

                                                          Céline

Fausto Puglisi

Moschino

Saint Laurent

Whether you're ready to rock head-to-toe tartan or prefer starting of small with a punch of plaid, this trend has something for every style savant. Though a red/black combo is the most universal color palette for plaid, put your brave face on and  spice up your wardrobe with tartan in a creamy grey or shocking yellow. If you're easing into this trend, couple some printed shoes or a plaid bag with a monochromatic ensemble in a neutral hue-- black, white, grey, or cream are fabulous options. Though tops and skirts in this zesty pattern are on trend, life's too short not to embrace this trend to the fullest. If my inspirational words failed to persuade you, sporting a completely plaid ensemble prevents an embarrassing "naughty schoolgirl" moment. Perhaps I'm a little too obsessed with Céline's fall collection, but my favorite way to sport this trend is with this jaw-dropping plaid jacket. Two amazing trends in one outfit? So major. 

Moschino dress / Harvey Faircloth dress / Elizabeth and James metallic silver shirt / Roksanda Ilincic tweed coat / Alaïa skirt / Lightweight cotton pants / Alice + Olivia alice olivia skirt / Cole Haan pumps / Joie shoes / Marc by Marc Jacobs plaid purse / Comme des Garçons plaid handbag

xx

Last, But Not Least: Paris Fashion Week

The end of the fall collections is always bittersweet. No more new looks but, as a blogger, I'm excited to share more fashion adventures with you. Not only is Paris the end of the fashion week extravaganza, it's also extremely prestigious. I cannot tell you how many times I've looked through the Paris collections and thought, "This isn't PFW worthy." Unlike the other three countries, Paris Fashion Week- in my mind- celebrates fashion as artistic and sophisticated. Ready for my absolute favorites?

Alexander McQueen

I'll be the first to admit that this collection is not wearable. But then again, when is Alexander McQueen wearable?! Sarah Burton continues to carry on McQueen's extravagant legacy. Burton wows fashion fanatics with the use of varied silhouettes. Yes, this collection pushes the envelope (one may think too far), but every fashionista and fashionisto can respect the execution and innovation. When it comes to McQueen, you can expect to be blown away. (Photo Cred)

Elie Saab

Just when Elie Saab was starting to get predictable, he gives us a fabulously dark collection. As much as I love all of his collections, Saab strayed away from the girly dresses and gives us an alternative way to look at sparkly style. Saab also stays away from poppy colors this fall and sticks to rich, muted hues. His two toned pieces give them depth, sophistication, and edge. I'm so smitten with his use of peplum: the execution and size of each peplum exudes femininity. Don't think all this femininity means no sex appeal: that high slit is incredible. Additionally, this collection also exhibits sexy, new techniques. Let's be honest: Elie Saab can do no wrong in my mind. (Photo Cred)

Chalayan

In my mind, there's a difference between "strong and clean" collections and "pure minimalism."  Minimalism, in my definition, is usually composed of neutrals and provide no statement or "wow" factor. An example of a strong and clean collection is Chalayan's. Although I'm no jock, the athletic-infused pieces of this collection are conversational. The bold colors, paired with simplistic silhouettes, add strength. Just when you thought these silhouettes were over-done, the finale look happens. Enough said. (Photo Cred)

Christian Dior

Once upon a time, Christian Dior's "New Look" redefined fashion, femininity, and the brand itself. Seen in previous collections, it seems like Gaytten is searching for a "New Look" revival. Gaytten gives us a subdued take on this theme. For example, the belts add some modernity to the array of full skrits and fitted jackets. The muted color palette complements the occasional black pieces: they both work together to create a retro and feminine vibe. Thankfully the bright, high-impact finale dresses give us that sexy glamour that everyone craves.  (Photo Cred)

Mugler

Like McQueen, most of these pieces aren't wearable: the sleeves are definitely  too intense for some, while other looks are a little too risque. Nevertheless, I love this collection. The transition from cozy whites to harsh blacks is flawless and aesthetically pleasing.  Even the deconstructed component of this collection is well executed and exudes innovation. Also, I do have a thing for futuristic shoulders.(Photo Cred)

Balmain

Usually, I'm comforted by Balmain's predictable  collections: structured minidresses that have a hint of futuristic. Sure, this collection has a healthy dose of the label's staples; however, Olivier Rousteing also supplies us with some forward-thinking pieces. Sleeveless jackets? Yes please! Unlike previous collections, the silhouettes aren't as fitted. Even the looser suits create a nonchalance and casualness that I enjoy. Fun prints and detailing finishes off this new found love for comfortable silhouettes. Major want. (Photo Cred)

Carven

I have yet to go to Paris; however, I know exactly what I'm going to wear when I do: Carven's Fall 2012 RTW collection. Sounds weird, right? In my mind, there's something about this collection that exudes youth and Parisian style. The silhouettes are pretty basic: straight, sleek, and exactly what I would expect a Parisian fashionista to wear. Guillaume and Hieronymus then incorporate bold colors and ethereal paisleys to de-sophisticate it. This struggle between sleek chic and quirky funk makes me want to wear each piece while sitting at a super luxe cafe.  (Photo Cred)

Yves Saint Laurent

In this industry, you're only as good as your last. With Stefano Pilati leaving Yves Saint Laurent, it's time to evaluate his work at the fashion house! Like many other designers, Pilati embraces the sexy, leather trend. The execution and cut of the leather pieces give this trend a refined and elegant twist. The edgy mesh looks are also to die for: they're forward-thinking, but are paired with simplistic pieces to calm them down. His long dresses and pantsuits are reminiscent of something Yves Saint Laurent himself would've designed. The common bold lapels tie all of these different looks together and gives the collection cohesiveness. Though I never obsessed over Stefano like I do with Alber, Jason, or Prabal, I will say this was a great way to end his career. (Photo Cred)

Gareth Pugh

 

Sure, Gareth Pugh is not always my favorite designer; however, I'm drawn to this collection. Surprisingly, some of the jackets and dresses are wearable. Like that fringe dress? I would love to wear that one night and paint the town red. Other looks are obviously more avant garde. Even still, the execution is supreme. Also, I'm in love with the use of capes. How fabulous?!  When it comes down to it, I like this collection because it's thought-provoking. (Photo Cred)

Chloé

From soft pastels and use of lace to rugged silhouettes, Chloé gives us an androgynous take on feminine clothes. Sounds like an oxymoron? Well, to people who haven't seen this collection, it probably is. However, this juxtaposition is probably the best way to describe this collection.While the pieces could've been put together to create an innocent look, the mismatched and indifferent styling of this collection creates this tension between edgy and gentle. As a result, we see separates that can be sophisticated or youthful. It's this versatility that makes this collection strong and agreeable.  (Photo Cred)

Giambattista Valli

Like many fashion girls, I love me some drama. Not in the petty Laguna Beach style, obviously: I long to be excited by clothes' dramatic aspects. From stunning collars, to plunging necklines, to floor-length show stoppers, Giambattista Valli gives us just that, But don't expect sequins galore or anything: here, Valli offers a casual, yet dramatic, collection. The patchwork throughout the collection demands attention; however, makes each ensemble more casual. The silhouettes are simple enough, yet Valli includes popping colors or a dash of drama to spice each look up. I love how he sneaks in feathers in his looks: that Valli is a tricky one. (Photo Cred)

Haider Ackermann

Though my constant talk about silhouettes may be annoying, the cut of a piece is crucial. In my opinion, it can sometimes be more crucial than the fabric. The array of silhouettes- here I go again- from Haider Ackermann's Fall 2012 RTW really made me love this collection. Whether it's an extravagant neckline or  an accentuated hips, Ackermann really shows us how innovative a collection can truly be. Each look was exciting and that's what fashion should be. Wise words by me: you know something in fashion should be extinct when it becomes boring. Quick side note: who wouldn't want those metallic pants? (Photo Cred)

Lanvin

To add to the list of weird things I compare Lanvin collections to, Fall 2012 RTW reminds me of a buffet. Alber Elbaz incorporated everything I could possibly want to wear this fall. Fun pops of color? Check. A healthy dose of peplum? Oh it's there. Beautifully tailored, gothic pieces? In an array of silhouettes and textures! A gilded quasi-brocade? Of course! Army green? It'll look amazing with a light pink lip. Funky graphic pieces? Thank the fashion gods, because I could simply not survive fall without them. I love this collection because it doesn't overdose on one trend: instead, each trend flawlessly meshes into the next one. As a result, we get a realistic collection. On a side note, I cannot express how much I love Alber : he's such a genius, not to mention the cutest little thing to walk a catwalk.  If I could befriend any designer, it would probably be Alber.(Photo Cred)

Stella McCartney

It seems as if every fashionista ditches color once the first leaf floats to the ground. If Stella McCartney shows us anything in her fall collection, it's to embrace color this fall. Stella doesn't give us time to contemplate or ease into color: her first look gives us a shocking pop of cobalt blue, thus demanding attention and respect. I'll be the first one to say that I love wearing black all year around; however, it's time for all of us to break out of our fashion shells and take some colorful risks. She offers fun colors and quirky fabrics together: how's that for some colorful risk?  I love how she pairs the cobalt with dainty patterns and flirty silhouettes, which ultimately makes the blue richer and feminine. However, Stella does include some black for those of us who can't part from our favorite gothic hue.(Photo Cred)

Valentino

I would love to meet the one person out there who claims to hate Valentino and smack them silly. Seriously. Although Valentino Garavani is no longer calling the shots, you can't deny that the brand still has this agreeable, yet elegant,  energy. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli continue to create glamourous pieces. According to the fashion gods, he (or she) who can make a modest jumpsuit desirable reigns superior. As a whole, this collection is exciting, versatile, and well-executed. Most of these pieces can stand alone and create stellar clean, yet expressive, ensembles or they can act as neutrals.  That versatility, paired with a dash of innovation, gives us fashion fanatics exactly what we want: timelessness. The detailing and extravagance of the finale dresses supply the drama that every fashion house should deliver. Can we quickly chat about the excessive use of leather? Am I sensing a top trend for the fall?(Photo Cred)

 xx