Some days I feel like I’m on top of the world … but some people have actually been there … Everest … the summit of summits. Meet four amazing women who pushed themselves far beyond their limits and reached amazing heights.
Some days I feel like I’m on top of the world … but some people have actually been there … Everest … the summit of summits. Meet four amazing women who pushed themselves far beyond their limits and reached amazing heights.
I think most of us have heard the name Edmund Hillary, the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest. He and his sherpa, Tenzing Norgay, reached the summit on May 29, 1953. On May 16, 1975, Japanese mountaineer Junko Tabei, became the first woman (and only 36th person) to conquer Everest.
Born in Fukushima, Junko Tabei founded the Ladies Climbing Club in 1969, paving the way up for Japanese women mountaineers. This petite woman, a mere 1.5 m (4’9”), was a giant in courage and determination, reaching many summits before attempting Everest. While encamped at 6,300 meters (20,669 feet) Junko & her team were struck by an avalanche. Twelve days later, after battling extreme weather, dwindling oxygen and fierce winds, Junko Tabei reached the lofty heights of the summit. Check out her fascinating memoir, Honouring High Places: The Mountain Life of Junko Tabei.
She was the next woman to conquer Everest’s peak … only 11 days after Junko’s amazing triumph. At 37, this mother of 3 made a huge decision, “I made up my mind to reach the top. I did it on behalf of my 400 million Chinese sisters, to prove that we women could do the same as our male companions”. Everest took its toll … she lost 3 toes to frostbite. She carried the Olympic flag into the stadium at the Beijing Olympics in 2008. What’s the highest altitude you’ve visited with your feet still on the ground?
Okay … hold onto your seat … the next woman I want to feature is someone whose story truly blows me away. In 2011, twenty four year old, national level volleyball player, Arunima Sinha, was thrown from a moving train by thieves for refusing to hand over the gold chain she was wearing. Tragically, she lost her left leg in the ordeal.
Her goal, from that day onwards, was not just to become adept at walking but to scale the highest point in the world – Mount Everest. In 2013 she did just that, becoming the first female amputee to achieve this lofty goal. She is truly an inspiration in every way imaginable.
À Chacun Son Everest! is an Association founded in 1994 by alpinist & mountaineer doctor, Christine Janin … the first French woman to summit Everest.
“I am a mountaineer doctor. I was able to climb Everest a few years ago and learned so much from that experience. From there, I met wonderful people who encouraged me in thinking about the difficulties that I encountered when trying to climb Everest and the parallels with disease. This is why I decided to found À Chacun Son Everest. I committed myself to bring a strong message to women and children suffering from cancer.”
Helping women & children climb the mountains they face is something we admire immensely. Merci beaucoup Dr. Janin!
Hoping we all reach the highest heights we are capable of …
Until next time . . . .
As my research began, I suddenly realised that this would be a journey into totally new and exciting territory. Never had I imagined that women were taking to the skies as far back as the 1800’s, nor did I expect to be so intrigued by their stories. Join me as I briefly recount the lives of a few of the women who soared into the wild blue yonder nearly 100 years before Wilbur and Orville were born.
The first woman to take to the skies was Marie Elisabeth Thible of France, courageously piloting a hot air balloon, single-handedly, in 1784, just two years after the first untethered balloon took flight. Elisabeth, as she was known, garbed herself as the Roman goddess Minerva for this famous fight, which was witnessed by King Gustave III of Sweden. Her sole passenger was fellow aviator, Monsieur Fleurant. While aloft, the pair sang two duets from the opera La Belle Arsene. What an incredible spectacle that must have been!
The next record of a woman with her head in the clouds is Genevieve-Jeanne Labrosse-Garnerin, a French balloonist and the first woman to not only pilot a balloon solo but the first woman to make a parachute jump. She jumped from 3,000 ft (900 metres) on October 12th,1799. Together with her husband, Andre-Jacques Garnerin, they pioneered acrobatic feats, night flights and fireworks displays from their balloons. They were joined by their niece Elisa, who became a balloonist in her own right.
After the death of her husband, Genevieve toured alone and was appointed Aéronaute des Fetes Officielles by Napoleon. She met her death when a stray firework ignited the gas in her balloon and she fell to Earth in a blaze of flames. Such a tragic ending to a vibrant, exciting life. On a philosophical level, though, she died doing what she loved … that’s the way I want to go … living my dream.
Baroness Raymonde de Laroche was the first woman in the world to earn a pilot’s license, the year was 1910. She set two world records in 1919 for the longest flight by a female pilot, flying 201 miles and the highest flight at an altitude of 15,700 feet (4,784 metres). Absolutely astonishing!
Born Elise Deroche in Paris on August 22, 1886, she later took the name Raymonde de Laroche—befitting the glamorous stage actress she was. Raymonde was a keen sportswoman and daredevil. She put her heart and soul into whatever she did. In 1908, the Wright brothers were conducting demonstration flights near Le Mans, France, and Raymonde volunteered for a joyride. She was immediately attracted to this exciting and challenging new sport. Later, when she was dining with Charles Voisin, a famous French aircraft builder of the time, he suggested that she take flying lessons. She was already an experienced balloonist and the prospect of learning to fly a fixed-wing machine thrilled her.
Raymonde de Laroche went on to take part in air displays at Heliopolis, Budapest, Rouen, and St Petersburg, where the Tsar himself praised her bravery and audacity. In July 1910, at the Reims Air Meet, she experienced wake turbulence and her aircraft crash landed. Then, in September 1912, she was grievously hurt in an automobile accident in which Charles Voisin, her close friend and companion (who was driving) was killed. On November 25, 1913, she won the Aero Club of France’s Femina Cup for a non-stop long-distance flight of over four hours duration. What a colorful and exciting life she had!
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Harriet Quimby became the first officially licensed female pilot in the United States. Then, in 1912, she became the first woman to fly across the English Channel. Harriet Quimby was also a journalist and was extremely influential to women in aviation. She was considered a radical woman in her day because she smoked, owned a car, flew an airplane, traveled the world extensively, as well as being a professional writer and photographer. She was known as a "green-eyed beauty". She wore a satin, plum-colored outfit, then considered risqué, which soon became a fashion trend; she was often called the "Dresden Doll Aviatrix" by fans because of her dashing, yet feminine image. She was killed on July 1, 1912, at the Harvard-Boston Air Meet when she was thrown from her plane. Another fearless trailblazer whose passion for life ended tragically but again, doing what she loved most. I am in awe of these women who boldly went where no woman had gone before.
In accomplishing the feat of flying, these women broadened the traditional boundaries that had been set for their gender, attaining a sense of freedom and achievement, contributing significantly to the progress and cause of aviation from its dawn to the present day. Smashing stereotypes and breaking social boundaries took massive courage and great tenacity. We owe them a debt of gratitude that we can only repay by striving to follow our dreams and by casting off preconceived notions of what it means to be a modern woman.
Until next time . . . .
For me, nothing compares to a fabulous ensemble, something that makes me feel confident, strong and uniquely me. Designers old and new strive to capture the essence of style. I have visited Fashion Museums near and far and thought it might be fun to share a few of my favorites with the Laflore Paris family.
Let’s start from the ground up: shoes! Who doesn’t love a fabulously styled and well-fitted shoe?
Prepare to be dazzled! The Bata Shoe Museum is an absolute must see for footwear fanciers, historians, star-struck super fans and art enthusiasts alike. The building itself is an award-winning, modern architectural gem and the permanent collection of 13,000 shoes spans 4,500 years of eye-popping history. From ancient Egyptian sandals and Chinese foot-binding wrappings, Queen Victoria’s 1840 silk slippers, Napoleon Bonaparte’s silk socks and the Dalai Lama’s flip-flops to Marilyn Monroe’s red stilettos, Elvis Presley’s loafers, Gene Simmons Platform Boots and Justin Bieber’s maroon sneakers you will be amazed and enchanted throughout. The workshops and roving exhibitions are unique and intriguing so step into the museum where something’s always afoot! How many pairs of shoes do you take when you travel?
Now, let’s go undercover … into the realm of sheer delight and unbridled pleasure … into the realm of lingerie.
The sensation of delicately woven cotton tap pants against your thigh, the almost imperceptible fluttering of a fine satin camisole worn under a business suit, the heart-pumping rush of donning a merry widow and thigh boots … whatever your passion, the world of ladies undergarments is very, very personal.
What better way, then, is there to explore a lingerie museum than in the privacy of your own boudoir? That’s right, the ultimate lingerie museum, Underpinnings, is virtually online. And, aside from the fabulous collection, all beautifully captured and tastefully presented, the fascinating history of ladies foundation garments is at your fingertips.
Underpinnings Museum pays homage to the fine art of design and the skilled hands that have brought those designs from concept to creation. For those skilled with needle and thread, there’s an array of historical and unique patterns. So . . . slip into something comfortable and indulge in the realm of titillation. Pack some sensuous lingerie into your trolala and treat your lover to a weekend of bliss.
There are designers and then there’s … Dior. There are fashion museums and then … there’s Musee Dior, Granville. What sets this museum apart from all others? It is housed in Dior’s childhood home, a magnificent, seaside villa, surrounded by immaculate gardens. This museum is as captivating outside as the iconic gowns and accessories featured within.
Viewing the permanent collection is a sumptuous treat; saunter from room to room where you’ll experience some of Dior’s most exquisite, often gasp-worthy, creations and marvel at the meticulously curated photographs that speak volumes of fashion history. You cannot help but feel the presence of the very superstitious Monsieur Dior as you walk through this one-of-a-kind museum. Before you leave to stroll down the path to the sea, indulge in some French delicacies at the museums’ Jardin de The. Watch for special exhibitions as the museum re-opens in the spring of ’23.
From the sublime to the fabulously bizarre … prepare to be inspired, amused and perhaps a little shocked.
Affectionately referred to as MOMU, Antwerp’s ModeMuseum is the ultimate place for cutting edge design; celebrating Belgian designers and encouraging dynamic new perspectives. “Fashion is more than clothing, and more than ‘fashion’. It’s a prism to look at the world from different angles.”
With a current collection of 38,000 pieces and a dynamic array of special exhibitions, MOMU is a destination every fashionista must visit at least once. Challenging the traditional definitions of an entire industry takes courage, passion, and devotion and MOMU has plenty of all three. And speaking of plenty … MOMU Café is stylistically fresh with plenty of vegan options! Will you take your bebe or bobo?
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The Museum for Lace and Fashion!
The heart of the Saint-Pierre district of Calais was once dedicated entirely to lace-making. Here you will discover the Boulart building dating from the 1870’s, home to the Cite Dentelle Mode Museum. Lace first appears in Europe during the sixteenth century when needle and bobbin lace-making was a highly skilled craft. The advent of machine lace, circa 1809, revolutionized the fashion world. Today, lace is still highly valued and adorns everything from wedding gowns and lingerie to jeans and sweats.
Try your hand at lace-making at Cite Dentelle Museum, take in a machine lace demonstration or simply admire the vast collection. The astonishing intricacy of the designs is remarkable, I am in awe of this almost magical art form. And! There’s an exciting exhibition on the horizon, featuring couturier, Yves Saint Laurent, Paris. Focusing on transparency, “the exhibition demonstrates the manner in which Yves Saint Laurent used the effects of transparency of fabrics to propose a new, powerful and sensual female figure”. Who wants to meet me there?
No trip to New York City is complete for any fashion-lover until you’ve experienced the Museum at FIT. Innovative, award-winning exhibitions that span the centuries. A recent exhibition, Fresh, Fly and Fabulous: Fifty Years of Hip Hop Style is an eye-opening adventure into the grassroots (no pun intended) of the Hip Hop movement. Beyond oversized sweatshirts and bling accessories this fascinating exhibit explores the global impact the movement has had on the fashion world and what it has accomplished in tearing through stereotypes, creating a vibrant new era of music and street-style.
The permanent collection boasts 50,000 pieces and the virtual tours offer more than 2,300 images. Interactive programs and podcasts along with extensive resources make the Museum at FIT a treasure trove for fashion aficionados and the casually curious mind alike. But it’s definitely worth the trip to NYC to soak up the ulta-energizing vibe of this world-class museum.
"Fashion and Heritage, a quasi-impossible dialogue pitting the ephemeral against permanence, whose relevance stems from the current moment, as opposed to receiving value from the past. This conversation flows, however, when the topic at hand is Cristóbal Balenciaga".
Drama is alive and well at the Cristobal Balenciaga Museum … every piece captives. One might spend an entire day entranced by a single creation.
Set against stark yet vibrant backdrops each of these exquisite works of art create an ambiance that is absolutely palpable. Is it any wonder that one of his earliest inspirations was the Marquises of Casa-Torres for whom his mother was seamstress. Famed for his expert precision, technique and perfectionist demands, his almost unbelievably impossible designs gained Balenciaga the respect of designers across the globe. Dior referred to him as “the master of all of us”, Givenchy coined him “the architect of Haute Couture” while Coco Chanel described him as “the only authentic couturier”.
Visit this fascinating museum, showcasing astonishing fashion innovations that were in a state of perpetual evolution.
And there you have it . . . just a few of the incredible fashion museums we wanted to share with our Laflore Family.
Who knows . . . one day you may be walking through a Laflore Paris museum and you’ll be able to say, I knew them from the very beginning.
Happy exploring!
Until next time . . . .
As much as we wish it wasn’t true, leaving behind a 0 percent trace of pollution when traveling is impossible. Airplanes alone make up a large portion of travel pollution by emitting tons of harmful carbon emissions. Hotels consume a lot of water due to the frequent washing of towels and sheets used by guests. Cruises are basically hotels that float on water, which means they emit even larger amounts of carbon dioxide and short-lived climate pollutants like methane. The good news is you can change certain habits that contribute the most harm to Mother Nature while traveling.
Generally speaking, the shorter distances you travel the less of an impact it has on the carbon footprints you make. Pair those closer eco-friendly vacations with choosing sustainable destinations that don’t require taking a flight to get there, et voilá: Green Travel Initiated.
But what about when you want to travel further distances to cross off some of those bucket list destinations? Don’t worry. There’s no need to sacrifice your dream vacation. Believe it or not, there are still ways to explore all the wondrous places our planet has to offer without wreaking havoc on the environment.
If you are a lover of all things travel, you might be wondering how you can help reduce your carbon footprint and pollutants while still being able to travel around the world. And we at Laflore Paris have the answers for you! We put together our top 8 Eco-Friendly Travel Tips to help guide you on your eco-approved journeys.
By choosing to make an eco-conscious decision and participate in green travel, you’re already helping the environment and taking a step in the green direction and we commend you!
Buckle up your seatbelts, prepare for takeoff and let’s get to it!
Earlier we mentioned that shorter distances equal less carbon footprints, so why not enjoy a staycation? The most sustainable travel is no travel at all. Tour your own hometown: Visit a new-to-you museum, hike a new trail, visit a nearby attraction, try a new vegan restaurant. Fall in love with your city and the place you call home all over again, and who knows? It might just scratch that itch to escape the everyday!
Another great way to make the most of your staycation? Check out what local deals and events are going on right in your own backyard, you may be surprised at what you find. Many larger cities hold multicultural events where you can gain the new experiences you long for without ever straying too far from home.
While we totally recommend a staycation, consider opting for a train when you decide to travel a long distance. Did you know that trains are more environmentally friendly than cars? It’s true! In fact, trains emit 80 percent less greenhouse gasses per kilometer. Trains are such a feel-good, eco-friendly travel option too. The only other true eco-conscious alternative is either walking or biking.
Plus, a train can accommodate 50,000 people per hour versus a freeway — which is often jammed bumper to bumper with droves of carbon-emitting cars — that can only be used by about 2,500 people each hour. Also, there are both diesel and electric types of trains, which overall help reduce pollution and produce less greenhouse gasses than the already-environmentally friendly train alternative to airplanes.
You can’t relish the rails without having the perfect women’s carry-on bag. Fortunately, we have a solution for that too! Introducing to you our trolala addition to the Laflore Paris collection. The trolala is a rolling weekender bag made from sustainable premium cork skin sourced from the ancient forests of Portugal and made for the spontaneous journeys in life. Featuring two large handles for easy carry by hand or over the shoulder and a telescopic handle which extends for a smooth rolling follow, this vegan handbag is a must for your trip!
Once you finally get to your travel destination, it’s time to become a local. You know what they say: When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Out of all of our sustainable travel tips, this one is one of our favorites!
Choose to truly immerse yourself in the culture and choose local restaurants over large food chains. What better way to get a true authentic feel of the city than trying its local cuisine? Supporting local businesses while eating yummy local food? A true win!
Embodying a local lifestyle also means touring and shopping the local shops and boutiques. Treasure hunting for unique trinkets and local fashion pieces will create all of the best memories and keepsakes from your trip.
Walking tours are also a great way to explore a city’s history while still remaining eco-friendly. There are self-guided tours available almost everywhere if going at your own pace is more your style. Walking tours can also expand into hiking tours if you are more of an adventurous traveler.
If you absolutely must get somewhere by car, consider ridesharing. Bonus: Ridesharing increases your chances of meeting a friend and saves you some cash, all while reducing pollution. Yes, please!
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Choosing the perfect place to visit also means choosing the perfect place to stay during your trip. But how do you know if your Airbnb or hotel is eco-conscious? Easy if you are exploring in the States! Check to see if the place you are staying at is LEED Certified.
What does it mean to be LEED certified? A property has to meet certain prerequisites and credits on its energy, carbon, waste, water, transportation, health, materials and indoor environmental quality. After going through a verification and review process by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), the project then is awarded points on an LEED rating system. Depending on the project’s commitment to adhering to its climate change goals, the points add up to achieve a Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum level.
Feel and sleep better knowing that the place you’re calling home over the duration of your trip is taking measures to reduce its carbon footprint as well.
If you’re in a walkable town or city, the key is to do just that: Walk! Walking is a great way to get in some exercise while stumbling upon things you’d otherwise miss in a car. Besides, walking allows more people to see the perfectly planned outfits you put together just for this trip. (Because we know you planned some cute ones!) If you need to get somewhere that is a further distance, rent a bike or scooter to get around. Bird and Lime scooters and Citi Bikes placed throughout some cities are super easy to navigate with. It’s just a quick app download and then you’re all set to ride, as an affordable, eco-friendly alternative.
Another tip we love is to not just take from your destination, but give back to it too! Join the local beach cleanup efforts, donate to one of the local food banks. Giving some of your time and resources to the local community will make your trip even more meaningful. Joining these awesome green groups is also a great way to make new friends around the world that share your interests and goals in making our planet a cleaner and greener Earth!
SPF is crucial in your seven-step skin care routine but did you know that in all the good it does for your skin, it can have harmful effects on the environment? In fact, places like Hawaii have passed restrictions on the usage and purchase of sunscreen with harmful chemicals that can damage coral reefs. These toxic chemicals are known as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Sadly, these harmful chemicals are found to be in about 80 percent of current sun protection products on the market with known, popular name brands topping the list.
Our solution? Choose a toxin-free alternative! Google is your friend.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto
Just because you are on vacation does not mean you throw your responsibilities out of the window. Take some of your favorite reusable bags, water bottles, drinking straws, coffee cups and more along for the vacation. Keep up with the everyday, environmentally friendly habits you have already built at home. Don’t forget your favorite hydro flask! Bringing it along encourages more water intake while you’re too busy having fun to even notice you’re getting dehydrated.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto
Speaking of reusable, renewable products, it’s a great time to suggest that you stop buying plastic travel-sized toiletries altogether. Leverage refillable containers that can be used trip after trip. Refillable containers are a great way to store your favorite products while keeping them at your fingertips and save you from wasting money on buying the tempting travel sizes.
Photo by @alesia_kozik
Photo by @alesia_kozik
Eco-friendly vacations aren’t just the latest trend to hop on but truly a lifestyle to lead. If you are in further need of inspiration and guidance on making lifestyle changes to reduce your carbon footprint, check out our blog post about Eco-Friendly Fashion.
Laflore Paris is a sustainable and ethical brand that produces convertible vegan handbags, and it is so important to us to live and lead an eco-friendly lifestyle by example. Our purses are made from premium cork skin and our products are packaged in plastic-free & recyclable materials. Our versatile bags come in different sizes, colors and ways to wear them so that they can fit all of your travel needs — whether it's a weekend getaway or a commute on the train (eco-friendly train that is)!
Imagine, for a moment, that you are in a sumptuous garden, ensconced amidst an exotic array of flowers, shrubbery, trees and vines. The tranquility soothes, myriad scents caress the air, form and hue dazzle the eye. Few things compare to the astonishing beauty and power of nature and its ability to both calm and energize.
Our desire to surround ourselves with plants and flowers, be it backyard, balcony or window box, is universal and spans the millennia.
Gardens have been captivating our imaginations and infusing our lives with pleasure, since ancient times. The oldest garden plan on record dates back 4,000 years to Ancient Egypt. The Pharaohs of antiquity, with their lavish abundance and propensity for all things exotic, had gardens beyond imagining. It must have been incredible to experience those vast, immaculate gardens.
The last 1,000 years have seen dramatic changes in the way we plough, plant & harvest. These innovations have contributed to serious problems such as erosion and desertification. As global travel and trade increased, the introduction of exotics into greenhouses and backyards rapidly grew. Many indigenous plants disappeared while others were pushed to near extinction. The evolution of gardens and gardening is fascinating but, for today, let’s focus on the future ... let’s put down some roots!
One of the most important things we can do for the rectification and promotion of biodiversity, an essential element of the re-greening of our fragile planet, is re-establishing indigenous species and weeding out foreign interlopers.
Our penchant for exotic plants and flowers is causing many native species to disappear completely and dramatically contributes to reducing biodiversity in both flora and fauna.
First, do a little research: tap into the pulse of a local garden centre, read books like Lawns into Gardens, utilise YouTube, anything to get you started. Next, choose your spot and figure out what plants will thrive with the amount of sun & shade it receives and in your specific wind/weather conditions. Check out Facebook … I’ve gleaned loads of advice from location-specific Facebook gardening groups, whose members are always super excited to share their knowledge and passion for planting.
Whether you’re tackling an extensive backyard garden, potting plants on terraces or balconies or revamping an allotment, be sure that you’re introducing indigenous plants that will happily coexist.
Butterfly gardens are especially pretty and extremely beneficial to the global environment, as the butterfly population needs a serious boost. Bug hotels are fun to build and add lots of interest, biodiversity and keep your greenery happy and healthy.
If you have the space, composting greatly improves the health of the soil, helps retain nutrients and attracts beneficial organisms while reducing the need for fertilizers and pesticides. Find everything you need to know about backyard composting at www.epa.gov.
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If you’re eager but don’t know how to get started you might want to whip up a smoothie, snuggle up in your favorite chair and watch the binge-worthy show, Growing a Greener World; you can find the episodes on Youtube or brew up some fresh herbal tea and prepare to be fascinated by the folks who made ”Gardening with Native Plants: Learn From Our Mistakes”.
”Big Dreams Small Spaces” is a delightful, informative Netflix series featuring British horticulturist, Monty Don … every episode is packed with buckets of information and imaginative solutions to transform even a very small space into a beautiful oasis.
If you’re not fond of digging in the dirt or are pressed for time, check out options such as Plant A Billion Trees at www.nature.org. Visit www.tree-nation.com to “Reforest the World”, or check out Trees, Water & People who are doing amazing work in Central America and the US at www.treeswaterpeople.org.
Perhaps you can spearhead a project for an indigenous gardening initiative at a local school or community centre, or maybe try to encourage a local high-rise to create a “green roof”.
No matter what you do, do it with joy, with passion and with your own personal flair. We all leave a footprint on the world . . . let’s make that footprint a beautiful one!
In the words of Audrey Hepburn,
Wishing you a vibrant, blossom-filled day and a brighter, greener tomorrow!
Until next time . . . .
We are the future, the givers of life and nurturers of tomorrow.
Going beyond the call of duty, pushing themselves beyond their limits, women who definitely stand out in the crowd. We are so inspired by their stories we just had to share them with our Laflore Family.
Chantal Petitclerc was 13 years old when an accident claimed the use of her legs. Five years later, in a homemade wheelchair, she entered her first race as a wheelchair athlete, crossing the finish line in last place. Determination kicked in and this now retired athlete, activist and mother has 21 Paralympic medals under her belt, 14 of them Gold! Chantal participated in races ranging from 100 meters to 1,500 meters, claiming more than one Gold Medal in every category. Amongst her other accomplishments, Chantal was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, received the Order of Canada, and currently serves as a Senator for the Government of Canada.
“If you have a strong commitment to your goals and dreams,
We couldn’t agree more!
Toulouse, France. Leading specialist in medical 3D printing technology, building everything from trachea, jawbones and even human noses for patients requiring reconstructive surgery due to cancer. Her collaborative research and skilled surgical procedures are transforming the lives of her patients; bringing them hope and new life.
“Today, I am working in particular on the development of a biocompatible cement which would make it possible to print a biocompatible surgical implant”.
As the mother of 2 little girls, she also wishes to help the representation of women in the field of health (currently only 20% of university professors are women).
“It is difficult to balance family life and professional life. My husband is also a doctor. We work a lot and also have on-call duty. But I am passionate about my job, I love my patients. My daughters understand that.
In collaboration with her colleague Dr. Vairel, Dr. Duprez-Boriès was able to perform the first complete nasal reconstruction on a patient who lost his nose 10 years before, following extensive cancer treatment. Astonishing!
Amanda Hall is the Founder and CEO of Summit Nanotech, a company doing ground-breaking work, developing innovations that protect the planet. “For six years, I worked for the biggest gas producer in North America. As a geophysicist, my job was to work with a team to find oil and gas...
Amanda and her team are making great strides towards a greener, brighter tomorrow! Founded in 2018, Summit Nanotech has an all female management committee, a serious rarity in the mining (any many other) sectors.
“My team leads with passion, agility and humility; you don’t often see this caliber of female leadership in one company”.
“We’ve created a technological process to take lithium out of natural occurring brine … creating significantly less chemical waste while doubling yield ….”
We salute you!
Award winning Rachel Perkins was born in Canberra, Australia and at the age of 18 moved to Alice Springs to begin a training program at the Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association. Frustrated with the portrayals of Indigenous cultures, Perkins founded Blackfella Films. Blackfella Films is committed to culturally significant stories by and about Australia's indigenous peoples. She also created The Black Book , an Indigenous media and arts directory. Her films include: Jasper Jones, One Night the Moon, Mabo and many others.
Beautifully said, Rachel. Here’s to the future!
Lawyer, activist, environmentalist, and Vice-President of Columbia. In 2014, together with 18 other women, Francia Elena started the “mobilization of the black women for the protection of life and ancestral lands”. They walked from their territory to the capital, visiting other communities along the way that were also facing imminent extinction. In 10 days they walked 350 kilometers, reaching Bogota with the complete support of 150 women. In 2015 Francia Elena received the Colombia National Prize and she was invited to take part in the peace process in La Havana.
A truly extraordinary trailblazer . . . .
May you find inspiration in the world and in women around you.
Wishing you all a day, a week, a lifetime of inspiration and may you be an inspiration to those around you.
Until next time . . . .
In fact, the average adult has about 300 million skin cells and caring for those cells means “feeding” them the right nutrients and minimizing their chemical intake.
As we were pondering the importance of caring for our beautiful cork-leather handbags, we began to ponder the challenge of caring for our skin in an eco-responsible and sustainable way.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, one third of landfill waste comes from the beauty industry; 120 billion units of packaging a year come from beauty products, and its shipping contributes more than 1 billion tons of CO2 a year. Scarier still are the lists of chemicals found in almost every beauty product on the market.
So, we put pondering aside and searched for solutions. There are some wonderful organic, sustainable cosmetics out there but we thought it would be more fun to whip up some of our own.
Here are some of our favorites but before we begin we ask you to do a patch test before applying to sensitive areas like your face.
Ingredients: Honey, Sugar, Oats, and Avocado
Preparation: Mix one tablespoon of raw organic honey, 1/2 an avocado, one tablespoon raw sugar, and a small handful of ground oats.
Use: Apply the mixture on a clean face and allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes. Remove with a warm washcloth. You’ll be glowing!
Ingredients: Extra Virgin Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Cacao Powder
Preparation: Stir together one tablespoon of softened, organic coconut oil with two tablespoons of organic dark cacao powder.
Use: Apply to your face and let sit 15-20 minutes before removing with a warm washcloth. We think this mask is fabulous for skin care but also because it’s good enough to eat!
Ingredients:
Preparation: in a 1 oz. sterilized glass bottle, add all essential oils. Fill the rest of the bottle with the rosehip seed oil.
Screw on the cap and shake well. Et Voila! Use Facial Serum morning and night around the eyes, mouth and other trouble areas on the face.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. Remove make-up and cleanse your skin.
2. Open the activated charcoal capsule and add the contents to a small glass or ceramic bowl. Discard the empty capsule.
3. Mix in the bentonite clay and vegan gelatin. Add boiling water and mix well with a mini silicone spatula (avoid metal spoons as the metal may weaken the health properties of the bentonite clay). The gelatin. will thicken up the mask. Add 1 drop tea tree oil and mix again.
4. Use a mask brush to apply a layer of the mask to the skin, avoiding eyebrows, being careful not to get too close to the eyes.
5. Apply the mask quickly as it will continue to thicken. If the mask in the bowl dries up before you finish applying, add a 1/2 tsp. to 1 tsp. of boiling hot water to make the mask liquid again.
6. Once you have a thick layer of the mask on your skin, allow it to dry for 20-30 minutes. You may need to wait longer depending on the thickness you’ve applied. You may feel a slight tingling sensation from the bentonite clay and tea tree oil, don’t worry, both help to remove impurities from the skin.
7. Once the mask is dry, start at the edge (chin or forehead) and slowly peel off the mask until it's completely gone. Use a warm washcloth to remove any remaining mask from your face.
It’s perfect to add a little color to your face, neck and décolletage.
Start with 2 teaspoons of arrowroot powder or cornstarch, then begin adding your pigment: cinnamon for a glowy reddish tint, cocoa powder and nutmeg for a sunkissed look, and beet root powder for a touch of pink.
Have fun experimenting to achieve the perfect shade. You may want to add a few drops of sweet almond oil for a creamy texture.
Believe it or not, this eyeliner gets its jet-black pigment from burnt-to-a-crisp almonds. Seriously! You start by skewering a single almond with a long, metal skewer (to protect your fingers) and charring it in the flame of an organic candle. Be absolutely certain to do this over a fire-resistant surface. It should take about 10 minutes to char each almond; you’ll need three or four. Allow the charred almonds to completely extinguish and cool (on a metal plate or some other nonflammable surface) before grinding them into a powder using a sterilized mortar and pestle. The powder should be black like charcoal. Mix in a few drops of vegetable glycerin until it becomes a thick paste, then apply using an angled eyeliner brush. Allergy alert: if you are sensitive or allergic to nuts avoid this one!
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, exfoliation can leave your skin looking brighter because it removes dead skin cells. It can also stimulate the production of collagen, which may help your skin stay firm and radiant. Who can resist the experience of full-body pampering?
Ingredients:
Preparation:
1. Add the tea bags to hot water. Allow the tea to steep until it cools completely.
2. While the tea is cooling, put the brown sugar in a bowl.
3. Add the melted organic coconut oil and mix thoroughly with the organic brown sugar.
4. Once the tea has completely cooled, add it to the sugar/oil mixture. It’s important that the tea is completely cool so the sugar doesn’t dissolve.
5. If the mixture is too crumbly, add a little more melted coconut oil. If it’s too soggy, add more brown sugar.
6. When you’ve reached the desired consistency, spoon your scrub into a container.
Slather it on using gentle circular motions avoiding any areas where your skin may be sunburnt, chapped or otherwise extra sensitive. Rinse off in a warm shower and feel the total-body joy of your freshly exfoliated birthday suit.
Remember . . . taking care of yourself isn’t about the kind of special pampering we love to indulge in for special occasions.
With a few simple recipes and routines we can pamper ourselves every day. Let the pampering begin!
Until next time . . . .
Come with us on a little excursion of our favorite train journeys: from the extraordinarily luxurious coaches of Europe’s Orient Express and India's Maharajas’ Express, to Canada's Rocky Mountaineer, the “Rockies to the Red Rocks” in the US and Peru’s ultra-posh Andean Explorer.
On October 4th, 1883, the train that would become The Orient Express left Paris for Constantinople for the first time, forever redefining long distance travel. In the years that followed George Nagelmakers, a visionary young Belgian, realized his dream: transform travel into a luxurious experience, enabling royals and businessmen alike an ease of cross-border journeying that set the precedent for travel today. One hundred and forty years later, embark on the journey of a lifetime, enter the world of the sumptuous, glamorous, legendary Venice Simplon. Paris to Istanbul, five exquisite nights.
Perhaps you have a penchant for more exotic climes. Is India calling but the thought of backpacking and mosquito nets aren’t appealing? All aboard! The Maharajah’s Express awaits. Beautifully appointed suites and exotic local delicacies abound. India’s railway history dates back to 1844 and today boasts an astonishing 63,327 kilometers of track. We’re opting for The Treasures of India, a 4 day, 3 night journey: Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Delhi. Recline in the Lounge or Safari Bar and take in the spectacular views in luxurious comfort or order luncheon in bed and watch the world go by.
How about, The Best of the Rockies, Canada’s most exquisite railway journey. The Rocky Mountaineer travels exclusively during daylight hours so you won’t miss any of the spectacular landscapes. Every evening you’re transported to a luxury hotel and treated to the finest service Western Canada has to offer.
Gold Leaf class boasts a bi-level car with glass-domed roof for a truly unique viewing experience. The romantic outdoor deck is spacious … feel the wind in your hair and breathe that unmatchable mountain air. You’ll visit glaciers, spectacular Lake Louise, the Spiral Tunnels, Emerald Lake, and a natural rock bridge spanning Kicking Horse River.
Speaking of the Rockies, south of the border The Rocky Mountaineer offers a two day journey through Utah, Denver and Colorado on their spectacular “Rockies to the Red Rocks” package. Choose SilverLeaf Plus service for one of the finest railway classes in the US with finely appointed sleeper suites, beautiful lounge, exterior viewing platform and gourmet dining. They’re famous for their hand-crafted cocktails and expert wine pairings so be sure to bring your ID. Recline and take in the extraordinary landscapes: gaping canyons, stunning desserts, natural archways and enchanting hoodoos (pinnacles of weathered rock).
Sip a cappuccino as you cross the Continental Divide or have your morning coffee in the fresh air at one of the stops. Highlights include Ruby Canyon, it’s on our bucket list, and Mount Garfield. Add-on destinations such as Las Vegas or Salt Lake City can be arranged. Have you ever seen a hoodoo?
Here’s the railway experience we’re longing for The Andean Explorer: one of the great trains of our generation. Board this magnificent, Peruvian gem in Arequipa, be dazzled in Puno and swept away as you disembark in Cusco, less than an hour from Machu Picchu.
Fashioned with the same ethos of iconic trains of yesteryear, the Andean Explorer spares no expense in pampering their guests. But you won’t find old world charm, you’ll be cradled in a fresh, contemporary aesthetic inspired by Andean culture and design. In the dining car, Muna, named for an Andean herb, you will be treated to “the full spectrum of Peruvian flavors” and world class dining. The spa car (yes, there’s a spa car . . . clay floral wrap, anyone?) is called Picaflor, hummingbird. Be still my heart! Allow yourself to be swept away by Lake Titicaca, discover the “floating community” of Islas Uros, indulge yourself in the market at La Raya. I’m sold!
Perhaps we should have a Laflore Paris, “Trolala-Lovers” convention aboard one of these amazing trains.
Wherever you go, whomever you're with, remember to embrace the moment . . . may you find the beauty in all things great and small.
Until next time . . . .
These 14 fashionable TV characters were selected because each of these style icons use their wardrobe to evoke a sense of elegance, feminism, professionalism, eco-consciousness and authenticity — while knowing how to truly make a statement and a grand entrance.
First up on our list of fictional, fashionable characters who need a bobobark is:
Mostly vegetarian, Phoebe Buffay is a walking and talking eco-friendly queen. So it's a no-brainer we could see this quirky character flaunting her own bobobark along the streets of New York City. We’re pretty sure Rachel and Monica would jump at the chance to borrow it from her closet.
Of course Gloria Pritchett is included in this list of stylish TV characters who need a bobobark. Never without a pair of heels, a luxury handbag and lavish accessories, Gloria Pritchett is always adding to her look in new and exciting ways. Her bold personality requires a professional bag that makes a statement to match. Enter bobobark in cognac!
Perfect for attending a press briefing or a covert date with the president, Olivia Pope’s bobobark would be filled to the brim with secrets. Thankfully she’s a pro at fixing political situations and maintaining expectations, so you would never be able to tell what’s inside her bobobark.
We’re loving this new journey for Alexis Rose. As she heads off to pursue a career in the Big Apple, she’ll need one of our bobobark vegan purses to fit all her fabulous working-girl essentials and accessories in the city that never sleeps.
She might not have the capacity to love a bobobark, but Villanelle would definitely appreciate its fashionable functionality and having a place to discreetly and conveniently organize her weapons of choice.
Politician-turned-money-launderer-(re)turned-politician Wendy Byrde seems like the perfect candidate for a bobobark — thanks to all the hidden pockets, compartments and zippers. How much cash can you fit into this eco-friendly bag? Wendy would happily find out.
As a body-positive vegetarian, Penelope Garcia surely opts for ethical brands to round out her eclectic style, and we think she’d love the bobobark cork bag. It’s large enough to carry her laptop, fuzzy pens, desk toys, and anything she needs for a day at the office, or even chasing a case on the jet. Plus the quick phone access would be so helpful for never missing a call from Supervisory Special Agent Derek Morgan!
Spotted, wearing bobobark on the Met steps is none other than Luna La. This stylist doesn’t follow the trends but instead creates them. Luna knows you can’t chase your fashion dreams without having a closet full of professional bags that speak to you — bobobark included of course. Plus, we think our eco-friendly cork bag matches her boho chic vibe quite perfectly. XOXO
Confident as a lawyer but not so confident in her love life, Molly Carter’s fashion-forward styles in and out of the office go perfectly with the versatility of the bobobark convertible backpack purse. No objections here!
Donna Meagle is the reliable, yet snarky, friend who’s always down for a round of drinks after work. Never missing a chance to “treat herself,” we have no doubt she’d appreciate bobobark’s ability to quickly transition from office chic to late-night luxurious.
Bobobark is a natural accessory for the ‘60s mod fashion era of Mad Men. It’s especially perfect for Peggy Olsen, who emulates what it was like to fearlessly climb through the ranks at Sterling Cooper Advertising Agency in a time when women were still just entering the workplace. What do you think her creative ad for Laflore Paris would look like?
This fiery and intelligent chess prodigy is a force to be reckoned with. When she’s not beating opponents at a game of chess, Beth Harmon is busy brushing up on her math, science and history skills — or learning Russian to keep tabs on what people around her are gossiping about. Beth needs one of our bobobark professional bags to keep her studying materials organized, easily accessible and secure.
From juggling photo sessions to picking out lavish gowns for glamorous events like the Césars, Sofia Leprince is a rising actress, Tiffany & Co. ambassador and stylish diva who needs a bobobark professional bag in every color to stay organized when keeping up with the demands of fame.
Sylvie Grateau is the blunt, tough and multilingual boss who is full of surprises and often showing tough love for her American colleague Emily. We have a feeling she would love a bobobark to keep all her essentials in one place, while impressing potential high-profile fashion clients as she launches her new marketing company.
The world is becoming more environmentally conscious, and the fashion industry is starting to adapt to it. Brands and designers are beginning to explore sustainable materials and practices that minimize harm to the planet. Some of the most promising sustainable textiles on the horizon are also fabrics that are vegan!
From pineapple leaves to hemp, these vegan fabrics we’ve compiled are sustainable, durable, and stylish. Here we take a look at some of the best vegan fabrics paving the way to fashion’s eco-friendly future.
Sometimes known as cork leather or cork skin, cork fabric is made from the bark of cork oak trees that grow in Mediterranean Europe, primarily in Portugal. It’s a recyclable and renewable resource that is carbon-negative, environmentally friendly, and biodegradable.
Cork is a vegan material produced without harming any animals or plants. In fact, removing the bark of cork oak trees periodically actually stimulates their generation and helps them grow. Harvesting cork prevents the deforestation of oak trees that house endangered species like the Iberian Lynx.
Cork is a lightweight, durable product that is strong, long-lasting, and can make elegant products with a smooth, supple finish. It can be used to make many fashion items:
Durable, absorbent, comfortable, and even hypoallergenic, organic cotton is one of the most popular plant-based fabrics around. Grown from natural cotton seeds without the harmful effects of pesticides, organic cotton is also produced using organic methods and practices. In fact, during its production process, no toxic chemicals or pollutants are released into the air or water as toxic chemicals and dyes are not used.
Renowned for its softness and durability, bamboo is a sustainable plant fiber that is quickly becoming one of the most popular vegan fabrics around. Extracted from the bamboo plant, bamboo fabric is biodegradable and can be used for everything from clothing to accessories, such as
Despite being the most popular and cost-effective option to produce, the bamboo viscose extraction process isn't perfect. It involves the use of chemicals, including sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide, which can be harmful both in the workplace and in the environment. Its alternative, bamboo linen is proven to be the more eco-friendly option and is made by not extracting the cellulose.
Naturally grown without the need for pesticides, herbicides, or artificial fertilizers, hemp grows faster than trees and uses less water and land in the process. It also returns the majority of its nutrients to the soil, making it an incredibly sustainable plant.
As one of the most renewable plant fibers on earth, hemp fiber is a popular choice for sustainable fashion designers, especially since its properties are similar to linen.
On top of being durable and absorbent, hemp is also anti-microbial and UV-resistant, both beneficial properties that makes it suitable for beachwear. Hemp can be used to craft a variety of products, including:
A man-made fiber made from the wood pulp of eucalyptus trees, Tencel is a vegan fabric choice that is often used in eco-friendly fashion. Along with being biodegradable and compostable, Tencel requires few resources to produce and emits very low levels of greenhouse gases.
What’s more, Tencel is a soft, wrinkle-free, and breathable fabric that feels luxurious against the skin. It also has natural antibacterial properties to keep you feeling fresh all day long. Some products made with Tencel include:
However, despite Tencel being biodegradable, we recommend that you check to ensure it was not mixed with other fabrics. If so, the textile may not be fully biodegradable.
A newly developed fabric made from the prickly pear cactus, cactus leather is a vegan and sustainable choice for fashion designers. Not only does this natural fiber grow without any pesticides or herbicides, it also doesn’t require an irrigation system to thrive. What’s more, the harvesting of the cactus leaves causes zero damage to the core of the plant, making it a sustainable and environmentally friendly option.
Apart from its sustainable sourcing, cactus leather is also partially biodegradable and compostable. This is due to its composition of water, cellulose, and pectin. It’s an extremely durable material that doesn’t wrinkle easily and boasts a life span of about 10 years.
Moreover, cactus leather is a supple and strong fabric that can be used to create a variety of products like:
Similar to cactus leather, pineapple leather is another vegan leather option that has grown in popularity. The pineapple fiber is extracted by hand and then processed into a non-woven mesh fabric that has the appearance of leather without the environmental impact. Its extraction process, decortication, is carried out inside of the farm to lower C02 emissions. Not only that, while the pineapple leaves are used to craft pineapple leather, its leftover biomass is recycled into fertilizer.
Pineapple leather is made from a natural blend of pineapple fibers, thermoplastic polyester, and petroleum-based resin that are known as “piñatex”. This material grows abundantly in the Philippines where it has been used for years to make traditional hats.
Products made with pineapple leather include:
Piñatex is a durable and versatile fabric that doesn’t require any tanning, dyeing, or chemical treatments. However, you can find Piñatex in a wide variety of colors and finishes. As well as being kind to the environment, it is also lightweight, breathable, durable, and offers a unique texture.
Crafted from the skin of mangoes, this leather-like fabric is another sustainable and environmentally friendly choice for crafting a cruelty-free wardrobe. Not only does it use a waste product that would otherwise be discarded, but the cultivation of the mango fruit also helps to support local economies.
Mango leather is a natural fiber, which means it can be recycled and biodegraded. It's an extremely durable material that doesn't wrinkle easily and has a long life span. Its soft, easily-dyed material makes it the perfect textile for:
Vegan or alternative fabrics are made without any animal by-products. This means that they don’t use wool, leather, silk, or any other material that comes from an animal. But not all vegan fabrics are created equal. There are some non-vegan materials that are more earth-friendly than something marketed as a 100% vegan product. If you are passionate about living a vegan and eco-conscious lifestyle, be sure to choose your fabrics carefully!
In short, it depends. Many vegan fabrics are sustainable, but there are also plastic-based products that can be marketed as vegan, but are not produced with sustainability in mind. On the flip side, there are non-vegan materials that are made ethically and sustainably.
Choosing fabrics that exemplify both sustainability and vegan ethics is a great way to help protect the environment and reduce your carbon footprint. While vegan textiles aren't the only sustainable material, they do offer some benefits when compared with non-vegan fabrics, like wool. It’s also important to take a holistic approach that considers how everything from production to packaging is handled.
For example, production of alternative fabrics often doesn’t rely on toxic chemicals or dyes, which can be harmful to both humans and the environment. Many plant-based fabrics are biodegradable, meaning that they will break down naturally over time as opposed to sitting in a landfill for hundreds of years.
At the same time, many vegan fabrics are durable and long-lasting, so you can build a 100% cruelty-free wardrobe with exquisite pieces that can be worn for years to come. Some of them will even get softer and more comfortable every time you wear them.
From cactus to mango, there are a variety of plant-based vegan fabrics on the market to choose from. On top of being eco-friendly, they offer plenty of benefits when it comes to fashion design and production, despite not all plant fibers being sustainable due to their manufacturing process.
That makes them ideal for a range of products, from clothing and shoes to vegan handbags and vegan accessories.
The majority of plant-based fabrics have antibacterial properties due to their natural composition which makes them ideal for activewear or outerwear. Like wool and cotton, vegan fibers can also be blended to create a variety of textures, colors, and prints.
Now that we've covered some of the best materials for the environment, let's look at some of the innovative designers who are using them.
Our sustainable, cork-leather convertible handbags are not only vegan but also offer a range of other benefits that make Laflore Paris handbags chic, functional, and eco-friendly. Cork leather is known for its unique and elegant look, making it the perfect material for sleek designs, especially for luxury handbags.
Boasting biodegradable, antibacterial and 100% waterproof qualities, cork material is an ideal vegan material. It’s also lightweight and soft to the touch but still strong enough to be used in handbags that provide maximum durability and longevity.
Now here is a brand that knows what it's about. Jo-Anne Vernay uses piñatex to make sustainable footwear that's stylish, glamorous, and innovative.
With a closed-loop production cycle that makes the most efficient use of all waste byproducts, a transparent supply chain where components are traced to their source and workers are treated fairly and given a living wage, Jo-Anne Vernay embodies what it means to be vegan.
Jo-Anne Vernay's line of piñatex women's heels are harvested in the Philippines in a way that supports local farming communities and cooperatives. The material itself is sustainable, durable, and biodegradable. The fibers that make the shoes are harvested using decortication, which allows farmers to use the waste leaves as fertilizer and bio-fuel.
If you’re a fan of simple pieces that are ethically and thoughtfully produced by a company with vegan-friendly materials, look no further than Ninety Percent. Although they didn’t start out as a vegan-only clothing brand, they made the switch to a fully vegan line in early 2022.
Ninety percent offers everything you need for a chic, elegant wardrobe: staple workwear in subdued colors, fashionable loungewear you can leave the house in, even brightly colored festival outfits – all made from vegan textiles.
Transparency reigns at Ninety Percent, every step of their supply chain is documented on their website and their mission of sustainability is clear. Bonus points: they share 90% of their profits between the people who make their clothing and charitable organizations. Shoppers can even vote which charities their proceeds benefit.
The future of fashion is trending eco-friendly as eco-conscious consumers are on the rise. Many familiar fashion brands including Gucci, Balenciaga, and Hérmes are working to reduce their carbon footprints and new vegan-friendly brands appear all the time. From ethical designers who make use of plant-based fabrics to premium handbags that are both cruelty-free and long-lasting, there are more fashionable eco-friendly options than ever before.
Our vegan cork leather handbags are perfect for conscious consumers who want to help protect the environment and look stylish while doing it. Our cork leather vegan purses and handbags come with a range of different designs and colors to choose from that will please even the most discerning fashionista.
Travel back in time as Laflore Paris explores the evolution of women’s professional style in the workplace over the past 50 years. Over the last 5 decades, women have disrupted male-dominated industries, and continuously redefined fashion in the workplace with huge fashion moments like shoulder pads and big curls.
Women’s professional style progressed with the influence of female empowerment as more women climbed the ranks. Though women’s business attire started out with male-influenced pantsuits, fashionable workwear quickly progressed to include more form-fitting pencil skirts, wrap dresses, and even well-tailored denim. Particularly with the rise of the remote workplace, even clothing normally considered casual wear became normal in a professional setting.
Take a look back with us at the history of women’s business attire and discover which workwear trends were in style — plus what continues to influence many women’s professional wardrobes today.
Bold colors dominated fashion inside and outside the workplace during the 1970s. It was a time when it became more acceptable for women to wear pants, and also for more women to begin their professional careers. Work clothes during this time period were generally influenced by men’s style, with a touch of femininity.
Pantsuits were all the rage in women’s professional style, along with loose button-downs, tie-neck blouses and fitted blazers. Professional women’s attire also included wrap dresses, big hats, flat shoes, and trench dresses and coats. Many women would also opt for eyeglasses for a more sophisticated look.
Diane von Furstenberg
In 1974 Belgian fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg introduced the knitted jersey wrap dress that became a popular staple in professional wardrobes (and in closets across the world) that endures to this day.
Business attire in the 1980s began to calm in color as women opted for a more neutral look with boxy pantsuits. “Power dressing” became a popular style among women in the workplace, particularly those who were ascending to management and executive positions. When we think back to iconic fashion moments of the ‘80s, it’s no surprise that shoulder pads and larger sleeves immediately come to mind. Not all female professionals opted for menswear styling, feminine options like dresses with belts, pleated skirts and ankle pants with tights were popular both inside and outside the office.
Donna Karan
In 1985 Donna Karan launched Donna Karan New York (DKNY) with the women's collection “Seven Easy Pieces” — a collection of interchangeable items that create an entire wardrobe for any occasion, what we call a capsule wardrobe today.
Liz Claiborne
In 1986 Liz Claiborne became the first woman to be recognized as the chair and CEO of a Fortune 500 company – Liz Claiborne Inc., a stylish and affordable line of clothing that can be mixed and matched for professional women.
The 1990s were a turning point for women’s fashion in the workplace, with sleeker suits and outfits becoming a big trend for a more feminine-focused influence on the professional dress code. For the first time, shorter skirts and plunging necklines became more acceptable for women’s everyday work attire, along with sleeveless shirts and boat neck dresses.
One of our favorite trends from ‘90s was the rise of the pencil skirt — a pivotal moment in women’s fashion. Casual Fridays also became a thing, eventually bringing with it a more laissez-faire trend into the workplace that sticks around through the 2000s and 2010s.
Business casual attire gained huge popularity in the 2000s era for women’s office clothing, as women’s professional clothing became more relaxed. Professional women also started opting for more form-fitting suits with a minimal look, and Casual Fridays introduced jeans into professional workplace fashion for both women and men.
In the 2010s the dress code for female professionals was even more casual in the workplace, with jeans being loosely included into the definition of business casual attire. Accessories became a focus in redefining the “business casual” look — with a cute pair of heels and a matching purse backpack combo going a long way in creating a put-together look. A more eco-conscious approach began making waves in women’s professional style as well, with more women discovering vegan accessories and options.
The coronavirus pandemic turned remote work into a necessity rather than a luxury for the first time as the entire world went digital overnight. For women’s fashion in the workplace that meant even more relaxed attire while maintaining a stylish appearance while working from home. Along with this huge shift, many companies have pivoted to remote-first work, or introduced hybrid work environments, which is likely to further the acceptance of casual wear in the office. Whether working from home, or in the office, a relaxed, but polished appearance is key, but statement pantsuits, classic blazers, or chic, sustainable button-down with functional yet fashionable accessories won’t go out of style any time soon.
Women’s professional style is also seeing a pivotal moment in sustainable fashion as the world is beginning to recognize the need for reducing our carbon footprint. The rise in women shopping for convertible backpack purse options and vegan purses are trends we’re hoping will stick around throughout the rest of the 2020s and beyond.
Women’s professional style is also seeing a pivotal moment in sustainable fashion as the world is beginning to recognize the need for reducing our carbon footprint. The rise in women shopping for convertible backpack purse options and vegan purses are trends we’re hoping will stick around throughout the rest of the 2020s and beyond.
IG: @waterthruskin
Website: www.waterthruskin.com
Valeria Hinojosa is a Colombian influencer who has become incredibly popular with her lifestyle blog documenting vegan recipes, sustainable shopping and eco-friendly beauty and fashion. Most importantly, Valeria loves our planet and the life it supports. She passionately promotes a vegan lifestyle that minimises harm to the environment.
Valeria is not just a vegan influencer either, but a social entrepreneur and adventure explorer. She has travelled to many different parts of the world in search of new and exciting vegan cuisine. Her chic and sophisticated style gets her followers excited about eco-friendly fashion.
IG: @sustainably_vegan
Website: sustainablyvegan.org
Immy Lucas is a vegan influencer who is dedicated to sustainability. Her blog, sustainablyvegan.org, is all about educating people on how to make simple everyday changes that have a positive impact on the environment.
Immy’s vibe is fun and relatable, and her content makes sustainable choices feel accessible to everyone. She covers a wide range of vegan-related topics: DIY hair products, sustainability tips, and vegan cooking tutorials that are not only delicious but also earth-friendly.
IG: @kissenundkarma
Website: www.kissenundkarma.de
Currently living in Stuttgart, Germany, Corinna is a sustainable fashion blogger who has built an online community that promotes cruelty-free, eco-friendly fashion and launched her own brand of sustainable lingerie a few years ago.
Corinna describes herself as “mainly” a vegan, but also limits her consumption and lives a low-waste lifestyle. Her blog provides tons of inspiration for fair trade home decor, environment-friendly travel, and vegan recipes, plus great tips on mindset changes to shop more sustainably.
IG: @Styledestino
Website: www.styledestino.com
Shruti Jain is a sustainable fashion blogger known for her luxurious style. As the founder of styledestino.com, Shruti frequently gives valuable insights on ethically-sourced fashion and beauty products. She also loves sharing her best vegan recipes, environmentally-conscious travel diaries and beauty product recommendations to help her followers live an eco-friendly lifestyle. She inspires her audience to preserve the planet by making small changes in their everyday lives.
IG: @emmanuellerienda, @veganfashionweek
Website: vegan-fashion-week.com
Emmanuelle is the founder of Vegan Fashion Week which came to life after she recognized how much damage the fast fashion industry was doing to animals and the planet. Vegan fashion week has received worldwide recognition and has grown into a global platform that promotes sustainable, eco-friendly, and cruelty-free vegan fashion.
Emmanuelle's Instagram is full of photos of models and everyday people wearing sustainable and eco-friendly clothing. For those interested in sustainable living, vegan accessories and eco-fashion, Emmanuelle’s feed is inspirational and aspirational.
IG: @jessbeautician
Website: jessicabeautician.co.uk
Jessica is a vegan blogger with a background in the beauty industry. She shares vegan recipes, product reviews, and tips on her blog for living a cruelty-free lifestyle. One of Jessica's main goals is to help people reduce their environmental impact by promoting second-hand or sustainable fashion. Her wealth of knowledge plus her passion for sustainability inspires small changes that make a big difference.
IG: @queerbrownvegan
Website: queerbrownvegan.com
Isaias’s passion for sustainability stems from his experience growing up in a community that faces environmental injustice. Isaias masterfully combines environmental truths with humour to educate others on the importance of living a sustainable lifestyle and offers accessible tips to get started.
Isaias’s content analyzes the intersection between environmental and racial injustice and LGTBQ+ issues, specifically how queer people and people of color tend to feel the worst effects of climate change and environmental destruction.
IG: @cerowastecindy
Website: cerowastecindy.com
As an educator, environmental activist and advocate, and lover of the outdoors, Cindy Villaseñor is a powerful force for change. She has been working tirelessly for years to promote sustainability, and her passion for the environment comes through in everything she does.
If you're looking for inspiration to live more sustainably, following Cindy is a great place to start. Her love for the planet is undeniable, and her enthusiasm for eco-friendly living is contagious.
One of the most inspiring aspects of vegan influencers is that they create a fun and engaging community around being vegan. They encourage their followers to embrace a lifestyle of mindfulness, balance and unity with the environment.
Most influencers that combine sustainable and vegan living are understanding of different lifestyles and promote the idea that we don't need to all become vegans to make a difference. Also, they tend to reinforce the concept that veganism is about making better, more ethical choices and showing others that striving for a more ethical lifestyle and mindset is achievable.
One of the most positive aspects about these influencers is that they make veganism seem more approachable and inviting, even to non-vegans, who might otherwise consider the shift to veganism to be too major a lifestyle change.
Vegan influencers provide followers access to their daily lives, addressing many facets of their routines including their meals, clothes, habits, and hobbies. This wide lens makes it easy and fun for followers to learn about making animal-friendly choices in a variety of situations. From travelling across the globe to eating out at restaurants, they show that veganism is a lifestyle of balance, and does not have to be restrictive. Small changes from many people over a long period of time will lead to big results that greatly benefit our environment and the living things around us.
In a society where eating meat and dairy is so ingrained in our culture, vegan influencers try to show their followers that vegan food can be just as fun and delicious as eating animal products. Vegan foods offer a wide range of flavors and experiences meant to be explored.
Vegan influencers often promote the use of ethical beauty and fashion products that are not only chic but also cruelty-free. Many well-known vegan influencers display their support of slow eco-friendly fashion that rejects exploitative practises within the fashion industry which are harmful to the environment, animals, and people. They can inspire us with new places to shop, styles to try, or tips on being more mindful about our shopping, while still looking absolutely fabulous.
A sustainable lifestyle is about living in a way that helps the environment and minimises your impact. It's also about being conscious of what you buy, wear, eat, and do each day to help create change.
These 8 vegan Instagrammers are all doing their part by advocating for eco-friendly lifestyles through offering sustainability tips and promoting cruelty-free fashion and beauty products online.
If you become a part of their community, you'll get inspired by those around the world who are making strides towards reducing our collective carbon footprint one small step at a time.
By following in these insiders' footsteps, you too could make a difference by living a more sustainable lifestyle.
At Laflore Paris, we support sustainable living, eco-friendly fashion, and vegan accessories without sacrificing style.
We've combined a classic look with the newest eco-friendly materials to create something so stunning, you'll enjoy its beauty and quality for years to come. Read Our Story, and see for yourself how you can be fashionable and help save the world.
We have been working hard behind the scenes to bring trolala to life, and it’s finally here! Designed to be three bags in one, this new women's carry-on bag from Laflore Paris can be rolled as a trolley, carried over the shoulder, or held in your hand. This versatile piece of luggage is built to keep you feeling organized and looking elegant no matter what adventures life has in store. Trolala’s design is inspired by nostalgia for the golden age of travel, when people found joy in the journey and not just the destination. The roomy interior is thoughtfully arranged for the needs of modern travelers, featuring 9 pockets and compartments — including zippered pockets for up to a 15” laptop, phone and passport, and even a waterproof compartment for shoes or laundry. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week abroad, trolala will be there to elevate your style.
As with all Laflore Paris products, the trolala is made with style and sustainability at the forefront. The shell and straps of this eco-friendly carry-on are made from cork fabric — also known as cork material, cork skin, or cork leather.
We strategically partner with eco-conscious producers in Portugal to ensure nothing goes to waste as our cork material is produced. Small pieces of cork leftover from the production of cork fabric are repurposed into corkboard, construction materials, or insulation.
Additionally, the harvesting process, or removing bark from cork trees, is beneficial to the growth of the tree as it helps it absorb more carbon dioxide and release more oxygen. Once cork bark is removed from the tree, the bark grows back and can be harvested again in approximately 7 years.
Our commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop on the outside of this rolling carry-on bag. Trolala’s signature orange interior is made from 100% recycled cotton, and Laflore Paris ships all our products in plastic-free, recyclable packaging.
Trolala’s design features two large handles to make carrying your travel bag over your shoulder or in your hand both easy and comfortable. The hidden telescopic handle extends effortlessly for a smooth ride when being rolled as a trolley. Like Laflore Paris’ convertible handbags, trolala’s brass clasp opens 180 degrees, offering a clear view into the bag with a vibrantly colored interior highlighting your neatly packed items.
Every zip, pouch, and pocket inside was designed with the organization as the main focus for your essential travel items. Easy-access outside pockets are perfect for safely storing your laptop, phone and passport while keeping them close at hand during your travels.
Not into keeping your shoes or laundry near your clean items? The Laflore Paris carry-on bag comes with a separate shoe compartment, keeping your stylish footwear easily accessible while both lightweight and sanitary too. The waterproof parachute for shoes or laundry is discreetly located near the base of the trolala to keep the items you don’t necessarily need readily available tucked away and out of sight when rolled.
Our premium cork skin material feels as soft and supple to the touch as leather, but cork fabric is 3x lighter than traditional leather with natural water resistant and hypoallergenic properties. With trolala, you’ll never be weighed down by your luggage. Plus, you’ll get as much space as a comparable leather bag that’s much easier to carry for any occasion or destination.
Trolala’s water resistance means all your necessities will be safe inside the bag, rain or shine, no matter which of the 9 pockets you store them in. For this new addition to the Laflore Paris line, we’ve included an often-requested feature: 5 brass feet on the bottom of the bag to help protect your trolala no matter where your wanderlust journeys take it.
With a dedicated place for all of your essentials, trolala will keep every treasure safe from the elements, easily accessible, and ready at hand when you need them. Best of all, your most important devices get their own zippered pockets so you can reach them without opening the main compartment.
All Laflore Paris sustainable fashion designs originate in Paris and are created by native Parisian father-daughter duo Elie and Natacha Seroussi.
With more than 4 decades of fashion industry experience between them, their mission is simple: Design beautiful and functional accessories that stand at the intersection between ethics and aesthetics.
Both Laflore Paris founders share a deep concern for the future of our planet and strong belief that women should never have to choose between classic, elegant style and what’s good for the environment. We can have both!
Are you ready to bring style back into your travel plans? Trolala is now available for pre-order via Kickstarter.
Early Bird Backers can still save $160 off, but there are limited quantities available. Be sure to grab yours before they take off!
Visit our trolala Kickstarter page for more information and to reserve yours today.
If you can never find anything to wear even though your closet is bursting at the seams, you’re not alone.
For many people, choosing their outfit every morning is an ongoing, frustrating affair. The more options you have, the more confused you become when it comes to getting ready. So, what should you do to get rid of the daily outfit struggle?
We're here to help you reorganize your clothing and build a capsule wardrobe. Read this article and discover how to build a fresh wardrobe for yourself that you'll love.
The term, capsule wardrobe, coined by Susie Faux in the 1970s, is a collection of limited, sustainable and chic clothing. It refers to having a few essential items that can never go out of style.
In other words, it’s a set number of clothes that can mix and match with one another to create a variety of outfits. A capsule wardrobe starts with making a conscious selection of evergreen clothing that you love and won’t mind wearing over and over again.
To create your own capsule wardrobe, you’ll need to find clothing “staples” that work for you. Things like neutral camis, convertible purses, a jacket, a tried and true pair of jeans, and a little black dress are all examples of wardrobe staples you’ll probably want to include.
Capsule wardrobes don’t need to be large or complicated. The goal is to have go-to pieces that you can easily layer or mix-and-match. By only having a few clothing staples and understanding how they work together, you can streamline your life by streamlining your wardrobe.
Over time, you will carefully and intentionally build your wardrobe with clothes that you absolutely love, so you’ll also feel like you have the perfect outfit ready to throw on at any time.
Organizing your clothes in this way is also good for the environment and your wallet. It helps you save money from constantly buying new items just because there’s a new trend.
Usually, items from your capsule wardrobe are worn for 3-4 months. After this, you can replace pieces that are worn out or that you don’t love anymore. Consider donating your old items if they’re still in good condition, or even selling them through an online marketplace like Poshmark.
Many people also find they like to rotate out items each season (e.g. they’ll have different dress shoes for summer and winter). If your goal is sustainability and less morning-outfit-stress, then try to limit how many items you buy each season.
Due to the influence of mass media and the culture of consumerism, buying new items as soon as they’re trending has become the norm for many of us. At times, we buy clothes just for the sake of keeping up with the latest trends.
Constantly changing your aesthetic based on trends leads to an unnecessary amount of clothes being wasted. I’m sure you have (or know someone who has) a pile of clothes sitting around that were worn a couple of times and then never again.
There is nothing wrong with buying clothing that you can afford, when you can afford it. However, indulging in fast fashion in high volumes is a burden on our pockets, our environment, and sometimes even other people who are forced to work in unethical environments.
A capsule wardrobe helps us take a step back before falling into the overwhelming pressure to buy more things. If you commit to buying less pieces, you’ll eventually have more money to dedicate towards buying higher quality, sustainable fashion.
You don’t need a capsule wardrobe. But if you’re concerned about the environment, sustainable fashion, and living a minimalist lifestyle, then it might be something to consider.
A capsule wardrobe has its own advantages and disadvantages. Before you start working on a capsule wardrobe, you should know the pros and cons.
How Much Does a Capsule Wardrobe Cost?
The cost of a capsule wardrobe depends on the number of pieces that you want to keep in your wardrobe, and the quality of the pieces you buy.
It also depends on what you already own. Do you have all of the clothing staples you need? Are you just looking to simplify your wardrobe and get rid of old pieces? If so, you can start your capsule wardrobe for free.
If you need to buy new clothes, you could have a relatively inexpensive wardrobe full of staples for under $200 if you buy from fast fashion retailers. Unfortunately, that means you’ll likely have to replace your clothing more often.
If you choose higher quality fashion retailers, you'll pay a higher upfront cost, but you might reduce the cost-per-wear of your clothing over time. Also, high quality fashion retailers are not just concerned with making sure you have a well-made product. They're often also concerned with sustainability and ensuring ethical working conditions for their employees.
Your capsule wardrobe can include whatever you want it to! There is no fixed list - it depends upon your personal choice, style and budget. To start, you can have a set of basics like t-shirts, jeans, dress pants, a blouse, a jacket, camis, shoes, handbags, and dresses that you can mix and match. Many people choose to go with neutral colors for their shirts and pants and then mix it up with brightly patterned dresses, jackets, or skirts.
Having a capsule wardrobe does not mean having a ‘boring uniform’. You should choose your pieces thoughtfully with intentions to wear them multiple times. Your capsule wardrobe should reflect your style and personality.
A capsule wardrobe is definitely a more sustainable way to think about your clothes. However, it's easier said than done. With an existing over-crowded wardrobe, the thought of building a capsule wardrobe itself can be overwhelming.
But, we have some tips to make it easier for you. Start by following these simple steps and know more about which pieces you should invest in and which you should ditch.
1. The first thing you need to do is organize things from your current wardrobe. Take everything out of your closet and remove clothing that you are sure you wouldn’t wear. To make it easy, take away clothes that you have not worn even once in the last six months. You do not need them anymore. Don't forget to donate or sell any items that are in decent condition to keep textiles out of the landfills.
2. After this, work towards defining what your staple wardrobe consists of. Think of clothing items you wear every day. Make sure to include items like workout clothes, clothes to relax in and sleepwear.
3. Now, comes your main wardrobe for work and play. Look for clothing you already own that has neutral colors. Picking neutrals or pastels helps you easily match with other tones. Some examples could be a white shirt, black sweater, white long sleeve tee and grey skirt. This will vary depending on your lifestyle and where you work. If there's a key item you need in a neutral color, like a pencil skirt or pair of slacks, write that down on a shopping list. The goal is to re-organize the items you already have, but if you don't often shop for key clothing items, you may have to purchase some clothes to get started.
4. To ensure that you don’t over shop, decide on a number for buying particular types of clothing. For example, you can tell yourself that you'll buy 3 tops and 2 pants every season.
5. Though there is no restriction to shop, make sure that whatever you buy works with what you already have and can be worn in a variety of ways.
A quick summarization to creating a capsule wardrobe includes keeping only clothing that you like and will absolutely wear, restricting the number of pieces that you have, making your wardrobe last for at least three months and not indulging in unnecessary shopping.
Also, it is important to remember that shoes and accessories are a part of your capsule wardrobe and should also be somewhat limited.
It's up to you! While you may have as few as 10 core clothing items, your friend’s capsule wardrobe may have 30. The number varies from person to person depending on lifestyles and personality. It's not important to have a fixed number, but it is crucial to have all the basics that fit you properly and that are well-made so you can wear them over and over again. We suggest picking your top one or two favorites from each of the categories given below and you will be good to go.
After you have chosen a few good basics in each category, start looking for pieces that can be useful for casual wear as well as formal meetings. This way you can have a capsule wardrobe that would be interesting and satisfying. Try to go for a bit of coordination in color palette and style as you will have to mix and match across categories.
What Does a Standard Capsule Wardrobe Look Like?
Now, let’s look at some typical capsule wardrobes.
A sample woman's wardrobe could have a belted trench coat, skinny jeans, a white shirt, a black blazer, a little black dress, a pair of tailored trousers, a pencil skirt, a sweater, a sundress, comfy sweatpants, a hoodie, a pair of ballet flats, a pair of boots, a tote bag, a scarf, jewelry and sunglasses.
Similarly, a sample men’s wardrobe would have a suit, a pair of jeans, a white cotton shirt, sweatpants, a hoodie, a pair of smart shoes, a pair of casual shoes, a watch, a jacket, a sweater and sunglasses.
Where Should You Buy A Capsule Wardrobe?
You can buy your clothing for a capsule wardrobe from a single reliable store or you can shop from many different stores. The choice is absolutely yours.
However, the key is to restrict yourself and buy only what is required. When shopping, do remember that less is more and wearing the same clothing over and over again is not bad. Your focus should be on quality over quantity.
Capsule wardrobes can simplify your life and make it quicker to get ready in the morning. Creating a capsule wardrobe would mean having more time for your hobbies, feeling rejuvenated every day and contributing to a sustainable lifestyle. Getting ready should not be stressful but refreshing. Your wardrobe should make you feel more confident, ready to face the challenges of each day with ease and comfort.
So, get started and create a capsule wardrobe today. A great place to start is with a neutral, elegant convertible backpack purse that matches an endless number of outfits.
Ethical Capsule Wardrobe
While creating a capsule wardrobe, we recommend keeping ethical shopping practices in mind. To ensure that it’s ethical, you need to be aware of a few things:
Parisian style is an inspiration to many fashion lovers around the world. Parisians believe that you can have great personal style even when wearing normal, every day clothes. In fact, it is quite easy to style the way Parisians do. With a little knowledge and preparation, your wardrobe can be simple, effortless, classic, and chic—just like a Parisian.
Parisians have a distinct style. If you know what to look for, it's very easy to spot a Parisian even in the middle of a crowd because of their style. It makes them stand out wherever they go. So, if you also want to dress like a Parisian, follow these tips and add more French flair to your every day wardrobe.
Before we jump into the step by step guide, here are some general Parisian fashion tips to keep in mind. Parisians tend to give more importance to comfort and less to trends. They wear clothes that flatter their bodies and they dress in outfits that make them feel confident. Many people describe Parisian style as effortless. It’s as if they’ve simply thrown something on and darted out the door, even if they actually spent a lot of effort curating their wardrobe. In general, Parisians make a genuine effort to keep their style simple and chic. They love casual and easy looks, which give off an airy yet polished vibe.
Parisians approach fashion differently. They work towards having a signature look of their own. They believe in having a variety of classic clothes and simply adding seasonal items to their outfits when needed. Their mantra is quality over quantity. If you want to incorporate Parisian fashion into your own wardrobe, think about how you want your style to look and feel as you read through this blog.
We can't say this enough. Parisian women usually shop less, but shop for better, high-quality pieces. They prefer high-quality, sustainable, eco-friendly fabrics like cotton, silk, wool, and cashmere that last for a very long time.
A new look doesn’t mean new clothes to Parisian women. Instead of buying a ton of different items and trying out various trends, they might re-style or re-fresh the clothes they already have. If you want to ace the classic Parisian look, invest in classic pieces that you can re-wear and re-style often. Make sure to invest in versatile clothing, clothing that's comfortable, and most importantly—clothing that you love to wear.
As already shared, simplicity is the key to Parisian style. So, if you wish to dress like a Parisian, always remember to keep your look simple and minimal. You won't find any Parisian women overdone or overdressed.
They believe in wearing just one statement piece like a scarf, a hat, or a great pair of shoes, minimal accessories and simple jewelry. So, if you wish to be like them, never go overboard with your accessories or jewelry. Wear simple, delicate pieces that look chic and stunning. Also, don't overdo your makeup. If you're not sure where to start, simply enhance your favorite features.
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There's a stereotype that Parisian girls wear high heels all day. However, this is isn't true. Parisian women are all about comfort, so you likely won't find them standing for long periods of time in heels. Especially if they'll be doing lots of walking or adventuring. Usually, they prefer wearing flats. Be it ballet flats, loafers, sneakers or low block heels, Parisians always go for comfort, along with being practical and easy to wear every day. So, to get that Parisian look, ditch the stilettos and feel good about wearing flats.
Along with shoes, a fashionable yet practical handbag is also a must to finish off a classy look. Bobobark, which is a vegan convertible backpack purse, is the perfect companion to any outfit. It's large enough to hold all of your essentials, but light enough that you won't feel weighed down by carrying it.
Parisian women know how to create a balance between their elegant pieces and casual items. For a Parisian flair, embrace the same approach and balance your wardrobe with a smart mix of dressy and casual pieces.
French women often blend classy and casual pieces and accessories in the same outfit. This helps give their outfits that care-free yet elegant feeling. If their clothes are really polished one day, they might let their hair and makeup be a little more natural and undone to balance out the look. Try it out next time and let us know how it goes!
Parisians wear clothes that flatter their bodies. For instance, they ensure that they wear pants that are neither too tight nor too big, too short, or too long. Their shirts can be oversized only if they are designed to be so. Dresses are not too-tight, too-revealing, or too-short.
Dress in a way that accentuates your best features. If you've never experienced what a great pair of jeans can do for you, or even a tailored dress, we really recommend you try this tip out. Clothes that fit well can make a world of a difference.
Along with these Parisian style tips, here are the basic French pieces that are a must-have if you want to adopt their style. A few simple, high-quality pieces are all you need. If you'd like more information on how to start choosing quality clothes, read our post on creating a capsule wardrobe.
Classic Trench Coat - Paris often has grey skies and frequent rainfalls. So, Parisians usually wear a trench coat to keep them dry. A trench coat is a must in your wardrobe. La Seine et Moi offers a beautiful, straight cut trench coat that can match with a variety of outfits. It's also 100% vegan, for those who are conscious about avoiding animal leather.
Tailored Jeans - French women often wear straight-leg jeans. When they fit correctly, straight-leg jeans leave just the right amount of open space towards the ankle. To really nail the Parisian look, try finding a comfortable pair of jeans and tailoring them if they don't fit perfectly.
Neutral Tees - Three basic tees – white, black and grey, are a must to complement different looks and style. Parisians always mix and match these to complete their looks. These look great layered under blazers, trench coats, jackets, or simply tucked into jeans.
White Button-Down Shirt - A simple white button-down shirt, which can be paired with everything from jeans to pants to linen, is a classic you need in your wardrobe.
Ballet Flats - Parisian women believe in comfort and so they love high-quality, polished ballet flats. We love black and neutral tan colors, but white can also work well if you can keep them clean.
Tailored Blazer - Parisian women always have a tailored blazer with them. Whether it’s fitted, oversized, or masculine, this is an essential piece to add a professional flair to any outfit.
Structured Bag - A structured bag, which is practical, convenient and stylish, is loved by all Parisian women. Vegan bags, like Laflore Paris' bobobark, easily complement all quintessential Parisian styles, from a casual jeans and tee look to a stunning date night outfit.
A Little Black Dress - Perfect for many occasions, the little black dress is a staple of any woman's wardrobe, not only Parisian women. We recommend choosing one that can work for a variety of situations, from cocktail hour to brunch on the patio.
This is not an exhaustive list by any means. These are just a few items that Parisians tend to keep in their wardrobes. There are many other pieces that Parisians experiment with. But remember, we generally try to keep things elevated, simple and chic. If you're looking to expand your Parisian-inspired wardrobe, check out these ethical french fashion brands you can shop from your living room.
We hope that you'll try adding more Parisian style to your closet.
We want to emphasize that there is no "right" or "wrong" way to dress, these are just some suggestions. Please do whatever fits your style the best, and makes you feel the most confident!
Until next time . . . .
It’s every fashion enthusiast’s dream to roam the streets of Paris, popping into small French fashion boutiques and haute-couture houses for a no-expense-spared shopping spree. But for many of us, that is a fantasy rather than a reality. Thankfully, if a trip to Paris isn’t in the cards for you due to pandemic travel restrictions, a busy schedule, or any other reason, you can still shop Paris virtually.
Online shopping is the most efficient way to visit different stores and shop with ease, in fact, it’s more popular than ever. No matter where you live in the world, online shopping provides the flexibility to buy anything from anywhere from the comfort of your living room. No more crowds to deal with or lines to stand in, everything is right at your fingertips!
As native Parisians, we’ve got the inside scoop on all of the finest fashion brands in Paris. So, if shopping is one of your favorite activities, then we invite you to explore the streets of Paris with us - virtually. Since sustainability and eco-friendly fashion are part of our ethos at Laflore, we promise to only promote brands that share that mission and provide ethical products.
When it comes to fashion, Parisians seem to have a certain elegance, a chic appeal that makes them different from the rest of the world.
Some of the styling rules that they follow include sporting effortless basics that exude comfort and flatter their body shape; wearing only one statement piece, like a scarf, a hat, or a great pair of shoes; avoiding flashy colors and wearing neutral tones.
However, these are just a few fashion pointers that Parisians follow. Let us guide you through the streets of Paris on a virtual shopping spree!
1083 is an ethical French brand that offers a variety of denim and shoes that are eco-friendly and sustainable. It caters to men, women and children, providing everyone with classy and comfortable everyday basics. From start to finish, their products are made in France, providing jobs to the French population. All 1083 jeans are made from organic cotton, and environmental considerations are made at every stage of production, from conceptualization to quality control. One of the coolest products 1083 offers are their jeans for children. The styles are partially created from recycled jeans and are designed to be repairable. Parents can even purchase replacement legs for pairs that have gotten ripped. So, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect pair of French jeans, be sure to check out their website at: https://www.1083.fr/
1083 is located at 114 Rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris, France.
Stop by if you're ever in Paris!
Good Guys Don't Wear Leather is a vegan brand founded in France by Marion Hanania. A firm believer in ‘cruelty free’ products, she abandoned leather in 2006, and since then has always worked exclusively with vegan materials. Offering shoe designs for both men and women, their products are manufactured in Portugal with environment friendly material, sustainable manufacturing processes, and fair trade conditions for their workers. Their most popular design is the ‘Mary Jane sandal’ or ‘Chaussure Babies’, inspired by mod looks of the 1960s but with a modern feel that makes them easy to wear with contemporary styles. Well-known celebrities like Emma Watson and Bryan Adams sport these vegan kicks, so you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality, sustainable, cruelty-free product. For more eco-friendly, vegan footwear, take a virtual tour around their website.
Popular for their long dresses, Ekyog is a French eco-responsible brand that creates modern designs with natural materials. The brand believes in truly chic and sustainable eco-fashion. Ekyog’s motto is “positive fashion” and they work towards it with complete commitment and passion. Founded in 2003, the brand combines fashion and ethics with a respect for nature and mankind in an effort to build a better world and their collections epitomize the liberated, carefree, and feminine woman of today. So, if playful yet timeless garments designed and crafted with the care are totally your vibe, be sure to spend some time perusing their website.
Ekyog is located at 33 Rue Beaurepaire, 75010 Paris, France.
Be sure to pay them a visit if you're ever in Paris!
L’Envers is another French brand that’s completely vegan and committed to doing things in the right manner, not only in the manufacturing of their products but also in the management of the company. The brand is known for its mission to ‘design fewer pieces but in a better way’. Their team focuses on fighting pollution through manufacturing and selling processes that produce less waste. They're firm believers that the planet deserves better!
Rather than the desire for rapid expansion common in the business world, L’Envers believes in growing slowly and sustainably and produces their clothing with a similar ethos. All L’Envers products are made in limited quantities and they do not produce new collections at regular seasonal intervals like bigger brands. They also work with local artists in Spanish and French workshops to ensure that each piece is ethically sourced and crafted. If you want to add beautiful cardigans, sweaters, and dresses made from organic materials that will last you a lifetime, start your virtual shopping spree here with L'Envers.
Sézane is a bit of an outlier on our list, as they are still working towards complete sustainability. As of 2021, ¾ of their pieces are made from eco-friendly materials and more than half are certified GOTS, Oeko-Tex, FSC, or RWS. The team at Laflore applauds their efforts to raise their standards of sustainability and the transparency they’ve shown for their processes.
Founded by Morgane Sézalory in 2013, Sézane creates high quality, perfectly-cut pieces for women that are made to last. The majority of their product lines use organic cotton, recycled materials, certified wool and certified viscose. By constantly searching for new eco-friendly materials and fibres and testing alternative production methods, Sézane is continuously pushing for more sustainable fashion.
As part of their philanthropic arm, DEMAIN, Sézane also practices circular fashion with their Paris charity boutique. From the charity boutique, they sell pieces left over from photo shoots and test fittings along with items donated from their customers and all the proceeds from the boutique are funnelled back into their other charity endeavors and partner organizations. To keep up with Sézane’s eco-friendly progress and shop their ethical collections, visit their website here.
If you're ever in Paris, you can visit Sézane at 24 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris, France.
Veja is a French designer brand that offers ethically sourced, fair-trade footwear. They are pioneers in the sustainable fashion world. The brand makes use of eco-friendly materials like certified cotton and vegetable-tanned leather to manufacture its footwear, and also offers a line of vegan shoes made from materials like recycled plastic bottles and cotton worked leather.
What makes Veja unique is that they work directly with cotton and rubber cooperatives to negotiate contracts that include paying 2x the market price for the raw materials used to produce their shoes. The Veja team maintains a close relationship with their production and manufacturing facilities in Brazil, ensuring safe and fair working conditions for all employees. To learn more about Veja’s products and their ethical fashion mission, check out their website or visit one of their shops in Paris, Bordeaux, or New York.
In Paris, you can visit Veja at 15 Rue de Poitou, 75003 Paris, France.
At Laflore Paris, our priorities are ethical and sustainable fashion. Knowing that many of our customers share these beliefs, we have ensured that all the brands we suggest also believe in the same philosophies.
Sustainability is at the heart of each company’s mission. These companies understand the damage that fast fashion has already done to the planet and are working towards improving the planet for all of us.
Laflore was founded on the principle of combining ethics and aesthetics, and we promise to always work towards a greener future while maintaining the same high standards of quality. To learn more about Laflore’s efforts in sustainability, please visit our Our Eco-friendly Promise page.
If you're ever in Paris, we'd love meet you. Due to COVID, our physical shop in Le Marais is currently closed, but we plan to open a new retail location as soon as the time is right. In the meantime, you will always be able to shop Laflore Paris handbags online.
Happy Shopping!
If you are a fashion enthusiast, then you’ll likely agree that France and fashion, though two different words, are synonymous. Paris, which is obviously the capital of France, is also popularly known as the fashion capital of the world. It’s where the fashion industry was born and where many of the globe’s most talented and famous designers got their start.
French artisans and designers were the first to construct actual businesses around fashion and French design could be seen around the world as early as the 17th century. The global popularity of French fashion exploded because of the unique ability of French designers to present clothing that represents class and elegance. Read through this blog to find out more about the history of French fashion. We'll also dig into some of the most famous designers throughout history whose names have influenced fashion not only in France, but all over the world.
Paul Poiret, a French fashion designer, is believed to have introduced fashion as we know it today. He opened his own fashion house in 1903, and introduced a modern way of thinking about fashion for women. The first garment he produced was a red cloak with grey silk lining, which he went on to sell 400 versions of. However, he was best known for his signature creations - ‘La Perse’ coat, ‘La Rose d’Iribe’ dress and the ‘Bois de Boulogne’ dinner dress. These classic designs were featured in The Metropolitan Museum of Arts Costume Institute's 2007 exhibition, “Poiret: King of Fashion”.
Poiret’s designs represented the world’s transition into a new century, a new era of life. His innovative thinking and divergence from traditional dress gave women’s fashion a new life. While he initially moved away from traditional clothing styles and launched several collections with flowy styles, his designs ultimately did not keep pace with the changing times and in 1929, his fashion house was closed.
Coco Chanel, arguably the most famous French designer in the world, opened her very first shop in 1910 in Paris and dominated Parisian haute couture for almost 60 years. She proposed a more wearable fashion for women that included pants and offered clean silhouettes.
Chanel made clothes that were not only beautiful, but comfortable as well. Because she created clothes that women really wanted to wear, her designs became the pinnacle of trendy fashion in the 1920s. Chanel is also credited with the creation of the little black dress, or LBD, a staple of fashion history that remains a critical component of every fashionista’s closet. Somehow, she was able to reinvigorate the idea of what a boring, or even somber, black dress could be and turn it into a chic statement of simplicity and elegance. I would even say it’s the inspiration behind the popular minimalist capsule wardrobes of today.
Not only famous for the LBD, she also pioneered the garçonne look, the phenomenon of menswear translated into a fashion statement for women, which became extremely popular in high fashion during the 1920s. Chanel’s unique way of pairing sophistication and comfort with blouses, oversized jackets, and trousers brought an air of empowerment and independence to women’s fashion.
These days the Chanel brand may be most famous for vintage handbags, but Coco Chanel brought her unmatched eye for elegant design to every facet of women’s wardrobes.
Elsa Schiaparelli was an Italian-born designer but made her mark on the Parisienne fashion scene where she launched her couture house. As a preeminent rival of Coco Chanel, she found inspiration in mundane places and created whimsical designs during bleak times of war and solemnity.
She was one of the first designers to develop the wrap dress in 1930, creating a shape and flow that would flatter all body types. She is also known for her divided skirt, the precursor to shorts, which shocked the tennis world in 1931 and caused quite the scandal in England. Her expertise extended the full range of women’s fashion and she was celebrated for pieces that included swimsuits with integrated bras, evening dresses with matching dinner jackets, designs in “shocking pink”, and the mad cap. With designs so clearly focused on fun and flattery, it’s no surprise that one of her most famous pieces was the ‘speakeasy dress’, which provided a hidden pocket for a flask.
Still popular today, Dior is a luxury fashion brand originating in France, and founded by Christian Dior in 1946. A bit late to the game, he debuted his first collection, ‘The New Look’ in 1947. In this collection he introduced unique silhouettes with shorter, fuller skirts, tighter waists, and accentuated busts, a look that defined fashion in the 1950s. His new approach to fashion was a major post war turning point in Fashion History. Dior’s designs embraced femininity and the house adapted to the changing pulse of fashion much better than the many of the French designers who came before him.
Although Dior himself tragically died at the height in his popularity in 1957, other famous names like Yves Saint Laurent carried on the Dior name, although not always in his traditional style. The house of Dior dressed, and continues to dress, countless celebrities including Ava Gardner, Princess Diana, and Marion Cotillard.
No celebrity red carpet is complete without Louboutin’s iconic red-soled stiletto heels. Christian Louboutin remains one of the most famous French designers in the modern fashion lexicon. Growing up in France and rubbing elbows with pop culture icons of the ‘60s like Mick Jagger and Andy Warhol, Louboutin eventually became an apprentice of Roger Vivier, who allegedly invented the stiletto. Under his tutelage, Louboutin learned skills that would propel him to success as a freelance designer working with French fashion houses Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent.
Eventually opening his own shop in Paris in the 1990s, Louboutin wanted to elevate his designs but wasn’t sure how. The inspiration for his famous red soles came from his assistant’s simple act of painting her nails. One of his shop’s earliest customers was Princess Caroline of Monaco and his popularity among musicians and celebrities quickly made Louboutin a household name.
Have you ever wondered how handbags and purses turned into a fashionable commodity?
While they weren’t always called handbags or purses, as long as people walked the earth, there has been a need for bags to carry necessary items like food or tools on short and long journeys. They may not have had a name way back then, but their function even in the earliest moments of human history cannot be ignored.
Modern usage of a purse is believed to come from early Europeans who lived in more localized communities but were no longer spending their days at home and needed to have essential items at hand. But why were small ‘purses’ popular as a solution? Because until the 17th century, clothing didn’t have pockets. All men and women carried handbags for things like coins, alms, and other personal items. However, after the introduction of pockets into everyday clothing for men, the usage of purses and handbags changed dramatically. Instead of being a necessity for both men and women, handbags became almost exclusively for women.
In the 19th century, and especially during the Industrial Revolution, many new manufacturing methods and new materials were created. When applied to fashion and handbags, these innovations opened up a whole new world of styles and designs. Purses evolved from small pocket-like drawstring bags that held only a small number of items to the larger handbags we know today initially produced by luggage manufacturers like Louis Vuitton.
Later, in the 20th century, art and fashion movements became a part of life. More women joined the workforce and as they became more mobile, their handbag needs changed. This resulted in a wider variety of bags to suit specific purposes. There were leather document cases for the office, practical leather and plastic daytime bags for walking or shopping, and elegant, sparkling metal clutches for evening use. Handbags were no longer a basic necessity, but an accessory to complement the style and taste of the women that carried them.
Branding became increasingly important during this time and soon handbags were taken as a reflection of status or class. Many great handbag designers emerged all over the world. Instead of single purpose bags or styles that might endure for decades, handbags as an accessory could (and should) be changed to suit the season or occasion. For fashion designers such as Chanel, Dior, Versace, Donna Karan and Dolce & Gabbana, this change in the consumer meant that the handbag became an important component of each collection they produced.
In popular culture, France is often considered the epicenter of fashion. There are countless references to a classic French or Parisian look that is considered to be the pinnacle of style. French fashion consists of evergreen fashion pieces, some of which were introduced by our notable French designers. These iconic pieces just never seem to go out of style. French fashion items are perfect to include in capsule wardrobes due to their versatility and timeless designs.
The Breton top or marinière, is a cotton long-armed shirt with horizontal blue and white stripes, and is an iconic French classic that has never gone out of style. Worn since the Napoleonic times, the original version of this piece had twenty-one stripes that symbolized Bonaparte’s victories. The actual pattern itself was not without significance, as it enabled seamen to spot the fallen sailors who had fallen into the water. It is an essential part of French culture and fashion and is often used by other nationalities to signify association with France.
Another popular piece in France are the Sailor trousers, which are wide-leg, high-waisted jeans with buttons along the pockets. These classic jeans elongate the legs and are very flattering on the waist. The French way to wear them is to tuck a blouse into the waistband and make the buttons the focus of the look.
No woman’s wardrobe is completed without a little black dress. It's an item that every fashion-conscious woman should own. The LBD is a timeless staple that can be used for many occasions during all seasons. It looks stunning whenever or wherever it is worn. This essential fashion icon is available in a range of cuts, fabrics and styles from nearly every designer. It is a must-have fashion piece that never goes wrong.
We love this timeless little black dress from Gaâla. It’s sophisticated, classic, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, Gaâla is a sustainable fashion brand that uses leftover fabric to create all of their chic designs.
Most Paris men admire classics like the Breton tee, roll necks and well-cut blazers. These designs are still popular when it comes to men’s designer wear. However, today’s Frenchmen like to pair classic pieces with more comfort-driven attire. The key combination to dress like a Parisian is a slim-fit tee or roll neck in black under a navy jacket. In fact, the Parisian man adores blacks and neutrals. More fashion forward men add some trendy colors and accessories to their look but the safest bet is still some variation or combination of black, white, grey, brown, and navy.
Menswear is also popular with women in French fashion. As we’ve seen, designers like Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli introduced structured jackets, blouses, and pants into women’s fashion bringing practicality, function, and sophistication to everyday womenswear.
What’s more timeless than a white button-down shirt tucked into a pair of slim fit jeans? In fact, the simple styling trick of tucking in only the front of your shirt is coined ‘the French tuck’. This easy-to-wear style defines the waistline while balancing the proportions of the outfit. No wonder it is a staple of French style. These Stoneford slim jeans from Sessùn pair perfectly with a simple white tee or blazer. Pair with flats for a casual look, or dress them up with a pair of pumps and an elevated blouse.
Structured geometric bags - For decades, structured handbags have remained a favourite of celebrities. Bags in various shapes like squares, circles, triangles, hexagons and more, have always been popular. It is no surprise that whenever we sift through celebrity photos, many of them are seen with this timeless style.
A structured bag, like Laflore Paris’ bobobark convertible backpack combines function, style and classic French elegance in a single handbag and is ready to wear no matter which French fashion trend you’re trying out.
]]>Be sure to grab some candles, dim the lights and enjoy a great love story based in France:
“Les Enfants du Paradis,” which translates to “Children of Paradise” in English, is a romantic movie about four men based on real personalities — a mime, a criminal, an actor and an aristocrat — who profess their love to a beautiful courtesan named Garance. The movie takes place during the July Monarchy in the 1830s at Théâtre des Funambules.
Ranked No. 43 in Empire’s 2010 list of “The 100 Best Films Of World Cinema,” “Cyrano de Bergerac” is a French period comedy-drama released in 1990 about a successful poet and swashbuckler who lives in Gascon. He is self-conscious about his excessively large nose, despite claiming to be proud of it. He is madly in love with his beautiful cousin Roxane, who he later finds out is infatuated with someone else.
One of the most critically acclaimed recent movies, “Amélie” tells the whimsical story of a shy waitress in the Parisian neighborhood of Montmartre. She was homeschooled because her parents incorrectly diagnosed her with a heart condition. She developed an active imagination, and would find simple pleasures in bettering the lives of those around her. She convinces her father to tour the world by mailing pictures of his stolen garden gnome posed at landmarks around the world. When Amélie develops feelings for a quirky guy named Nino, she creates a cat-and-mouse game around Paris for him to retrieve his belongings.
Young lovers in Cherbourg, Guy and Geneviève, are separated when Guy is drafted to serve in the Algerian War. Now-pregnant Geneviève begins to question his commitment after only receiving a few sporadic messages here and there. She ultimately is encouraged to move on to another pursuer who promises a good life for her and her child. When Guy returns injured from the war, he struggles to return back to his normal life after finding out Geneviève is married and no longer in Cherbourg with their child.
“The Artist” is a widely acclaimed, black-and-white silent film released in 2011, starring Jean Dujardin and Bérénice Bejo. Set in Hollywood between 1927 and 1932, this love story is about a rising young actress named Peppy and her relationship with an older silent film star named George, during a time silent movies were beginning to slow down in demand.
“Un Long Dimanche de Fiançailles,” or “A Very Long Engagement,” is a French-American romantic movie released in 2004, starring Audrey Tautou and Marion Cotillard. After five French soldiers were convicted to no man’s land after trying to escape the corrupt French military system during World War I, they were presumed dead after a subsequent battle. One of the soldier’s fiancée goes on a mission to find out what actually happened on the battlefield. The story takes place in Paris and the French countryside during the 1920s.
A classic love triangle, “Ensemble, C'est Tout” — also called “Hunting and Gathering” — is a romantic film about a young artist and cleaning lady named Camille who lives alone in a small attic in Paris. She begins a relationship with a shy and wealthy postcard salesman in temporary custody of a beautiful apartment in her building. His roommate for the time is a local cook named Franck who takes care of shopping and other tasks on his behalf. The two are complete opposites, and Camille immediately takes a liking to soft-spoken Philibert. Through countless disruptions, the two face trouble getting on the same page in their relationship.
Also called “Love Me If You Dare” internationally, “Jeux D'Enfants” is about childhood best friends Julien and Sophie who play an addicting and long-lasting game of dares throughout their lives. Sophie gets heartbroken when Julien says he intends to marry someone else. Ten years pass, and they struggle with reconnecting for their game of dares.
“Prête-Moi Ta Main” translates to “lend me your hand.” This romantic comedy is about Luis Campos, a 43-year-old happily single perfumer. His family council, the “G7”, decides he must be married within a year, which Luis doesn’t like because their involvement ruined his relationship with his true love. He develops a plan around the G7’s request, and “rents” his best friend's sister, Emma, as the perfect bride-to-be. The plan is to have her leave him at the altar on their wedding day, but things turn around when his family takes a liking to Emma and blames him for her running away.
“Les Chansons D'Amour” or “Love Songs” is a French musical film that was directed by Christophe Honoré and stars Louis Garrel, Ludivine Sagnier, Clotilde Hesme and Chiara Mastroianni. This romantic movie came out in 2007 and is about a man who experiences many sexual exploits leading to a journey of self-discovery, despite being married to a loving and devoted woman.
from Laflore Paris!
]]>In 2019 the world’s leading climate scientists warned we only have about 12 years to save the planet by limiting global warming to a maximum of 1.5C, according to a report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. This means it’s no longer realistically attainable to push the burden of climate control onto future generations. By taking small steps to act now, we can start to limit the detrimental effects of the climate crisis on:
We at Laflore Paris prioritize eco-conscious ideals in the design and manufacturing of our vegan purses. Check out our eco-friendly promise to learn more about our standards for sustainability, elegance and versatility.
Nearly every action we take each day has a reaction. A carbon footprint is essentially the reactions that contribute to climate breakdown. It is the calculation of the total amount of greenhouse gasses, such as carbon dioxide and methane, that has been generated by a particular person or population.
Globally the average carbon footprint for a person is about 4 tons. Unfortunately, the United States has one of the highest rates in the world — with approximately 16 tons being the average carbon footprint per person. To put this into better perspective, we would need to drop to under 2 tons per person by 2050 to have the best chance of avoiding a 2℃ global temperature rise.
Climate change is one of the biggest environmental threats to the future of our planet we have seen in our lifetime. Fighting the environmental crisis starts with knowing your carbon footprint. You can use software tools available online to find out your carbon footprint calculation, which have been created to help raise awareness of carbon emission and management.
If you’re not sure where to start, but want to work towards reducing your environmental impact, we’re here to help. Here are nine simple and actionable steps you can start taking today to reduce your carbon footprint in 2022:
Shopping locally not only supports the small businesses in your neighborhood but also the environment. Locally owned businesses help contribute to a reduction of transportation emissions (and harmful pesticides). Local shops are generally located in areas with high foot-traffic, creating less pollution and habitat loss. Plus small local businesses collectively are typically the largest employer in markets like the United States.
Shop local and organically because you can:
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint – You can literally reduce your carbon footprint on the environment by walking to local businesses and grocery shops, if they’re within close proximity to your home. Take advantage of the convenience of neighborhood businesses within walking distance while maintaining a greener lifestyle.
Sustainable Packaging Options – Make a conscious effort about your environmental impact by opting for paper or reusable shopping bags to limit single-use plastic. Buying from retailers online or in person typically means your purchases are stored or delivered in a branded bag, box or envelope of the company’s choosing.
Community Support – With coronavirus strains like Delta and Omicron still affecting the world, small local businesses have especially been hit hard. These shops and businesses help contribute to the character and authenticities of our communities. By shopping locally, you are choosing a sustainable option that continues to do good for the world.
Solar power isn’t as unattainable as it used to be when it first made waves in home technology. And the benefits of residential solar power far surpass homes with traditional power due to its energy efficiency. Every kilowatt hour (kWh) of solar energy helps to reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions that pollute the environment — such as CO2, sulfur and nitrogen oxides and more. Another perk to going solar helps the fight against the global water crisis by limiting water consumption and withdrawal.
Here are a few more ways to implement the use of solar power in your lifestyle for better energy efficiency:
Opt for a hybrid or electric vehicle – If you’re considering purchasing or leasing a new car, consider one that does good for the environment. Some electric vehicles (EVs) even come with solar panels. Make sure to look into any greenhouse gas emissions during car production and operation, however. Some EVs are responsible for more emissions than other vehicles during manufacturing but make up for it after a few years.
Switch energy providers – Many companies offer tax incentives for choosing greener options like solar, wind or hydroelectric energy.
Donate to carbon offsets – This is a great way to provide financial support to projects working toward climate protection and reducing carbon emissions. You can find out your carbon offset calculation online.
Did you know that global aviation accounts for 2.5 percent of CO2 emissions? By taking one fewer flight each year, you can make a concerted effort to reduce your carbon footprint.
Air travel is typically one of the sources responsible for the carbon footprint of most individuals, and it’s not always a necessary option. The next time you need to travel, remember these tips from our team at Laflore Paris:
CONSIDER DRIVING
If the location you're traveling to for work or pleasure is within driving distance, go for a road trip, especially if taking a few friends or colleagues along. Cars emit fewer, but different greenhouse gasses than airplanes, so driving solo doesn’t cut your impact significantly. Opting for a train ride or traveling on a diesel bus, will reduce overall emissions even further.
CHOOSE ECONOMY CLASS
When you choose to purchase economy class flights, you share the carbon emissions among more passengers. If you fly business class, you’re contributing to about three times the carbon footprint of economy and up to nine times with first class.
FLY NONSTOP ROUTES
Landings and takeoffs use a lot of fuel, producing more emissions. If you fly nonstop, you’ll not only get to your destination quicker but also help reduce the environmental footprint of your flight.
Carbon emissions from transportation are one of the top sources contributing to greenhouse gasses polluting the environment. Choosing a car-free lifestyle for one year alone could save about 2.4 tons of carbon dioxide. You can also think about it this way: More cars on the road equals more traffic, more roads and more parking lots.
Here are some ways to limit the effects of carbon emissions caused by vehicles:
Use public transportation – Make a commitment to taking the bus, train or trolley to work a couple days each week. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing! As long as you start making small greener choices, you’ll find yourself feeling better about making more and more eco-friendly decisions in the future.
Choose walking or biking – Walk or bike with your friends or kids instead of driving everywhere, especially if the weather is perfect. It’s great for reducing your environmental footprint and increasing your physical and mental health.
Take care of your car – You can increase fuel efficiency by three percent simply by keeping your tires properly inflated. You can increase it up to 4 percent by also keeping it properly maintained. Try to also avoid driving aggressively and any unnecessary braking, as this will use a substantially greater amount of fuel consumption than a smooth drive.
You can stick to an eco-friendly routine by making considered choices for how you spend time off. Schedule reminders and block out time on your calendar to help you remember to take actions that reduce your carbon footprint. We suggest reserving time to:
Get Informed – Spend time reading or listening to podcasts about global warming and other top environmental concerns.
Conduct Energy Checks – Every few hours do an energy check by walking in and out of each room in your home to turn off anything that doesn’t need to be on.
Do Yard Work – Spend some time outdoors planting your garden or maintaining your landscaping, while grabbing some fresh air and soaking in vitamin D.
Schedule Carbon-Free Activities – This can be as simple as reading by candlelight instead of watching TV a few times a week or taking a walking tour with loved ones when you are on vacation.
About one in two people throw their clothes into the trash instead of donating them, which equates to up to 64 percent of clothing produced each year filling up our landfills. As clothing decomposes in landfills they produce a harmful greenhouse gas called methane that pollutes our environment.
There are a few techniques to avoiding the harmful effects of “fast fashion.” Here are some of our tips:
Buy fewer, higher-quality items – Consider implementing a capsule wardrobe — a set number of limited and chic clothing made from sustainable materials. You can mix and match these items to create a variety of outfits that never go out of style.
Support eco-conscious companies – Look for Fairtrade clothing companies that use sustainable materials. The global organization is co-owned by over 1.8 million farmers and workers and the most recognized and trusted source in sustainability in the world.
Look for versatile fashion – We created our convertible backpack purse with versatility in mind, ensuring it can go from tote to crossbody to backpack to function for all occasions. Other versatile fashion staples include black vegan boots and a good cardigan you can rely on rain or shine.
Repurpose old clothes – Before throwing it in the donation bin, consider using some of your old clothes as cleaning rags or sewing projects. If you have an old chair that’s been torn up, one of your old shirts might make a lovely seating fabric. Another idea is to donate them to animal shelters for bedding.
A number of items around your home constantly draw power without you even noticing. For example, a lot of TVs don’t turn off without you manually doing so, and microwaves often cannot be switched completely off without removing the plug from the outlet. This is what’s known as standby power — or products that draw power 24 hours a day.
The amount of standby power used in residences on average amounts to about 10 percent of total usage. Reduce your energy usage (and your bill!) by 10 percent by remembering to turn off and unplug your devices or appliances when you’re not using them.
If you live in the United States, consider purchasing Energy Star appliances. It’s backed by the government for energy efficiency and shares credible information for consumers and businesses to make well-informed decisions. Energy Star offers a number of energy-efficient products for your home — including:
Light bulbs - Uses 70-90 percent less energy than an incandescent light bulb, while providing the same illumination.
Windows - Made with materials that reduce heat exchange and air leaks, requiring less energy to heat or cool a space.
Insulation - You won’t use as much energy to keep your house cool in the summer or warm in the winter with good insulation.
Smart thermostats - Wi-Fi controlled heating and cooling that automatically adjust to energy-saving temperatures when you are away or asleep.
Computer power management - Computers set up to automatically enter a low-power “sleep” mode if not in use.
Recycling is one of the easiest ways to reduce carbon emissions, greenhouse gasses that pollute the environment and the use of raw materials in manufacturing. It also contributes to saving more energy, resources, money and waste that fill up the world’s landfills.
These are products you can recycle:
Plastic, glass, paper, metal & cardboard boxes – It’s even better if these items have been rinsed and dried. No need to use a sponge and soap!
Clothes – If you’re not quite sure what to do with old clothes, there are tons of options available, from donating to charity to selling items for a profit online.
Water Bottles – Switch to an at-home water filtration pitcher. You will reduce your recycling output and help end the global water crisis.
These are products non-recyclable products:
XPS & EPS Foam (Styrofoam) – From egg cartons to takeout boxes, there is a common misconception that extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam or “Styrofoam” — a trademarked product by The Dow Chemical Company — is recyclable. Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is the other type of foam that we often see in everyday products like plates and cups. This is also not recommended for the residential recycling bin.
Pizza Boxes – If the box is unused it can definitely go into the recycling bin, but not if it’s too saturated with grease and oil to be recycled.
Taking actions to address the concern of our planet’s health is crucial to fostering a better future for humanity. We hope our eco-conscious tips encourage you to make a few new eco-friendly living changes to reduce your carbon footprint in the new year.
]]>Bonjour from Laflore! If you happen to find yourself in our magical city of Paris this month, be sure to make some time for exploring all the festive Parisian Christmas markets opening up. We love them because they offer not only great holiday gift ideas, but also some of the best holiday prep items for those delicious Christmas recipes and festive decor. These annual events draw in thousands of local and international visitors ready to welcome in the winter festivities.
We curated a quick list of some of our favorite Parisian Christmas markets. Whether you’re actively shopping for handcrafted goodies or just strolling through for some holiday cheer, there’s bound to be something that catches your eye at one of these holiday markets:
The Notre-Dame de Paris Christmas Market is ideal for those with a passion for handmade items created by local artisans. Staples include French foods, fashion, plus handmade jewelry and crafts. You won’t want to miss the variety of free entertainment around the market like singers, dancers and even puppet shows for the little ones. Santa Claus himself makes frequent appearances throughout the venue to delight children and adults alike.
Though Notre Dame suffered a devastating fire in 2018, this Marché de Noël continues from across the River Seine in Square René-Viviani. The park is one of the most beautiful spots in Paris at any time of year, but holds a special charm when hosting the Christmas Market. What sets this annual holiday market apart from many of its Parisian counterparts is the focus on locally crafted goods and the celebration of local artisans. Here, you’ll be able to find the most unique gifts for everyone on your list — or even something to take home for yourself, while not missing out on the traditional vin chaud (hot mulled wine) synonymous with Parisian Christmas markets.
Click here for more information: Marché de Noël Notre Dame
Meaning “The Magic of Christmas,” La Magie de Noël takes place in Tuileries Garden, which is located near the Louvre and is one of the largest Christmas markets in Paris. This remarkable event boasts upwards of over 13 million visitors each year. Previously known as the Champs-Élysées Christmas Market, the market stretches from Rue des Pyramides to Place de la Concord and also offers exciting holiday-themed attractions — such as a ferris wheel, skating rink and more.
An iconic Christmas Market, La Magie de Noël hosts more than one hundred individual chalets to explore for food, shopping, holiday activities and more. If you have time to visit only one Marché de Noël this holiday season, make it this one. At La Magie de Noël you can experience the best of Parisian Christmas market traditions all in one place.
Click here for more information: La Magie de Noël at Tuileries Garden
If dazzling displays of light are the way to warm your holiday heart, look no further than the Bercy Village Christmas Market. Each year, this Marché de Noël features illuminated displays from prominent artists or designers that never fail to impress. For 2021, the featured artist is Patricia Cunha, whose Umbrella Sky projects have traveled around the world. The display in Bercy Village Christmas Market features 1,200 lighted umbrellas suspended above a pathway through the market, ending at a magnificent Christmas tree featuring even more umbrellas.
The light displays are not the only feature of the Bercy Village Christmas Market that draw a crowd. Because of its location in a year ‘round shopping and entertainment spot, this market is ideal for those with last-minute shopping to do. The commercial district’s permanent shops are complemented with seasonal popup stalls, weekend musical entertainment and opportunities to chat with Père Noël. After completing your shopping list, reward yourself with a visit to the popular Cité-Cine movie theater — a local favorite.
Click here for more information: Bercy Village
Yes, it’s still on this year! If you want to experience one of the most magical holiday experiences in our city, the Paris Christmas Market at Canopée des Halles features an enormous 20-meter Christmas tree surrounded by a forest of twinkling lights. With more than 20 wooden chalets, you can choose from one of the widest varieties of Parisian foods, drinks and handmade trinkets and products.
Be sure to explore the Forum des Halles in its entirety! It features a below-ground shopping complex with some quintessential Parisian fashion options available. There are beautiful sites also located nearby that are definitely worth setting your sights on in the wintertime — like the Église Saint-Eustache and Run Montorgueil, which offers a whole street of elegant boutique shops to check out.
Click here for more information: Forum des Halles
Considered a “mini” Christmas market, the Hôtel de Ville Marché de Noël features only a dozen stalls, give or take, primarily centered on handcrafted goods fabriqué à Paris. This market won’t be a good fit for visitors hoping to sample a broad range of French holiday foods, but market goers can still experience traditional fare including vin chaud, raclette, roasted chestnuts and crêpes. As for activities, kids can enjoy free carousel rides, a man-made mountain for sledding and a unique climbing wall that you won’t find at other seasonal markets.
Dear to our hearts here at Laflore, the organizers of the Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market take a sustainable approach to their festival preparations. The forest of trees that decorate the market are sourced from sustainable farms, and many are presented in pots to be used for years to come. Even those that are at the end of their lifecycle are not ignored. After their holiday exhibition they will be used as mulch in the city’s green places, helping to sustainably nurture the flora of Paris.
Click here for more information: Official Paris Site
A festival for French foodies, the Eiffel Tower Christmas Village is home to dozens of stalls celebrating regional produce and foodstuffs from all over France. It is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a huge variety of local cuisines, sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.
Located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the setting of this market is hard to beat. When night falls, visitors to this market will hardly wonder why Paris is called the City of Light. An array of Christmas trees are illuminated across the market and visitors can get an up close view of the Eiffel Tower’s seasonal light display while enjoying their gastronomic delights.
Click here for more information: La Tour Eiffel
With a mission of raising awareness of eco-friendly values during the holidays, la REcyclerie hosts three eco-conscious Parisian Christmas markets throughout the winter season for the sustainable shopper. One that we love is Greenwitch: Le Village de Noël Écoféministe — an ethical Christmas village of 25 environmentally friendly brands, numerous holiday workshops on incorporating the zero-waste lifestyle and festive musical entertainment.
Click here for more information: La REcyclerie
The largest Christmas market in Paris is surprisingly not exactly in Paris proper. Located at the end of Metro Line 1 and nestled among the main Parisian financial quarter’s most prominent skyscrapers, La Défense offers more than 150 chalets featuring a variety of vendors and exhibitors bursting with holiday goodies to enjoy at the market or take home. Shoppers will also be delighted to find a huge variety of gifting options including classic tourist fare, traditional nativities, jewelry, clothing & accessories, candy or even a collection of antique Parisian books.
Unique to our list, La Défense features Christmas foods, drinks and gifts from around the world. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample delicious French cheeses, Spanish paella, charcuterie, foie gras and more, or buy regional produce to create their own fanciful feasts at home. Fans of vin chaud will be delighted to try variations on the traditional Christmas drink including Cuban mulled wine and white vin chaud. Any version of this hot treat is a welcome apéritif after an evening of ice skating atop the Grande Arche.
For those who are only in Paris in spirit (or just not quite ready for crowded events during the COVID-19 pandemic), there is some good news! The Paris Tourist Office is hosting its Virtual Christmas Market online. Visitors can plan for their trip to Paris and explore gift ideas from six chalets — all 100% French. From gastronomy, knicknacks and fashion to treasure hunts and escape games, this is a great way to experience the Parisian tradition of shopping at our festive holiday markets from home!
Click here for more information: The Virtual Christmas Market
If you’re still looking for handcrafted gift ideas for the holidays, be sure to check out our Laflore Paris handbag collection.
Our vegan Parisian bags are elegant, versatile and lightweight, made of sustainable cork bark sourced from the ancient forests of Portugal.
Bonjour from Laflore! If you happen to find yourself in our magical city of Paris this month, be sure to make some time for exploring all the festive Parisian Christmas markets opening up. We love them because they offer not only great holiday gift ideas, but also some of the best holiday prep items for those delicious Christmas recipes and festive decor. These annual events draw in thousands of local and international visitors ready to welcome in the winter festivities.
We curated a quick list of some of our favorite Parisian Christmas markets. Whether you’re actively shopping for handcrafted goodies or just strolling through for some holiday cheer, there’s bound to be something that catches your eye at one of these holiday markets:
The Notre-Dame de Paris Christmas Market is ideal for those with a passion for handmade items created by local artisans. Staples include French foods, fashion, plus handmade jewelry and crafts. You won’t want to miss the variety of free entertainment around the market like singers, dancers and even puppet shows for the little ones. Santa Claus himself makes frequent appearances throughout the venue to delight children and adults alike.
Though Notre Dame suffered a devastating fire in 2018, this Marché de Noël continues from across the River Seine in Square René-Viviani. The park is one of the most beautiful spots in Paris at any time of year, but holds a special charm when hosting the Christmas Market. What sets this annual holiday market apart from many of its Parisian counterparts is the focus on locally crafted goods and the celebration of local artisans. Here, you’ll be able to find the most unique gifts for everyone on your list — or even something to take home for yourself, while not missing out on the traditional vin chaud (hot mulled wine) synonymous with Parisian Christmas markets.
Click here for more information: Marché de Noël Notre Dame
Meaning “The Magic of Christmas,” La Magie de Noël takes place in Tuileries Garden, which is located near the Louvre and is one of the largest Christmas markets in Paris. This remarkable event boasts upwards of over 13 million visitors each year. Previously known as the Champs-Élysées Christmas Market, the market stretches from Rue des Pyramides to Place de la Concord and also offers exciting holiday-themed attractions — such as a ferris wheel, skating rink and more.
An iconic Christmas Market, La Magie de Noël hosts more than one hundred individual chalets to explore for food, shopping, holiday activities and more. If you have time to visit only one Marché de Noël this holiday season, make it this one. At La Magie de Noël you can experience the best of Parisian Christmas market traditions all in one place.
Click here for more information: La Magie de Noël at Tuileries Garden
If dazzling displays of light are the way to warm your holiday heart, look no further than the Bercy Village Christmas Market. Each year, this Marché de Noël features illuminated displays from prominent artists or designers that never fail to impress. For 2021, the featured artist is Patricia Cunha, whose Umbrella Sky projects have traveled around the world. The display in Bercy Village Christmas Market features 1,200 lighted umbrellas suspended above a pathway through the market, ending at a magnificent Christmas tree featuring even more umbrellas.
The light displays are not the only feature of the Bercy Village Christmas Market that draw a crowd. Because of its location in a year ‘round shopping and entertainment spot, this market is ideal for those with last-minute shopping to do. The commercial district’s permanent shops are complemented with seasonal popup stalls, weekend musical entertainment and opportunities to chat with Père Noël. After completing your shopping list, reward yourself with a visit to the popular Cité-Cine movie theater — a local favorite.
Click here for more information: Bercy Village
Yes, it’s still on this year! If you want to experience one of the most magical holiday experiences in our city, the Paris Christmas Market at Canopée des Halles features an enormous 20-meter Christmas tree surrounded by a forest of twinkling lights. With more than 20 wooden chalets, you can choose from one of the widest varieties of Parisian foods, drinks and handmade trinkets and products.
Be sure to explore the Forum des Halles in its entirety! It features a below-ground shopping complex with some quintessential Parisian fashion options available. There are beautiful sites also located nearby that are definitely worth setting your sights on in the wintertime — like the Église Saint-Eustache and Run Montorgueil, which offers a whole street of elegant boutique shops to check out.
Click here for more information: Forum des Halles
Considered a “mini” Christmas market, the Hôtel de Ville Marché de Noël features only a dozen stalls, give or take, primarily centered on handcrafted goods fabriqué à Paris. This market won’t be a good fit for visitors hoping to sample a broad range of French holiday foods, but market goers can still experience traditional fare including vin chaud, raclette, roasted chestnuts and crêpes. As for activities, kids can enjoy free carousel rides, a man-made mountain for sledding and a unique climbing wall that you won’t find at other seasonal markets.
Dear to our hearts here at Laflore, the organizers of the Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market take a sustainable approach to their festival preparations. The forest of trees that decorate the market are sourced from sustainable farms, and many are presented in pots to be used for years to come. Even those that are at the end of their lifecycle are not ignored. After their holiday exhibition they will be used as mulch in the city’s green places, helping to sustainably nurture the flora of Paris.
Click here for more information: Official Paris Site
A festival for French foodies, the Eiffel Tower Christmas Village is home to dozens of stalls celebrating regional produce and foodstuffs from all over France. It is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a huge variety of local cuisines, sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.
Located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the setting of this market is hard to beat. When night falls, visitors to this market will hardly wonder why Paris is called the City of Light. An array of Christmas trees are illuminated across the market and visitors can get an up close view of the Eiffel Tower’s seasonal light display while enjoying their gastronomic delights.
Click here for more information: La Tour Eiffel
With a mission of raising awareness of eco-friendly values during the holidays, la REcyclerie hosts three eco-conscious Parisian Christmas markets throughout the winter season for the sustainable shopper. One that we love is Greenwitch: Le Village de Noël Écoféministe — an ethical Christmas village of 25 environmentally friendly brands, numerous holiday workshops on incorporating the zero-waste lifestyle and festive musical entertainment.
Click here for more information: La REcyclerie
The largest Christmas market in Paris is surprisingly not exactly in Paris proper. Located at the end of Metro Line 1 and nestled among the main Parisian financial quarter’s most prominent skyscrapers, La Défense offers more than 150 chalets featuring a variety of vendors and exhibitors bursting with holiday goodies to enjoy at the market or take home. Shoppers will also be delighted to find a huge variety of gifting options including classic tourist fare, traditional nativities, jewelry, clothing & accessories, candy or even a collection of antique Parisian books.
Unique to our list, La Défense features Christmas foods, drinks and gifts from around the world. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample delicious French cheeses, Spanish paella, charcuterie, foie gras and more, or buy regional produce to create their own fanciful feasts at home. Fans of vin chaud will be delighted to try variations on the traditional Christmas drink including Cuban mulled wine and white vin chaud. Any version of this hot treat is a welcome apéritif after an evening of ice skating atop the Grande Arche.
For those who are only in Paris in spirit (or just not quite ready for crowded events during the COVID-19 pandemic), there is some good news! The Paris Tourist Office is hosting its Virtual Christmas Market online. Visitors can plan for their trip to Paris and explore gift ideas from six chalets — all 100% French. From gastronomy, knicknacks and fashion to treasure hunts and escape games, this is a great way to experience the Parisian tradition of shopping at our festive holiday markets from home!
Click here for more information: The Virtual Christmas Market
If you’re still looking for handcrafted gift ideas for the holidays, be sure to check out our Laflore Paris handbag collection.
Our vegan Parisian bags are elegant, versatile and lightweight, made of sustainable cork bark sourced from the ancient forests of Portugal.
It feels great to have a wardrobe full of holiday essentials that are made of vegan and eco-friendly material such as cork leather, which is not only versatile but also elegant. With its one-of-a-kind look and feel, cork fashion accessories will be the perfect complement to your sustainable holiday party outfit. Here are a few items to treat yourself with that will give your holiday wardrobe a special twist:
Natural cork accessories can be a pleasant addition to your holiday table and an unexpected conversation piece. Cork material is strong and has low thermal conductivity, so it is able to resist a wide range of temperatures. These features allow cork to be used for a variety of accessories and housewares. Here are some cork accessories to consider for spruce up your holiday home:
As you’ve seen from our list so far, cork material accessories are elegant and durable. But cork doesn’t have to be just for you, it’s the perfect opportunity to gift sustainably. No matter how long your “to-buy-for list” is, there's an eco-friendly cork product for everyone.
No matter if you’re buying for yourself or loved ones, cork leather accessories are a great eco-friendly gift. Cork material’s soft, durable, and water-resistant nature make it useful for a wide variety of products that will wow even the most discerning recipients. Make this year a holiday season to remember with beautiful vegan accessories from Laflore Paris or any of the special recommendations on our list.
If you have any questions about Laflore, our products, or our eco-friendly promise, feel free to contact us.
Are you often unsure about what to do with all of the old clothes that you no longer wear? If they’re still in great condition, it feels wasteful to simply throw them away. But if you’re trying to create a minimalist capsule wardrobe, keeping them in your closet isn’t an option either. Instead of letting these usable items of clothing languish wastefully, what if you could give them another purpose, a new life?
Well, don’t worry, there are plenty of ways you can contribute towards reducing, repurposing and recycling old clothes. Read further to learn some tried and true methods that will help you find a more eco-friendly way to deal with old clothing.
Are you often unsure about what to do with all of the old clothes that you no longer wear? If they’re still in great condition, it feels wasteful to simply throw them away. But if you’re trying to create a minimalist capsule wardrobe, keeping them in your closet isn’t an option either. Instead of letting these usable items of clothing languish wastefully, what if you could give them another purpose, a new life?
Well, don’t worry, there are plenty of ways you can contribute towards reducing, repurposing and recycling old clothes. Read further to learn some tried and true methods that will help you find a more eco-friendly way to deal with old clothing.
Fortunately for all of us -- and the planet -- people are finally becoming far more conscious of their environmental impact. Over the last few decades, textile waste has grown significantly, and the fast fashion industry is one of the major contributors towards this waste. They produce clothes that are not meant to last long and wind up in landfills after only a few wears. Added to this, fast fashion brands release new collections, new styles, and new designs all the time. But constantly trying to keep up with the latest trends is a fast track to buying excess clothing. There is nothing wrong with buying clothes that you need or can afford, however, indulging in fast fashion in high volumes is a burden on the environment. Now that we're aware of the serious problem of textile waste, it's our job to do something about it. This is where the concept of ‘Reduce’ comes into play.
Here is a list of few things that you can do to decrease your clothing purchases:
Create thoughtful shopping lists
In order to prevent yourself from buying everything that you see and like, create a list of the types of clothes you need to buy beforehand, then stick to it! Try to limit yourself to a set number of pieces in the list and add only those clothes that will complement or enhance your existing wardrobe.
Learn basic mending
Try your hand at sewing garments with basic tears or that are slightly ill-fitting. Instead of buying new clothes all the time, mending older clothes will help you reduce new clothing purchases. It might also become a new hobby for you to enjoy.
Buy high-quality clothes
Choose quality over quantity when buying new clothes. You might get sticker shock at first with clothing made from higher quality material. But when you break down the expense by cost-per-wear rather than up front investment, you’ll find it’s actually more economical than buying fast fashion pieces. Higher quality, timeless pieces will stay with you longer if you take great care of them and will reduce your need for new clothes.
Here is a list of few things that you can do to decrease your clothing purchases:
Create thoughtful shopping lists
In order to prevent yourself from buying everything that you see and like, create a list of the types of clothes you need to buy beforehand, then stick to it! Try to limit yourself to a set number of pieces in the list and add only those clothes that will complement or enhance your existing wardrobe.
Learn basic mending
Try your hand at sewing garments with basic tears or that are slightly ill-fitting. Instead of buying new clothes all the time, mending older clothes will help you reduce new clothing purchases. It might also become a new hobby for you to enjoy.
Buy high-quality clothes
Choose quality over quantity when buying new clothes. You might get sticker shock at first with clothing made from higher quality material. But when you break down the expense by cost-per-wear rather than up front investment, you’ll find it’s actually more economical than buying fast fashion pieces. Higher quality, timeless pieces will stay with you longer if you take great care of them and will reduce your need for new clothes.
The word ‘recycling’ is most often associated with plastic bottles, cans, paper, and cardboards. It is interesting to know that clothes can also be recycled; though only a few find their way to a recycling plant. While consumption remains high, recycling for clothing is often an overlooked option. Textile recycling or clothes recycling, is the process of making use of clothes over again after they have been produced by converting them into alternative useful products. Handbags, backpacks, shoes, and belts can also be recycled.
Here are a few brands that offer their own recycling programs where you can drop off your old stuff and it can be used in a different way:
If you’re still not sure what to do with your unusable clothing, use Earth 911’s recycling center search
to see if there’s a textile recycling center near you.
There are plenty of other ways to reuse clothing with the help of easy and quick ‘Do it yourself’ tutorials. Repurposing may give a garment a new look, such as altering old jeans and creating summer shorts out of it. Also, DIYs might turn your clothes into something else altogether, for instance, an old t-shirt can be given transformed into an everyday tote bag. Some ‘DIYs’ might only need a pair of scissors and a few stitches, while others require a little more time and effort. With the number of ideas available, it’s easy to find something that will work with your aesthetic and skill level. Here are a few basic DIY ideas for old clothes to help you repurpose your clothing:
Clothes that are in good condition but don’t fit you or your style anymore should be donated to others. When you’re not sure if it’s time to donate a piece of clothing or keep it to wear later, just follow a simple rule: if you haven’t worn that item for a year or more, you should donate it. If it’s in your regular outfit rotation, go ahead and keep it!
Before passing it along to someone else, make sure to check that the garment has no major holes and tears. One needs to always keep in mind that nobody wants to wear clothes that are falling apart.
Contributions can be made to organizations or charities that accept clothing as donations. Some organizations might even accept worn-out clothes that they fix before handing them to others. Local thrift stores also accept old clothes. Before donating, make sure to wash the clothes properly so that they are clean and new for the next owner. Donated clothes can help people who don’t have the money to buy new clothes. They can also be of great help to disaster victims during some of the toughest moments of their lives.
The following are some places to donate clothes to:
If you want to make some quick cash, then it is also possible to sell your old clothes. Often, clothes that haven’t been worn much appear brand new and online platforms help you find potential buyers who will reuse your old clothing or give them new life. However, it is important that you provide a complete and accurate description of your garment so buyers know exactly what they’re getting.
Social platforms where you can make money with old clothes are:
If the pieces you’d like to sell are vintage, then Depop is an excellent option. Buyers come to the site to shop for unique items at reasonable prices. The app is easy to use and gives you access to potential buyers worldwide.
Unlike many other online marketplaces, Vinted doesn’t charge sellers fees to list your gently used clothing, and also connects you to a global market of secondhand shoppers. Their mission statement is that “good clothes should live long”, and we’re here for it.
As one of the most well-known online consignment shops, ThreadUp has been working toward a more sustainable fashion future for the last decade. Not only do they offer an easy-to-use app for buying and selling secondhand clothing, they also use a portion of their profits for the Circular Fashion Fund to support small businesses with sustainability goals.
If you want to pass along the responsibility of packaging and shipping items you sell, try a local consignment shop that can handle all the details for you. You’ll still get paid when the item is sold, but the sale might take a bit longer due to the smaller buying pool. By selling locally through a shop, you can also help reduce the carbon footprint created by the shipping and handling process of online stores.
Probably my favorite idea about what to do with old clothes will not only help give your old clothes a new life, it will also be a lot of fun! Try a clothing swap with your friends, where everyone brings their unwanted clothing items - and maybe a bottle of wine - so you can all refresh your closets in an environmentally friendly way. You’ll have dozens of options to choose from by mixing and matching from a variety of styles you’ve secretly coveted. It’s a great way to try out new styles or trends without spending any money at all AND reducing textile waste.
Here are a few tips for you to host the best clothing swap possible:
Size:
Consider size inclusivity and ensure no one feels left out. It might help to discuss beforehand a range of sizes that everyone will be bringing to make sure there’s something for everyone to browse.
Numbers:
Set a fixed number of clothes that everybody brings. This will result in equal contribution and a successful clothing swap.
Setup:
Make your setup neat and presentable. Declutter beforehand and present the clothes in an organized manner.
If your friends aren’t close by or a get-together just won’t work out, you can also try online options like Swap Society.
To conclude, we all understand that we have already done enough harm to our environment. Now, protecting it from further damage is the need of the hour. Huge dumps of textile waste is a serious matter and it should be avoided at any cost. We should all feel responsible and help reduce waste to create a better environment to live in.
We, at Laflore, have also worked constantly towards making the planet greener.
We always make our products durable
and long-lasting, thus reducing waste.
We are continuously trying to improve our surroundings and contribute towards a more sustainable and more beautiful planet. If you’d like to learn more about how Laflore works to benefit the environment, read Our Eco-Friendly Promise.
That’s why we’re so excited to introduce you to 8 of our greatest fans. With their help, we’ve been able to pull together some information on why a convertible backpack purse is one of their favorite accessories. If you have a bobobark, we hope you'll resonate with their stories. If not, maybe they'll convince you to give us a try!
The bobobark, our flagship convertible purse is versatile, classic, and ready for whatever adventure awaits you. From a busy day of commuting to running errands on the weekend, the bobobark is designed to support you through any situation.
“I love my bobobark bag for many different reasons: my bobobark keeps everything organized, and I love to be organized. My bobobark makes getting items and putting items away super easy with the clamshell opening. You can access your laptop two different ways, keep items separate with the interior middle pocket, and I love how much you can actually put inside of the bag! It's incredible!
Aside from how much you can carry, the design of the bag makes it so seriously comfortable to wear. Somehow the design shifts the weight away from the shoulder straps towards the lower end of the bag, putting the weight more on your hips. I believe with my bag full it weighs over 10 lbs!!!
The bag full is super sleek, meaning it hardly looks like you are carrying anything at all! The material is buttery and so wonderful to touch! It keeps the rain off. This bag is literally my Boss Bag. I am able to slay at my job, carry my essentials with me everywhere, and look like I am just out for an afternoon stroll!”
“Most useful feature of the bag for me is the easy accessibility of all of your items: cell phone, charge bank, writing books, pencil case, remarkable (writing pad), and of course the laptop!
So, I guess the features themselves would be the clam shell opening, centre organizer pocket, and easy access zipper for my laptop. However, it is hard to forget the ability to change up the straps, and just how absolutely gorgeous this bag is!”
“What would I tell others ladies looking to invest in the best bag they will ever own?
The investment is 100% worth it!
This bag is functional, practical, useful, comfortable, and just gorgeous! Don't waste your time buying a bag that just won't function like the bobobark, other bags are cumbersome and most certainly not as unique nor as innovative in their design. The bobobark is the bag you have been looking for!”
“It's professional looking like a leather handbag, but I can use it everyday. I'm able to fit all my stuff from a water bottle to a laptop to snacks and more! I usually just sling it over my shoulder, but it's not so large that I can't carry it by my side running in from the car.”
“I love the easy, wide open top of the bobobark. Between that and the high contrast inside, I'm able to quickly grab what I need and be back to work or fun.”
“It's such a versatile bag that I haven't stopped using it since it arrived. The lovely design means you can dress it up or just have fun with it. The materials used mean you are able to use it every day. I'm very glad I invested in this bag, and would love other versions and colors down the road.”
“I love my bobobark because it's both professional and practical, and not too heavy. I really wanted a nice laptop bag I could use as a purse, backpack, and laptop bag. It's perfect.”
“My favourite feature is the way that it opens at the top with the clasp, and I also like that it's not too heavy. And there is just the right number of pockets. Not too many so you can't remember where you've put things but enough to stay organized.”
“The bobobark is a good investment so you can stop searching endlessly for mediocre bags and just have one great go-to bag that actually works.”
“I love how stylish it is while being practical. I don't know a lot of bags that do this successfully. To be honest, because I need to carry my laptop, laptop adapter, and morning smoothie to work, the bag gets pretty heavy so I only use it as a backpack.
It's so beautiful that you might think it's not a comfortable backpack but to my surprise, it is! I walk with it for 30 to 45 minutes with no issues. If anything, I might be helping with my back and posture since the straps pull back on my shoulders!”
“All of the compartments. The little compartment in the front is great for storing keys and phones. The zipper access to the laptop area is also very useful.”
“Buy this one! But in all seriousness, this bag has it all. It's sustainably made, vegan, water resistant, fashionable, professional, and practical. I did my research before buying the bobobark and I don't think there is any other bag out there that hits all of the categories.”
“I love my bobobark because of the classic appeal. Once, while I was out wearing it someone commented on it once and said they thought it was a briefcase. I loved that feedback because that was the look I was going for (polished and sophisticated). Yet the best part is that the purse is versatile.
From grocery shopping to date night, it's just so pretty. Also, I work at a big tech company, and wanted to be able to bring my laptop to work in a laptop bag that looked feminine and mature, not a highschooler's backpack.
I also LOVE LOVE LOVE the orange interior. I'm in love with understated yet thoughtful design in products. Like colorfully printed pockets inside of the pocket of a plain shirt.”
“The side pocket! I recently discovered that I suffer from severe allergies. I love that I can tuck my EpiPen inside of that side pocket, and be able to access it fast if needed. It makes me feel safe, knowing that if I need it it's not buried down too deep for me or anyone else to access. Also, I store my face mask in that pocket.
Although one feature that I wish could be improved, is if there was weight to the inside strap that holds the laptop inside of the back slot. I hate having to keep pushing that down, and would rather it just sink down in place.”
A note from Laflore Paris →
We always appreciate your honest feedback and it helps us improve our products. It’s loyal customers like you who help make our products the best they can be. Thank you!
“I would tell them about you [Elie] and your daughter [Natacha] because I think it's such a great story (a father-daughter team! So cute!)
I would tell them about the negative feedback I saw from some people regarding peeling and tell them that it's not an issue for me and probably won't be for them either.
I would tell them that while it may seem like a lot to pay, it really is well worth it. It's a high quality and well-made purse that is durable and eco-friendly.”
"I really enjoy my bobobark bag. It’s really convenient for going out on my art journeys - art museums, street sketching, clients. Bobobark is especially very great while traveling, it fits plane requirements and I take my sketchbooks on board with pencils, watercolours, etc."
"Most liked feature is its space - fits everything nicely and is still not too bulky. And I like the side zipper for laptop space, but I use it for my sketchbooks and phone!"
"If you are really thinking about nature - this product is for you! If you are a creative person like me - you will definitely enjoy this bobobark! I’ve received so many nice comments regarding my bobobark, it looks fantastic as well!"
“I love my bobobark because of its classic shape and versatility. The ability to quickly and casually throw it on as a backpack, over my shoulder or hold it by its handle is great. I’ve been using it as my work bag, and can fit so much into it.”
“The quick access with the vintage style clasp at the top and the side zippers to grab my mask (because of COVID) and my iPad are my favourite features. I also love the structure inside the bag as it appeases my desire to organize everything.”
"I have told the women in my life about this bag, how it’s made from cork, about its classic design and versatility. I even got my own mother to buy it by talking about it so much. And we’re both getting the bebebark as well.
I often share my bag on Instagram musing about it, and the ways it can be used. From the accessories like clutch for quick outings and how I’ll put a chain through it, the coin purse which I use for my AirPods and extra cords, and the sunglasses case to keep my glasses safe."
“I live in Boston where I commute to work everyday for my job as a Travel Specialist. Not only do I have long commutes, but I also get paid to travel the world testing experiences for my clients. Bobobark is the perfect bag for looking stylish, keeping everything within easy reach, and maintaining a slim profile on busy metros and planes.”
“I absolutely adore the quick access side zippers, which keep my items secure, while also allowing me to quickly grab my phone and wallet without much trouble. If that weren't enough, the way it opens for a full view of the interior allows me to find just what I need when I'm running through Rome to make my next hotel viewing appointment.”
"If you are considering purchasing a bobobark, I say just go for it! My partner had been debating getting one when she saw mine, but the size was a bit too much for her day-to-day. But, as soon as the bebebark was announced, I purchased one as a gift for her! Now size isn't an obstacle for this perfect and environmentally friendly bag.”
~ ~ ~
If you don’t have a bobobark, are you convinced yet? We sure hope so! The next time you’re looking for a new handbag, consider one of our convertible, vegan purses.
If you're looking for something a little smaller, our bebebark is a convertible cork purse that has all the features of the bobobark in a smaller size.
A huge thank you to all of our lovely customers featured in this blog. We couldn’t do it without you!
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When a company engages in greenwashing, they effectively influence consumers to believe that they’re working towards saving the environment when they’re not. In fact, companies that go to great lengths to create a greenwashed marketing strategy are sometimes covering up their lack of environmentally friendly products or processes. They are interested only in improving their sales and making more money, and they do so by projecting a green image and deceiving conscious consumers.
It should be noted that some companies greenwash their products accidentally. Misinformation surrounding sustainability is so widespread that companies can get the wrong idea about what's sustainable and what's not. Although there's no excuse for large corporations with hefty research budgets, smaller companies sometimes think they're being eco-friendly when they're not.
The short answer is that companies who deliberately use this strategy do so to attract more customers and increase revenue.
Over the past couple of decades, there has been a shift toward holding companies accountable for their carbon footprint and environmental impact. At the same time, consumers have become more conscious of their impact on the environment. Naturally, conscious customers try their best to buy environmentally friendly products when possible.
There isn’t currently a lot of regulation around sustainable terms such as: natural, green, eco-friendly, and environmentally friendly. Any company can include green colors and imagery on their products and use terms such as natural. Therefore, it’s usually easy for brands to attract well-meaning consumers and improve their sales.
Another reason for companies using this marketing strategy is to stand out from their competitors in the market. They promise the consumers that their product is more efficient, saves more power, or is sustainable. In response, many people start purchasing from them believing that they are helping the environment.
Many companies see this green agenda as an opportunity to gain a competitive advantage, especially because “natural products” are usually priced higher. Particularly when shopping on-the-go at the grocery store or mall, consumers don’t have time to research every single product they put into their cart. And with good reason! Unless you only buy from trusted brands, it’s hard to distinguish between the truly sustainable products and the fake ones.
A very common example of greenwashing is when a company rebrands as natural or eco-friendly. If a company changes their name, logo, or slogan to appear greener without actually changing their business to be environmentally friendly, then chances are it's an attempt to greenwash. Food companies, cosmetic companies, and household product manufacturers are often seen involved in greenwashing.
Another example of greenwashing is when a company labels its products with buzz-words and meaningless statistics.
Have you ever seen one or more of the the following descriptions on a product?
While these things all sound great to the conscious consumer, these phrases don't mean anything.
Single-use plastic can be 100% recyclable, but it isn't sustainable or eco-friendly. Many chemicals are naturally-derived, yet are still harmful to the environment. Food, cosmetics, textiles, and more can all be made with "natural" ingredients, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're inherently healthy or environmentally friendly. Lastly, most things are biodegradable, but that doesn't mean it's okay to dump them in a landfill.
Greenwashing is unethical. False green claims have a negative impact not only on consumers but also on the environment. Let’s look at some of the problems that arise because of greenwashing.
The most important danger of greenwashing is that it misinforms people, leading them to make wrong decisions and contribute to unintended environmental harm. Customers, without knowing if a company’s eco-friendly claims are genuine or not, act unsustainably, and make an uninformed decision.
Greenwashing harms the environment and public health. When consumers are unable to understand the false practices of a company and they decide to buy from a greenwashing company, they contribute to the growth of that company.
Their support gives such companies more revenue and they continue with their greenwashed marketing and non-environmentally friendly products. Many companies that use greenwashing are often found to be using toxic ingredients in their products or using unsustainable practices such as excess water usage, causing unnecessary air pollution, or producing toxic run-off. To stop this, consumers should look into what they are buying and support the company only if they are genuinely working towards protecting the environment.
Apart from harming the environment, greenwashing also causes trouble for companies that are genuinely working towards saving the environment. This happens because greenwashing breaks consumer trust and consumers start suspecting all brands, even those that are working hard to produce environmentally friendly products. The reputation of true eco-friendly companies are hindered, making it difficult for them to gain significant market share.
Unfortunately, it can be hard to know if a company is greenwashing or not. It is important for consumers to be educated and aware about which companies and products are truly green and which are not, but this takes time and a lot of effort.
However, there are some things you can look out for that might help you make more informed decisions. Here are a few tips:
These days, the number of environmentally-conscious buyers is growing.
If you find it hard to obtain information about a company’s factory or production details, there's a chance that the company is greenwashing or it has something to hide.To verify the sustainability of a brand, you should try to find out more and more about the way a company operates.
Here are some things you can look out for:
If you really want to avoid giving business to companies who are intentionally greenwashing, you'll need to screen your purchases carefully. Keep an eye out for harmful ingredients, materials, and production practices. When you're informed, you can spot fake eco-friendly companies much more easily.
Continue to read labels and always think about the entire product lifecycle - all the way from the sourcing of materials all the way down to discarding, recycling, or reusing the product.
Greenwashing needs to be stopped and we need to hold companies accountable. Let’s continue to do our part by becoming conscious consumers and buying environment friendly products.
To learn more about our sustainability efforts here at LaFlore Paris, please read our Eco-Friendly Promise. Please feel free to contact us at any time if you have more questions. We'd be happy to hear from you!
]]>If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then you are in the right place! Keep reading to learn all about the amazing cork oak tree, cork material and its innumerable properties. It is a wonderful option for all those who love nature and want to contribute to making our environment better.
In today’s world, we’ve unfortunately already done substantial damage to our environment. So, it’s good to look at products that are created out of any kind of eco-friendly material. Be it a handbag, wallet, footwear, jewellery, cell phone case or a musical instrument, if it is made using an eco-friendly material, it helps reduce our negative impact on the environment. Cork material is an eco-friendly, sustainable product that can be used to create hundreds of different items. Read this complete article to learn all about cork material and its benefits.
Cork is simply the bark of a cork oak tree. This tree is unique and evergreen in nature. Cork is the thick and dark grey bark of the tree. Cork oak is unique because it has the ability to regenerate its outer bark. Once a cork tree is 25 years old, it can be stripped of its cork once every 9 to 12 years. This means that a single cork oak tree, which has an average lifespan of 200-300 years, can be harvested more than 16 times. Better yet, all of this can be done without any harm to the tree. It is believed that each tree can produce enough cork material for around 4000 wine corks.
Cork trees grow mainly in the Mediterranean region. This part of the world produces more than 80% of the world’s total cork production. Countries that receive a lot of sunshine, low rainfall and high humidity have a lot of cork oak trees. Portugal is considered to be the home to the largest collection of cork oak trees. Other countries that produce cork are Algeria, Spain, Morocco, France, Italy and Tunisia.
References of cork trees and their uses in history go back thousands of years ago. History has many stories regarding cork material and cork applications. It is believed that in China cork material was used in 3000 BC for the purpose of fishing. Similarly, Egypt, Babylon and Persia also used cork material to produce various everyday items. In Italy, articles such as floats, stoppers for casks, women’s footwear and roofing materials made of cork date back to 4th century BC.
For thousands of years, cork has been used as a stopper in bottles. But did you know that cork was even found in the tombs dating back to primitive Egypt? Not only this, but ancient Greeks and Romans also made good use of cork material. They used it to make fishing nets, sandals, wine bottle stoppers and even personal flotation devices for fishermen. Villagers used it to build homes as it kept their houses warm in winters and cool in summers. In addition to this, cork made the floors soft and comfortable to walk on.
The cork oak tree grows thick layers of bark. These layers are stripped off the tree to get cork. It is then boiled and pressed to make it more elastic.
The process of cork tree harvesting happens between the months of early May to late August. It is important to note that skilled cork harvesters known as extractors carry out the activity with their hands and no mechanical stripping devices are used for this purpose. These experienced cork extractors use a specialized cork axe to split the outer bark and peel it away from the tree. Vertical and horizontal cuts are made through the bark. All this is done carefully so as not to hurt the living part of the tree. It is usually done on the trunk, however, in case the tree is large, the lower branches are also used. The layer is then removed using the wedge-shaped side of the hatchet. Overall, cork tree harvesting is done very carefully and gently.
Though the process of converting cork into cork leather seems simple, it is not that easy. After cork is harvested, the planks of cork are stacked and left to dry. This is done in order to improve the quality of cork material. The planks stay stacked for a considerable period of time ranging from a few weeks to six months. This air-drying process helps the planks lose a lot of moisture and become flattened. Next, these planks are treated with heat and water so that all the dirt and tannins are removed. This makes the cork softer and flexible. After this, the poor-quality outer layer of the cork is scrapped off. Once again, the planks are then stacked and allowed to dry for a few more weeks. Finally, to give a uniform look, the cork is trimmed. It is then sorted based on its quality. The finest cork is used to create products like wine bottle stoppers while the inferior cork is used to make other products.
The best thing about the cork harvesting process is that it’s completely environmentally friendly. Any waste that is generated during the process is reused and nothing goes waste. The leftover cork powder is collected and used as fuel in the factory. Small pieces of cork are made into chipboard. Chemical by products such as tannins (used for curing leather), hard wax (used in products like paraffin, paint, and soap), and phonic acid (used to make plastics and musk-scented toiletries) are all used by various industries.
Cork is a perfect masterpiece of nature. Cork is eco-friendly, renewable, sustainable, water resistant, natural and much more. The list goes on and on. In fact, cork is believed to be one of the most versatile materials on Earth. Let’s look at some of the reasons why cork material is so incredible.
As cork material has innumerable properties, it's a perfect choice for various products across different industries. Here are some of the most popular cork applications:
Cork material has many benefits, the most important being that it is eco-friendly and does not harm nature. In fact, cork trees help nature thrive and harvesting cork bark is an important part of the process.
Cork oak trees live for almost 200-300 years. Additionally, the products created out of cork material last for a very long time. The durability of cork products is usually greater than those made of leather or plastic.
Yes, cork is 100% recyclable. Cork of different ages is used to create different products. In other words, no cork is ever wasted. Young cork is good for flooring, insulation, and sustainable fashion while old cork works best for wine stoppers. Even after its first usage, cork can be grinded into pieces to create new items.
Yes, cork is a sustainable material because the cork tree is not cut down to obtain cork. It is only the bark that is stripped to harvest the cork. The tree continues to live and grow. In fact, cork’s sustainability and easy recycling of its products are two of its most distinctive features.
Yes, cork is much more expensive as compared to its other alternatives. The reason is because it’s naturally harvested only once a year by skilled workers.
To grow well, cork oak trees need a sandy, chalk-free soil with low nitrogen and high potassium. They also need rainfall from 400-800 mm per year and a temperature range between -5 ºC to 40 ºC.
It is amazing that in today’s synthetic world where nothing seems to be natural, cork is such a wonderful product. It does so much for us without harming nature in any manner. The range of products created out of cork material is wide. With new ways to use it being thought of all the time, it’s definitely going to be an environmentally friendly favorite for many years to come.
However, with all this said, there is always a significant difference between reading about something and actually feeling that material. Cork and its products also need to be touched to truly understand how amazing it is. We hope you can experience it someday to sense and appreciate this wonderful creation!
If you have any questions about how Laflore Paris uses cork material in our eco-friendly purses or in our accessories like our glasses case, please contact us.
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If you’re familiar with bobobark, our popular convertible backpack purse, then you can think of bebebark as a smaller version of bobobark, made to recreate the perfect square proportions visible in the most beautiful art and architecture in Paris.
As with all of Laflore’s products, the bebebark is first and foremost made with both sustainability and style in mind. It’s made from cork leather that’s vegan, cruelty-free, and biodegradable.
Nothing goes to waste in the process of making our cork leather. Leftover cork pieces are turned into chipboard. Additionally, harvesting cork from cork trees does not harm the tree. In fact, it helps them absorb more carbon dioxide and release more oxygen into the atmosphere.
After harvesting the bark of the cork tree, the cork tree regrows its bark over time. We only source our cork from reputable suppliers in Portugal who ensure the continued health of their cork trees.
Bebebark features a modern classic design that is made to match any outfit. The petite square form is designed to flatter a woman’s silhouette. The brass clamshell clasp opens 180 degrees for easy viewing, and the bright orange liner ensures that the contents of your purse are always visible.
Did you know that cork leather is 3x lighter than traditional animal leather, but just as durable? When you choose bebebark, you can have the durability you need in an everyday purse without the extra weight of leather. That means you can carry your purse with you anywhere without it weighing you down.
On top of being lightweight, bebebark is also waterproof. Rain or shine, your valuables will stay safe and dry within your bag. Speaking of your valuables, bebebark has pockets for all of them! It comes with a large zippered pocket at the center, a padded compartment for your tablet, a built in port for your charging cable, and much more! It also features a dedicated phone pocket that’s accessible from outside of the bag, so you can easily grab your phone while on the go without opening the main compartment.
Elie and Natacha are the father-daughter duo behind Laflore.
Elie Seroussi is a 30-year fashion industry veteran and founder of Cecile and Jeanne Paris. Along with his daughter, Natacha Seroussi, the pair founded Laflore Paris, a boutique accessory brand headquartered in the historic Le Marais district. Laflore combines a vision of ethics and aesthetics, proving that chic, elegant, and modern accessories can also be environmentally friendly, vegan, and sustainable.
Are you interested in getting your own bebebark? We are currently offering bebebark for pre-order via Kickstarter.
We have limited quantities of the bebebark available for pre-order on Kickstarter at Early Bird prices, so grab one before they’re gone! Click here to visit our Kickstarter page.
What about dealing with painful shoulder aches because your purse is full of everything and anything you could squeeze into it and weighs about 30 pounds?
Whatever your situation, there’s one thing we can all agree on: wouldn’t it be great to have a convertible bag that was professional enough for work, casual enough for everyday wear, matches with virtually any outfit, and is comfortable? You could use it as a briefcase or tote bag during the work day, and then convert it to a backpack afterwards for maximum comfort.
Whether you’re commuting, traveling, shopping, or just going around town, a convertible backpack purse is what you need to be prepared for any scenario life throws at you.
In today’s technology-obsessed and chaotic world, multi-functional items save you valuable time, energy, and even money. A 2-in-1 laptop that doubles as a tablet. A smartphone that isn’t just a phone but a GPS and a computer. Or in this case, a purse that turns into a backpack.
A convertible purse is a versatile, multi-style handbag that can double as a backpack, a shoulder-bag, or a tote bag with a few simple adjustments.
Say you’re carrying a backpack, but want a handbag to take with you when you meet your friends for drinks later that night. Remove a couple of straps, et voila - you have yourself a chic handbag that you can wear anywhere. Using a convertible bag is the easiest way to expand your accessories wardrobe without busting your budget.
A backpack purse is not only convenient and useful, but it’s stylish and classy.
With the rise of eco-friendly fashion and capsule wardrobes, the focus is less on how expansive your wardrobe is and more about creating great looks with a limited number of pieces. It allows you to stretch your creativity muscles, get more use out of the clothing you already own, and it’s kinder on the environment.
A convertible backpack fits into this ethos nicely. With a convertible purse like bobobark, you have three styles to choose from (in neutral colors that go with everything) and you’ll save time in the morning that you need to prepare for the rest of your day.
The multiple uses of a purse backpack combo make for easier organization. Bags like this often have multiple pockets, compartments and zippers, one for every type of item you’ll need as you go about your day.
Imagine the following scenario. You’re commuting into work when you realize you left your wallet in the handbag you were carrying yesterday.
Who among us hasn’t made this mistake? And how are you going to pay for lunch?
You’ve got two options: turn around and go back home to get it, or head into the office and risk the possibility of an early-afternoon attack of the hangries. If you had a convertible purse, you wouldn’t have to worry about forgetting your wallet in another bag since your work bag could double as your purse at the same time.
Of course, maybe the above commuting scenario doesn’t apply to you if you’re one of the millions of Americans who have been working from home since the COVID-19 pandemic escalated to a global health emergency in March.
Even if you’re working from home, personal style should still be part of your daily routine. It’s good for your mental health, and puts you in a productive frame of mind.
Gone are the days when you have to carry two or more bags for each separate occasion or event. Now, your designer work bag is also your shoulder tote! The backpack you’ve been towing around all day can easily transform into an elegant purse for date night or after work drinks with your friends.
You can rearrange the straps on your convertible purse to create different types of bags in just a few seconds. For maximum efficiency, the bobobark convertible purse can convert into a purse, backpack, and briefcase. It also includes a padded laptop compartment, a dedicated phone holder with charging port, and a variety of pockets to keep your things organized.
By choosing a purse that is already designed for organization, you’ll be less inclined to stuff it with things you don’t actually need. For those instances where you might have unexpected items to toss in, a backpack purse holds everything you need with room left over for last-minute additions.
Best of all, the bobobark convertible purse is lightweight without compromising on space or durability. You can fit everything you need for your daily commute into the bobobark without it causing those dreaded back and shoulder aches. That’s because our cork material is 3 times lighter than leather. Don’t worry, our cork material bags are just as durable as real leather, so they can hold up to everyday use. Of course, you can’t load 50 lbs of gear into the purse and expect it to feel as light as a feather, but you’ll definitely notice a difference compared to heavier leather purses that are on the market.
Every savvy traveler knows that it's important to maximize space.
A convertible cork purse or backpack has a travel-friendly style that blends functionality with fashion. It’s an ideal accessory for any setting or circumstance, whether you’re on your dream vacation, or just going for a short day-trip.
Any digital nomad or jet-setter can tell you that it’s better to just pack for a week than to bring clothes and items for every possible circumstance.
Packing for every scenario will only weigh you down, no matter the destination. Lugging around a heavy, overloaded backpack or purse takes precious energy away from the fun experiences and lifelong memories you should be making instead.
Convertible purses are the perfect solution for a travel companion that can fit your needs wherever adventure leads you.
It can be used as a convenient carry-on purse for when you get on the plane. When you touch-down that afternoon, you can turn it into a backpack and pick up some souvenirs from the gift shop at the museum you spend time in that day. Later that evening, you can reconfigure the straps for a chic shoulder bag and head to dinner at that cafe downtown.
Having a convertible purse is traveling smart, and smart is the only way to travel.
A convertible backpack and shoulder bag has a million-and-one uses. You can save yourself hundreds or even thousands of dollars by just having one handbag that you can use in any given situation rather than having one handbag for each.
It’s wasteful and time-consuming to have all of those bags collect dust in your closet anyway. When you opt for a convertible purse option, you can spend all that money on fun stuff to do with it instead. A family vacation. Concerts with your friends. A hiking trip into the mountains. A weekend getaway at the beach.
Bonus: wherever life takes you, your convertible backpack purse can go, too.
Fussy toddlers may be unavoidable, but that doesn’t have to mean taking a hit to your style.
As a mom, you’re prepared for any situation. Snacks? Diapers? An extra set of clothing or two? Check, check, check. But carrying all those supplies has often pushed us into just embracing the need for a bulky diaper bag and an extra purse for your own necessities.
Thankfully, many stylish diaper bags are now available. Bobobark vegan purses have plenty of room for all the supplies you need for your kiddo and yourself. The bobobark convertible backpack purse keeps your parenting supplies organized (while adding some elegance to your #ootd.) Since it can also be worn as a backpack, you’ll have your hands free for your little ones at all times.
Convertible purses are convenient, stylish, durable, sophisticated, and incredibly useful. They save you time and energy that are better spent on your life priorities, and money that’s better spent on fulfilling experiences and opportunities.
Want a convertible purse that’s well-organized, sustainably made, and looks good to boot? The bobobark convertible purse backpack is the only bag you will ever need again.
Not all backpack purse combos are created equal, though! Some convertible purses out there aren’t the best fit for professional women. Here’s what you need to keep in mind when searching for a backpack purse combo that fits into a busy lifestyle.
Look for backpack purses that have padded compartments for both your phone and your laptop. If you’re going to be using your purse backpack combo for work, you’ll want a bag that’s both large enough and protective enough to hold your work laptop and any other devices you need to carry with you day-to-day.
Additionally, it’s no fun when you lose your phone in the depths of your purse. The larger purses are, the easier it is to lose important items inside. To combat this, make sure the purse backpack combo you’re looking for has a dedicated pocket for your phone so you always know where it is. Better yet, ensure that your backpack purse can easily open up for viewing and has a variety of storage compartments for all of your necessities. The bobobark convertible backpack purse (featured in the image above) opens up 180° so you can easily view all of your items at a glance.
Backpack purse combos like bobobark actually have device pockets that you can access from inside and outside of the bag, making them perfect for a woman on the go. You don’t even need to open the main compartment of your purse to access your devices, which is a huge plus if you happen to get an important phone call or text while your phone is stored in your bag. Finally, freedom from digging around the bottom of your purse, and from mystery cracks or scratches in your expensive screens!
With so much to carry, you don’t need the bag itself to weigh you down. When shopping for a purse backpack combo, look for material that’s lightweight and comfortable. Our cork purse backpack combo is 3 times lighter than other bags made of leather. It’s also just as durable, so you don’t have to choose between something that will last for a long time and comfort.
We all know that accessories, work materials, books, snacks, and whatever else we throw in our purse can add up over time. That’s why it’s so important for the material of your purse backpack to be as light as possible, especially for your daily work bag.
So much money is invested in devices (and all your treasured possessions!), so it’s important to keep them safe! Ensure the purse backpack combo you choose is waterproof, especially if you’ll be carrying around your work laptop or important documents.
We recommend keeping your important belongings protected from weather with a bag made from waterproof cork. It’s important to consider the raw material of the bag, even if it’s described as waterproof. For example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a popular water-resistant alternative to real leather that you’ll undoubtedly find when shopping online for a purse backpack combo. However, PVC is extremely prone to flaking and cracking due to wear and tear over time. A flaking, worn out bag is definitely not the polished look you’re going for in a designer work bag.
Cork material is a much better alternative for a women’s professional bag. Not only is it waterproof, but it’s extremely durable, PVC-free, vegan, and sustainable. It will not flake off like PVC and many of the other leather alternatives used to make handbags.
Never be without a full charge again! If you’ll be traveling in any capacity, a charging port is ideal to keep your electronics organized and ready for use.
If you use your phone for work while on-the-go, we’d recommend searching for a convertible backpack purse that has a charging port and a dedicated phone storage space. It really makes a world of difference in terms of organization and ease of use. A charging port and dedicated phone sleeve is one of those things you didn’t know you needed until you try it!
Look for a designer work bag that holds its structure when it’s empty and full. Some backpack purses don’t hold their shape, so they can easily look “stuffed” and lose their aesthetic as soon as you start adding in your necessities. A structured, handmade design allows the bag to hold what you need while retaining its elegant shape.
On the other hand, a bag without a structure can also look deflated and frumpy when it’s not full of other items to help it hold its shape. A purse backpack for working professionals should have the structural integrity to hold its shape at any capacity.
A deflated or stuffed bag can totally ruin your outfit. The bobobark was designed to flatter a woman’s silhouette regardless of when it’s empty, full, or somewhere in between.
Work is not life! You need a bag that converts as much as you do throughout the day. Stylish briefcase by day; chic shoulder tote for evening adventures; and a backpack for those times you can’t be bothered to have a purse swinging from your shoulders.
If you’re a professional woman who travels, you’ll really want to consider adding a purse backpack combo to your current collection of work bags or just switching to convertible work bags all together.
For any kind of travel, business or pleasure, the bobobark can be your carry-on, your briefcase, and your backpack. The best part is that it only takes a few seconds to switch around your convertible backpack purse to a fashionable tote and back again! If you’re interested, here’s a guide on how to wear your bobobark.
Styling a purse backpack combo is a breeze! If you need inspiration, take a look at some of our favorite style combinations for work and play.
A classic midi dress is the perfect combination of comfortable and professional to match your purse backpack combo.
This dress is a versatile garment that every woman with a capsule wardrobe should consider. A thick belt is great for enhancing your silhouette and cinching in your waist, but the beautiful thing about a plain midi dress is that you can style it however you’d like. Midi dresses are available in a variety of necklines and sleeve lengths, so you can choose the one that works best with your body shape.
Layer with tights and a winter coat for a chic winter weather look. For an autumn look, a midi dress pairs perfectly with scarves, ankle boots, and hats.
The bobobark convertible backpack purse pairs perfectly with a collared blouse and pencil skirt. For a chic, polished look like this model, go minimal with accessories and stick to crisp, neutral colors. A nude, strappy heel keeps things casual, but you could opt for a closed toe pump for a more classic look.
For something more vibrant, try a patterned blouse or statement necklace. If skirts aren’t your style, this same look can be re-created with slacks or dress pants.
Have an important meeting coming up? Turn this look into a power suit by adding a suit jacket in a bold color and some tights. Black is a timeless color, but any solid color that matches your outfit will work. Pair your suit with pumps or stilettos for a classic look, but stylish flats might make your commute more comfortable.
Don’t be shy to layer dark colors!
The bobobark comes in both matte black and forest green, which are both easily paired with all colors, shades, and patterns. A long, wool trench coat is the perfect cool weather staple to match a variety of business casual outfits. Pair your coat with patterns like plaid to add some variety and flair.
As always, heels add a polished finish to your outfit, but that doesn’t mean other types of footwear won’t work. Boots and flats would both pair well with this look.
What better to wear with your Parisian convertible bag than a beret? This quintessential French fashion icon is cozied up by pairing it with a warm cable knit sweater and a patterned high-waisted skirt. Add some black tights and ankle boots for a modern, yet elegant look. An off-the-shoulder sweater makes this outfit great for casual occasions, but you can easily opt for a different neckline for a professional look.
For something even more casual, opt for a sweater dress, thigh-high boots, a beret, and of course, your convertible purse!
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As you can see, backpack purses are versatile when it comes to fashion and function. Do you have a backpack purse already? Does it have all of the features we’ve covered today? If you don’t have a convertible bag yet, now you know what to look for when shopping for a new one!
You’re going to be relying on your work bag to get you through the day, so make sure you invest in the one that meets all of your needs.
That’s where we can help. We’ve compiled simple and inexpensive ways you can substitute reusable products for the ones that are tossed into the trash after just one use.
Just making a few changes can have a positive effect on this beautiful planet we call home.
The best way to change your habits is to take baby steps. We’ve become accustomed to the convenience of one-use items. But once you become mindful of the environmental impact of your actions, it will be much easier to change your habits.
Start with little changes. When they become part of your routine, add a few more. Here are a few small changes you can incorporate into your daily life that can make a big impact over time:
As people around the world learn about the impact too much trash has on everything from marine life to global climate change, they have begun choosing environmentally safe products. Research in the Harvard Business Review shows people are now looking for eco-friendly products. Paying attention to the materials used in the products you purchase is an important first step.
But why stop there?
Reusing products instead of purchasing new ones can be beneficial to both the environment and your bank account. Check out these five ideas for replacing single-use products with reusable items.
Can you imagine going through the day without dishwashing detergent, liquid hand soap, or laundry detergent? The answer is probably, no. Unfortunately, that adds up to a lot of plastic bottles.
That’s where glass jars enter the picture.
Depending on where you live, you might have a local refillery close by. If so, take empty containers with you to the store and fill them from large containers in the store. You could even reuse the disposable plastic bottles that were originally filled with soap a few times.
Many zero-waste stores which feature bulk liquids are located in London, Berlin, Vienna, Barcelona and other major cities in Europe. If you live in the United States, here’s a handy chart that lets you search by individual states to find stores where you can bring your own containers to fill.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 14.5 million tons of plastic containers and packaging were generated in 2017. Reducing the number of plastic bottles you purchase every year is a great way to help the environment.
Counters look nicer. You can purchase reusable items that match your décor. Or, buy a pump lid for a mason jar and turn it into a soap dispenser. Either way, it looks nicer than having plastic bottles of dish detergent and hand soap next to your kitchen sink.
Products are healthier. Often the soaps and detergents you purchase at a refillery are eco-friendly products, free from chemicals and toxins.
How do you drink smoothies, milkshakes, and many other beverages without a straw? It's practically impossible! Since straws are much smaller than plastic water bottles, you might think they’re not really that harmful to the environment. But it’s their small size that makes them harmful. Plastic straws are too lightweight to be easily recycled.
These thin plastic tubes are extremely popular. Approximately 500 million straws are used daily, which according to National Geographic means an estimated 8.3 billion plastic straws pollute the world’s beaches. The Ocean Conservancy tells us that straws are listed as one of the top 10 items often found during beach clean-ups and they can kill seabirds, marine animals, and fish.
Switching to silicone straws is one of the easiest ways to help the environment.
As more stores and restaurants decide to ban straws, it makes sense to carry your own. Starbucks is eliminating plastic straws from all stores worldwide. Several countries including Scotland, Taiwan, and parts of Canada have already banned plastic straws, and states throughout the U.S. are considering similar legislation to limit the use of plastic straws.
Join a movement. As more corporations hear customers say, “No thanks, I don’t use plastic straws,” they are more inclined to follow the other companies who have banned the straws. Think of the impact that would be made if everyone did this!
Teach by example. Children learn by watching our actions. Something as simple as carrying your own straws gives you a chance to start discussing the benefits of using reusable items with your children. This lets you encourage them to start using reusable things to help the environment.
The list of battery-operated items you depend daily is enormous: Flashlights. Children’s toys. Cordless power tools. Wall clocks. Home smoke detectors. Cordless computer mouse. Faucets with automatic sensors. And of course, cell phones and laptop computers.
Since our lives are so dependent on battery-operated devices, it means billions of batteries end up in landfills every year.
This is particularly damaging to the environment since toxic metals such as cadmium, mercury, lead, and lithium are harmful when they are tossed out in the trash. While some of these batteries are recyclable, not everyone does indeed recycle them. So, the chemicals leach into the ground.
According to sciencing.com, a secondary problem is how batteries are made. Disposable batteries are contributing to the depletion of natural resources and the manufacturing and transportation of disposable batteries emit pollutants into the atmosphere, leading to global climate change.
The good news is that rechargeable batteries exist for just about all the wireless devices we use routinely. Plus, rechargeable batteries are also recyclable. Enter your zip code here and you can find a public recycling location closest to you.
You’ll never run out of batteries. Once you get in the habit of keeping your batteries charged, it’s easy to have spare batteries around when you need them.
You’ll save money. Research shows that rechargeable AA and AAA batteries, “almost always last longer, cost less and reduce waste when compared to single-use batteries”.
The world changed for coffee lovers in 1992. That’s when the original single-serve coffee brewing machine, Keurig, hit the market. At first, Keurig was created for offices. A Keurig machine for home use became available in 2004. Today, it’s estimated that almost 25% of American homes own a single brew coffee machine.
Other single cup coffee makers are now on the market but a review of single-serve coffee makers still names Keurig the best option.
Everyone who loves the convenience of just making one cup of coffee instead of a whole pot sings the praises of this invention. This convenience, however, comes at a price for the environment. It’s estimated that the amount of K-cups (that’s the name given to the plastic pods used in a Keurig machine) currently in landfills could circle the planet more than 10 times.
If you have some disposable K-cups around, you can save them from the trash with a little creativity. Cover the hole in the bottom, fill with coffee and a popsicle stick and put in the freezer. In a few hours, you’ll have a coffee popsicle!
Once you make the switch to reusable coffee filters, you’ll be able to enjoy the convenience of a single-serve coffee machine without worrying about its detrimental effects on the environment.
Support local merchants. When you use reusable coffee filters, you can choose to buy your beans locally. If you stop for a coffee while you are out, why not pick up some fresh beans to grind at home?
Indulge your taste buds. Numerous brands make the disposable coffee filters, yet it’s impossible to find the variety of beans that a local coffee roaster has in a regular supermarket. Fill your reusable filter with a Hawaiian Kona, espresso roast, a New Orleans blend; the possibilities are endless.
Anyone with an eye towards fashion loves to keep track of trends. Fashion trends come in many varieties including style inspiration, hemlines, necklines, and seasonal wardrobe updates.
But this time we're talking about a trend with a greater purpose—online searches for sustainable fashion increased by 66% in 2018 and are continuing to grow. That’s a trend that makes environmentalists smile.
At bobobark, we state our commitment to sustainability on our Eco-Friendly Promise page. Not only are these beautiful bags made from all-natural cork, but the convertible backpack purse means you can use this one bag in three different ways. You purchase one bag and use it as either a backpack, a shoulder bag, or a briefcase. Plus, since it’s waterproof, you’ll never have to worry about the bag or its contents in even the nastiest weather.
According to the New York Times, fast fashions that are made from synthetic materials do not decay when they end up in landfills. Not only will your bobobark bag do the job of 3 different bags, but it’s craftsmanship and high-quality materials are made to last. It’s the complete opposite of fast fashion. If you’re looking for a reusable thing to help the environment, bobobark should be at the top of your list.
You’ll save time. Using one convertible bag means you won’t have to move your wallet, cosmetics, and other essentials in and out of various bags depending on where the day will take you.
You’ll feel elegant! The clean lines and geometric shape will elevate your style. Since it was designed to flatter a woman’s silhouette, it will also boost your mood every single day.
Looking for more ways to improve the sustainability of your daily routine? Check out our suggestions for eco-friendly lifestyle changes that make you more fashionable!
]]>Vegan leather is made from non-animal sources. It's meant to mimic the look and feel of animal leather without the ethical and sustainability issues that come from animal leather. Vegan leather can be made from synthetic or natural materials. For a leather to be truly classified as vegan, it must be 100% free of animal byproducts and animal labor.
Not all vegan leather is created equal. Only certain types of leather are truly considered eco-friendly. For example, bobobark only uses eco-friendly cork leather to create sustainable vegan purses.
Unfortunately, companies all over the globe try to greenwash their products as "natural" because they're made of vegan leather. Many of the top brands producing vegan leather handbags are not using eco-friendly vegan leather. Instead, they manufacture their purses and bags with polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Keep reading to learn more about plastic vegan leathers and more environmentally friendly alternatives.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Leather
PVC is a man-made synthetic leather that’s made from a combination of stabilizers, plasticizers, and lubricants. PVC is fairly durable and weather resistant, but it is prone to cracking. However, it’s usually available at an affordable price which makes it attractive to anyone looking for the “leather look” on a budget.
PVC is a major source of phthalates which can potentially cause health problems such as immune system damage, cancer, and hormone disruption. Green Peace calls PVC a serious threat to the environment. Due to the fact PVC is hard to recycle, it has one of the lowest re-purposing uses out of all plastics.
Polyurethane (PU) Leather
PU leather is considered more favorable when compared to PVC. It still requires fossil fuels to produce polyurethane and emits carbon dioxide during the production process, but it doesn’t produce the same dioxins that PVC does.
PU is commonly used for backings, coatings, and strengthening qualities in vegan leather. Even natural vegan leather is sometimes combined with PU. However, don't let the use of PU dissuade you from buying vegan leather. While PU coatings aren’t natural, they help increase the durability and longevity of vegan leather products, which helps decrease the amount of wasted products in the long run.
Cork is one of the most environmentally friendly resources on our planet. It’s harvested from the bark of cork trees and regenerates in approximately 9 to 12 years. Harvesting cork bark doesn’t harm the tree and it’s 100% biodegradable. In fact, harvesting cork bark helps the tree “breathe” by allowing it to absorb more carbon dioxide and release more oxygen. Cork bark can be used for a variety of purposes including vegan leather, flooring, clothing, shoes, insulation, and of course - wine corks!
One of the best things about cork leather is that it doesn’t require any chemicals or harsh finishing processes to turn raw cork into waterproof cork leather. As with most vegan leather products, sometimes cork leather is treated with PU to increase longevity and durability.
Vegan leather made from seaweed is made from renewable sources and is biodegradable. Using cellulose, a natural fiber in seaweed, researchers have been able to create a soft and breathable leather material. Companies that produce leather from seaweed have to ensure that strict environmental regulations are followed when harvesting seaweed from the environment.
As the name suggests, apple peel leather is made from apple peels. The apple peels are dried and ground to a powder. After that, the apple peels are mixed with a PU material to create a durable leather. Even though apple peel leather is mixed with PU, it’s still more sustainable than pure PVC or PU leather alone.
The leader in creating vegan leather from pineapple leaves is Piñatex. One of the strengths of leather made from pineapple leaves is its low carbon footprint. Pineapple leaves are often discarded as waste, which makes them perfect candidates for re-purposing into leather. However, pineapple leather requires a resin topcoat to ensure it can hold up to everyday use. Pineapple leather is generally biodegradable and sturdy. Some pineapple leather is coated with PU to increase durability, which means less products being consumed overall.
Mushroom leather is not made from the mushroom caps that you eat, but from small mycelium cells. According to BoltThreads, mycelium cells are grown on beds of organic material until they multiply into the billions and create a 3D network. After that, the cells are tanned and dyed. Mushroom leather is an excellent eco-friendly vegan leather alternative because it can be produced in a matter of days. Be aware that many companies create mushroom leather, but not all of them avoid using harmful solvents and coatings.
Waxed canvas is technically a canvas instead of a leather, but it does have similar qualities to vegan leather. Waxed canvas is highly durable and waterproof, which makes it an ideal alternative to leather for outdoor gear and apparel. Canvas is generally made from cotton or linen, but be careful - canvas can be made from PVC as well. Cotton products, while natural, require large amounts of water for production. If you’re looking out for the environment, it’s best to choose recycled or upcycled 100% cotton when you can.
If you can manage to find a recycled cotton waxed canvas product, it will likely last for years to come. Any spots that start to degrade can usually be fixed with another coating of wax.
Many synthetic vegan leather products will crack and reveal the synthetic leather backing after a few months of daily use. Natural vegan leather products perform a bit better, but you still have to be careful about which vegan leather you’re buying.
Not all vegan leathers are waterproof or durable. For example, leather made from seaweed is soft and supple, but not very durable. It might be a good fit for a leather jacket, but you’d want to stay away buying a wallet or purse made from non-durable leather. Cork leather and Pinatex are generally durable leathers that you can feel confident purchasing if you’re looking for durability.
The majority of natural vegan leather alternatives are eco-friendly. They’re usually free of toxins, are biodegradable, and take limited resources to produce. However, you still need to double-check when purchasing vegan leather that it’s not coated in PVC or sewn to a PVC backing.
Remember that the majority of vegan leather is made from PVC, which is not biodegradable and releases toxins that are harmful to humans and the environment. PVC in particular releases a troublesome amount of dioxins. Dioxins are released into the environment during the PVC manufacturing process and then go on to accumulate in the fatty tissue of animals. According to the World Health Organization, when humans are exposed to dioxins, they can interfere with the immune system, hormones, and cause cancer.
Cork leather is one of the most sustainable types of vegan leather. In fact, it's not only sustainable, it's also good for the environment.
First of all, harvesting cork helps the cork trees absorb more carbon dioxide from the environment and release more oxygen into the air. With the abundance of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere today, this is a huge help to our ecosystem.
Cork leather is also more durable than some of the other natural leathers, which are more supple than durable. We believe that a sustainable lifestyle includes using products for as long as possible, so we wanted to ensure that the bobobark would last for years to come.
We designed bobobark for busy women on the move. That meant we needed a leather that was both durable and lightweight. No one wants to be lugging around a 50lb purse every day, so cork leather was a strong contender. Lastly, we wanted bobobark to be accessible for all women who want a touch of luxury in their lives. Cork leather includes everything you could ask for in a convertible backpack purse: beautiful, affordable, durable, and lightweight!
We’ve done our best to ensure every part of the bobobark is truly eco-friendly.
If you have any questions about sustainability or our vegan leather, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d love to hear from you!
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