Swan Song

When I started this blog there was a real need to get information out about fashion, consumption and the environment. I am pleased to say that these issues have come to the mainstream and my efforts are no longer needed. So it is with great joy that I make this final post. 

Don't worry. I will keep blogging. I have 2 other ideas and I hope to start them soon. It has been my pleasure to converse with you. Please visit my website often and do keep in touch. 

-- till we meet again Restore, Recycle Refresh & Renew

More green outlets

You've heard of etsy, but how about the Greek contender, Yiouco which features only items that have been created through upcycling, recycling, or reuse. Featured in Springwise, this site uses a similar easy storefront model. Currently, there are no fees, but they will institute a fee structure in Spring 2011.

Retail therapy is calling... What better thing to peruse on another icy, snowy day in the northeast.

--till next week, Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew.

Closet clean out

New year, new you! Rcently, I have started to clean my closet out in January. It is an odd time I know. Most people clean out in the spring and fall when they change over. I do that too, but more recently I have gotten into the habit of cleaning out in January and donating clothes in honor of MLK day. It all started several years ago with my on air clothes swap through Nexus Radiio.

This year I was able to clean out and consign to a new gem in Northern Liberties, Once Worn. This consignment shop rocks! The Demographic is ripe for my cast offs and i have found some great finds there too. I have a smashing pair of Michael Kors knee high lace up black suede boots that I scored for $60. Truly from "These Boots Are Made for Waliking." I get paid monthly, on time and so I am converting some of my best stuff to cash, helping local business and recycling! Win, win, win.

I was also able to donate career clothes to my favorite local charity, the Career Wardrobe. They. Have a clothing drive every 3rd Wednesday of the month and since they have also started a retail reuse shop, this donation has gotten much easier. I get a tax break, help women in need who are returning to the work force and recycle! Win, win, win.

Today I got news of a Local women's clothing giveaway to benefit Darfour. This could be my next win, win win if only I can find some more items to get out of my closet;)

-- till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Lost gloves - what to do?

I hope it is 10AM somewhere since I missed my self-imposed post time today! Oh well here we go.

It is winter in my neck of the woods and that means lost gloves and found gloves. Artist Miyako Kanamori serves up the perfect solution to recycle the singles. Instead of Sock friends how about Happy Gloves Charming Softy Friends Made from Coloful Gloves! 

Using simple cuts and stitching and a lot of the Japanese concept of kawaii, Kanamori fashions an entire neighborhood of friends and accessories out of one or 2 knit gloves. 

I just got this book yesterday and kismet had me find a sad glove this morning. I hope to turn that sad glove into a happy glove this week. Riffing on Kanamori's concept and adding my darker twist, I think my first Happy Glove friend will be a punk or gothic rat - my sad glove is covered with skulls;) 

What a great way to reuse those solo gloves. Thumbs up (pun intended) to Kanamori. Keep your eyes out for lost gloves and turn them quickly into found friends.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Green lights

Happy New Year to all. If you live in Philadelphia,lighting your closet just got complicated. The new year meant electric rate deregulation - So many choices and a bit confusing. In the end, Peco charges will only increase by about $5/month, but consumers have the opportunity to purchase electricity from renewable sources like the Energy Cooperative Association of Pennsylvania. This means consumers can vote with their dollars and send a message to the industry.

For more information check out:
PA Powerswitch
Peco Answers

Closed for the Holiday

The Closet is taking a holiday break. Enjoy the season and check back January 4th for more green news.

I wish you a happy and healthy!

--till January 4th Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew

Green Holiday Options

Here's another idea for a Green Holiday brought to you by Valerie Keller at BigTeaParty.

What do you say when your pals want to know what you want them to buy you this holiday season? Check out the Alternative Holiday Gift Registry.

--till next week Restore, Recycle, Refresh & Renew