Chic Vegan

From classic to bohemian styles, MuiChic (pronounced: moo·ee·sheek) jewelry should be on the top of every ethical fashionista’s wishlist. This jewelry is a serious win all around! It is sustainable, organic, cruelty free, affordable and totally unique. Are you interested yet?

MuiChic jewelry is made from the tagua nut, a botanical alternative to ivory (a.k.a. vegetable ivory), is a seed that comes from the ivory-nut palm or tagua palm which grows in the humid tropical forest of South America. Its use stimulates the local economies in the region providing an alternative to cutting down rainforests for farming and also prevents elephant hunting and killing for their ivory. Thus, tagua can serve a dual function: helping to save the rare and diverse rainforest environment, and assisting with elephant conservation.  All MuiChic jewelry is assembled by women artisans in Bogotá, Colombia who earn fair wages in a safe, healthy and humane workplace.

Tagua Nuts... from rough shell to pretty pebble!

The Tazo necklace is perfect to give boho flair to an otherwise ordinary outfit. It is truly a unique statement piece and possibly a great conversation piece.

Tazo necklace, $34

Would look fabulous with:

Circle summer dress from Wet Seal,$26.50

Smartfish Navy Flats, $95

It’s a blob! On your finger! It sounds gross/weird but its really adorable.  I love chunky finger jewelry!

Blob ring, $20

Would look stupendous with:

Limerick Lass Dress, $124.99

Green Fedora, $28

These dangly, circle-y, fun ear decorations are a great finishing touch to any party outfit!

Trio earrings, $24

Would look marvelous with:

Red and Ruffled Peep-Toe Pump, $33

Sing Along Lace top, $40

I have a confession to make. I love sparkly, shimmery, shiny stuff.  It gives me instant ADD. “Oh yes that report on the physics of a porcupine was quite….omigod sparkles!” Nothing is better than the satisfying shimmer of sequins, faux diamonds (or real, ethically produced ones), glass, beads, or even tin foil! I think most women were cats in other lives.

Be warned, you should never wear more than one sparkly accoutrement at one time. It just doesn’t work. You will break the fabric of time and the universe will grind to a halt – or something like that.  Most of all it is a serious assault on the eyes. We can only handle one glistening treat at a time!
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I am a sucker for playful, custom jewelry. Anything that is imaginative or references childhood fascinations is noteworthy in my book. There is something about wearing a small piece of art that symbolizes a magical place in your heart or an old story, that makes you incredibly happy. I have many whimsical necklaces including one from Untamed Menagerie that says “curiouser and curiouser” and every day I wear it there is a little more magic in the air.

Etsy is overflowing with all of these things and more, including incredibly talented jewelry designers. Every time I peruse through the jewelry category I find myself making a  ridiculously long list of “I want”s and wearing out the “favorite” button.  Here are the best of the best from recent Etsy excursions. (more…)

Buying handmade goods always makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Maybe its the support of the little guy, or the creativity and love poured into each piece. It could also be the comfort of knowing that what you are buying hasn’t been made in a hot, dangerous factory by children working 14 hour days. Perhaps you love the feeling that what you are wearing isn’t being worn by every other girl in the coffee shop.

Whatever your reason is for buying handmade, its good enough. You can almost feel the love pouring out of your monitor while browsing Etsy. Everything is so…personal.

On a recent Etsy binge I stumbled across some creators that I fell in love with and I hope you will too. Here is some stuff that might help you transition to the fall with great peace of mind.
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Ruche is a fun little online boutique I found via Carly J. Cais’ post on ChicSteals. Ruche is chock full of feminine and flirty dresses, and quirky jewelry. The also have a nice selection of vegan handbags and shoes, and pieces made from organic materials.  Ruche is also hella cheap with not one item being under 50%, and shipping is a flat rate of $7. And to add to the cheapness, right now you can get 10% off your order by entering the coupon code CHICSTEALS at checkout.

Green Vintage Purse - This adorable bag is made from a soft faux leather.  I like the fact that it looks like a mini duffle bag, and has tons of pockets! (more…)

Embodies really embodies (sorry I couldn’t resist) the idea of a fashion forward eco and health conscious existence.  Everything that is sold on this site is beautiful, unique and of fantastic quality from many companies which pride themselves on a sustainable product. (more…)

Check out this super funky jewelry, delightfully named Vling.  Each charm is made from recycled vinyl records. Such a great way to re-use and be stylish! Vling also offers custom pieces for pretty cheap (starting at $30)!

My personal fave is this unicorn made from a special purple record:

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