Bras Not Required | This Ethical Loungewear is Made to Live & Sleep In

JJ Winks

A couple months ago, this brand sent me a few of their pieces and I have worn them A LOT. You probably have already seen their Hygge Robe in other posts :D psst.. here and here. But now it’s time to learn more about what makes this slow fashion brand so great…

Three Reasons to Love JJ Winks

You Can go Braless: YES! They have built in bras!! And they aren’t restricting at all. What they call their ‘light hug’, each top comes with a built-in bra that gives the right amount of coverage, yet ridiculously comfortable. As a breastfeeding mama, I’ve loved this feature. I can easily put in my cotton pads and they stay in place just great. It’s also rare I wear bras, and I’m now wishing all of my clothes had this!

Perfect for the Home & Around Company: Not only is JJ WInks the most comfortable to wear at home, you can have some friends over and not feel the need to cover up or ‘get dressed’. Or be like me, and leave the house to run some errands. I’ve worn my JJ Winks to the grocery store several times, and I like to wear them down to the beach and pool - if only I had these types of pjs in college! PJs you can get away with in and out of the bedroom is what I’ve always wanted!

Total Comfort with the Planet in Mind: This brand uses one of my favorite fabrics - Lenzing Modal. It’s a fabric, in my opinion, that offers the comfort cotton can’t while still being mindful of the planet and harvesting from sustainably grown Beech trees. I also always suggest this type of material to my friends who prefer not to wear silk - it has that smooth and sheen like appearance and it’s hard to find anything softer! Also, something very important to me is the way a garment washes. This particular modal washes very well, and the product feels just as soft as when it arrived at your door. Plus, all their pieces are made fairly right in the USA {Los Angeles}!

What I’m Wearing

The Weekender Top in Charcoal with Waffle Panel: Two features of this top I absolutely love - built-in-bra and easy to slide off shoulder to breastfeed! While this tee can pass as a basic, it has a few extras to make it much more special like its criss-cross back and flattering flutter sleeves.

The Walk of Fame Short in Charcoal: I like it when a pair of shorts sits a little above the waistline so you can avoid that pesky muffin top. Especially after having a baby, I just feel more confident when clothes flatter the waist area.

Hygge Robe in Grey Rib: This robe! I can’t even begin to tell you how perfect this piece is for the home. Like I said before, this is my go-to around the house {and I bring it with me when shopping to combat against the AC}.

Girl Trip Short Nightgown in Olive Rib: Olive is one of my favorite colors, and this nightgown is so comfortable to sleep in! I can just roll out of bed, throw the Hygge Robe on and go about my day like I really tried ;)

Where to Purchase

You can find JJ Winks entire collection online - here - & use code Natalie20 for 20% off your entire order!

Now, go get your JJs on <3

Sustainably Supported by JJ Winks. As always, all views are genuine & products are truly loved! Help support the brands who support Sustainably Chic, so I can continue to bring you the best in sustainable fashion, beauty & lifestyle :) Thanks, everyone! #sponsored

A Brand After My Own Heart, This Zero-Waste & Ethically-Made Clothing Brand is Helping Solve Some Major Issues within the Fashion Industry

tonlé

Where Every Thread Matters

I'm not sure I can even think of another brand who does zero-waste fashion this beautifully. It amazes me how they can take discarded fabric and create something so fresh. There is definitely a lot of thought put into each design, and it takes a truly creative team to make this all possible.

Three Reasons to Love tonlé

Zero-Waste: If you aren't familiar with the zero-waste strategies within the fashion industry, there are two popular ones {1} where all the materials are used within a pattern {2} where garments are made from existing materials. tonlé believes in combining the two in order to honor their commitment to sustainability to the fullest. The process isn't at all glamorous, but worth every step. They start in remnant material markets where designers and brands have sent factory castoffs. {this is why I mentioned the creativity of the design team – you really have to have an innovative mind for this task} The fabric found in these large markets are then cut into strips for the new tonlé garments. They take the remaining strips and cut them down smaller and individually hand sew them into yarn which will then be woven into clothing and accessories.

Ethically-Made: Currently, tonlé employs 30 talented people within their Phnom Penh workshop in Cambodia. Their workers earn fair wages and benefits, including lots of extras like vacation packages, free lunch, training opportunities and team retreats. They even have the opportunity to rise up into management positions. tonlé also works with a weaving cooperative in Northern Cambodia employing 20 artisans who are experts in their craft for over 20 years.

Thoughtful Design: Their production process is a unique one, and truly makes the product even more stunning. The aesthetic is, of course, beautiful, but the way they create is what makes it exceptional. You can find a complete list of their production practices here. Like I mentioned with their zero-waste initiatives, nothing is left uncounted for. Even their smallest scraps are made into recycled office paper and sticky rice for their hang tags!

What I'm Wearing

Srey Oun Sweater in Palm & Black: Probably one of the most unique sweaters I’ve owned, the Srey Oun is handwoven from naturally dyed recycled cotton yarn and strips of remnant cotton jersey. Those little black tabs you see are those remnant pieces! How cool is that?! This sweater is a wonderful piece for multiple seasons because it’s lightweight enough to wear on its own and then great for layering when the cooler months set in.

Sreylek Trouser in Black {currently only in grey}: Officially my favorite black pants, the Sreylek Trousers are extremely versatile. They are basically an upscale jogger so they can pair well with flats, heels or sneakers. With the fitted ankles you are able to easily adjust lengths, and they are SO comfy {even when made from remnant cotton jersey}. Makes you happy someone decided to pick the fabric up before going into a landfill! By purchasing this pair of slacks, you are saving 480 days of drinking water and avoiding 21.6 miles of driving emissions & .5 lbs of harmful pesticides.

Where to Purchase

You can find their entire Fall/Winter Collection – here – and don't forget to stay up-to-date with the best zero-waste fashion on Instagram.

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Sustainably Supported by tonlé. As always, all views are genuine & products are truly loved! Help support the brands who support Sustainably Chic, so I can continue to bring you the best in sustainable fashion, beauty & lifestyle :) Thanks, everyone! #sponsored

Capsule Wardrobe, Minimalist Palette, & Upcycled Fabrics, Tribe Alive’s New Autumn/Winter Collection is Taking Sustainable Fashion to a Whole New Level

Tribe Alive

I’m always interested to see what Tribe Alive comes out with next! I’ve loved getting to know this brand over the past year or so, and their quality and design is absolutely exceptional. Do you remember seeing the beautiful Classic Stripe Jumper last year? Well, they outdid themselves again this season ;)

Three Reasons to Love Tribe Alive

Designed by women, Made by women. Tribe Alive has partnered with talented artisans in Guatemala, Haiti, India, Honduras, and Fort Worth, Texas to employ at-risk women with fair wages. Besides offering a reliable wage, they provide them a safe working environment and the power to choose their own future. Transparency is a key part of Tribe Alive. Therefore, they make sure to work on site at all their manufacturing locations world wide in order to know exactly where the products are coming from.

Timelessness. With the minimalistic designs and easy color palettes, Tribe Alive pieces will be able to carry with you no matter the trend, as well as transcend all the seasons. They create their entire collection as one capsule, and with each new collection, you are able to merge them together seamlessly.

Textiles. With the Autumn/Winter 18 Collection, their textiles are more sustainable than ever. Using recycled and slub cotton fabrics, these natural textiles are sure to freshen up your closet while reducing your carbon footprint {because who can enjoy fashion when they know it isn’t kind to mother earth?}. These cottons are easy to wash and very breathable for maximum comfort throughout the day.

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What I’m Wearing

Split Neck Top: This is one of those tops I can wear a few different ways for a very different look. It looks effortless with a little tuck in the front with a wider leg pant {or worn untucked for an even more casual look}, and I’ve been getting away with it as a small tunic with leggings around the house! Created entirely from up-cycled material, this cotton top is in handmade in Guatemala, and features a large front pocket and open sleeves.

Everyday Pant: I don’t believe in no white after labor day! These pants are perfect for anytime of the year. The elastic waist and wide legs make them extremely comfortable, and they are great to wear all day long - so think, travel ready! They are handmade in India and have two handy front pockets.

Figure Necklace: Handmade in Honduras, this 18kt gold-plated brass necklace makes a statement without being too dramatic. It’s modern, geometric design works perfect for a minimalist. Their entire new collection of jewelry is absolutely beautiful and is inspired by Tribe Alive’s love of clean lines.

Where to Purchase

You can find the entire AW18 Collection online - here - & don’t forget to stay up-to-date with all the beautiful photos and designs on Instagram.

Sustainably Supported by Tribe Alive. As always, all views are genuine & products are truly loved! Help support the brands who support Sustainably Chic, so I can continue to bring you the best in sustainable fashion, beauty & lifestyle :) Thanks, everyone! #sponsored

A Boutique with a Conscience, Green Roost is Thoughtfully Curated for the Mindful Shoppers

Green Roost

The feature this week is a special one to me... Green Roost is nestled on the same street where my mom owned a fabric and sewing machine store for over a decade. Coming from a small Virginia town, I was so excited when Culpeper got their first ‘green’ store! I didn’t have that growing up there, and it may have sparked my interest in sustainability at an earlier age so I can only imagine what it has done for the current community and their mindfulness!

Three Reasons to Love Green Roost

They make gift giving green. It all began with a local entrepreneur, Sharon Clark, who wanted to provide Culpeper with a unique gift shop full of kind-to-the-earth gifts. What started in a 250 square-foot space is now located in a space 10 times the size on the most charming street. Kelsey Carlson Settle, Sharon’s niece, is now the owner and operator of this beautiful and thoughtful space. 
No sacrificing of style or quality. From the beginning, Green Roost wanted to prove to the community you could make conscious choices when purchasing gifts for others and not have to sacrifice quality or style. I hear it time and time again, purchasing ‘green’ doesn’t appeal to someone because they haven’t had an aesthetically-pleasing shopping experience in the past. Most towns aren’t as lucky as Culpeper to have such a wonderful spot. Since most of you will only be able to shop online through Green Roost, you won’t be able to have the hands-on experience {you should see their windows during the holidays}, but it would make any conventional shopper turn green!
Their beautiful range of mindful brands. Products are carefully handpicked always with the consumer and planet in mind. They have everything from women’s clothing to home decor, along with some great gifts for men {who can be so tough to buy for eco-wise}. I have a handful of great things to share with you, today! 

What I’m Using

Comfy Knit Throw: Officially our snuggle blanket go-to, this throw is made with GOTS certified organic cotton for ultimate comfort. Elliott and I have enjoyed many cozy nights together in this ethically made and fair trade certified blanket. It’s one I highly recommend to add to your living room! 

Fox Zipper Pajamas: He’s just too cute in these organic cotton pjs! Not only are they made with a great eco fabric, they empower former child soldiers and orphans from DR Congo and Uganda to heal and become leaders of peace through Exile International. 

Combat-Ready Baby Wash: With a name almost as adorable as Elliott during his bath time, this safe & non-toxic baby wash is handcrafted from plant extracts and organic natural oils. It works well on all skin types, including eczema and other skin issues. I know Elliott’s skin loves it! 

Combat-Ready Balm For Babies + Kids: Made with quality organic, natural and locally-sourced ingredients, this baby balm is a natural skin cream helping sooth an array of irritants like diaper rash, eczema, bug bites and dry skin. Elliott tends to get dry around his eyebrows, and this stuff works great at moisturizing the area in a safe, yet effective, way.

Relaxing as Hell Bath Salts: Because Elliott isn’t the only one who is getting pampered here ;) I’ve truly enjoyed my baths since he has been born. They are few and far between, but totally appreciated. The name says it all, the Relaxing as Hell Bath Salts are all natural and scented with essential oils. Not to mention, they come in a pretty little glass bottle I’ll be sure to reuse after. 

Guac Star - Soothing Avocado Hydration Mask: This magical fruit really does do so much for the body! I’ve been starting my mornings with this guac mask {it’s great chilled in the fridge} because the avocado butter, extract and oil delivers key fatty acids to the top layer of my skin helping protect from environmental stresses. Plus, my skin feels so moisturized and soft afterwards! 

Sarah Houston Photography

Where to Purchase

If you are lucky enough to live around Culpeper, Virginia, you can go visit their brick-and-mortar downtown on East Davis Street. Not to fret - everyone else can shop right online - here - & don’t forget to follow them on Instagram for updates on new products!

*You can use code SUSTAINABLE for 15% off your entire order*

Hope you enjoy joining their Roost :D
 

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Sustainably Supported by Green Roost. As always, all views are genuine & products are truly loved! Help support the brands who support Sustainably Chic, so I can continue to bring you the best in sustainable fashion, beauty & lifestyle :) Thanks, everyone! #sponsored

Fair OOTD | Weekend Wheels

It’s been a while since I’ve taken my beach cruiser out of storage. My pregnant and postpartum body has needed a little break from biking, but I think I will be able to get back into the swing of things in the next month. For now, it’s long jogs {okay, fast walking} on the beach with my amazing Speed Stroller and some great fitness wear perfect for Florida weather. 

Shop the Look:

Barbara Essential Multi-Sport Tech Capri, Perspective Fitwear $100
Not only are these the most comfortable workout pants I own, they also come equipped with SPF 50+, a back pocket AND extra seat padding for when I take my bike back out. I love how the Barbara Essentials come up around my waist to support, yet, flatter my post-baby figure. They are made right here in the USA with a signature fabric that has a four-way stretch for ultimate comfort. The COOLMAX® fabric is breathable, moisture-wicking, fast drying and feels like butter. Unlike other fabric used for fitness wear, this kind is biodegradable. The average pair of work out pants will take about 200 years to decompose, while this one takes 3-4 years. Now, that’s something we can all jump up and down about! *bonus points for new mamas: the bike padding can help with that postpartum leaking*

Neven Low Sneakers, Yatay $222

Speed Stroller, Bumbleride $569
 

Sustainably Supported by Perspective Fitwear. As always, all views are genuine & products are truly loved! Help support the brands who support Sustainably Chic, so I can continue to bring you the best in sustainable fashion, beauty & lifestyle :) Thanks, everyone! #sponsored