ISSUE 28 Winter 2013 / 14
SMART. SEXY. SUSTAINABLE.
PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF
ANNA GRIFFIN
managing editor GUEST EDITOR AT LARGE CREATIVE DIRECTOR DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIa
heather carter MELANIE MULLEN adriano vanni leah forrant
ART DIRECTOR
boom nuanual
DIRECTOR OF TRANSMEDIA FASHION DIRECTOR
KAREN SNYDEr SARAH GRIFFIN BERNS
FASHION EDITOR JOHANNA BJÖRK BEAUTY DIRECTOR
brandie gilliam
BEAUTY EDITOR MEGHAN AUSTIN MEN WE LOVE EDITOR TRAVEL EDITOR NEW YORK EDITOR
ERICA J. EDDINGS NICHOLA ZED SASS BROWN
LONDON EDITOR GARY KINGSNORTH NEXT GEN EDITOR
ERIN SCHRODE
CULTURAL EDITOR JODIE DALMEDA features editor CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
CELEBRITY EDITORS
beth doane courtney gerring kelly gallagher leah forrant zem joaquin ASHLAN GORSE NIA PEEPLES
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS POPPY CROSS LAURISA TRUEMPER KAREN SNYDER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS JEFFREY FITERMAN MARK GRGURICH MALLORY MORRISON WARDROBE DIRECTOR KEY MAKE UP ARTIST CONTRIBUTING MAKE UP ARTIST KEY HAIR STYLIST CONTRIBUTING HAIRSTYLISTS
PATRICIA TRINIDAD JULIANE KAYE SIMON RIHANA BRIAN BOWMAN KIP ZACHARY
COCO ECO MAGAZINE is published by Coco Eco Magazine. Copyright 2008-2013 Coco Eco Magazine. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without the written permission of the Publisher.
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CONTENTS
The winter issue ISSUE 28 Winter 2013 / 14
editor EDITOR’S LETTER
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CONTRIBUTORS
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Coco Eco Editor LOVES winter glam
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by anna griffin
fashion 16
all punked up
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FASHION EDITOR LOVES resort style
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BEAUTY HOLIDAY GIFTS
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SPOTLIGHT ON BEAUTY KARI GRAN SKINCARE
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TIMBERLAND: DELIVERING MORE 52 THAN JUST DURABILITY By COURTnEY GERRING
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men we love
beauty
BEAUTY director LOVES best beauty breakouts 2013 By BRANDIE GILLIAM
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By JODIE DALMEDA
By KELLY GALLAGHER
PAUL WALKER, LASTING LEGACY BY HEATHER CARTER
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ECO CHIC UGANDA . THE PEARL OF AFRICA
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take action
ECO CHIC RESORT: BORGO EGNAZIA
By BETH DOANE
NEXT GEN EDITOR LOVES GIVE, SHARE, LOVE, CELEBRATE THE RETURN OF PAUL WATSON
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ECO CHIC RETREAT: URBAN ESCAPE
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ECO CHIC AMSTERDAM By NICHOLA ZED
feature editor loves the best of europe
By ERIN SCHRODE
go
By POPPY CROSS
BY JOHANNA BJORK
WINTER WONDERLAND
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By BRANDIE GILLIAM
By ERICA J. EDDINGS & KELLY GALLAGHER
life by beth doane
LEADERS FROM THE HEART
By JOHANNA BJORK
sPOTLIGHT ON FASHION the 365 challenge
CHOCOLATE GINGERBREAD COOKIE SMOOTHIE
By anna griffin
BY BRANDIE GILLIAM
Angel in the water
BY sass brown
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By LAURISA TRUEMPER
By ANNA GRIFFIN
ReFashioned, ReDesigned, ReUsed
coco eco editor loves beauty essentials
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event THE CONSUL GENERAL OF CANADA HONORS DALIA MACPHEE
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THE GREEN GATSBY
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by Anna Griffin
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by anna griffin
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LETTER TO YOU As we put this issue to bed, I am reflecting upon the last twelve months. 2013 has been a big year of change in every area of my life. I have experienced great losses, huge gains, and been frequently surprised along the way. Change is never easy and for me has required tremendous determination, faith, hope and courage, but I exit this year a different person from when I entered it, and all for good. I have grown. My word for 2013 is change, which leads me to a vital lesson learned and my word for 2014, choice.
It’s all beautiful, but some of my favorite features include Winter Wonderland, our beauty story (as seen on the cover), featuring the stunning collaboration between Maison Martin Margiela and Atelier Swarovski. We have two diverse fashion pictorials; Angel in the Water, photographed under water and showcasing evening wear, and All Punked Up, an urban girl’s twist on punk, shot in Downtown LA. There’s also an abundance of travel in this issue, with diverse destinations from Uganda to Amsterdam, Big Sur to Italy.
In thinking back through the events of this year, I am considering each circumstance, how I handled it, and what I learned. Some situations happened as a direct consequence of a choice I had made. Others were curve balls and pure tests of my character, providing me an opportunity to choose how I would react, and therefore impact the eventual outcome. The point is this. In every area of our lives we are presented with the opportunity to choose, whether it is our mindset, our relationships, our health, our happiness or our career path. It is in our hands, and we have the power to exercise it at any given moment, directly affecting how our life occurs, and those around us. With that in mind, what a brilliant and motivating opportunity to start a new annual chapter, utilizing this gift of choice, and create a truly great year.
We hope you enjoy this edition, and thank you for your support this year. We appreciate you, and on behalf of the entire Coco Eco family, I wish you a happy holiday. May 2014 be great for us all! Warmest,
Anna Griffin Editor In Chief, Coco Eco Magazine
I am thrilled to share this very special Winter issue with you, and it is a pure testament to our gifted and passionate team.
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CONTRIBUTOR highlight
Brandie
beth
erin
heather
Beauty Director
Features Editor
Men We Love Editor
Managing Editor
Passionate about healthy non-toxic products that really work and a beautiful lifestyle, Brandie is on a mission to dispel the myth that natural and organic is only for granola eating tree huggers through her popular blog—Organic Beauty Talk. She is part of Lucky Magazine’s favorite bloggers in their Lucky Style Collective and her work has been published in Organic Spa Magazine, LuckyMag.com and D Magazine’s ShopTalk. An accomplished academic, Brandie believes that knowledge is power and power is the opportunity to influence and inspire.
Beth is the founder of Raintees, an environmentally and sociallycaused fashion label, and has devoted her life to humanitarian causes being featured in National Geographic, Glamour, People, In Style, and many other top-tier publications. She authored an award-winning children’s book entitled ‘From the Jungle’ (2012), and her message of how hope, innovation and social change can transform us and our world has captivated audiences at TEDx, The United Nations, universities across the globe and companies like Google. United Airlines nominated Beth a “hero” for her achievements, and celebrity photographer John Russo featured her in his book, 100 Making a Difference, alongside Michelle Obama.
Born and raised in the DC Metropolitan Area, Erica grew up with creativity as her best friend. She enjoyed making up stories to share with her younger brother, and expressed herself through the arts in high school and college.
Heather Carter, is a Los Angeles based Writer and Journalist. Born in the United States but raised in the United Kingdom, Heather returned to the states to study Journalism at Arizona State University before becoming a part of the Coco Eco Editorial team. Her passion for eco living and humanist issues combined with her appetite for all things political lends a forward leaning voice to her Take Action features.
GilLiam
OrganicBeautyTalk.com @OrganicBeautyTk
doane
j.eddings
Now a resident of Los Angeles, Erica continues her creative exploration in her writing. Along with contributing to Coco Eco and developing scripts, she writes daily for her two blogs, The Talking Reel and The F Word.
carter
Committed to service, Erica currently works at City Year, a non-profit committed to reducing the nationwide high school dropout rate. She believes in the ripple effect, and the power of humanity.
kIP
leah
Contributing Photographer
Key Make-up Artist
Contributing Hairstylist
Director of Social Media
Jeffrey was born and raised in Minnesota, and started taking photos at the tender age of six, when his father gave him a 35mm camera and said, “Go do something.” From then on it was photography all day, all the time, 24/7.
With over 16 years of experience, Julianne Kaye has established herself as the go-to expert for all things beauty. Her work has be seen on the red carpet, in print features [including Harper’s Bazaar, Rolling Stone, and Shape Magazine], TV commercials, music videos, films, and more. Julianne has also been featured in outlets such as Access Hollywood, Allure Magazine, and Teen Vogue. Julianne’s work has been seen on celebrities Britney Spears, Kate Hudson, Eva Mendes, Sophia Bush, Nicole Richie, Kelly Osbourne, Scarlett Johansson, and Madeleine Stowe. Most recently, Julianne was the on-camera makeup artist and official Maybelline Beauty Expert for the NBC series “Fashion Star” starring Louise Roe, Jessica Simpson, John Varvatos, and Nicole Richie.
As a young boy Kip Zachary found his passion for the beauty and fashion industry. He created scrap books filled with magazine clippings featuring the faces of super models and celebrities. Little did he know one day he would be in the right place at the right time, and apprentice Scott Barnes emerging him into the world of A list celebs. He then managed Scott’s Los Angeles makeup and hair studio where he took his abilities to a new level. Since then Kip’s work has been featured by Vogue Italia (.com), London Times Magazine, Status Magazine, AnnexMan Magazine and America’s Next Top Model (Cycle 20). Kip is now sought after by Hollywood celebrities whether it’s on perfecting their look for the red carpet, television appearances or photo shoots. Kip is represented globally by CloutierRemix.
Los Angeles based Contributing Editor and Social Media Director, Leah Forrant, is the newest addition to the Coco Eco team. Leah is the epitome of the forward thinking, and an eco conscious modern woman. Hailing from a small town in Massachusetts, she moved to Los Angeles ten years ago and never looked back. Her passion for writing and all things beauty and fashion as well as her love for the planet, are her driving force behind uncovering the latest eco trends.
FITERMAN
After honing a keen sense for lighting and mood while attending Brooks Institute of Photography, Jeffrey went on to work with clients ranging from Britney Spears, Jane Iredale Cosmetics, Intercontinental Hotel Group, Nailpro and Hydrogen Magazine.
www.jeffreyfiterman.com www.russellbaer.com
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JULIANE
His quest for perfection in beauty and portraiture continues to be his passion (along with the ever elusive perfect barbeque sandwich).
www.bethdoane.com
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jEFFREY
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KAYE
Zachary
forrant
www.juliannekaye.com www.kipzachary.com
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coco eco
COCO ECO | BEAUTY
Sprout Watch Continuing their partnership using Swarovski’s lead-free Amethyst Advanced crystals, this biodegradable corn resin, natural Mother of Pearl, and mercuryfree beauty, will take you from day to night, in holiday style. $75 www.sproutwatches.com
Timberland Stratham Heights Tall Boot The perfect winter boot for girls on the go, the Stratham Heights combines cold weather necessities with city style. Waterproof leather with a 100% PET lining and 15% recycled rubber sole, being eco-chic has never been so easy. $169.99 www.shoptimberland. com
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EDITOR LOVES
Olie Biologique Huile Moderne 004 Hydrating Oil A light, subtly scented blend of powerful organic and essential oils excellent for skin and nails. Fast absorbing, and packed with anti-aging and hydrating properties. Hydrating, healing, wrinkle smoothing and mood lifting. What’s not to love? $68 www.oliebiologique.com
CURATED BY: Anna Griffin, Editor in Chief
Beautiful, chic and ethical. some of my favorite things for winter and beyond.
Delivre Daily Nourishing Moisturizer This cell regenerating moisturizer contains an exclusive ingredient Polyfulmate, the key to ultimate “skin love.” Rich in botanicals, proteins, minerals and essential oils, it fades the signs of aging, diminishing wrinkles, age spots, skin discoloration, whilst nurturing a healthier, restored, and more youthful, radiant appearance. A little bit of beauty magic in a jar. $85 www.delivreskin.com Organic Glam Limited Edition Jasmine For a limited time the sensuous Jasmine Fragrance comes with an indulgent shimmer of real 24 Carat gold. Capturing the luscious fragrance of Jasmine blooms in spring and summer, this uplifting scent is reminiscent of warm moonlit walks and Mediterranean nights. Enough to cure the winter blues. $269 www.theorganicpharmacy.com
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Atelier Swarovski by Maison Martin Margiela Cuff in White Resin and Crystal Jewelry as art, this beautiful cuff is part of a collaboration between Atelier Swarovski and Maison Martin Margiela. A stunning collection of couture and ready-to-wear jewelry pieces made from Crystalactite, that fuse Margiela’s raw aesthetic with Swarovski’s sparkle. $2395 www.ronrobinson.com
Stella McCartney Falabella Tassel Small Tote Turn heads rocking out the ultimate in eco-luxury this season, with the silver Falabella. Tassels and silver chains complete the look, and this musthave piece for any serious fashionista’s closet. $2,385 www.stellamccartney.com
Organic Glam Make Up Bag & Gift Set What says holiday more than the perfect red lip and nail, and bold, long lashes? The perfect gift for every girl wanting a little glamor in her life, in a chic make up bag to keep you glowing all season long. $145.90 www.theorganicpharmacy.com FASHION BEAUTY | 15
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LIKE AN ANGEL IN THE WATER Like an Angel in the water, “Hart of Dixie’s” Claudia Lee is ethereally draped in Dalia MacPhee’s vegan, imported chiffon and lace gowns, to raise awareness for our world water issues, with a percentage of each dress sold benefitting water.org www.daliaonline.com
Written by Anna Griffin Photography by Mallory Morrison BABY BLUE LACE CAP SLEEVE DRESS www.daliaonline.com 16
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STRAPLESS RED CHIFFON GOWN www.daliaonline.com 18
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STRAPLESS MAUVE PETAL DRESS www.daliaonline.com 20
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STRAPLESS FRENCH LACE ORANGE GOWN www.daliaonline.com 22
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SHORT RED LACE DRESS WITH OVER SIZED BELL SLEEVE www.daliaonline.com 24
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STRAPLESS PEACH CHIFFON GOWN www.daliaonline.com
SHORT RED LACE DRESS WITH OVER SIZED BELL SLEEVE www.daliaonline.com 26
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ONE SHOULDER LEMON CHIFFON GOWN WITH BACK TAIL www.daliaonline.com 28
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PUNK it UP !
Top: Johan Ku Skirt: Johan Ku Cuff: Deepa Gurnani Rings: Andrea Gutierrez Shoes: Penelope & Coco
Classic elements of tartan, cashmere, tweed, embroidery and lace, are given an urban edge. For those times when a girl just wants to punk it up! Story by Sarah Griffin Berns Styling by Patricia Trinidad Photography by Mark Grgurich Assisted by Alex Hou Styled by Patricia Trinidad Make Up by Simon Rihana Hair by Brian Bowman Digital Tech by Michael Courtney Art Direction by Megan Warden
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Sweater: In My Air Skirt: Katharine Kidd Necklace: Hovey Lee Shoes: Milk & Honey
Top: Deborah Lindquist Skirt: Johan Ku Necklace: Viento Cuff: Deepa Gurnani Shoes: Milk & Honey 32
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Sweater: LIV Los Angeles Skirt: Katharine Kidd Necklace: Hovey Lee Shoes: Milk & Honey
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Amelia Dress: Korovilas Shoes: Milk & Honey Madison Coat: Katharine Kidd Shoes: Milk & Honey
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Amelia Top: Katharine Kidd Pants: Katharine Kidd Shoes: Milk & Honey
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Dress: Dalia MacPhee Boots: Timberland Cuff: Andrea Guitierrez Rings: Andrea Guitierrez
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Dress: Dalia MacPhee Watches: Sprout
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Websites Andrea Gutierrez :andreagutierrezjewelry.com Dalia MacPhee: daliaonline.com Deborah Lindquist: deborahlindquist.com Deepa Gurnani: deepagurnani.com Hovey Lee00 : hoveylee.com Johan Ku: johanku.com Katharine Kidd: katharinekidd.com Korovilas: korovilas.com LIV Los Angeles: liv-la.com Milk & Honey: milkandhoneyshoes.com Penelope & Coco: penelopeandcoco.com Rachael Cassar : rachaelcassar.com Timberland: timberland.com Viento: vientonyc.com Sprout: sproutwatches.com www.cocoecomag.com
mother of pearl swarovski lead free crystals biodegradable corn resin natural bamboo
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www.sproutwatches.com
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EDITOR LOVES
Resort style for your winter gettaway. Bright color, vibrant patterns and anything-but-boring essentials.
Falling Whistles Vintage Brass Necklace Falling Whistles works toward ending the war in Congo, the deadliest of our time. Child soldiers too young to carry guns are sent into the jungle armed with only a whistle. The organization uses the whistle as a symbol of protest and advocates the need for whistleblowers to speak for peace and stand up for human rights. By purchasing this necklace, you’re supporting Falling Whistles’ work toward building a global coalition to demand peace in Congo and investing in Congolese visionaries. $58 fallingwhistles.com
Sunshine Tote by Pelcor Leave the winter gloom and the somber handbags at home and opt for a sunny, cheerful tote bag instead. This yellow one by Portugese label Pelcor is roomy and has an inside pocket for your phone. And, for the vegans out there, it’s made with cork instead of leather — sustainable and stylish. €78, pelcor.pt/en
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Customizable Sandals by Mohop Whenever I pack for getaways, shoes are always the problem. I want to bring way too many, but don’t like checking a bag. Mohop has found a clever way to solve this problem. Their Moped flats have loops at the sides that allow you to thread any ribbon through to instantly change the style of the sandal — genius! It comes with seven different ribbons, but with a bit of imagination the possibilities are endless. $84 mohop.com
Samui Hammock by Yellow Leaf A good hammock can provide an instant dose of vacation inspiration. Bring it with you to wherever you’re going, or why not hang one inside if you’re staycationing. Custom design a hammock in any colorway you want, and Yellow Leaf’s team of skilled Thai artisans will make it just for you. $179 yellowleafhammocks.com
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Heritage Straw Panama by Goorin Bros. A good sun hat is a must-have for any warm-weather vacation. Goorin Brothers is a family company that has been making hats since 1895, so they’ve had some time to perfect the art. This Panama-style straw floppy hat, called the Olga Guillot, features an elegantly subtle hand woven pattern and a traditional grosgrain band with a bow — stylish sun protection. $140 goorin.com
Big Star USA Denim Shorts Big Star USA is a true heritage brand, that creates meticulously crafted jeans in true vintage Americana style. I love the fun Hawaiiana-inspired tie dye pattern of these shorts — perfect for instantly transporting you into R&R mode. $75.60 bigstarusa.com
CURATED BY: Johanna Bjork, Fashion Editor & Founder of goodlifer.com
Rachel Roy + Piece & Co. Make-up Case Designer Rachel Roy has teamed up with Piece & Co. to create an affordable travel collection (all pieces retail for under $40), that helps empower women through employment and provide artisans in the developing world with sustainable livelihoods. This makeup case holds all your travel essentials. $30 rachelroy.com
S’well Water Bottle in Sparkling Champagne I carry a water bottle with me everywhere I go, and this stylish one from S’well is my current favorite. It’s BPA-free, made from nontoxic, non-leaching stainless steel, and keeps drinks cold for 24 hours or hot for twelve. A portion of the proceeds are donated to non-profit WaterAid. I love the shimmery champagne colored finish, and the fact that it holds an entire bottle of wine. $35 swellbottle.com
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ReFashioned, ReDesigned, ReUsed The Designers Using Other People’s Leftovers to Create Cutting Edge Fashion. WRITTEN BY: Sass Brown, NY Editor
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One of the constant dichotomies of working at the intersection of fashion and ecology, is the problem of consumption, and by default, the waste it creates when the season has ended and the style no longer desired or fashionable. Fashion by its very nature is about consumption, making conscious consumption an important ecological choice, purchasing treasured, quality, stylish designs that you can cherish for seasons on end, instead of discard at the end of the season, having bought it on a whim, and never having worn it. Even then, there is the challenge of what to do with your purchase once it’s reached the end of its life. We have a long way to go before we manage to consciously dispose of all our unwanted clothing and textiles without burdening the environment. An entirely feasible proposition, it requires the recontextualization of waste, instead as a resource. To use nature as an example, the end of season leaves are not merely discarded, but instead used to fertilize next season’s growth. Clothing and textiles are almost entirely recyclable. Damaged and worn quality garments can be redesigned and remade, while low-grade textile waste can be used for building insulation. Cotton and wool fibers can be shredded, mixed with new fiber and respun, while polyester can be melted down and reconstituted. There is actually no reason why textiles should end up in landfill, or be incinerated. Textiles sent to landfill constitute a particular problem, as polyester and other synthetic materials do not decompose in a scalable timeline, and wool emits methane, a major contributor to global warming. Manufacturers and designers in the mainstream fashion industry discard an average of 15% of materials en route to production. That is 15% of waste at every stage of development, from fiber to finished garment. Wasted fiber right from source; cotton left unpicked, fleece burned due to poor market prices, mistakes and errors at the weaving and knitting stage, damaged dye lots, textile overages, production left overs and damaged finished garments, all of which constitute pre consumer waste. Then there is the post consumer waste of unwanted and damaged worn garments. Approximately 20 billion garments are purchased each year in the US alone, of which more than 80% end up in landfill. The average lifespan of a piece of clothing is generally considered to be
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3 years, with fast fashion considerably less, with some items literally thrown away and worn only once or never worn at all. There are as many solutions to textile waste as there are types of waste, each with their own special challenges, and each with examples of designers and brands that have surmounted those challenges with style. One of the most noted designers working with pre consumer waste, is London’s Orsola de Castro’s From Somewhere. Working with some of the finest manufacturers in Italy, De Castro reimagines and refashions cutting-room scraps and textile mill swatches into fun, playful, well-designed dresses and separates. Through her collaboration with Speedo, From Somewhere also produce limited production runs, through the donation of unused ‘dead stock’ materials from Speedo’s banned LZR racer suit. This unique collaboration saw Speedo respond to a problematic situation when their world-record beating swimsuit was banned by FINA, the governing body of competative swimming, with this inspired solution, turning a challenge into an opportunity. Other designers have achieved success through similar stategies, such as London Fashion Week’s New Gen Designer of the Year, Christopher Raeburn, who specializes in sourcing military and direct from mill, dead stock fabric. Sourcing materials like surplus Danish military blankets, Eurostar and Virgin airways textiles, his designs are renowned for their technical capabilities and design details, combined with a functional, fashionable edge. Danish brand R.ds work with some of the premier Italian men’s wear manufacturers to produce simple unconstructed pieces recut from factory textile waste. All manufacturers end up accumulating ‘dead stock’ fabric; left overs, canceled orders, textiles bought or dyed in colors no longer desirable, or in Speedo’s case, materials no longer suitable for their intended use. Branded and luxury textiles are often incinerated to protect the brand image, while others are sold to textile retailers, as a means of generating cash flow, and liberating storage space. Just as there are inspired examples of designers working with pre consumer waste, there are just as many working with post consumer waste. DANIS DEISNGER Reet Aus for example reconfigures damaged textiles into a new patchwork fabric, which she then uses for her stylish designs. Welsh brand Raggedy,
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reconstruct garment waste by sewing destroyed scraps of worn out clothing into a crazy patchwork of new materials. It takes artisanship to coordinate multiple fabrications of varying colors, textures and pattern, and make an attractive whole out of an uncoordinated mess. Other designers such as Viennese label km/a take tiny shreds of simple cotton T-shirt jersey, and construct beautifully tailored jackets and coats from the patched and pieced scraps. There are of course other less obvious sources of post consumer waste, not that of garments, but other materials such as sailing boat sails, army tents, hot air balloons, post office sacks, farmers flour sacks and domestic textiles like curtains, napkins, tablecloths and mattress ticking. There is a host of designers working highly successfully with the reutilization of these materials. MAYER Peace collection in Berlin, produce a edgy fashion forward collection from vintage farmers flour sacks; with the graphics, farmers names and holes, adding as much value to the finished piece as the workmanship involved in producing the new designs. Similarly British bag designer Tamara Fogle produces an exquisite collection of bags with the best of British craftsmanship from vintage military materials, tents, mattress ticking and quilts. The stories embedded in post consumer waste, the honoring of the past, and the history and heritage of textiles is where the true value lies in designing with used and vintage textiles. One of the greatest losses as a result of fast fashion, is that of our material connection to our world, the lack of knowledge or understanding of who made our clothing, where the textiles came from, and what those people and places look like. The response to that is to tell their stories, to show the people and places involved in garment manufacture, or in the case of pre and post consumer waste, to tell the stories around the textiles history and heritage. Even when the details are lost of the who and the where, the stains and the holes tell their own story. There is a comfort to the knowledge that the stain on the flour sack jacket is from years of wear and tear, and the honest labor of the jackets past life on a rural farm.
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Timberland: Delivering more than just Durability.
Written by: Courtney Gerring, Contributing Editor Photos by: Timberland
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In today’s globally connected and fashion sav v y world the majority of us relate one par ticular iconic product to a brand. An iconic product typically combines just the right amount of style with practicality but what if that iconic product delivered more than what the consumer perceived. When Coco Eco caught word about the green initiative behind Timberland, we instantly knew that we wanted to get the real facts behind their stand on sustainability in the fashion industr y. So we dug a lit tle deeper into the mind of Stewar t Whitney, Vice President and Managing Director, Timberland- Asia Pacif ic. There are many fashion brands sweeping the fashion scene with marketing taglines focused on sustainability, sustainable production, etc. Of cour se they may be sustainable in terms of how they impact the environment but what sets Timberland apar t is that they actually consider sustainability as par t of their core business practices. The four pillar s of Timberland’s sustainable business practice:
Stewart Whitney
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1. Climate, the impor tance of protecting the great outdoors. The brand was founded in the hear t of a community that revolves around nature and the company believes strongly in energy efficient processes. 2. Timberland creates products by utilizing organic and recycled materials. The brand believes in green innovations for product development, without sacrificing on comfor t, quality, price and per formance. The brand has created an innovative process that uses recycled PET from bottles and has kept 78 million plastic bottles out of landfills to date. 3. A fair and safe workplace for all factories globally. 4. Paid community ser vice, or in the eyes of
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Timberland, a Path of Ser vice™ Programme. Since 1992, the company offer s full time employees 40 paid ser vice hour s and par t time employees 20 paid ser vice hour s each year. Stewar t likes to call this “ser v-a-pooloza” and he literally shuts down the complete Timberland off ice and shif ts the focus to tree planting. Since 20 01 just under a million and a half trees have been planted in Inner Mongolia. By 2015 it is projected that 2 million trees will be planted. The four pillar s of sustainability are built into Timberland’s business model and this is just one way in how the company generates value towards their consumer s. They have created a triple win for the environment, the consumer and the company, while maintaining the same product quality and durability. Timberland believes in providing a product that meets consumer’s style needs and in order to activate this they have created the SPG formula: Style, Per formance and Green. According to Stewar t, “ Style is obviously the most critical element, as consumer s want to purchase something that looks good.” But it is also impor tant to under stand that per formance is almost as equally impor tant and combined with just a touch of the green element brings us to the SPG formula, in which ever y Timberland product is built on. Stewar t’s take on the SPG formula, “It is a unique combination set of elements and it is a well positioned formula for the future.” We couldn’t agree more! Timberland is on the front line of product innovation and not only do they have a stellar formula to guide them along the way, but they have successfully conquered the green index labeling across all of their products. The green index labeling is a key process within Timberland and it shows just how transparent the brand is to their consumer s. The green index labeling is based on a scoring from 0 to 10 and is a key indicator of a product’s impact on the environment. One of the greenest products in Timberland’s collection today is the Hookset Handcraf ted collection. It is a proven fact that consumer s in today’s society are not just looking for products that look great but they want to know that companies are sustainable. On the occasion of the 40 th Anniver sar y of Timberland’s iconic yellow boot the brand focused their campaign on best then and bet ter now. “The yellow boot was a game charger for the company,” states Stewar t. It was the f ir st waterproof and durable boot created at the time and has proven again and again to be a timeless product combined with quality and
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COCO ECO | FASHION
IMAGES BY: SS14 Collection Mens Stewart Whitney SS14 Collection Womens Yellow Boot Pair:
craf tsmanship. Today the iconic yellow boot contains 42% recycled rubber from tires, this rubber is referred to as green rubber. Timberland has found the secret to leveraging this green initiative without sacrif icing style and per formance the yellow boot and most impor tantly per formance. So why bet ter now? A specif ic CSR agenda has been put into place and the ongoing product innovation that the company prides themselves on is not going any where. Stewar t stated, “It’s all about under standing consumer’s needs and combining style with per formance and ultimately creating green per formance.” The iconic yellow boot is what drives the business and is a true statement piece but in 20 06 the company launched the Ear thkeeper s collection. The Ear thkeeper s collection originated as one product and from that a complete family of products was built to produce the greenest product collection completely dedicated and focused on utilizing recycled materials. The Ear thkeeper s collection was a revolution during that time and was a bold and grand move for the brand, one of which turned out to be ver y successful. Timberland is a rugged and ref ined brand that has built a sustainable business model, encouraging community ser vice work and a clear under standing of the impor tance of green manufacturing combined with the intermix of recycled materials. The brand has built a global platform all while leveraging local resources and making a difference in local communities. Thanks to the development and grow th of digital platforms like Coco Eco, a broader and global communication platform is forming. The digital revolution has allowed brands such as Timberland to share their business philosophy and green footprint to the world, allowing consumer s globally to see that Timberland is not just about creating durable statement pieces but they are communicating that green product innovations do exist and they exist in commercial brands. Of cour se while never sacrif icing on style, per formance and ver satility.
IMAGES BY: SS14 Collection Mens Stewart Whitney SS14 Collection Womens Yellow Boot Pair:
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COCO ECO | SPOTLIGHT ON FASHION
For all of 2013, Christina Dean, founder of Hong Kong based non-profit Redressed, wore nothing but dumped, discarded or donated second-hand clothes. The concept — ‘redress it, don’t bin it’ — was designed to promote the possibilities of actually wearing the clothes we already have, inspiring us to keep clothing “out of landfill and in the fashion loop.”
365 Challenge the
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“The idea for the challenge came about because I was standing on one of Hong Kong’s giant landfills, watching as all these rubbish trucks were queuing up, ready to dump their trash into the landfill,” Dean says. “I realized that whatever effor ts the fashion industr y takes to make the production of clothes more sustainable, it’s urgent that consumers take drastic measures to decrease the amount they throw away.”
COULD YOU GO A YEAR WITHOUT BUYING ANY NEW CLOTHING? WRITEN BY JOHANNA BJÖRK Fashion Editor & Founder of Goodlifer.com Photos by Luke casey
Each month was given a different theme and, because Dean herself was not (yet) that interested in fashion, twelve fashion stylists were enlisted to help create unique, inspiring looks for her to wear ever y day. The stylists provided some tricks of the trade to help prolong both the functional and fashionable lifespan of our clothing, which, in Dean’s case, was sourced from various second-hand sources, with suppor t from recycling organization Friends of the Ear th. During the course of the year, Dean developed a new appreciation for fashion. “I’m surprised that I have fallen in love with fashion for the first time through this project,” she says. “I have never been someone who loves the creative and expressive side of fashion. But through having worn so many
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arrange of outfits. Covering stylish basics avoids purchasing piles of un-needed and un-matchable items, helping to keep your wardrobe (and landfills) well managed. The main things I kept in mind while rummaging through the shocking piles of quality throwaway clothes was ‘quality and feel’.
COCO ECO | SPOTLIGHT ON FASHION
S T Y LI S T: TA NI A R ENEI R T
diverse clothes, many of which are not my usual taste, I have come to find a real emotional attachment to the feelings that fashion conjures. This has fueled my interest in this area because if people can learn to love true fashion, creativity and quality, they will become more in tune with sustainability.”
1 // QUALITY OVER QUANTITY
DO IT YOURSELF
Tania is co-founder of an online eco-boutique, a compulsive traveller and occasional yogi. She was born in Moscow, brought up in Spain, educated in London and is now settled in Hong Kong. Having learnt about the dirty business of fashion, Tania with her partner Sam (who she met through blogging) decided that there must be an alternative. After failing to find an online store that combined ethics and aesthetics, they decided that they spotted an opportunity and so A Boy Named Sue was born.
how to Build a Timeless, Lovable Wardrobe
“ I think really the best advice I could give is to go through your wardrobe, check out what you have in there, what you like, what you can repair, what you can restyle and basically learn to love what you already have.”
w w w. r e d r e s s . c o m . h k
by Tania Reinert, January Stylist & Founder of A Boy Named Sue Identifying your key wardrobe essentials ensures that your wardrobe is able to blend into a wide arrange of outf its. Covering stylish basics avoids purchasing piles of un-needed and un-matchable items, helping to keep your wardrobe (and landf ills) well managed. The main things I kept in mind while rummaging through the shocking piles of quality throwaway clothes was ‘quality and feel’.
“ I think its been an amazing way to bring more awareness to the consumer and make them more mindful about their shopping habits and also about the amount of clothes out there that are being thrown out.” -
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Tania Reinert
It’s not rocket science. One very good quality leather jacket or a merino wool V-neck will last many seasons, whereas fast fashion will be ready for disposal in a few months, at best.
2 // FIND YOUR ESSENTIALS
Different things work for different body types so there are no golden rules. My best picks: Shorts, black/grey skinny jeans, navy or grey blazers, statement jacket, chunky vneck in grey and navy, fisherman knits, leather biker jackets, a good coat, two three silk shirts long enough to be worn untucked, but with a possibility of being tucked in. Choose five to six items from the list above and build your wardrobe around the key pieces.
3 // AVOID BEING TOO BLING
When buying new pieces (or getting them from secondhand stores) think whether his piece goes with things in your wardrobe. Avoid things that are too trendy, too loud or have too much sparkle. Golden rule: if the piece doesn’t go with anything that you currently own — avoid it.
4 // CHOSE A COLOR SCHEME
Select a color scheme that suits you, with one for winter and one for summer. It’s always easier to work with 3-4 colors. Remember, ‘Simplicity makes your life easy’. If the colors in your wardrobe go together, I promise you will have less of those ‘I have nothing to wear’ moments. My favorite combos: - Grey / Navy / Cream / Copper - Grey / Navy / Red / White - Red / White / Cream / Black - Khaki / Black / Navy / Grey
5 // LEARN YOUR PROPORTIONS
We all have different body shapes and not knowing what suits you best will lead to clothes being dumped into landfill. My main tips: - Shorts suit almost every shape - Wedges (for the lazy) or heels (for the hardworking ones) always make you look more elegant - A silk off white or navy shirt saves any situation - Skinny jeans and flats are a lethal combination that only suits people with skinny legs
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promote the ‘Redress it, Don’t Bin it’ concept. Geneva, author of ‘DIY Fashionista’, shared (whilst we trialed) some of her top tricks to rework unwanted garments into straight-off-the-catwalk looks. We were impressed by how simple tricks, like cutting off a blazer’s stained and ill-fitting sleeves and re-dying a tired white skirt using tea bags, can completely ‘redress’ a discarded garment.
COCO ECO | SPOTLIGHT ON FASHION
ST Y L I ST: GE N E VA VAN E R Z E I L
After a successful year, the project will continue in 2014.
DO IT YOURSELF
create NEW Geneva’sfrom OLD
10 PROJECTS FOR DIY-ing
by Geneva Vanderzeil, April Stylist, Founder of A Pair and a Spare & Author of DIY Fashionista
1 // WHITE SUIT
5 NGE
Before BEFORE
stains up one arm.
us are propelled into last minute wardrobe worries, with impulse g up being only suitable for just a few short days during our holiday. w simple tips, you can turn yourself into a seasoned holiday packer ent (and your back) by reducing your luggage weight — simply by ms through restyling.
Before
3 // BLACK JACKET
After
gap between the two back panels and a series of black elastic straps were inserted at the back.
DIY DIY performed: Theperformed: arms were w w w. r e d r e s s . c o m . h k removed. The sleeves were removed. Top tip: Before cutting the back Top tip: When middle panel out, make sure you Topremoving tip: the sleeves, make one gentle slit with draw a straight line on the back removing makewith onea long ruler and a scissors intoWhen the stitching that the sleeves, panel attaches the arms to the jacket and tailor’s chalk gentle slit with scissors into the stitching to get your straight then tug and tear away the sleeves lines. When positioning the elastic attaches the sleeves to the jacket carefully fromthat the body. Finishing straps, lay out the elastic to allow it is key to this and to keep qualityto flatten and relax before attaching thenthetug and tear away the sleeves look. them onto the garment.
After
carefully from the body. Finishing is key to this to keep the high-quality look.
2 // BURBERRY LOOKALIKE JACKET
lance and e Are icked ands, ovide vices. entele Men’s Virgin ment rently She great
Called ‘Get Redressed,’ it will invite others to join the challenge and share highlights and tips on Instagram. Januar y kicks off with LBD (Little Black Dress) month.
Possible reason for Discarding: Possible reason for discarding: Thiswas white suit was in style and A back portion of This white suit outdated in outdatedDIY performed: style and oversized with speckled theup jacket removed, leaving a oversized with speckled stains onewas arm.
AFTER
D recycling warehouse in London with stylist, Reemé Idris, to create f 16 garments and 3 pairs of shoes that would satisfy one month of n UK, cycling in France, and a glamorous voyage to Italy.
Geneva Vanderzeil is DIY fashion creative who is notorious around the globe for her blog, A Pair and a Spare. She is an avid believer in a creative approach to unwanted fashion items that result in fashion revitalization. Geneva, who is usually based in Hong Kong and from Australia, recently wrote her book, entitled ‘DIY Fashionista’ and she features in Harper’s Possible reason forregularly discarding: Bazaar and Vogue amongst This was an oversized jacket that Before many leading international didn’t have any shapefashion or style. magazines.
Ready to say ‘out with the new, in with the old’?
4 // DENIM SHIRT
divide & conquer PACKING for tr avel
Possible reason for discarding: This good condition basic denim shirt was quite uninteresting and baggy.
Before
Possible reason for discarding: This classic trench coat was outdated by its full length.
by Reemé Idris, August Stylist & 7 // DIVIDE & CONQUER THAT SUITCASE Founder of We Are {The Collective}
bring a spare cloth bag for dirty laundry. I place toiletries in the front compartment and carry any jewelry and accessories in my hand luggage. It might sound quicker to ‘just throw’ things in your suitcase, but I’ve learned that my systematic packing method saves the most time whilst travelling, especially if you’re staying in more than one place.
After
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Top tip: Cutting out shapes is a fun and easy DIY makeover. Before you start cutting, it is the best to mark the cut-out shapes with a tailor’s chalk. If you drew the shapes wrong, don’t worry - just brush off the chalk marks gently and start again. After
w w w. r e d r e s s . c o m . h k
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instagram.com/GetRedressed & redress.com.hk
DIY performed: Shoulder holes cut out.
DIY performed: Hemline altered to mid-calf length.
Top tip: When altering a hemline, it’s best to wear the garment I pack with a similar sense of organization that I use to prepare a fashion yourself and ask a friend to do your shoot. After laying out my options and getting annew idea of my outfits, I place pinning to your desire length. w w w. r e d r e s s . c o m . h k If you bend down to do your own and books in my clothing in one side of the suitcase and my shoes, bags pinning, your new hemline will be the other side. I use cloth bagswonky! to segment bikinis and underwear and
“ It’s been an amazing personal journey this year,” Dean says, “but now I’m going to be inviting other people to join me, because its time for everyone to get redressed.”
w w w. r e d r e s s . c o m . h k I pack with a similar sense of organization that I use to prepare a fashion shoot. After laying out my options and getting an idea of my outfits, I place my clothing in one side of the suitcase and my shoes, bags and books in the other side. I use cloth bags to segment bikinis and underwear and bring a spare cloth bag for dirty laundry. I place toiletries in the front compartment and carry any jewelry and accessories in my hand luggage. It might sound quicker to ‘just throw’ things in your suitcase, but I’ve learned that my systematic packing method saves the most time whilst travelling, especially if you’re staying in more than one place.
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COCO ECO | BEAUTY
Winter Wonderland With bold red hues, whimsical textured braids, rich sweet plums and sparkly grown-up glitter, you’re bound to want to play in this season’s winter beauty wonderland. Story by: Brandie Gilliam, Beauty Director Photography by? Jeff Fiterman Make Up by: Julianne Kaye Hair by: Kip Zachary Model: Alli Cripe, Photogenics LA Jewelry by: Jewelry by Maison Martin Margiela Crystalactite for Swarovski Available at Ron Robinson/Fred Segal, Los Angeles www.ronrobinson.com
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COCO ECO | BEAUTY
Santa BABY Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow in Royal Velvet Goes on smooth and blends to perfection all day long. $19
Organic Glam Photo Finish Antioxidant Pressed Powder Infused with green tea and Vitamins A,C, and E for a flawless finish. $69
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Glamorous and sophisticated, strong eyes and red lips make this look both naughty and nice.
Organic Glam Liquid Eyeliner in Black, Create dramatic lines with this liquid mineral rich liquid eye liner. $33.95
Organic Glam Lipstick in Red Rich and creamy, Shea butter, castor oil, green tea, grape, lemon and orange nourish and protect. $38
CRYSTAL FUSION PENDANT www.ronrobinson.com
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COCO ECO | BEAUTY
Jingle braid rock
Add a bit of whimsy with textured braids and luminous contoured cheeks.
Rahua Hair Wax $32 Creates height and definition while adding control and manageability.
Acure Organics Marula Oil Keep hair shiny and soft as well as relieve split ends. $15.99
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Madara Colour and Shine Shampoo, Gently cleanse and add shine to color-treated hair. $15.91
W3LL People Luminist 56 bMineral Glow Gives cheeks an allday luminous glow. $23 BEAUTY | 73
COCO ECO | BEAUTY CRYSTAL FUSION CUFF www.ronrobinson.com
sugar plum fairy
Feel magical this time of year with sweetly lined eyes in plum and burgundy lips.
Jane Iredale White/Pink Highlighter Pencil Highlights the inner corner of your eyes and instantly wakes tired eyes. $15.50
Jane Iredale Longest Lash Mascara in Black Ice $33 Thickens and lengthens with defined buildable volume. 74
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Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow in Violet Eyes, Long-lasting, smooth and easily blends to perfection. $19
Vapour Organic Beauty Siren Lipstick in Torrid Nourishing and moisturizing with 70% certified organic ingredients. $22
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beauty
COCO ECO | BEAUTY
director LOVES Ilia Lip Gloss One of the best lip glosses around with an ultra smooth application that keep lips soft and hydrated. Comes in 5 gorgeous colors and you’ll want every one. $24 http://iliabeauty.com/ collections/lip-gloss
May Lindstrom The Honey Mud This pudding-like treat gently infuses your skin with active enzymes and nourishment while restoring your optimal hydration and individual rhythm with a delicious chocolate scent. $80 http://maylindstrom.com/ the_honey_mud.php
Osmia Organics Deodorant Cream Perfect for travel and throwing in your purse or gym bag, this deodorant cream goes on smooth for lasting odor protection throughout the day. $12 http://www.osmiaorganics.com/bestdeodorant-women
Tallulah Jane Room Sprays Makes everything around you smell divine and gets rid of the toughest odors on the spot. $28 https://tallulahjanenyc.com/ Room_Spray___Kateri.html
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RMS Beauty Buriti Bronzer A sheer cream bronzer without any orange, pink or grey that gives just the right amount of warm, glowing sun-kissed skin. Works on all skin tones and doubles as a luminizer for darker skin. $28 http://www.rmsbeauty.com/shop/ product12.html
CURATED BY: Brandie Gilliam, Beauty Director & Founder of organicbeautytalk.com
New to the scene, all of these breakout beauty stars have made their mark in 2013.
Kjaer Weis Mascara Darkens, lengthens and long-lasting all with a lovely rose scent. Plus, it’s refillable. $38 http://kjaerweis.com/ store/eye-shadow-1/ mascara.html
S.W. Basics Hibiscus Mask Made with just 3 ingredients, this facial mask smooths and detoxifies in a really cool burgundy color. $22 http://store.swbasicsofbk.com/ products/hibiscus-mask
Kari Gran Skincare New to us in 2013, this 3-step skincare system has risen to the top when it comes to luxury eco beauty that works. $30-$95 http://karigran.com/skincare/the-kg-system.html
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coco eco
COCO ECO | BEAUTY
EDITOR LOVES
Derma E Vitamin E Intensive Therapy Delivering unparalleled moisture, antioxidant protection and nourishing skin benefits to rescue and restore even the most severely dry, flaky, itchy, cracked or damaged skin, Intensive Antipodes Joyful Hand & Body Cream Therapy features naturally Glorious summer berry flirts with South Pacific hibiscus flower sourced full-spectrum Vitamin E, to enchant the trials of everyday life with moments of fragrant offering more complete healing joy. Nutrient-rich avocado oil delivers an immediate boost of benefits and soft, hydrated skin. abundant skin nutrients to dry, tired and stressed skin. $12.95, www.dermae.com $36, www.antipodesnature.us
CURATED BY: Anna Griffin, Editor in Chief Some of my essential beauty favorites from 2013, that will keep you looking and feeling fabulous all winter long.
Zoya MatteVelvet Nail Polish in Posh Zoya Nail Polish is BIG5FREE - all formulas are completely free of harmful industrial chemicals such as toluene, camphor, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) that are known to cause cancer and birth defects. Get all of the color and all of the glam with none of shine. $10, www.zoya.com
Jane Iredale Disappear Concealer with Green Tea Extract Disappear won’t just cover breakouts but will also help them to disappear permanently. Liposome-based formula Green tea extract is an antioxidant, and has also been documented to combat acne bacteria. Promotes faster healing time for pimples whilst nourishing with seaweed and green tea extracts. $30, www.janeiredale.com The Organic Pharmacy Rose Plus Marine Collagen Complex An intensive treatment aimed to make skin 10 years younger by targeting the collagen and elastin in the skin. Rose Plus Marine Collagen Complex can be used to help prevent premature ageing, whilst healing, nourishing, firming, repairing and protecting against free radicals. $225, www.theorganicpharmacy.com
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Nourish Replenishing Organic Argan Oil This precious blend of nature’s most hydrating and nourishing oils is packed full of essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants. This multi-tasking formula can be used to soften dry skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, soften cuticles and help seal split ends. Great for every day use, this oil blend is fast absorbing and ultra-nourishing. $19.99, www.nourishorganic.com
Aveda Dry Remedy Daily Moisturizing Oil Made with organic buriti oil, Dry Remedy Daily Moisturizing Oil penetrates hair to instantly increase moisture by 41% without leaving behind any greasy residue. Lightweight, it leaves an instant luxe feeling on the hair, delivering superior moisturization both inside and outside. $27, www.aveda.com
Josie Maran Cosmetics Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 Weightlessly moisturizing with 100% pure Argan Oil, this Tinted Moisturizer shields skin from UVA and UVB rays, leaving skin protected and glowing. The slight tint provides sheer coverage for a flawless, polished complexion, without the heaviness of an opaque foundation. $38, www.josiemarancosmetics.com
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COCO ECO | BEAUTY
Chocolate Gingerbread Cookie Smoothie WRITTEN BY: Written by Laurisa Truemper, Contributing Writer The warm spicy scent of ginger and cinnamon floating through the air from a fresh batch of gingerbread cookies evokes the holiday spirit in everyone. While a cookie may not be the healthiest option, a beauty-infused smoothie version of this holiday treat will leave skin glowing and radiant. Consider this pure skin nutrition in a convenient glass. Smoothies, especially green ones, are f illed with vitamins, minerals and nutrients that are pre-digested by the act of blending. Vegetables and fruits are full of f iber that will act as little brooms to sweep away the toxins, that when left behind can be reabsorbed and expelled through the skin in the form of breakouts and accelerate aging. Begin your morning with this creamy spiced smoothie over the holiday season to keep every thing merry and bright! Directions:
all need around the treat-filled holiday season!) which keeps hormones balanced and skin glowing •½ tsp ground clove - Packed with antioxidants and are a good source of minerals •½ tsp nutmeg - A healing spice that aids in circulation and concentration •Handful spinach - Antioxidant-filled to prevent free radical damage on top of acting as an power ful wrinkle reducer (you won’t even taste this added green!) •1 small frozen banana - Low in fat and high in nutrition; especially potassium and folic acid •Stevia to sweeten - Natural sweetener to satisfy a sweet tooth made from a plant with no sugar and impact on blood sugar levels •½ tsp vanilla extract •Pinch of pepper and sea salt Blend ingredients until smooth and enjoy your Chocolate Gingerbread Cookie Smoothie.
Fill your blender with… •8 oz unsweetened coconut milk - Selenium found in coconut milk is an antioxidant which controls free radicals that damage skin •½ tsp ground ginger powder - Anti-inf lammatory promotes healing leading to smoother, tighter and less redness in skin •1 tbsp raw cacao powder - This magical powder from raw chocolate contains more beauty-infused antioxidants then red wine, green tea and blueberries combined •1 tsp cinnamon - Stabilizes blood sugar levels (which we
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beauty
COCO ECO | BEAUTY
HOLIDAY GIFTS
Pacifica Wanderlust Beauty Set $22 http://www.pacificaperfume.com/face/ wanderlust-beauty-set
Holiday Gift Ideas Under $40
CURATED BY: Brandie Gilliam Beauty Director & Founder of organicbeautytalk.com
John Masters Organics Travel Kit $14 http://www.johnmasters.com/tvl.htm
Tata Harper Natural Skincare Try-Me Kit $20 http://www.tataharperskincare.com/natural-skincaretry-me-kit
Weleda Body Oil Starter Kit $15.99 http://usa.weleda.com/our-products/shop/body-oilessentials-kit.aspx
Zoya Warm Wishes Dream Box Trio $24 http://www.zoya.com/content/item/Zoya/Warm-WishesDream-Box-Trio.html
Bite Beauty The Lip Kit $38 http://www.sephora. com/the-lip-kit-
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Juice Beauty Reflecting Lip Gloss Kit $36 http://www.juicebeauty. com/store/skin-care/ exclusive-gift-sets/ reflecting-lip-gloss-kit.html
Jurlique Hand Care Miniature Essentials $25 http://www.jurlique.com/skin-care/category/holiday-sets/ ushme/hand-care-miniature-essentials?_ga=1.20146369 8.241540311.1383765259 www.cocoecomag.com
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COCO ECO | SPOTLIGHT ON BEAUTY
Kari Gran is an eco-luxe, all-natural skin care brand that provides a simple, elegant and clean solution for ever yday skin care. Kari Gran products draw on plant and essential oils as the essence of a good skin care regime, combined with a holistic approach to skin care health. Kari Gran products are gentle, timeless and natural as they work f lawlessly for any age and skin type.
KARIGRAN SKINCARE
Kari Gran was founded in 2011 by Kari Gran and Lisa Strain, af ter Kari (the namesake) herself battled an autoimmune thyroid disorder that caused her to take a second look at the beauty products she put on her skin. What she found wasn’t pretty. Most beauty products on the market are full of parabens and toxins, which get into the bloodstream through topical application, and have been linked to ver y serious diseases and hormone disruption. Kari decided to adopt a natural approach instead, and af ter tr ying and failing to f ind a sexy, luxurious take on “green” beauty products, she set out to create her own.
WRITTEN BY: Brandie Gilliam, Beauty Director & Founder of organicbeautytalk.com
Kari Gran’s signature product line is its luxur y oilbased skin care system, made of all natural plant and essential oils that gently nourish the skin. The collection is handmade and hand-poured and includes three core products for daily skin care maintenance: Cleansing Oil, Hydrating Tonic and Essential Serum. The line also
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COCO ECO | SPOTLIGHT ON BEAUTY
includes a Lip Whip balm to add a smooth f inishing touch. All products within the line are made using the f inest natural, organic, wild har vested and non-GMO ingredients.The products are packaged in sleek dark violet glass bottles that block light and protect the delicate oils, mimicking the “cool, dark place” required for natural-based products. All Kari Gran products contain absolutely no water, ensuring consumers get only pure ingredients for their skin instead of useless f iller. Most beauty cleansers and moisturizers on the market count water as their lead ingredient, of ten up to 80% of the product. Although oil-based cleansing is a new approach for many, it has been used by various cultures around the world for centuries. It provides a luxurious alternative to many detergent-based products designed to strip oil from the skin without replenishing it—succeeding only to signal the skin to make more oil. Oil-based cleansing operates on the principle that “like attracts like.” Applying healthy, plant-based oil on the skin and steaming it away draws out grimy oils from within, while still maintaining the skin’s natural balance for sof t and supple results. Impor tant to note, Kari Gran products are not made from mineral oils or petroleum products which suffocate skin and clog pores— beauty products with these ingredients are never a good idea. In addition, Kari Gran markets its own line of makeup, also made from all natural ingredients without any f illers or toxins. The makeup complements the skin care line, providing lightweight, long lasting and light ref lecting coverage which includes mineral foundation, eye shadow and blush. For more information about Kari Gran Skincare, visit www.karigran.com.
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COCO ECO’S MEN OF THE YEAR. COCO ECO HONORS A FEW GOOD MEN FOR THEIR DEDICATION TO A CAUSE GREATER THAN SELF. WRITTEN BY: Erica J. Eddings, Men We Love Editor & Kelly Gallagher, Contributing Editor
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BOBBY KENNEDY by Kelly Gallagher
“Kennedy’s daily motivations are his “children… and the need to protect future generations from toxic harm.”
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also known as “Bobby” is an accomplished Eco Warrior with a past and present so amazing it is almost unbelievable. The third out of eleven children, he hails from the largest and most influential Irish Catholic Dynasty in America…The Kennedy’s. His life has been on public display since before he was born; his family tree filled with adventure and privilege offset by scandal and extreme tragedy. Bobby is the nephew of 35th President John F. Kennedy and the son of Robert F. Kennedy, JFK’s brother, who was married to socialite, Ethel Skakel. RFK was JFK’s Attorney General during his short-lived administration and a NY State Senator until his assassination in 1968 during his Presidential campaign. So why do we love Bobby Kennedy other than the fact that he’s a Kennedy and political royalty? Because Bobby Kennedy does not ride on his name alone. Not even close. With an undergraduate degree from Harvard, a Law Degree from University of Virginia, and a Masters in Law from Pace University School of Law, this environmental attorney, activist, prolific magazine writer, book author, and warrior for the truth takes his self-directed job to protect human health and the planet’s health very seriously. He is a senior attorney at the National Resources Defense Council, Chief Prosecuting Attorney for the Hudson Riverkeepers, as well as the President of the Waterkeeper Alliance. He attracts and uses his celebrity to raise money for the causes he believes in. When he is not out saving the world, he is with his six children, extended family and friends sailing, climbing, white water rafting, skiing or participating in the sport of falconry; as he is a master falconer and a New York State-licensed bird rehabilitator. When I asked him what gets him out of bed in the morning? He answered, “My children… and the need to protect future generations from toxic harm.” A fitting answer from a man with a new book coming out entitled, “Thimerasol: Let the Science Speak, about the controversial vaccine preservative that contains mercury, a known neurotoxin. The book is penned with Dr. Mark Harmon and aimed at exposing the truth about the vaccine industry. One thing is for sure, Kennedy is committed to protecting the environment and the planet for generations.
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by Kelly Gallagher
“I don’t think people really understand that connection. No oceans. No civilization. No humanity.” Sea Shepherd Founder Captain Paul Watson, and star of the reality show “Whale Wars” on Animal Planet, is a controversial world-renowned leader in environmental issues. A native of Toronto, Watson was the youngest co-founding member of Greenpeace and an early board member; but was ousted in 1977 when his strategy of direct action conflicted with the Greenpeace interpretation of nonviolence. He left and immediately founded the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (SSCS), a non-profit conservation organization whose mission is to conserve and protect ecosystems and species of wildlife in the world’s oceans. Under Watson’s leadership, Sea Shepherd has led numerous successful campaigns to protect our oceans. The group uses innovative direct-action tactics to investigate, document, and take action when necessary, to expose and confront illegal activities on the high seas and inland-based campaigns around the world. By safeguarding the biodiversity of our delicately balanced oceanic ecosystems, Sea Shepherd works to ensure their survival for future generations. “I don’t think people really understand that connection. No oceans. No civilization. No humanity,” Watson accentuates. Captain Watson has been the subject of numerous print and broadcast profiles and countless prestigious accolades, including being named “one of TIME Magazine’s Top 20 environmental heroes of the 20th Century.” In 2012, Captain Watson became the second person after Captain Jacques Cousteau to be honored with France’s Jules Verne Award for environmentalists and adventurers. Accepted in absentia due to Japan’s global hunt for him for his success in shutting down their illegal whaling operations in Antarctica, this was an especially proud moment for Captain Watson, whose longtime personal hero is Captain Jacques Cousteau. www.seashepherd.org
http://www.robertfkennedyjr.com/ http://www.waterkeeper.org http://www.riverkeeper.org http://www.nrdc.org
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DANNY GLOVER “I felt a sense of strengthening that we will fight this…”
From stage to screen, we all know and love Danny Glover for unforgettable and powerful performances. A cinema legend that has battled aliens and bad guys, off screen battles social injustice and inequality across the globe. In his current role as UNICEF Ambassador, he recently visited the country of Ecuador by invitation of the National Secretariat of Communication to see firsthand how Chevron oil refinery operations from 1964-1990 has affected the community over the last 3 decades from massive environmental contamination. Glover was quick to respond to the invite, and visited the amazon rainforest where former oil field Aguarico 4 resided in northeast Sucumbios. The soil and water resources were contaminated due to Chevron Texaco using substandard methods, pouring over 18 billion gallons of toxic waste into unprotected pits. Glover had the opportunity to dip his hand in an oil pit, and “felt a sense of strengthening that we will fight this…a manifestation of what we can do to change this.” Chevron was sentenced to pay $18.3 billion for environmental damages and health problems, but have ignored the Ecuadorian ruling to resolve. Chevron is also in a legal battle with the city of Richmond, CA, where Mayor Gayle McLaughlin will not let the corporation ignore the 15,000 residents hospitalized due to respiratory issues after a massive fire at the local refinery. A strong voice and passionate social, political, and humanitarian activist. Glover is an advocate, champion, and hero for all. www.unicef.org
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JOSHUA KATCHER
“Fashion can be a powerful tool for social change.”
If you make it, they will come. Joshua Katcher, saw a void in the market for the eco conscious, stylish man, and founded the Brave Gentleman clothing line and is author of The Discerning Brute blog. The passion and tone of the blog and brand emphasize how fashion “is more than just a frivolity, and those of us who want to change the world for the better can use it, refine it, reject it,” he affirms. Katcher created The Discerning Brute blog for men who enjoy fashion, sports, food, and culture, just like him. “I wanted guys to know that not only are there other dudes who care about animals and the environment and are still men, but there are inspiring role models and brands catering to their standards,” Katcher states. Realizing there were many products, but few that aligned with his sustainable standards, he began designing his own line; with hopes to “show that not only can sustainable, ethical, vegan menswear look amazing and function well, but that it can be superior to things like leather, fur and wool,” he explains. The Brave Gentleman website also offers a concierge service from personal shopping to setting appointments with vegan tattoo artists. Next year’s Brave GentleMan AW14 collection is made from mostly recycled cotton and polyester, and domestically-grown organic cotton. He is also developing ethical fashion course curriculum, “Fashion and Animals,” focusing on the production, and impact on people, ecosystems, and animals. Katcher is educating and empowering the fashion community and consumers to use their influence and realize that “fashion can be a powerful tool for social change.” www.thediscerningbrute.com www.thebravegentleman.com www.joshuakatcher.com
COCO ECO | MEN WE LOVE
SEBASTIAN COPELAND “We are the ones that have the most to lose, but also the ones who can effectuate change”
DAVID ALFONSO, JARRET WINFIELD, AND CHRISTOPHER ZENT “We wanted to do something different, innovative, and progressive. We weren’t happy with the status quo.” When it comes to friendship and business, David Alfonso, Jarret Winfield, and Christopher Zent are masters in partnership. They are the creators and founders of the men’s grooming line, Hanz de Fuko (HdF), featuring organic and eco-friendly hair care products. During the time of development, there were only two grooming brands available for men with substandard ingredients. Alfonso, Winfield, and Zent are childhood friends, and “as bay area natives, environmental consciousness and sustainability were cultural norms for us growing up,” the group explained. “We wanted to do something different, innovative, and progressive. We weren’t happy with the status quo.” HdF redefined the processes and standards for this industry. They took old products and found ways to make them more
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water-soluble, stripping away the harsh chemicals. Even in negotiations with their vendors, it is important to the group to reduce their carbon foot print in the recyclable packaging and distribution of the line, with zero animal testing. The products are created with heart and brilliance, and with the quality “even if the cost is a little more to produce, it is totally worth it,” they affirmed. HdF also provides an educational and support network through YouTube and Facebook, where men can teach and share styling practices from home. With a few new products in the works, HdF is reaching into other areas of personal grooming. The brand will have a popup styling lounge at the 24th Annual KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas Backstage Artist Lounge, where they can share their products and offer grooming services to all of the artists one on one. Alfonso, Winfield, and Zent exemplify fellowship, business, and consciousness: a great recipe for continued success.
Award-winning photographer and activist, Sebastian Copeland continues to trek our artic lands as an advocate for the environment. He has authored five books, journeyed several expeditions, and founded SEDNA, a non-profit working to educate the public on global warming and the destructive impact of oil drilling in the Polar Regions. His photos are featured in numerous museum exhibits, and media outlets like National Geographic. He also serves on the board of directors for organizations like Global Green and Shine On Sierra Leone, an organization providing educational platforms for children of war-torn nations. Copeland has spoken to multiple organizations like the United Nations to raise awareness around global warming; and recent events like Hurricane Irene and Sandy, and the typhoon in the Phillipines, have “dialed up the volume of an international call for action,” he states. People are becoming more eco conscious, but there are still some that believe people cannot affect climate change or that it is beyond their responsibility and power to correct. We can all play our part because “in the end, we are the ones who have the most to lose, but also the ones who can effectuate change,” says Copeland. “We vote with our purchases, thereby sending a clear message to the business community. And watch what you put at the end of your fork.” Looking forward, Copeland is starting to work on a new photographic book about the artic, and just finished his second documentary on his 2012 record-setting expedition across Greenland, for release next year. And you can see his first film about his expedition to the North Pole, In the Cold, now available on Netflix! www.sebastiancopeland.com www.intothecold.org www.antarcticabook.com
www.hanzdefuko.com
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WAYNE PACELLE
COLIN BEAVAN
:“To create the world we want, we have to be intentional and active.”
“What if we could possibly discover a way of life that was both happier for the people and happier for the planet?” Passion. Empathy. These two words merely sum up the heart and work of Wayne Pacelle, the President and CEO of the Humane Society. Approaching his 10th year in this position, he fights for animal rights and humane practices in industries like farming and cosmetics. His advocacy efforts have increased public awareness, the Humane Society’s membership, and political influence; emphasizing that “to create the world we want; we have to be intentional and active.” Working with organizations and government agencies like the National Institute of Health and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service - and with the President signing a new bill, they are reaching goal of a five year campaign to enhance protection standards, like transferring chimps from labs to sanctuaries. Pacelle also supported an effort in Alabama and Georgia in August, raiding 13 dogfighting operations, and sending the victims to safe properties for full veterinary care and rehabilitation. This is not just work for Pacelle, as he has “a lifelong passion for animals, and have always loathed the idea of humans using their power to exploit or harm animals. “To me, opposing cruelty is not just a personal preference, but it’s the mark of a civil society.” The Humane Society has ongoing campaigns and numerous ways for people to get involved. Adopt from local shelters, spay and neuter your pets, and supporting anti-factory farming. Pacelle encourages people “to put the ideas relating to animal protection into action in our personal lives – making conscious choices about food, clothing, and household products and cosmetics.” www.humanesociety.org
Named one of MSN’s “Ten Most Influential Men,” and listed in Time Magazine’s “Top 15 Blogs,” Colin Beavan is author of the book and blog entitled No Impact Man, and founder of No Impact Project. After seeing the environmental damage in the Polar Regions from societal impact, Beavan felt the need to take action, and make a personal lifestyle change. He wondered, “what if we could possibly discover a way of life that was both happier for the people and happier for the planet?” For one year, Beavan and his family lived without electricity, a car, material consumption, and only ate local foods in New York City. They discovered what was good for the planet was good for them, like losing weight and saving thousands of dollars. “We stopped spending our time being consumers and ended up spending more time being a better family, friend, and neighbor,” he shared. Their experience was filmed, resulting in the No Impact Man documentary. The No Impact Project created a program this year called No Impact Week. Over 60,000 participated by living a no impact life for a full week. “It’s humbling how many individuals around the world truly want to take responsibility for our planet’ s problems and find a better way to live—a way based on human values rather than economic ones,” Beavan proudly states. People can still get involved by registering on the No Impact Project website. Beavan is also working on his next book; and is an advisor for New York University’s Sustainability Task Force, and serves on the board of New York City’s Transportation Alternatives. www.noimpactproject.org www.noimpactman.typepad.com/blog www.colinbeavan.com
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You are invited... to Thula Thula for our spectacular Eco Safari. www.
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EcoSafariAfrica .com
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COCO ECO | ECO CHIC CITY GUIDE
ECO CHIC GUIDE TO
Amsterdam Rich in culture and character, this energetic city is set to awaken the explorer in us all. With so much to see and do, you’ll never want to leave!
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WRITTEN BY:
Nichola Zed, Travel Editor IMAGES PROVIDED BY: Those Featured
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stay
The signature dishes are: black, this uses natural black vegetable ingredients of fruits and grains, emotionbread, a contemporary celebration of re-interpreted bread and fruit/vegetable fabric, which is in desserts and pastries. This restaurant is the full eco eating experience. De Culinaire Werkplaats fannius scholtenstraat 10 1051 ex Amsterdam Phone: 06 54 64 65 76 www.deculinairewerkplaats.nl
Albus Hotel This trendy 4-star hotel with designer features is in the hub of Amsterdam’s historic centre. A short two minute walk to some of the most important places to see, and easily accessible trams, buses, trains and taxis. The Albus offers luxurious rooms which embrace a variety of green initiatives including reducing energy and water consumption, and waste. These designer rooms are spacious, ranging in size from single rooms to apartments with a kitchen. The hotel is equipped with all the technology you’ll need, including access to Senses Restaurant. Senses serves only local, organic, ‘slow food’ products. Slow food is all about eco-gastronomy, focusing on delicious organic and honest food. The principles of sustainability are important to the business at Albus, with personal service at the heart of the hotel’s ethos. The Albus Vijelstraat 49 1017 HE Amsterdam Phone: 0031 (0) 20 530 6200 www.albushotel.com
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Conscious Hotels These hotels are attractive, great value and 100% sustainable. The Conscious Hotels are part of a chain of new and unique Dutch hotels to offer stunning, hip and contemporary places defined as eco designed. The premier hotel at Museum Square has a lush garden with terrace and the Vonderpark hotel features a green eco-roof. Both hotels are Green Key Gold Certified, which incorporates features such as wood in the furniture from sustainable forests. The hotels are cleaned with eco-friendly detergents which do not use any chemicals. The interiors are cutting edge contemporary with a sustainable operation designed to be kind to the planet. The hotels breakfast comprises 100% organic food, so there are plenty of healthy choices to kick start your daily adventures. Conscious Hotel Vondelpark Overtoom 519, 1054 LH, Amsterdam Phone number: +31 (0)20 820 33 33 Conscious Hotel Museum Square De Lairessestraat 7 1071 NR, Amsterdam Phone number: +31 (0)20 671 95 96 Together called Conscious Hotels: Conscioushotels.com
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Restaurant De Kas Opened in 2001, this is a converted old greenhouse opened by top chef Gert Jan Hageman, including a restaurant and nursery, situated in the central Frankendael Park. De Kas’s greenhouse and garden grow Mediterranean vegetables, herbs and edible flowers used in the restaurant. The vegetables are harvested at sunrise each day for enjoyment by guests, who can also experience tours of the nursery in the warmer months of the year. All other fresh required for the restaurant are purchased from environmental farmers close by. At De Kas, the menu is created daily and revolves around the harvest of the day in the nursery. The entire experience at De Kas is inspiring and magical. Restaurant De Kas Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3 1097 DE Amsterdam Phone: +31 20 462 45 62 www.restaurantdekas.nl
eat De Culinaire Werkplaats This is a unique culinary experience offering a fresh and inspiring approach to the dinner plates of the future. Having dinner at de culinaire werkplaats is an experience of cutting edge food, design and art. This unique initiative is the ambitious brainchild of Marjolein Wintjes and Eric Meursing. The restaurant is famous for inspiring awareness about food and a sustainable lifestyle, with awards for the best benelux vegetable restaurant in 2011 along with the golden dinnertray 2010 for fairtrade@work by Max Havelaar.
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shop Charlie + Mary Charlie + Mary is an inspiring concept store in the bustling ‘Pijp’ quarter and are pioneers in the field of ethical fashion. This dedicated duo have been selecting innovative “true fashion labels” since 2009, from designer to vintage. They believe that fashion reacts to changes in society and is there to inspire. Charlie + Mary work with and discover the most innovative, inspiring, ethical and sustainably true fashion labels. They learn about new sustainable techniques in the fashion industry and love their job, which enables them to select the most impressive collection. This is the perfect place for passionate fashion lovers and people who respect the planet. Further to the clothes, there is the Proud Otter Café inside, where you can find locally roasted coffee and delicious organic food. Charlie + Mary Gerard Doustraat 84 1072 VW Amsterdam The Netherlands Phobe: +31-(0)206628281 www.charliemary.com
Nukuhiva Nukuhiva’s passion is fair fashion - clothing which is made with respect to our environment and the people that make it. It was one of the first shops in Amsterdam, opened in 2006, where you could purchase sustainable fashion. The store is filled with trendy, stylish and sustainable clothing in fantastic combinations. By choosing only fair-trade fashion labels, customers are assured their clothes use biologically grown cotton and other nature-friendly materials which are both stylish but durable. Perfect examples are sturdy bags made from discarded ship sales and jackets comprised of recycled plastic bottles. Nukuhiva carries a wide array of accessories and exclusive lifestyle ideas. It is also a convenient stone’s throw away from Amsterdam Central Station. Nukuhiva Amsterdam Haarlemmerstraat 36, 1013 ES Phone: +31(0)20.4209483 nukuhiva.nl
Restaurant Spelt This restaurant ticks all the eco boxes and the produce is grown ‘honestly’ on Dutch soil. The name of the restaurant derives from the handcrafted crop known as Spelt grain, which is pure, non-manufactured and contains a collection of anti-oxidants, minerals and vitamins. This becomes characteristic of all dishes at the restaurant. The menu is focusses on the succession of the seasons and is always accompanied by a varying three or four course menu with a choice of fish, meat and vegetarian options. It is centrally located in the artistic hub of Amsterdam’s Spiegelkwartier, the Mirror Quarter, that is a must see for art, antiquities and curiosities – the heart of Dutch art trade for over eighty years. Restaurant Spelt Nieuwe Spiegelstraat 5A, 1017 DB Amsterdam, Netherlands Phone:+31 20 420 7022 www.restaurantspelt.nl
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explore
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Van Gogh Museum It would not be the Netherlands without a trip to the Van Gogh Museum, to view work by one of the most celebrated Dutch artists of the 19th century Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890). The museum enables you to discover the secrets of Van Gogh’s painting techniques and learn about his working methods using the new ‘Touch Van Gogh’ app. Through this app you can explore information concealed in and under the paint. Along with making it easy to learn about each of his works, the Van Gogh Museum presents plenty of programs and activities such as family days, workshops for adults and Sunday lectures. Everyone can explore this extraordinary artist’s life. Van Gogh Museum Paulus Potterstraat 7, 1071 CX Amsterdam, Netherlands Phone: +31 20 570 5200 www.vangoghmuseum.nl
COCO ECO | ECO CHIC RESORT
BORGO EGNAZIA AN ESCAPE WORTH ITS WEIGHT IN GOLD WRITTEN BY: Poppy Cross, Contributing Writer IMAGES PROVIDED BY: Borgo Egnazia 108
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I admit I was dubious about it but i felt obliged to give it a whirl, having been cunningly “challenged” to try it by spa manager patricia.
Something akin to Harry Potter’s stag Patronus is standing tall in the distance. I am in Puglia, situated on a quiet tip of Italy’s eastern heel, for five days with my boyfriend Charles. The region bears the hallmarks of Byzantine, Arab, Balkan, Romanesque and Greek cultures, the latter being the strongest influence. From the place names – Monopoli, Gallipoli – to the fortified towns established more than 2,000 years ago and the ancient olive trees that proudly punctuate most of the land, it is little wonder that Puglia was once the gateway to the Aegean. Our final destination is somewhere that, despite its modest location, has become a social nucleus for the celebrity, socialite and discerning traveler. Hardly surprising, perhaps, since the place boasts credentials that would please even the Greek gods themselves, and it doesn’t hurt that Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel chose to marry here. Our journey from Bari airport to the modest village of Fasano Brindisi takes just 50-minutes. We pass deserted building constructions, basic farmhouses and fields upon fields of olive trees. There is not much else to see save for the wild, rugged coastline and crashing waves. Potter’s Patronus turns out to be Borgo Egnazia; a vast hotel with 63 rooms, 28 villas, 72 Apulian townhouses, three swimming pools, two restaurants, one ballroom, a 18-hole golf course and a Roman-style spa. Spread over 250 acres
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of ancient olive groves and prickly pears, the hotel is built from local limestone in the form of a village - complete with clock towers, piazzas and narrow alleyways. It is immediately impressive yet rather intimidating. However, once we learn its traditional and local significance and breathe in the sweet, lavender scented air, it’s impossible not to warm to it – all. From the high ceilings, glass bottle lights, flickering candles, good luck charms, troughs of wheat and nuts, huge keys and walls where brown pages from old books hang incased in glass: all of which reflect the traditional Puglian lifestyle. We arrived out of season in October but the hotel was fully booked. Despite receiving much praise for its kids club and extensive family facilities, the hotel was crowded with a different kind of clientele. On our first morning three or four coach loads of wedding guests and various media parties arrived with their Louis Vuitton luggage, Fendi handbags and Ritz Carlton membership rucksacks. If you’re wondering what the average BE guest is like; this is it. Just throw in a few hundred more of the same and arm 25 per cent with golf clubs and there you have it. BE is not a place for those not wanting to part with the pennies. The food is fresh, flavorsome, perfectly Puglian but eye-wateringly pricey. For example, the lunch buffet is 40 euros per person, toast costs 17 euros and a bottle of water will set you back six euros. We only had access to the main
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“The place boasts credentials that would please even the greek gods themselves, and it doesn’t hurt that justin timberlake and jessica biel chose to marry here.” restaurant, Due Camini, set in the main building as the other two, La Frasca (serves buffets and barbecues in Borgo village) and Trattoria Mia Cucina (hosts cookery classes and serves traditional local dishes) are closed out of season. The food at Due Camini is traditional Pugliese, (think grilled octopus, beef fillet with myrtle, orecchiette with cherry tomatoes, basil and the like) with the menu changing quarterly bar the catch of the day. Ingredients are largely homegrown and anything else is sourced locally. Neutral colours, soft lighting and white furniture reinforce the overall serenity of the hotel with additional charismatic touches like the green-tinged glass bottles suspended from the ceiling and wooden ladders resting against the walls. Whenever Charles and I ate here, we felt its calming influence and it felt cosy, like you were having dinner in a friends barn. If your bank could do with a break (which ours began to beg) head to local restaurant Oseteria del Porto (a 15-minute walk from the hotel or two minute drive) for an informal, family-friendly and totally charming traditional Italian meal. The staff go the extra mile to make you feel welcome, offering crispy bruschetta with mozzarella, basil and arangini (Italian rice balls with cheese and herbs) as appetizers. Charles and I had the seafood orecchiette and a plate of
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meaty mussels – all cooked to perfection and bursting with natural, fresh flavor. What’s more, it was extremely good value for money. Our increasing obsession with the local specialty orecciette, lead us to learn how to make it ourselves in a cookery lesson at the hotel; a definite highlight. Dressed in our Borgo Egnazia chef hats and aprons we dutifully followed instructions, and mixed a combination of fine semolina flour and water with a pinch of salt, and rolled the dough until it was ready to be made into the ‘ears’ which it is named after. Once cooked, and only an hour after breakfast, we couldn’t resist to gobble the whole wholesome lot. (Don’t come here if you’re on a diet). A good way to work off some of the calorific carbs is on horseback, which the hotel can arrange for you. A short car-ride takes you to a beautifully maintained yard where the horses have gleaming coats and inquisitive, happy manners. No matter what your riding ability, the knowledgeable staff will equip you suitably. Our guide didn’t speak English but ensured that we were both safe and comfortable throughout. He took us on a two-hour ride, walking, trotting and cantering through olive groves and meandering down farm tracks to chase the dream: an exhilarating gallop on the beach
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in the surf. The feeling of freedom as we splashed through the waves felt like pure childhood delight. And we weren’t the only ones to be delighted by it: we had accumulated quite a crowd of happy local observers, who took a moment to enjoy the spectacle. Unfortunately, Charles and I don’t get to ride as often as we’d like so inevitably we felt a bit stiff afterwards. This is where the Romanesque Vair spa came in. This haven of tranquility soothes all number of aches and pains and offers every facility under the sun; including a cinema room, a spa suite with a garden, a steam room and infusion bar, a salt and basil-infused Apulian Sauna and staff who resemble roman goddesses dressed in traditional Roman robes. There’s also an Iyengar yoga studio, a gym and a flotation room. It’s safe to say there’s something for everyone. For the ultimate treatment, take my advice and opt for a signature Roman-Apulian wet experience. I admit I was dubious about it but I felt obliged to give it a whirl, having been cunningly “challenged” to try it by spa manager Patricia. The experience takes you from the Ancient Roman bath, to the Tepidarium, Caldarium and Figidarium. To translate, you start in a luke-warm (33 ºC) jet-bath, step out to have freezing water poured all over you, step back in to a 40
ºC jet-bath (to relax/nervously wonder what’s next) and the finale is two lengths of an icy five-meter pool leaving you breathless. For any weary traveler, including me, this could seem too much to bear and more like torture than a treatment, but it actually leaves you feeling invigorated and more alive than a massage or manicure would. After all the temperature changes things thankfully finish on a warm and stationary note. For the remainder of the experience you are scrubbed, washed and massaged in lavender oils while you lie on your back in total relaxation. It’s a unique feeling and took me back to bath-time when I was little, where I would be towel-dried by my mother and not have to do a thing for myself. I was surprised at how energized the treatment made me feel and my cynicism about it had completely fizzled (or frozen) – it was hard to tell. www.borgoegnazia.com
COCO ECO | ECO CHIC RETREAT
Urban Escape To
Big Sur
Everyone needs a break from the concrete jungle, and one of the most scenic escapes in the world is a drive up the California Coast into Big Sur. Enjoy breathtaking views, incredible hikes, eco adventures and five star dining in a pure mountain paradise. Here are the best places to stay, dine and explore for a truly natural getaway. Written by: Beth Doane, Features Editor & Founder of Raintees
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COCO ECO | ECO CHIC CITY GUIDE
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Carmel Valley Inn Lodge Restaurant Besides being an incredible retreat in a blissful sun kissed valley, Carmel Valley Inn also boasts some of the best food near Big Sur. Executive Chef Tim Wood uses produce fresh from The Ranch’s Organic Garden daily. Delightful and true farm-to-table cooking with an emphasis on family-style service makes The Lodge an amazing choice for a special meal. Carmel Valley Ranch. One Old Ranch Road, Carmel, California 93923 Phone: 1-831-625-9500 reservations@carmelvalleyranch.com
The Restaurant at Ventana The Restaurant at Ventana is a signature Big Sur dining destination. With locally sourced, sustainably grown ingredients, an awardwinning wine list and a rustic lodge-like dining room it’s truly an unforgettable experience. Executive Chef Truman Jones has designed a menu that blends classic American flavors and the restaurant even offers dining under the stars over looking the majestic Big Sur Mountains. 48123 Highway One Big Sur, CA 93920 Phone: 831.667.2331 Reservations: 800.628.6500 Fax: 831.667.0573 Email: ventanareservationve@ventanainn.com
Stay
Explore The Big Sur Roadhouse (photo credit James Hall) Chef Matt Glazer’s fresh take on classic California cuisine is beyond impressive at The Roadhouse. Hailing from New Orleans, Matt brings Cajun style to the California coast in dining that is absolutely 5* in a charming atmosphere. The seasonal menu is filled with locally sourced organic ingredients and the outdoor patio with fire pits is enchanting. Big Sur Roadhouse 47080 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920 831.667.2105
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Carmel Valley Bee Experience One of the best experiences to be had near Big is done by donning a bee suit and walking into the home of thousands of buzzing bees. These highly endangered creatures have so much to teach us and the experience of being a beekeeper for an hour and a half is unforgettable. You will actually see meaningful hive duties performed, including honey harvesting, feeding new colonies, inspecting colonies’ health, and more.
Glen Oaks Big Sur (photo credit James Hall) At Glen Oaks, the majesty of the great outdoors is at your doorstep. Gorgeous, fully furnished cabins are nestled amongst centuries old redwoods and within a stone's throw of the pristine Big Sur River. Enjoy a private patio and fire pit stocked daily with complimentary firewood and fire starter. Indoor living includes, kitchenettes and private bath. All cabins have wireless internet service and telephones as well so city folk won’t feel too out of touch. Glen Oaks Big Sur 47080 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920 831.667.2105 frontdesk@glenoaksbigsur.com
Carmel Valley Ranch. One Old Ranch Road, Carmel, California 93923 Phone: 1-831-625-9500 reservations@carmelvalleyranch.com
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UGANDA: THE PEARL OF AFRICA WRITTEN & IMAGES BY: Jodie Dalmeda, Cultural Editor IMAGES BY: Edward Echwalu
I didn’t hesitate to say ‘Yes!’ when my friend, TV media maven and international flygirl Jasmine Dotiwala asked me to accompany her to Uganda for a week. I love to travel, to discover new places, and learn about their history and culture, so I was excited to embark on a journey to East Africa to visit Uganda, The Pearl of Africa. We were headed to the capital of Uganda, Kampala, home to 36 million people, where Jasmine was one of the judges for the ‘Club Ugandan Music Video Awards’. I would be riding ‘solo’ for a few days, while Jasmine cast her eye over hundreds of music videos, with an esteemed panel of international judges brought together by Jandre Louw, a big player on the African Music scene. The judges included Ugandan born manager of Channel O, Leslie ‘’Lee’’ Kasumba, the charming Trace TV’s Talent and Music Manager, Phillip Nwankwo, and South African filmmaker and gifted video director Matthew Stonier. Arriving at London’s Heathrow Airport at 5am to an astonishing 20o, I could hardly believe I was leaving for Africa - while the UK was having a heat wave! We arrived at Entebbe International
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Airport, Uganda, infamous - as the scene of ‘Operation Thunderbolt’, a hostage rescue operation by Israeli Special Forces on 4 July 1976. More than 100 Air France passengers where rescued following the hijacking and forced landing in Entebbe by the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – External Operations. This took place in the old terminal, which is used as a military base. A VIP representative with our names on a board greeted us as we disembarked and swiftly escorted us through passport control. One of the organizers, Munya, a friendly and warm Zimbabwean/ Zambian man greeted and escorted us to the Protea Hotel, a smart business hotel with spacious guest rooms. Entrepreneur Munya previously worked with the United Nations and now resides in Uganda having fallen in love with the country and its people. He promotes music artists across Africa and also owns a pig farm, employing 15 people. After a good nights sleep I headed down for breakfast, which was
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a buffet feast of fresh exotic fruits, cereals, yogurts, cheese, freshly baked breads, cooked breakfast and juices. We met the other judges over breakfast and then Jasmine was whisked off to a press conference I was lucky to be assigned Simon as my driver, a young Ugandan man who knew Kampala so well that he doubled as my guide. My first adventure was a visit to the local craft markets. Set on the roadside, stretching back about a block, the markets were a tapestry of bright oranges, blues, pinks and green African printed fabrics Inside each cloth covered market unit were crafts, carvings, jewelry and clothes. I was greeted with cries of ‘You’re welcome’ by the smiling stall owners - this was a cry that I would hear frequently during my trip. I found the Ugandans a friendly and softly spoken people - the women especially have a very gently manner. To my amusement, I found that my own voice seemed turned up to a higher volume in comparison. Driving through the red dusty streets of Kampala to a local food
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spot called Kembabazi, I soaked up the sights and sounds of every day life in Uganda. Fruit sellers, women carrying baskets of fruit on their heads, motorbikes carrying not just people, but food, mattresses – you name it, weaving effortlessly through the traffic. The Boda-boda taxi motorbike drivers hang out on every street corner, ready to take you to your destination at a moments notice for as little as a dollar. Kembabazi served a lunchtime buffet of local cuisine – Matooke (boiled and mashed green banana), sweet potato, ugali (maze), greens, fried fish, goat stew and chicken, salad and fruits. The food was similar to Jamaican ‘hard food’, so I felt quite at home although I do prefer Caribbean seasoning! The Food markets are vast in Kampala. I strolled through Nakasero Market; - a visual feast of colors, tropical fruit, vegetables, second hand clothes, fabric and cheap electronics. A row of about ten women perched on a raised ledge sat with their sewing machines customizing and mending clothes. Recycling is booming in Uganda. Many second hand clothes are sent from the UK to be sold at markets. This is where local people buy their
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clothes. It’s great to see clothes being recycled rather than ending up in landfill site. My second adventure was to The Uganda National Museum, which covers the general history of Uganda including the arrival of the English explorers John Hanning Speke and James Augustus Grant. Such is their status in Uganda that Speke and Grant feature alongside the Kings of Buganda in the museum display cabinets. There is a life size statue of the King alongside a 1920s Model T Ford. The walls are adorned with pictures and medals of Ugandan Olympic heroes. A large group of young school children dressed in smart uniforms piled through, loudly laughing at the ancient figurines of pre-historic man. Their teacher, Jesus, a tall man, guided them through the museum and then asked me to take his picture beside a statue of the King. The museum left me with more questions than answers so I was delighted when the next day we headed to the Kasubi Royal Tombs – where the Kings of Buganda are buried. We can only see the inner part of the tombs, as unfortunately, a fire in 2010 destroyed the outer tombs. Joseph Mulondo, a handsome and softly spoken young man greeted us and took us through the history of the Kabakas; patiently answering my questions. The history is richly intertwined with the aforementioned British explorers Speke and Grant who arrived in 1862. Speke later claimed he had discovered the source of the Nile, announcing his discovery at the Royal Geographic Society in London. Speke and Sir Henry Morton Stanley, a renowned Welsh journalist and explorer wrote books about their travels to Buganda in 1875. Stanley commended the Buganda for their organizational skills and openness to modern ideas. He also attempted to convert the King, Kabaka Mutesa I to Christianity. Believing Mutesa I may covert, Stanley wrote to the Church Missionary Society in London and persuaded them to send
missionaries to Buganda in 1877. The explorers where impressed by the Buganda systems, their Royal Court and their advanced agricultural practices. - Sir Henry Morton Stanley reported that he found - a well-organized town with a population of approximately 40,000 people, surrounding a King’s Palace on the top of a hill. The Palace, later replaced by a huge Christian Church, was filled with houses, meeting halls, and storage buildings. Stanley noted that this was a busy place, containing foreign ambassadors seeking an audience with the king, visiting chiefs, messengers running errands and pages in training to become chiefs. Uganda became a British colony in 1890 and was granted independence in 1962. We left the main building and headed to the smaller surrounding buildings. The tombs are housed in a fenced compound surrounded by a circle of round thatched houses and a few modern buildings, home to over 30 families. The Kabakas’ tombs (which are a UNESCO world heritage site) are currently being restored. They are to be built in the original style with 52 circular supports in the roof representing the 52 Buganda tribes. Amongst the vast lush green spaces of large jack fruit, banana trees, shocking pink flowers and exotic lilies can be found the graveyard of the King’s children. And on the edge of the graveyard sits a small mausoleum, housing the King’s grandchildren. We passed a small dwelling with outside cooking facilities, where we met Grace who was cooking a traditional meal of steamed green bananas. Lying outside one of the more modern houses is Kaduluubale, who is the Official Wife of David Chwa II. Although 93 years old, she looks decades younger. She has a residency outside of the compound, but has chosen to live in a modest house and dedicate her life to protecting the tombs. Incredibly beautiful she has a warm smile, with cropped light hair that looks almost
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against her rich brown skin. Although her memory is fading, she recalls a visit from the Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother, who came bearing gifts of sugar and a cow! She speaks no English, so we talk through Joseph, who translates. She holds my hand and remarks on the gap in my front teeth – telling me that this is a sign that I am blessed! As we continue walking in the grounds, Joseph remarked that I resemble one of his aunts; which leads me to discover that Joseph is a Buganda Prince and the great grandson of Mutessa I. As we passed the Drum House, I couldn’t resist banging the drums. I was then told that the drums were artifacts from the 1800s! These drums where used to celebrate life, and the arrival and departure of the royal family. Before leaving I noticed a beautiful painting for sale in the reception. I asked Joseph if they are twins and he tells me they are the King’s warriors. He says that twins are thought to be very blessed, which makes me smile, as I tell him I am a twin. He then gives me our names, ‘Wasswa’ (first born) and Nakato (second born). We negotiate a good price for the painting - as Joseph is the artist and painter! We travelled to St. Paul’s Cathedral (an Anglican Church) on Namirembe Hill (from the Luganda word “mirembe” meaning “peace”). Legend has it that this hill was a gathering place for celebrating peace and victory in war. The cathedral was constructed between 1915 and 1919 and replaced the original church. The road from the cathedral leads directly to the Kibuli Mosque. The Cathedral is pretty grand, with a series of stained glass windows depicting Speke and Grant bringing Christianity to Uganda. Uganda offers plenty of nightlife as the people love to party. I was surprised at how much they have adopted Jamaican ‘dancehall’;
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apparently reggae has been popular in Uganda since the 1970s. As Jasmine and her fellow judges spent the majority of their day glued to TV screens they were glad to escape and sample the local restaurants and bars at night. One evening we dined at the hipster’s favorite ‘Cayenne’ restaurant; a packed joint with an outdoor pool, bar and stage, which showcases emerging talent most evenings. Another great place to hang out was the luxury boutique hotel, Emin Pacha. With all rooms facing the tropical gardens, a pool area and spa, the hotel has a chic laid back and friendly feel. We had dinner on the terrace under the stars whilst being serenaded by the live jazz band. Dare I mention Phil’s karaoke moment? He boldly approached the band’s singer and asked if he could sing a song. She graciously handed him the mic and he wasted no time in instructing the band. He totally charmed the audience with his rendition of Turn the Lights Down Low by Bob Marley featuring Lauryn Hill. At last, the judging now over, Jasmine was able to join me for some weekend fun. We headed to one of the Great African Lakes, Victoria, named after the Queen by Speke (who has an obelisk monument erected in his honor in Kensington Gardens, London). The rather rickety mini bus took us out of town along dusty clay roads that wound their way through the countryside. We whizzed past small villages, mainly made up of corrugated iron huts, with an odd brick house, church or mosque dotted amongst the lush landscape. Green bananas grow everywhere and locals sell their produce to passing travellers by the roadside. It is hot and after two hours our bumpy ride is over! We arrived at a stunning treetop restaurant overlooking the Nile with a bungee jump set up on the cliff top beside us. The views are truly breathtaking. A shame the restaurant had dance music loudly blasting from the speakers – we were hoping for something more
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African and ambient. We enjoyed watching the brave bungee jumpers hurtled down from the cliff screaming loudly and dipping their fingers in the Nile. I was happy to wait for the boat! We took a small boat down the Nile and yes it’s as exotic as it sounds! Groups of monkeys were jumping between the trees, eagles were nesting in the tree tops, brightly colored birds were flying overhead while tropical fish gently swam alongside us. We glided through the calm water until we arrived at a small strip of land, surrounded by water that was home to a tourist gift shop at the source of the Nile. As the boat pulled in, I waded through the water to the shop. Filled with local crafts and tourist treasures, I bought some brightly colored oven gloves. The journey was truly magical as the sun started to set as we headed back along the unspoiled lake. On our return we headed off the main road into the dark forest in search of the forest lodge. To my surprise after ten minutes of driving through the pitch-black dense forest we suddenly entered a clearing and we walked into a grand lodge circled by giant golden lamps hanging from the ceiling. The soft light and serene atmosphere was truly enchanting. We relaxed on large comfy seats and sipped spicy African tea. On our last day we headed to the luxurious five star Serena Kampala Hotel. We started off with a tour of the best hotel in town, it boasts stylish bedrooms filled with art and artifacts and has a series of ‘chill out’ spaces to read and relax, as well as a number of themed bars that remain open until the last person is ready to leave! The gym was incredible, as big as a sports club and filled with state of the art equipment. We decided to hit the hotel’s luxurious ‘Maisha’ spa that echoes the trademark Moorish theme. The tranquil space was softly lit and filled with the fragrance of gardenia flowers. We picked the
Deep Tissue Muscle Massage and as my head hit the heated pillow and my masseuse Hilda did her thing – I could feel my eyes closing. Refreshed I was ready to sample some of the finest cuisine Uganda had to offer at the legendary Serena Sunday Brunch; an assortment of freshly caught fish, tender succulent meat, fresh vegetables, exotic fruits and deserts. The brunch is a firm favorite with local families, young couples, hipsters and business people staying at the hotel. We savored our last moments relaxing poolside before heading back to the airport. Uganda is a beautiful country with friendly people and has a lot to offer in the city and out of town, with Gorilla safaris, white water rafting and Nile cruises. This hidden East African gem offers the best of both worlds! So remember, “You’re welcome!”
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features
EDITOR LOVES CURATED BY: Beth Doane Features Editor and Founder of Raintees Many of these incredible finds I discovered while traveling through Europe. All of these brands are produced ethically with amazing ingredients and beautiful stories behind them. They are also perfect for winter adventures!
Isabell de Hillerin Blazer Made from 100% tencel with traditional handmade carpet embroidery, Isabell de Hillerin works with Romanian and Moldovan communities to strengthen their traditional artisan industry. $545 http://www.revenvert.com/
Padme Dress This is the quintessential timeless piece for fall. An elegant dress in organic cotton, dyed with low-impact dyes and handmade with love in Nepal. $70 www.synergyclothing.com
Clairvoyant Beauty French Clay Cleanser with DMAE Formulated with hero ingredient DMAE, a powerful anti-aging nutrient designed to extend the life of cells and protect against collagen breakage, this must-have cleansing tool leaves skin feeling toned and looking firm after the first lather. $32 http://www.clairvoyantbeauty.com
Lavish™ Therapeutic Oil This ultra light, dry oil rapidly absorbs into the skin, resulting in a healthier, glowing, and luminous complexion. Formulated with a pampering package of 9 botanical essential oils ,Lavish combats the signs of aging by protecting and nourishing the skin. $48.00 http://sircuitskin.com/
Casa Noble 100% organic Tequila Casa Noble Tequila was recently rated the best tequila by the New York Times. It’s 100% Organic, aged in French White Oak Barrels and made with the finest blue agave. $39.99 http://www.casanoble.com/
Elique Organics Ethically harvested honeys are combined with hibiscus to promote healthy cell turnover in this luxurious skin cleanser. With an abundance of minerals, vitamins, proteins and antioxidants the face is left supple and hydrated. $46 www.eliqueorganics.com
Artasan Beads Founded by Allison Heutsche, each Artasan Jewelry piece is one-of-a-kind, and handmade in Los Angeles. Artasan jewelry is sold at RA MA Institute (www. ramayogainstitute.com), LA’s most-buzzed about Kundalini Yoga destination. $515.00 www.artasan.com
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Elvis & Kresse Washbag Made from genuine decommissioned British fire hoses and lined with reclaimed hot orange parachute silk, 50% of the profits from the Elvis & Kresse fire hose collection are donated to the Fire Fighter’s Charity. $92.00 http://elvisandkresse.com/classic-washbag/
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next gen
EDITOR LOVES CURATED BY: Erin Schrode, Co-Founder, Teens Turning Green Erin Schrode
Give, share, love and celebrate friends, family, and our world this holiday season!
SOAP Smell divine, be clean, support organic and Rainforest Alliance Certified farms AND grow your own Christmas tree. That’s right. This Pangea Organics soap comes in a carton embedded with Blue Spruce tree seeds. http://www.pangeaorganics.com
BOOK We have all heard about dreaming of a white Christmas, but what about a GREEN one? Eco extraordinaire and organic living expert Anna Getty dives into gifts, decorations, and recipes that use less and mean more in this delightful read. www.amazon.com
SCARF Red and white stripes aren’t reserved only for candy canes. Wear the festive holiday pattern around your neck (and stay extra warm!) with Maggie’s Organics luxurious infinity scarf. http://www.
TEA Spice up the season with a piping hot mug of holiday chai. Numi Tea’s exotic blend of organic cinnamon, cardamom, anise, and ginger is the perfect compliment to any chilly winter day. http://shop.numitea.com
NAIL POLISH The holidays call for some glitter – and this seasonal collection of non-toxic nail polish is the perfect way to add glamour to any look. Priti NYC, the ultimate eco-friendly brand, is always adding to its already amazing line of colors. http://www.pritinyc.com
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GREETING CARDS Spread holiday cheer with beautifully designed note cards. Ecojot’s messages of “peace on Earth” and “sweet thoughts,” is perfectly in line with the company’s commitment to the environment, printing on 100% recycled, acid and chlorine-free paper. www.ecojot.com
COCOA Hot chocolate is a must in the winter cold. And there is no reason to settle for anything less than certified organic, non-GMO verified, raw, vegan, filler-free cacao. Navitals Naturals’ dark chocolate powder is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals! http://navitasnaturals.com
STOCKING Spread joy! Hang this uber chic, natural burlap stocking on your mantle and give school meals to five students. FEED Projects is all about gifts that give back – and this holly berry-printed Christmas staple does just that! http://www.feedprojects.com
PAJAMAS Coyuchi may make the softest, coziest flannel pajamas on planet earth. This plush, warm, stylish organic cotton set comes in a sustainable, reusable, beautiful wooden box – making it extra special for the holidays. www.coyuchi.com
GINGERBREAD What tops gingerbread cookies and houses? Gingerbread granola! Nature’s Path’s holiday edition of Love Crunch is bursting with molasses and spices AND for each bay you buy, NP gives organic food to the food back through its Bite4Bite program. http://us.naturespath.com
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THE RETURn OF PAUL WATSON After a year at sea, the founder of Sea Shepherd is back in the USA WRITTEN BY: Kelly Gallagher PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Kelly Gallagher & Synthian Sharp
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“My mission to protect the oceans and the creatures that inhabit it has been controversial yet unfortunately necessary.” A Hero, an activist, with an army of loyal warriors. The righteous leader of Sea Shepherd who resigned from the organization he created, to protect the future of it, finally stepped foot back on land after being a fugitive at sea for more than a year aboard the Brigitte Bardot. To this day, it’s abundantly clear that Paul Watson remains the inspiration for eco warriors all over the world. Watson says, “My mission to protect the oceans and the creatures that inhabit it has been controversial yet unfortunately necessary. The Whales, Dolphins and Sharks have been under attack by ruthless industrial fisherman who do not care what the next generation has to deal with. Meanwhile, they harvest thousands of whales under the guise of research while the eco-system gets disrupted. It is illegal to do what they are doing but there’s no one out there to enforce the law but us. They’re the criminals according to the law and we’re the ones getting in trouble. We have done our best to bring awareness to the yearly whale hunts, populations are declining, we need to protect the life and resources left in the ocean, not pillage them.” Canadian-born Watson was received to the US 10/28/13. The 57foot assist boat, Pyrat, owned by billionaire businessman/philanthropist John Paul DeJoria (JP) and Captained by Chris Shaffer, carried Robert F Kennedy Jr with daughter Kick, Greg Craig with daughter Eliza, Virginia royalty and Documentary Filmmaker Lavinia Currier with daughter Ailsa and myself, writer, filmmaker, and soon to be published poet, Kelly Gallagher. I feel blessed to witness the love, loyalty and return of one of the greatest heroes on earth. Here’s my story… The Pyrat was anchored forty-something miles off the coast of California. The phone rang asking Captain Chris and I if we could assist the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society in a mission to bring home Captain Paul Watson. We immediately pulled anchor and headed back to LA, flanked by dolphins, it was now time for Paul to come home. Within moments, there was a growing list of important people signing up to join us. Soon, there were more VIPs than bunks, so they’re to be tied to the top of boat. Another call; “Bobby Kennedy Jr” I answer “it’s going to be squishy.” It’s obvious that Paul Watson is a rock star. His team is loyal and attracts a high level audience from billionaires to political royalty.
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PAUL WATSON THE POLITICAL BACKGROUND BY KELLY GALLAGHER
The minute we docked in LA, all hell broke loose; the toilets weren’t flushing, the sinks weren’t flowing. Where do you find an engineer on a Friday night in LA? The boat was not prepared and the undercurrent was tense. Getting back to the boat, the skies darkened and the water was rough. The Sea Shepherd crew was gathered tightly on the back of the boat all dressed in black and white gear. They fiercely discussed the future of their organization and the return of their driving force. The wind starts to blow. Captain Chris showed no fear in the eye of the storm, he’s a real pirate. There are advisory warnings and we are taking very important people into 4 to 6 foot seas, wind gusting between 15 and 30 knots. Pyrat is the beautiful luxury yacht Chris meticulously restored for JP. I can’t believe he is taking this wooden masterpiece into this weather. Bobby Kennedy Jr. boards the boat. Bobby looks a little perplexed when he sees me and I remind him I’m “The Mercury Girl”, he smiles and offers a copy of his new book on Thimerasol.
I spent my time sliding from side to side on the couches that dug trenches across the teak floors, watching the custom whaler being towed. When the sun came up, we were miraculously docked beside the Brigitte Bardot and we nearly fell overboard in joy. We all witnessed Paul Watson take his first step on land. A moment of laughter and tears. I asked JP why: “Paul is committed to protecting our oceans no matter what. If the great mammals of the ocean go, it will effect the entire ocean ecosystem. It’s a fine balance. People need to know this and we can’t wait until it’s too late. If everyone took a thousand whales in the yearly hunt, they would be extinct in no time. The message needs to get out and I can help make that happen.” JP says “I offered to go to jail for Paul in Germany but they wouldn’t let me. Funding Sea Shepherd is one of the ways that I contribute to the future of the planet, the future of my children and grandchildren.”
The guest watch the brewing weather. This group is on a mission that is bigger than they are, and they will stop at nothing. They are change agents. The importance of the upcoming mission far outweighs the risks. They are there to engage in the creation of history and guide the course of it. Although, I had vowed to stay up with the Captain and navigate,
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In order to know why it’s so great Paul Watson is back you need to understand why he’s been gone so long. Watson, founder of Sea Shepherd and the star of Whale Wars, a reality show that airs on Animal Planet, is known for his aggressive campaigns to protect the oceans and the whales from human predators and Japanese Whaling Fleets. Some say he is too aggressive. He claims he is upholding the law. Watson was arrested in Germany in May of 2012 on his way to the Canne Film Festival for extradition to Costa Rica on charges of “violation of ships traffic”. The charge was the result of Sea Shepherd encountering an illegal shark finning operation run by a Costa Rican ship called the Varadero. After a gun battle with the Guatemalans, the crew of the Varadero accused the Sea Shepherds of trying to kill them yet video evidence proved this to be untrue. Meanwhile, the Japanese Government and Interpol Police also wanted Watson for criminal charges stemming from his antiwhaling activities in 2010 off the coast of Antarctica. So the capture of Watson in Germany was complicated. He was released into his own custody but required to check in daily. When he realized that Costa Rica was going to send him to Japan for trial where he might remain in jail for the rest of his days… he left town and in an undisclosed way made his way across the globe, reconnected with his crew in another undisclosed location and headed out to sea. Paul had escaped the country in the midst of the Interpol warrant issued by the Japanese and Costa Rican Governments, two of the biggest violators of the ocean. The Japanese for mutilating the dolphins of Taiji (The Cove) http://www.thecovemovie.com and killing off the whale population under the guise of research and the Costa Ricans for killing sharks for their fins to export to Asia for Shark Fin soup, a delicacy for Chinese weddings. (Sharkwater) http://www.sharkwater.com The Japanese view Sea Shepherd as terrorists for stopping their whaling industry and Sea Shepherd view the Japanese Whaling Fleets as criminals for breaking laws and illegally killing the whales under the guise of “research” . According to www.icrwhale. org, the Institute of Cetacean Research (ICR), the organization currently killing whales for research, was established to continue the “scientific research” after the International Whaling Commission (IWC) issued a moratorium on commercial whaling. There has been a no kill policy on whales since 1987. “The Institute of Cetacean Research operates under the Japan Fisheries Agency, a division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, which issues annual catch quotas. The Japanese
“research” organization claims that the whale population is large enough to endure culling. Numerous activists and Non Governmental Organizations claim they are not a true research institution rather the fishing industry and the government utilizing a loophole. Japan, a nation known for superb manufacturing, forward thinking, futuristic electronics and great food, has a darker side; as evidenced historically numerous tragedies including that of Minamata Bay when Chisso Corporation dumped mercury into the sea poisoning the people, the fish and even the cats, eventually leading to Minimata Disease. The continuous capture and slaughter of the Taiji Dolphin also continues today. Dolphins are either sold to theme parks or end up on the shelf as food in Japan. What’s worse is this meat is also loaded with mercury and fed to children. Sea Shepherd hopes to change the ways of the Japanese Whalers. If you’d like to help, donate or volunteer www.seashepherd.org Season Six of Whale Wars got delayed due to the seriousness of the charges and the disappearance of Watson. http://animal.discovery.com/tv-shows/whale-wars
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COCO ECO | TAKE ACTION
Paul Walker’s Lasting Legacy Writen by: Heather Carter, Managing Editor
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Paul Walker lost his life in a tragic car accident on November 30th, 2013. Walker had been attending an event for his nonprofit REACH OUT Worldwide supporting victims of the Philippines’ Typhoon when Walker and his business partner Roger Rodas took a fateful ride Rodas’s Porsche. The Fast & Furious Actor was undeniably a beautiful man but following his death it has been his beautiful character that has garnered more attention. Following his death walker’s foundation has been getting inundated with support, J.D. Dorfman, operations manager for ROWW, says the outpouring of love “has been overwhelming.” Further cementing Walker’s legacy through his philanthropic work. Walker founded REACH OUT Worldwide in January 2010, following the devastating Haiti earthquake, during which he observed the apparent paucity of skilled resources and the requirement for such personnel in post-disaster situations. Walker enlisted the help of his friends to assist in the forming of ROWW with the vision that they could fulfill the unmet needs. Based in Santa Barbara, California, ROWW’s mission is simple: to offer help and hope to people affected by natural disasters within 48 to 72 hours after the event occurs. ROWW operates on the philosophy that by making
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ROWW’s mission is simple: to offer help and hope to people affected by natural disasters within 48 to 72 hours after the event occurs.
a difference in just one person’s life, the world has been changed for the better. A team of skilled volunteers and committed professionals with first responder skill-set (including project management, logistics, heavy equipment operation, EMT, paramedic, firefighting, and healthcare, etc) comprise the first responder team. The volunteers provide their expertise when disasters strike and augment local resources with the goal of accelerating relief efforts on a worldwide basis. ROWW has developed Standard Operating Procedures that facilitate arriving quickly, clearing access, providing basic necessities and medical assistance to ease the survivors’ pain and bringing hope in the bleakest of circumstances. ROWW to date has sent relief to the victims of the Oklahoma City Tornado, Chile earthquake, Haiti earthquake, Indonesian tsunami, Alabama Tornado, Philippines typhoon, Illinois tornados, and typhoon Haiyan. Paul once stated, “When you put goodwill out there, it is amazing what can be accomplished.” Coco Eco reader’s can help support Reach out Worldwide continue to grow Paul’s vision by donating money, donating goods, volunteering and partnering. Visit www.roww.org to learn more. TAKE ACTION | 137
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COCO ECO | EVENTS
THE CONSUL GENERAL OF CANADA HONORS CANADIAN FASHION DESIGNER, DALIA MACPHEE WRITTEN BY: Anna Griffin, Editor in Chief PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Michael Bezjian & Edyta A. Pachowicz
Hancock Park Los Angeles, CA Thursday, November 7
Nia Peeples
David Fransen and Dalia MacPhee
On Thursday, November 7, The Consul General of Canada, Mr. David Fransen, hosted a red carpet reception in honor of vegan, Canadian fashion designer Dalia MacPhee, to view her exclusive preview of her 2014 Red Carpet and Award Show Collections. The rarely seen library of the Canadian Consul General’s private residence in Hancock Park, Los Angeles, was turned into an elaborate showcase/museum style installation, displaying Dalia’s new 2014 award season gowns as works of contemporary art. Celebrities and VIP guests got an opportunity to enjoy next year’s trends, whilst treated to a special performance from critically acclaimed Violinist, Lili Haydn, under the stars by champagne and candlelight. www.daliaonline.com
Bai Ling
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COCO ECO | EVENTS
Co-chair Zem Joaquin, Actress Maggie Grace, Global Green’s Christiana Wyly, and Co-chair Nadine Weil
Rosario Dawson
THE GREEN GATSBY GLOBAL GREEN USA GORGEOUS & GREEN GALA WRITTEN BY: Anna Griffin, Editor in Chief PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Michael Bezjian & Edyta A. Pachowicz
LEED-certified Bently Reserve, San Francisco, CA October 11th 2013 The Green GatsbyOn Friday, October 11, Global Green USA’s swanky Gorgeous & Green Gala – The Green Gatsby – was held at the LEEDcertified Bently Reserve in San Francisco. The sold-out, target zero waste event, which united numerous eco-conscious celebrities and Bay Area luminaries, raised more than $350,000 benefiting Global Green’s various sustainability initiatives, programs and critical projects. After EcoAccolades were presented to Intel, Adobe and the PlumpJack Group for their achievements and unsurpassed commitment to sustainability, Celebrity and VIP attendees such as Rosario Dawson, Maggie Grace, the Gettys, Zem Joaquin and Matt Peterson, were treated to live entertainment, including Ken Jordan of The Crystal Method, and an eco-couture, Gatsby-era runway show, before celebrating in style at the Roka Bar after-party. www.globalgreen.org
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| COCO ECO MAGAZINE | Winter 2013 / 14
Maggie Grace and Rosario Dawson www.cocoecomag.com
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