Fab Find: Jewelry by 31 Bits

I'm completely in love with 31 Bits. I stumbled upon their jewelry in the September issue of People Style Watch (they have a monthly feature called 'Easy Eco'... so good!). Check out some of my favorite pieces:

From left to right: Bermuda Braid, Cypress, and The Magician

Made from 100% recycled paper, these bracelets and necklaces are hand-crafted by Ugandan women. Not only is the jewelry absolutely gorgeous, but the company also has amazing values. All of the Ugandan women are compensated fairly for their work. They even receive English lessons and financial training to help strengthen their entrepreneurship skills. Founder Kallie Dovel explains, "We strive to build a loving community that cares for individuals’ spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical needs." So much more than a jewelry line.

Best of all, these pieces are totally affordable. Ranging from $10.00 to $54.00, anyone can score chic jewelry that supports a good cause. Now, how cool is that?

But wait! People Style Watch is offering 25% off the Cypress bracelet (pictured above) through August 15. Just enter the discount code, PEOPLEMAG, at checkout :)

Read more about the story of 31 Bits at their website.
Wonderfully Made also has a great interview with them.

Magazine Clippings: Kim Kardashian's Cosmo Cover Sweater

Why is Kim Kardashian looking better than ever on the cover of Cosmo's August issue?

... because she's rocking a hot pink sweater from Alternative Apparel, that's why!

The 'Maniac Eco-Fleece Sweatshirt' is made from a combination of recycled polyester and organic cotton. Sure, the actually percentage of these materials being used isn't outstanding (a mere 6.25% of each), but hey, it's a start! And to see it featured on the cover of a popular magazine? I'm digging it.

Plus, it looks crazy comfy. For $44.00, I think I might have to scoop one up... perhaps in black. Pink is just not my color.

Eco Beach Essentials

This past week has been a wonderful vacation here at my parent's shore house in Manahawkin, New Jersey (near Long Beach Island). It's my favorite place to be, hands down. As a kid, I could never get enough of the beach and I don't think I ever will.

So as a full-blown beach bum, I decided to feature my favorite shore-worthy goods (all eco-friendly, of course). So here they are, collage style :)

Bobble Bottle - $9.99: You can't go to the beach without a water bottle! And if it's not re-useable, you will be getting death stares. This one has a cool replaceable filter for a cheap price tag.

Sanuk Rasta Nectar Sandals - $42.00: These super stylish sandals are made of hemp, recycled rubber, and coconut shells (as buttons!). I absolutely adore them.

Loomstate for Target Shorts: These comfy organic cotton shorts are my fave. Sadly, they're not in stores anymore so I really hope Loomstate does another collection for Target *fingers crossed*

LAVANILLA The Healthy Lip Screen - $16.00: My lips always get burnt at the beach. This stuff protects them like no other and has a sweet minty scent. Perfection.

No More Dirty Looks - $12.00: Best eco-beauty handbook ever. Perfect beach read.

Yarok 'Feed Your Volume' Conditioner - $26.00: Yarok is my new obsession. This conditioner transforms my salty hair into luscious locks. No effort required.

What are some of your favorite vacation essentials?

Hope everyone is having a great summer!