PATYKA: Organic Self-Care in a Bottle

When it comes to treating myself well, let's just say it's taken time, but I now consider myself an expert in the art of self-care. My focus covers the insides and outsides; spirit and body; brain and brawn. I take time to read, practice yoga, run, laugh, love, take naps, get manicures, share with friends, … Continue reading PATYKA: Organic Self-Care in a Bottle

A Little Lark for Your Little Bundle

Who doesn't love a baby? Even if you're pre-procreation or just undecided in the "bringing a human into the world" department, it's hard to resist the soft skin and fresh smell of a little bundle. When my sister-in-law gave birth to my nephew I wanted to steal him, I mean buy him...every outfit on the … Continue reading A Little Lark for Your Little Bundle

Have You Ever Felt So Green?

When I think of felt - I think of 5th grade. That's the year my best friend, Eden, and I created a 2-foot-high UCLA basketball player out of papier-mache. We captured him mid-stride with an orange Styrofoam basketball hanging from his hand. The light blue and yellow uniform, socks and shoes were made with felt. … Continue reading Have You Ever Felt So Green?

Environmentally Friendly Sunscreen Review: SmartShield

I spent most of my youth outdoors, either running around the neighborhood with friends or on the tennis court or playing after school sports. Needless to say, the harsh southern California sun had its way with my skin. Terms like SPF or UV weren't on the tips of everyone's tongues just yet. We preferred Baby … Continue reading Environmentally Friendly Sunscreen Review: SmartShield

Shop Wisely with Rising Tide Fair Trade

I'm a big believer in Mies van der Rohe's dictum "less is more". I'd much prefer that you use what already hangs in your closet. And as much as the lesser green in me would love to encourage you to buy a newer, cooler version of this or that, the greenest me would never do … Continue reading Shop Wisely with Rising Tide Fair Trade

5 Favorite Cutting Edge Eco-Chairs

I'm all about sitting. I'm a mover and a shaker when the occasion requires, but when it's time to call it quits I bet my butt finds a chair before yours. How can I be so sure? Because I was master of musical chairs in kindergarten. I would somehow throw my little body into place … Continue reading 5 Favorite Cutting Edge Eco-Chairs

The Ultimate Guide to Eco Lighting

Maybe it's the way they can make or break a room, like the way the perfect accessory can pull together an outfit. Or maybe the whys don't matter as much as the facts. Eco-lighting is front-page news and everyone who's anyone is making the switch to green. For your viewing pleasure, I've gathered a cutting … Continue reading The Ultimate Guide to Eco Lighting

Stella McCartney Vegan Bag: Eco-Friendly or Eco-Wannabe?

I enjoy the occasional controversy. Not the "throw one below the belt" emotionally-charged controversy, but the intelligent discussion chock full of thoughtful comments and ideas even-in-the-throes-of-opposing-views controversy. And I especially enjoy them when they're eco-related. So, here goes. Yes, I covet the new faux leather bag by Stella McCartney. (And word has it a certain … Continue reading Stella McCartney Vegan Bag: Eco-Friendly or Eco-Wannabe?

Throw an Eco-Party Without Planning

It's not surprising that the green movement has found its way into the world of event planning - from weddings to product launches to graduation celebrations. Parties are fun, and trust me, I'm definitely in favor of fun. But most parties will create more waste and use more energy in one night than a family … Continue reading Throw an Eco-Party Without Planning

Geoff McFetridge: Coming to a Wall Near You

I didn't think it was possible but wallpaper has become huge, as in popular, hip, happenin' - most likely due to its turning a lovely shade of green (as in eco, eco, eco). It also doesn't hurt that a few of the ultra cool graphic designers du jour have lent their creative juices to the … Continue reading Geoff McFetridge: Coming to a Wall Near You

The Key to My Eco-Heart

Last Sunday after brunch, my friend and I hit Melrose for window shopping, and there it was: a white porcelain key hanging from the neck of a very hip woman. There it swung, elegantly and simply by a thin, black leather cord. Now, I've done my eco-homework. Porcelain falls into the green category, and it's … Continue reading The Key to My Eco-Heart

More Sex, Ladies: the Planet Is Counting on You!

I, Kim Derby, would really like you to get busy. Why? Because sex, my friends, is good for the planet. Tell your friends, tell your neighbors, tell your...well, if you're doing this properly, you probably won't need to tell them. I know all of you smart, sophisticated eco-vixens have it in you. Here's why going … Continue reading More Sex, Ladies: the Planet Is Counting on You!

Go Green, Good Traveler: Introducing Starwood’s New ELEMENT hotels

In the days of old and eco-oblivion, you could travel the world, sleep anywhere with 5 stars and be assured of a restful, luxurious, guilt-free experience. In the 90s, smaller "boutique" hotels began to crop up - but pampering, not green, was still the priority. If you're a frequent traveler who happens to have acquired … Continue reading Go Green, Good Traveler: Introducing Starwood’s New ELEMENT hotels

Of Sea Pearls and Diva Cups: an Honest Review of Eco Feminine Hygiene Products

The curse, Aunt Flo, crimson wave, the rag, that time of the month - sound vaguely familiar? For centuries women have been shushed and shamed and told it was inappropriate to discuss - but if you ask me our ability to create a life is amazing. So here at EcoSalon, let's just use the word … Continue reading Of Sea Pearls and Diva Cups: an Honest Review of Eco Feminine Hygiene Products

For the Guys: 10 Things to Avoid if You Want to Date a Green Goddess

Poor thing, he'll be out there all night. Let's just say I've dated a lot. I have dozens of horrible yet hilarious dating tales, but I continue to pick myself up, dust off the disappointment and carry on - hey, the good outweighs the bad and there's always the chance for love. However, I have … Continue reading For the Guys: 10 Things to Avoid if You Want to Date a Green Goddess

Let Your Eco-Wall Mural Take You Anywhere You Want to Go

Close your eyes and mentally travel somewhere soothing. Right about now, you should be floating in the waters of Poipu Beach or Bora Bora. Unfortunately, when you open your eyes the reality of life returns. According to Thomas Wieckowski, founder of MyDigitalPrints, your fantasy vacation need not be cut short. My Digital Prints is in … Continue reading Let Your Eco-Wall Mural Take You Anywhere You Want to Go

Get Your Car Squeaky Green

Unfortunately, my hometown of Los Angeles is best known for Hollywood, Malibu, Beverly Hills and traffic. Most of us own cars out of necessity, because it's virtually impossible to get around without one. As a result, there's a car wash on almost every corner and you dare not drive if your car isn't glossy. Just … Continue reading Get Your Car Squeaky Green