Equa - Fair Trade Fashion - Organic Clothing - Ethical Style - Islington Ethical Boutique

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2011-01-06T17:41:00.000Z

Here at Equa we are really chuffed to be listed in Time Out London's Best Shops Guide for 2011!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T11:00:00.001Z

Under The Mistletoe

2010-12-23T13:36:00.001Z

The social calendar is filling up with all sorts of festive fun, but what to wear? Here are a few of our favourite pieces that are sure to turn heads:

Scoop Back Party Dress by Annie Greenabelle. This is the perfect little party dress!

It is both cute and sexy whilst also being stylish and sophisticated. It is aimed at the more girly girls out there as it is one of the most feminine pieces we have at the moment. The best thing about this dress, in my opinion, is that it will take you right through winter (think thick tights and a thin polar neck under it) to those long summer nights (think little heels and a cute shrugg)! It is easy and versatile so go for it girls and snap it up now before it's too late!!

Pleated Pencil Dress by Outsider. This dress is super chic and perfect for a more formal event. It reminds me of Audrey Hepburn and I can see it being worn to Ascot or an equally smart occasion. The lovely thing about this dress is the detailing, there are fishtailesque inserts in the sleeve seams and at the bottom of the skirt. The wide round neck is very flattering as it gives just a glimpse of the decolletage without giving too much away, making this dress one of our most elegant lines.

Molly Dress by Annie Greenabelle. Another one by Annie Greenabelle, but they are just so darn pretty! This is a great piece as it is another extremely versatile style, it can be worn in a girly way, with pale tights, flat shoes and a blazer. Or it can be worn in quite a 'rock chic' way, with black or coloured tights, killer heels and a leather biker jacket with some fierce jewellery! Whichever way you wear it the understated sparkley frill around the neck will keep it nice and feminine!

Offset Hoop Earrings by Just Trade. These earrings will put the finishing touch to any outfit, and are the epitome of understated style and match perfectly with our bag below! They are hand made in Lima, Peru by a women's co-operative called the Zoe project which ensures the women are being treated well and fairly. It also ensures that they are earning enough money to live on and educate their children. So, not only are you buying beautiful earrings, you are also doing a good thing and supporting women to support themselves and their families!!

Santogold Bag by Matt & Nat. This bag is fantastic because you have the option of two different removable straps, one of which is a chic brass chain. For parties you can remove the straps all together and use it as a clutch. Another fantastically versatile piece found at Equa!!

Derby Heels by Beyond Skin.These shoes are some of my favorites of the season. They have a fun/sexy feel to them with their bright red colour and black heel and sole. One of the best things about them, in my opinion, is they are not too high(approx 3.5 inches)and therefore not too hard to walk in!! The heel is nice and solid and doesn't end in a pinhead point, thus making it easier to balance after one too many at the Christmas party!!

Rosie x

Staff Christmas Wish List - Eva

2010-12-17T11:00:00.001Z

The two items I most covet in the shop this yuletide are again the Ila candles (I obviously wan't a good enough girl last year as this is my second year of begging Father Christmas for them!) and new for this year the Annie Greenabelle Long sleeve body con dress.

The candles are just gorgeous in their vibrantly coloured glass cases and their scents are mesmerising. The dress is so soft, versatile and effortlessly sexy which given the amount of parties in the calendar makes it a xmas staple! Come on St Nick, I've been far better behaved this year, I promise....

Staff Christmas Wish List - Marta

2010-12-16T11:00:00.000Z

Alchemist wrap leather belt - the leather is soft and supple and the colour is beautiful chocolate brown. It is a very versatile piece, and is excellent for cinching at the waist after one too many mince pies.

Timothy Han Tin candles - the scent

is very subtle and the small tin packaging is adorable. The candles are soy wax based and are made locally in De Beauvoir Town. My favorite scent of all is the orange, grapefruit & clove that will make a perfect stocking gift.

Staff Christmas Wish List - Amy

2010-12-15T18:19:00.002Z

Matt & Natt Omo wallet. This gorgeous wallet comes in turquoise or brown, but my favourite is the vivid turquoise blue. The wallet zips open revealing lots of space for cards and a separate zip compartment for change. Matt & Natt is a vegan brand, so no leather has been used to make this product. This wallet comes beautifully packaged in a foil embossed box ready to be wrapped and put under the tree.

Pants For Poverty Organic ruched knickers - 2 pack. These cute pants come in a two pack and are conveniently christmas coloured ready to be put straight into the stocking. The gathered seam up the back is a gorgeous detail and flattering on too!

Staff Christmas Wish List - Rosie

2010-12-14T11:17:00.002Z

Next up....Rosie!

My ultimate Christmas gift pick has to be the Terra Plana Dionysia heels. They are beautiful, well made, sexy and versatile. They can be worn with skirts and dresses as well as trousers and are the perfect item to take you from day to evening! One of the features of these shoes is the memo-foam sole that keeps your feet super comfortable all day long. For me, that is priceless, especially for high heels.

As my second Christmas gift pick I have to choose the Wish Sugar Scrub from our body care range. It contains only the best organic and environmentally friendly ingredients and smells good enough eat! Having tried it myself it does a beautiful job of softening and polishing the skin, leaving you feeling silky soft and smelling divine ready to face any challenge that the day may bring

WARNING: After use you really will smell good enough to eat!!

Staff Christmas Wish List - Ruth

2010-12-13T17:30:00.003Z

This week the Equa staff will reveal what they have on they have on this year's Christmas Wish List. To start we have the wonderful Ruth:

My first Xmas gift pick is an Envirosax. They’re are so brilliant, you’ll never need to use a disposable plastic bag again! These bags fold up into a tiny roll which is perfect for keeping in your handbag at all times, making you ready for any unexpected purchases. They come in a great range of colours and designs and make the ideal gift for anyone who shops!

Another great Xmas gift, Silver Crochet Earrings by Just Trade. Hand Made by a women’s co-operative in Peru, these earrings are so pretty. They are available in 3 sizes and there is also a matching pendant or necklace. These earrings will add a touch of sparkle for Christmas and throughout the new year.

CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS

2010-12-10T16:15:00.003Z

From Saturday 11th to Thursday 23rd December:

Monday               10.00 am – 6.30 pm

Tuesday              10.00 am – 6.30 pm

Wednesday         10.00 am – 6.30 pm

Thursday             10.00 am – 7.00 pm

Friday                  10.00 am– 6.30 pm

Saturday             10.00 am - 7.00 pm

Sunday                12.00 pm - 6.00 pm

Fri 24th                 10.00am – 4.00pm

25th, 26th & 27th CLOSED

Tuesday 28th         12.00 pm – 6.00 pm

Wednesday 29th    11.00 am – 6.00 pm

Thursday 30th       11.00 am – 6.00 pm

Friday 31st            11.00 am – 4.00 pm

1st January CLOSED

Sunday 2nd Jan     12.00 pm – 6.00 pm

Monday 3rd Jan   CLOSED

Then back to our usual opening hours...

Soya Wax Candles

2010-12-09T14:05:00.000Z

As the evenings lengthen and winter draws in my mind turns to simple home comforts to brighten my mood. A scented candle is the perfect home accessory to get you in the cosy Christmas mood, and they also make lovely gifts.

At Equa we stock a beautiful range of ethical yet luxurious aromatherapy candles by Timothy Han. What makes these candles different is the philosophy behind the Timothy Han brand, which is centred around the concept of “Sustainable Luxury”.

“We do not believe it necessary to sacrifice luxury in order to live responsibly” Timothy Han

The 3 points of difference between these candles and the vast majority if candles you can find on the high street:

- 100% natural and organic pure essential oils

- Organic soy wax free of pesticides

- Unbleached cotton wick

Essential oils

Most scented candles are made from artificial scents which can be overpowering and have a very synthetic smell. In contrast the Timothy Han candles have a delicate and subtle natural scent that lingers. They use only the highest quality pure essential oils.

An essential oil is the concentrated essence of aromatic plants such as flowers, herbs, fruit, wood etc.. They have been a precious commodity dating back to ancient Egypt.

Extraction of essential oils requires a long and precise distillation process. It can take vast quantities of the raw material to produce a small quantity of essential oil. For example to produce 4 teaspoons of rose oil it can take over 225 pounds of rose petals. The cost of essential oils varies greatly due to the cost and quantity of raw material needed.

Soy Wax

The vast majority of scented candles available are made from petroleum based wax, most commonly paraffin. Even if they are advertised as `natural’ they commonly are a blend vegetable wax and paraffin so be sure to check the ingredients.

Paraffin wax is a heavy hydrocarbon derived from crude oil. Paraffin is known to give off harmful fumes linked to asthma and cancer. Many years of use can be harmful to your health and your home. Paraffin, being made from fossil fuels, is also a limited resource.

The Timothy Han collection is made with 100% organic soy wax. This is an all natural product that is renewable and biodegradable.

Not only does soy wax have better ethical credentials but it burns more slowly than paraffin candles and does not emit black soot.Soy wax is easy to wash out of fabric and does not leave an oily residue like paraffin wax does.

Timothy Han Candles come in two sizes; 190g which comes in a reusable glass and the smaller 57g candle in a tin. The spicy orange and clove blend beautifully evokes memories of Christmas past.

To View Equa's full range of candles click Here >>

Winter Warmers

2010-12-04T14:06:00.002Z

Brrr, it's so cold here in London, definitely time for those winter woolies! Here are a few of the best ethical knitwear pieces to keep you cosy this winter:

This Fair Isle Dress by People Tree is so lovely and chunky whilst also being really pretty. With short sleeves it's great combined with a black long sleeve jersey dress, tights and knee high boots.

Add a splash of cable knit colour with the Hanro Pom Pom Scarf by Komodo. So long and soft to keep you really cosy.

The beautiful Camu Coat by Komodo is fully lined with soft cotton jersey, adding an extra layer of warmth for wearing both, inside as a cardigan or out and about as a coat.

So soft and chunky, the Clara Cardigan by People Tree is another great one for the layered look. It's fantastic belted over a long sleeve dress or with jeans and a winter coat. The lovely chunky collar means there's no need for a scarf!

And finally....don't forgot your feet. Keep them toasty in a pair of PoZu Slippers, the ultimate eco footwear.

Christmas Windows!

2010-11-29T11:00:00.003Z

The Christmas window display is one of the most fun to design. Visually you can be really extravagant and everyone enjoys getting involved with making the props. This year I wanted something elegant and I was inspired by one of my favourite fairy tales, The Snow Queen. I wanted to create the impression of a petrified forest encroaching on the Snow Queen's ice palace.

We made as many of the props as we could oursleves. The branches were collected from piles of prunings in a local park and painted white then frosted with glitter. The hanging snowflakes were made from recycled plastic bags, layers of which were laminated together using an iron, and then cut out into shapes. These were then embellished using sequins and beads left over from other projects. The piles of presents are wrapped up Terra Plana shoe boxes.

Featured items in the window include:

Komodo Penelop Dress

Article 23 Paula Jumper

Komodo Locus Trousers

Plus plenty of Christmas gift ideas.

Designer Interview - Mirabelle Jewellery

2010-11-25T15:31:00.000Z

This month we are interviewing Veronique Henry the designer behind fashion jewellery label, Mirabelle. The daughter of a Parisian silversmith, Veronique's appreciation for the richness of colours and opulence found throughout Asia is reflected in her collections. Mirabelle jewellery is made by producers in Indonesia who receive a minimum set price for their goods, with financial and technical support, and safe, healthy working conditions.

Mirabelle is a new label for us at Equa and we are delighted to introduce it to you..

In a nutshell what was your initial motivation to become a designer of fair trade jewellery?
It fell onto my lap.............it was an obvious thing to do..........I was travelling and bringing back exciting items, jewellery was so easy to bring and so enticing! It was the obvious thing to bring back as all girls like jewellery, and my self first of course! So what a way to treat myself..... I thought ...if they do not like it i will keep it for myself..............Luckily I do not have many items like this.!

What does ethical fashion mean to you?
For me it means you work within ethical principles and you treat others like you would be treated, it means you respect people and always put this first.

What challenges do you face as an ethical designer?
The recognition of being ethical without having to join costly and complicated organisations.

What are the inspirations behind your latest collection?
Greek, Romans, ancient medieval and Victorian........ all mixed and revisited.

What advice would you give anyone looking to make their wardrobe more ethical?
If you buy it cheap, just look where it is made and do some research..... There's nothing wrong with buying cheap if really they are fair-trade..... other wise there is a big risk it is exploitation.

Who are your Style Icons?
....Coco Chanel, Jane Birkin,

What is the most treasured item in your wardrobe and where did it come from?
A cashmere scarf , sooooo warm. It is a Burburry, but I wear it all the time in winter........
Oh and a Miu Miu bag which I treasure............ I am a bit of a bag addict........few pieces of jewellery and that little black dress........it is not a label, but it does the job!

As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?
Travel, travel and travel. And I did just that.

Tell us something you are really excited about…
My next collection......keys, coins, trinkets......! watch out.

Tell us something that really gets on your nerves….
people who copy me, so annoying! But I take it as a compliment now.

What's next for your label?
Growing, and designing more collections !

Thank you Veronique!
To view more Mirabelle at Equa Click Here >>

Staff Pick Of The Season - Thalia

2010-11-23T14:00:00.000Z

Adele Skirt by People Tree

I bought this skirt about a month ago and it has quickly established itself as a firm favourite in my wardrobe. The colour makes me happy! I love the high waist and the way it nips in to contrast with the tulip shape made by the pockets. I tuck a t-shirt into it for daytime but with a dressy black vintage blouse it's also been great for evening.

Starfish Dress by Rianne De Witte
I'm a sucker for little black dresses! The lyocell jersey in this one drapes beautifully and feels wonderfully luxurious. This dress is fantastic because it is fitted at the sides but the panel of pleating down the center is very flattering so I can eat a big dinner without feeling self conscious!

Staff Pick Of The Season - Amy

2010-11-22T15:21:00.001Z

My first pick of the season would have to be the People Tree Audrey Dress. It is a grey shift dress made of a textured woven organic cotton with cute tuck sleeves. It’s perfect for winter worn over a long sleeved thermal top teamed with warm tights and boots. And if you are looking for a more fitted look it also looks great cinched in at the waist with a tie belt.

My second pick is the Annie Greenabelle Split Back Dress. It is the perfect mixture of cute and sophisticated. The classic shape reminds me of gorgeous 1960s shift dresses. Formal enough to wear to work but also lots of fun to party in. I will be wearing it with black tights and ankle boots teamed with a cosy cardigan.

Staff Pick Of The Season - Rosie

2010-11-17T12:55:00.001Z

My primary pick of this season is the Article 23 Betty Tunic. It is a simple black top that can easily take you from day to work to evening. Paired with jeans and boots for a 'Day look' or tucked into a pencil skirt with heels for a 'work look'. For an evening ensemble you could tuck it into some super skinny high waisted trousers with killer heels. In my opinion it is one of the most versatile pieces of the season.

My second pick of the season is another Article 23 piece the Paula Jumper. As soon as I laid eyes on it I fell in love! It is the 'must have' winter cosy jumper, with it's super soft wool and creamy beige colour I would be as snug as a bug in a rug all winter long. It's length means ones posterior would be kept out of the cold while the chunky roll neck means you have no need for a scarf, and this for me is the ultimate winter warmer!

Staff Pick Of The Season - Ruth

2010-11-16T12:00:00.005Z

We have such great knitwear this season. The Bibico Long Knit Vest is one of my favourites, for adding an extra layer of warmth and it looks great belted over a short winter dress!

The Komodo Halina Tunic is perfect for adding some extra sparkle to the party season! I love it with tights and heels for an evening out or with jeans at the weekend.

Staff Pick Of The Season - Marta

2010-11-15T16:51:00.000Z

This week each of the girls from the Equa boutique will be picking out their favourite pieces of ethical fashion from the Autumn Winter 2010 collection.

First up we have the lovely Marta:

My ultimate pick of this season has to be Cecilia Hammarborg Ezerin Trench Coat. It is extremely luxurious and well tailored. With its perfect fit it is most definitely a statement piece and wardrobe staple for any "girl about town"!

My very favorite dress this season is Annie Greenabelle's organic cotton Molly Dress. Whilst being very comfortable and easy to wear, it is quite feminine and elegant. The plunging neckline decorated with a cute sparkling frill gives this dress a nice evening feel.

How to wear it! The Marcy Pod Dress

2010-11-08T16:09:00.002Z

As the weather gets colder it's so easy to end up with a wardrobe full of dull sludgy greys or black and more black. The Marcy Pod Dress by People Tree gives a welcome pop of colour. It's made from a beautiful handwoven fabric in deep fig with a geometric pattern in burnt orange and magenta. It is produced by People Tree in conjunction with artisans from the group Folk Bangladesh who work to bring employment opportunities, design and technical support to disadvantaged people living in remote areas of Bangladesh. Hand weaving fabric is estimated to save 1 ton of C02 emissions per year per hand loom.

Here we have teamed this dress with the following items:

Double Hoop Earrings by Just Trade

Brass Bangle by Just Trade

Dionysia lace up heels by Terra Plana

Footless Tights by G=9.8

Adore Vegan Handbag by Matt & Nat

The Perfect Ethical Work Dress

2010-10-29T16:05:00.000+01:00

Some fabulous new pieces from Komodo arrived in the boutique this week. We think the Pepi Dress is the ideal work dress. It is sharply tailored but the red top stitching is a quirky detail that will take you beyond boring board room fashion. It is made from a mix of hemp, organic cotton and wool fabric with a textured weave which gives it a touch of heritage chic. It makes a perfect team with Terra Plana's Juniper Heels, with the deep red mesh echoing the red stitching.

Other great ethical workwear items at Equa include:

Blazer with Belt by Outsider

Miles Vegan Satchel by Matt & Nat

To view more from Equa's new collections click here >>

Designer Interview - Aura Que

2010-10-18T09:00:00.001+01:00

For this month's designer interview I would like to extend a very warm welcome to Laura Queening from the gorgeous fair trade accessories label Aura Que.

In a previous post I mentioned just how much I love these bags with their hand knitted banana yarn panels..


Image: Aura Que AW10 collection, Large Zip Handbag

In a nutshell what was your initial motivation for becoming involved in ethical fashion?

During my final year at Cordwainers at London College of Fashion, I wanted to work with small producer groups in a more personal and ethical way. So I sourced fair trade producers in Nepal, a place that I loved after my gap year teaching English in a rural village there.

After I graduated in 2007, I was involved in the LCF Shared Talent Fair Trade Project in Johannesburg, South Africa and designed a collection of recycled leather handbags for the Oxfam Boutique. Then I decided that I wanted to create my own brand with my links in Nepal, launching AURA QUE for Autumn/Winter 2008.

What does ethical fashion mean to you?

For me, it means that considerations are made during the design and production process, to work with producers that are treated fairly, enabling them to support their families and also to source materials that are more sustainable where possible. In developing countries like Nepal, fair employment helps people to help themselves.

With AURA QUE, it is not possible at the moment to get a perfectly ethical supply chain, but every material and manufacturer is carefully considered with regards to ethics, design and cost. The social fair trade aspect is of primary concern to me – working directly with all my producers, and using handmade local materials and production that create more employment opportunities.

What challenges do you face as an ethical label?

I am working with some fantastic Nepalese people and producer groups and as with most labels, it is a constant challenge to meet production deadlines and maintain quality control. When working on new designs, it is a joint effort between myself and the sample makers Kumar and Arjun, working out the best way to make the product with the factory’s technical equipment and skills.

What are the inspirations behind this season's collection?

The new A/W Collection incorporates the signature AURA QUE look combining leather with textured handknitted panels, with inspiration from various pieces of formal menswear and details drawn from leather braces, high collars and jackets. I also wanted to get a very asymmetric but practical look this season with many of the bags having versatile handles and straps.

Image: Aura Que AW10 Collection, Bucket Handbag

What advice would you give anyone looking to make their wardrobe more ethical?

There is a lot out there now! Not only with some great new independent designer labels, but also ethical collections on the high street. It is also about caring for your clothing and accessories so they last longer, as well as investing long term in quality products.

What is the most treasured item in your wardrobe and where did it come from?

When I was travelling through Spain and Morocco in 2001, I bought a bleached denim jacket which I still wear nine years later, though it’s acquired a few rips on the elbows along the way…

As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?

Aah I could never decide, I think I went from wanting to be an air hostess, to a doctor, bio chemist, architect and then handbag designer…I’m glad I am doing what I am doing now!

Tell us something you are really excited about...

I am really excited to be going back to Nepal soon, to work on my new A/W 2011 collection – I spend about 4 or 5 months of the year out there - I love it!

What's next for your label?

AURA QUE is gaining momentum with the leather/knit bags and accessories – and we are looking to create a classic leather range, and eventually launch a unisex range – all a work in progress!

Thank you Laura!

To view Equa's collection of Aura Que bags click here >>

Autumn Windows

2010-10-04T12:47:00.000+01:00

It's migration time and Equa's Autumn windows are full of fluttering origami birds. We have got some fabulous prints in for this season so we scanned the fabrics and printed the patterns onto our origami paper.

Here are the pieces featured in this month's window:

Nancy Drape Dress by People Tree

Luna Dress by Komodo

Radia Tunic by Article 23

New Season at Equa

2010-09-27T18:16:00.000+01:00

It's one of my favourite times of the year with boxes full of new season goodies arriving at Equa every day!

Here are a few of my favourites:

Aura Que Large Shopper Handbag
I love the juxtaposition between the textured cable knit and the smooth leather. The panels are knitted by hand from natural banana yarn that comes from sustainably pruning the outer layers of the banana trees after the fruit harvest in South Nepal.

People Tree Stella Drape Dress

I practically live in jersey dresses, they are just so comfortable. This one nips in at the waist with draping that will give an hour glass figure worthy of Joan from Mad Men. Made from organic cotton.

Terra Plana Janis Boots

I've had my eye on these boots for a while now. The panel on the back is made using recycled quilts which means that every pair is a limited edition. You never know what colour you wil get and I love that element of surprise!

Made Multi Shape Earrings

With a brass heart, circle and square, these have a playful element which I really like. Made under fair trade conditions by artisans in Kenya.

To view more of the new season collections at Equa Click Here >>

Designer Interview - Nancy Dee

2010-09-13T17:30:00.004+01:00

For September we are delighted to introduce Seraphina from Nancy Dee for our monthly interview.

At Equa Nancy Dee is gaining a bit of a following for it's gorgeously easy-to-wear jersey dresses. Nancy Dee collections are made using only high quality sustainable and organic fabrics, from super soft soya and organic cotton to luxurious modal.

Image: Nancy Dee Autumn/Winter 2010 collection

In a nutshell what was your initial motivation for becoming involved in ethical fashion?

When my sister and I decided to create Nancy Dee, it was on the proviso that any new company had to be as ethical and as environmentally-friendly as possible. We’d read so much about the negative impact of the fashion industry and we didn’t want to be part of it. It was just the right thing to do, simple as that. Tamsin and I strongly believe that in this day and age anyone about to set up a new company - and even those existing - should do it with a social conscience. Everyone has a responsibility to look after this planet and those that are on it, it's time to stop passing the buck. We can no longer use excuse ourselves because we don't know enough about it. We feel a personal obligation to do things right, and that’s really where it started from.

What does ethical fashion mean to you?

It means that the fashion label is taking steps to bring the consumer responsibly sourced clothing. Different companies have different ways of doing this, such as only using organic and natural fabrics, ensuring the factories they use are audited properly to ensure the workers are paid a fair wage and treated fairly, using only natural dyes and more. It's not always possible to tick all the right boxes, but the important thing is to strive for these things, always aim to make things better for your company, the consumer, the workers and the environment.

What challenges do you face as an ethical label?

The biggest challenge for us is finding reliable factories to manufacture our garments. Quality control is not as paramount as it needs to be with some of the factories we work with, so it's very important we spend time with the workers at their factory so we can guide them through each design.

Fabrics are also more costly when using organic material and often not as good quality; this can make it quite a challenge to keep our prices competitive and it’s very time-consuming sourcing the best fabrics.

Personally as the designer of Nancy Dee I strive to make our label fashionable and versatile, I want people to purchase a garment from us because they love the design, the print and the fit, not because of the ethics – that’s just a massive bonus! I try to inject youth and forward fashion into the pieces, while keeping them balanced enough for them to be worn season after season.

Image: Nancy Dee Autumn/Winter 2010 Collection

What are the inspirations behind this season's collection?

The A/W collection came about from my love of the 1940s era. I'm very inspired by vintage generally, and often look to films and characters for my inspiration. I build up a fantasy character and play out her role with the different designs, trying to cover every event!

So for this collection I took to my history of fashion books and looked at the silhouettes of the ‘40s and subtle details that make the era so enticing. The whole collection is made from our jersey bamboo and organic cotton. This can be difficult fabric for some women to embrace wearing, so I used pleating and tucking to create the shapes and styles that women can feel feminine and comfortable wearing.

What advice would you give anyone looking to make their wardrobe more ethical?

There are loads of ethical brands out there, so do a little research, and don't assume you can't get what you want ethically! Ethical fashion has come on in leaps and bounds, with fashion forward ideas and none of these hemp sacks. Look out for the relevant labelling, and make sure you understand it. But most importantly love the clothes you buy, ethical fashion is not disposable fashion.

Who are your style icons?

I'm a bit of a hippy at heart, so I love Nicole Richie's boho chic style. Others include Juliette Lewis (she really knows how do to do the glam rock look), and Chloe Sevigny (always a little kooky and nerdy, but always very sexy). And as I mentioned before, I often gain inspiration from film characters to, and look back to other eras for something unique. But there is also so much inspiration to take from individuals I see around town, style icons in their own right.

What is the most treasured item in your wardrobe and where did it come from?
It's a little silly, but I have this black crocheted waistcoat, think it might well be from the ‘70s. We had a dressing up box as kids and it's one of the pieces from the box, saved after all these years! I wear with everything I can, absolutely love it.

As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?

I wanted to win an Oscar! I was quite dedicated to my acting way back then, and was convinced I'd become a Hollywood star...... bless. Needless to say life didn't pan out that way, well not yet at least!!!

Tell us something you are really excited about...

I'm really excited about the collection I'm working on right now, A/W11. It's a slightly different look from the classic retro 1940s style you've seen before, and I'm not saying any more than that!

Tell us something that really gets on your nerves....

Computers! I don't like them and they don't like me.... enough said.

What's next for your label?

We're off to Paris at the beginning of September for our first time at Pret-a-Porter trade show to promote our next spring/summer collection. We're really hoping to gain more international stockists which will help us expand as a business. Also our collections are growing each time, more pieces and new fabrics, which makes designing very exciting.

Image: Nancy Dee Autumn/Winter 2010 Collection

Thank you Seraphina. We are very excited to see what you and Tamsin come up with next!

The Nancy Dee Autumn Winter collection will be arriving at Equa very soon. To keep an eye out for it click here >>

Organic Fortnight - Why buy Organic Cotton?

2010-09-09T14:40:00.000+01:00

What is Organic Cotton?

Organic cotton is cultivated without the use of pesticides and fertilisers. Organic farming aims to maintain a balance with nature by using low impact techniques.

There are far reaching environmental benefits, the soil is more fertile and the absence of chemicals promotes biodiversity. Organic farming relies on a maintaining a good soil structure. One key benefit is that the soil holds water more efficiently, so although cotton is a thirsty crop less water is wasted.

What are the benefits for the farmers?
Organic cotton allows farmers to earn a better income through the premium associated with organic cotton. Crop rotation helps the farmers to diversify their crops, so that they don’t have to depend solely on their cotton yield.

Their production costs are reduced, as they are no longer dependent on costly pesticides. This is vital as it allows farmers and their families more financially stability.

A major benefit to farmers and their families is improved health, allowing them to work and live in a safer environment.

Certification
For a farm to become certified as organic can take 2-3years. A product sold as organic must comply with strict regulations and standards which are upheld by the certifying body.

The Soil Association has a certification body so look out for their logo. To learn more please visit their website.

There are other organic certifications you can look out for such as SKAL and GOTS.

Fairtrade Cotton

Fairtrade addresses the social standards of the workers in the chain of production. The main principles are based around buyers paying a sustainable price for products which is filtered all the way down the supply chain. This allows the producers to earn a living wage whilst working in decent conditions. One does wonder how much the traditional cotton farmer earns if the consumer is paying £2.50 for a cotton t-shirt!

Fairtrade and organic compliment each other perfectly, the combination of an environmental stance and belief in humanitarian principles makes for a sustainable and ethical product.

Currently only a small fraction (0.15%) of the worlds cotton production is organic. As consumers we have the choice and power to support the Organic Cotton industry for a more sustainable future.... BUY ORGANIC!

To view a selection of organic cotton products available at Equa click here>>

Sources: Soil Association, Pesticide Action Network UK, Organic Exchange, Sustainable Fashion & Textiles by Kate Fetcher

Organic Fortnight - Organic Cotton vs. Conventional Cotton

2010-09-06T11:30:00.001+01:00

There are many socio-economic as well as environmental consequences to the production of non organic cotton.

Hazardous Pesticides:
Conventionally grown cotton is a pesticide intensive crop, including insecticides, herbicides and fungicides.

Only 2.5% of world wide agricultural land is used to grow cotton; however 10% of all pesticides and 22% of all insecticides are used in cotton farming.

The use of pesticides has far reaching impact to an area’s eco system; polluting rivers and ground water as well as releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and depleting soil fertility.

Water Resources:
Intensive cotton cultivation also uses vast amounts of water for irrigation. It takes an average of 2000 litres of water to make one ordinary t-shirt and a shocking 6800 litres to produce one pair of jeans!

Health Risks:
Besides the devastating consequences for the environment that mass use of pesticides produces, there are also grave consequences for the farmers who come into contact with them on a daily basis.

It is the farmers in the developing world that are most at risk. They often lack the necessary safety equipment which puts their health at risk. Between 25 million and 75 million agricultural workers suffer from acute pesticide poisoning every year.

Economic Vulnerability:
As traditional cotton farming is a mono-culture, farmers are solely dependent on their cotton crop yield. Soil degradation due to pesticides use causes declining crop yields affecting the farmer's livelihood.

The continuous use of pesticides means that year on year more is needed to produce the same effect. As pesticides account for approximately 50% of framers costs, they can often find themselves in dept to the pesticide manufactures.

This when combined with artificial fluctuations in world market cotton prices, reduces small farmers profits even further making them one of the most vulnerable groups in the developing world.

Child Labour:
In the region of 250 million children worldwide are compelled to work, over 70% in the agricultural sector, which includes cotton production. As childrens bodies are still developing they are all the more vulnerable to the health risks assosciated with pesticide use.

In the next post we will view the issue in a positive light, exploring the benefits of organic cotton...

Sources: Soil Association, Pesticide Action network UK, Organic Exchange, Sustainable Fashion & Textiles by Kate Fetcher

Organic Fortnight 3rd - 17th September

2010-09-01T11:00:00.004+01:00

In support of the Soil Association’s annual Organic Fortnight Equa is delighted to offer a 10% discount valid during Organic Fortnight on non sale items.

We will also be featuring blog posts dedicated to organic cotton, outlining the hazards of traditional cotton farming and explaining the benefits of organic cotton.

If you would like to know more about the Soil Association, organic certification and more ways to take part in Organic Fortnight please click here>>

To claim your 10% discount enter the voucher code: ORGANIC10 at the checkout of Equa's online shop. You can also quote this code at the London boutique. This will allow you to have 10% off non sale items such as Soil Association certified organic denim Monkee Genes.

Caring for your Clothing - Hand washing

2010-08-25T10:42:00.001+01:00

Hand washing clothes may seem like a time consuming, unnecessary process but it can help maintain the quality of your delicate clothes, including lingerie and knitwear. It is handy when you have only a few items you need clean that wouldn't be enough to fill the machine.

Here is Equa's guide to washing by hand......

Plug the sink and add 1/4 cup of delicate washing detergent. Ideally use an eco detergent specifically for delicate hand washing.
Fill the sink with the correct water temperature listed on the clothing labels, remembering to leave room for the clothing!
Turn all the garments inside out to avoid fasteners catching on the fabric
If you have garments of various colours to wash, start with the lightest in case there is any colour run from the darker items.
Get the clothing wet and soapy. If you are washing one item, allow it to soak for 5 mins, if you're washing more, leave for 15-20mins
Remove marks and stains by rubbing the fabric together. Be careful not to be too vigorous with delicate fabrics. You can also use a spot cleaner for tough stains.
Knead the items like you would bread dough, squeeze each item to circulated the water through the fabric, repeating several times.
Remove clothing from sink, squeezing out some of the excess water.
Empty the sink and refill with clean water at the same temperature. Rinse clothing thoroughly.
Repeat this process until the water remains clear, making certain all the soap has been removed.
Squeeze delicate items, being careful not to wring/twist knitwear as it may distort the shape.
For knitwear you can roll items in a towel ans press to remove excess moisture.
Hang or lay flat to air dry.

We hope this helps....happy washing!

New Season Sneak Preview

2010-08-23T11:00:00.001+01:00

Although we're still in the full flow of summer, with the hope of a long indian summer to come, here at Equa we can't help looking forward to the idea of wrapping up in layers and pulling on a lovely pair of boots. So here's a little preview of things to come for Autumn/Winter 2010 .....

Alaia Top by Komodo

Drape Cardigan by Bailey

Nancy Dress by People Tree

Kiren Stripe Knit by Komodo

We just can't wait for the new deliveries to arrive.......!

August Picnic Window Display

2010-08-18T16:30:00.001+01:00

We based our August window display around a balmy summer picnic complete with cup cakes and friendly insects!

The outfits featured, from left to right:

Clown Dress by Annie Greenabelle

Oona Pocket Tunic by Stewart+Brown

Bow Clutch by Julia Smith

Sequin Dip Dye Tunic by Alchemist

Inky Black Organic Jeans by Monkee Genes

Botanica 4 Reusable Shopper by Envirosax

Designer Interview - Outsider

2010-08-16T12:47:00.001+01:00

This month we'd like to welcome Noorin Khamisani, designer of chic ethical label Outsider, to the hot seat!

Outsider creates elegant garments with a timeless feel. These are clothes to wear and love season after season. From our experience in the Equa boutique they also look beautiful on a wide range of ages, shapes and sizes.

Image: Outsider, Autumn Winter 2010

In a nutshell what was your initial motivation for becoming involved in ethical fashion?

After working for both small designers and larger brands - I became inspired to try to make clothes in a better way. I couldn't find things to buy that I liked and that were ethically produced and in my price range - so I started to try to solve my own wardrobe problem really.

What does ethical fashion mean to you?

Garments which are made from sustainable fabrics, by grown ups, styles which are versatile and flattering whatever your age or shape, and that will last more then one season. I try to think about the ethical approach in as many ways as possible.

What challenges do you face as an ethical designer?

All small labels face similar challenges but when trying to work ethically it can take longer to be understood bythe people you need to work with. I spend a lot of time sourcing fabrics because of the research it takes to ensure they are as sustainable as possible while still achieveing the look and feel I require. This is becoming less and less of a problem but some people still assume that as an ethical designer you must be making nothing but organic t-shirts with slogans on them - so it is a challenge to show that ethical fashion can just look like fashion. But challenges are good - they push you to learn and explore and that definitely helps you grow as a designer.

What are your inspirations for this season’s collection?

My collections are always a mish mash of everything I have seen/heard or thought about while designing so I always find it hard to pin down. I start with fabrics though and for Autumn/Winter 2010 I found the most gorgeous Merino wool and a colour grown cotton in a champagne coloured stripe. I was also inspired by timeless 1930s shapes.

What advice would you give anyone looking to make their wardrobe more ethical?

Start with a few key items from Ethical labels that you can wear a lot - tailored jacket, shirt dress, jersey tops - then you can see how they work with what you have and build up from there. Versatile items are essential to avoid those "I have nothing to wear" moments - for me a shirt dress always saves the day!

Image: Outsider, Autumn Winter 2010

Who are your Style Icons?

Oh this is predictable - Coco Chanel!

What is the most treasured item in your wardrobe and where did it come from?

A printed cotton dressing gown from the Hilton Abu Dhabi, my father took it when he was there in the late seventies, I still wear it and love it - though technically it was stolen, first from the hotel and most recently from my mum!

As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?

I always wanted to make things / be creative.

Tell us something you are really excited about…

My new SS11 collection which I've just finished and starting research for my next collection.

What's next for your label?

I hope to continue to do what I do - creating new classics!

Image: Outsider Autumn Winter 2010

Thank you Noorin. We look forward to seeing what you do next.

To View the current Outsider collection at Equa click here >>

Caring for your clothes- Laundry Care Symbols

2010-08-11T11:00:00.001+01:00

If you have ever been mystified by the laundry care symbols in your clothes, here is Equa’s comprehensive guide to understanding what these symbols mean.

MACHINE WASH
This symbol tells you that the item can be machine washed. It will also indicate the maximum temperature it can be washed at, usually indicated in degrees centigrade (°C) or with dots.

1 dot=30°C 2 dots=40°C 3 dots=50°C 4 dots=60°C 5 dots=70°C

At Equa we recommend washing your garments at 30°C.The majority of energy used in a washing machine comes from heating the water. By reducing the temperature you will be saving energy.

If you are concerned that your clothes will not be cleaned properly at a lower temperature, look for a cold water detergent. Washing at a lower temperature will also protect your clothing as hot water can shrink, damage the fabric and fade your clothes.

HAND WASH
This means the item is too delicate for the washing machine and should be washed by hand. Some washing machines have a hand wash cycle that would be suitable.

DO NOT WASH IN WATER
This indicates that the item of clothing must not be washed in water, not even hand washed. This symbol would be accompanied by a dry cleaning symbol.

DRY CLEANThis is the standard dry cleaning symbol.There are many variations that your dry cleaner will understand.

DELICATE
Items with the delicate symbols should be washed separately on the delicate cycle, as shown by the line under the machine wash symbol. You can even put items such as lingerie in a pillow case so that the fastenings do not snag other items.

BLEACH
You may bleach these items with any type of laundry bleach. Do be careful to follow instructions as too much bleach can destroy your garments.

DO NOT BLEACH
Do not use any type of bleach on these items, as it would damage them irreparably.

COLOUR FAST BLEACH ONLY
Do not use any bleach that contains chlorine. You can find ‘colour fast bleach’ which does not contain chlorine easily. This is also a better eco option that traditional bleach.

TUMBLE DRY
This symbol indicates the garment can be tumble dried. The dot in the centre indicates the maximum heat: 1 dot for low heat, 2 dots for medium and 3 for high.

DO NOT TUMBLE DRY
This indicates the item cannot be dried in a tumble dry and needs to be air dried. Usually there is an accompanying symbol that tells you the best method to air dry.

HANG TO DRY: hang on a clothing line, drying rack or hanger to dry

DRY FLAT: shape and lay the item flat to dry, works best if placed on a folded towel.

DRIP DRY: do not shape or wring out too vigorously and allow to drip dry

DO NOT WRING: this item is delicate and will be misshapen if wrung out, allow to drip dry

DRY IN THE SHADE: do not dry in direct sunlight as it might fade the garment

IRON
This indicates that you can iron your garment. Once again if there is a dot this indicates the temperature setting. 1 dot for low setting, 2 for medium and 3 for high.

DO NOT IRON
This garment cannot be ironed. It will either need to be pressed professionally or can simply be hung up as soon as it comes out of the washing machine allowing the creases to fall out as it dries.

Caring for your clothes - Eco clothes washing tips

2010-08-09T13:10:00.001+01:00

It doesn’t much time, effort or money to wash your clothes more ecologically...here are Equa’s top tips:

• Wash cold or at 30 °C: 90% of the energy used by a washing machine is used to heat the water

• Wash only a full load: use the full capacity of your washing machine, small loads waste energy

• Use a green detergent: avoid conventional laundry detergents which are usually made from petroleum. They are not biodegradable and contain countless chemicals that you wouldn’t ingest so why would you want them on your skin! Look for detergents that are biodegradable and made from plant-based ingredients

• Use Eco-balls: these are refillable plastic spheres that contain pellets made from mineral salts. The pellets produce ionized oxygen which penetrates into your clothes during the washing cycle. There is no detergent to rinse out so you can use a shorter rinse cycle. The eco balls last up to about 1000 washes so they are cost effective and eco friendly (tip: if you like your clothes subtly fragranced after washing, try adding a few drops of lavender essential oil into the rinse tray of your machine)

• Air dry your clothes: avoid using a tumble dryer if possible, it is better for your clothes and the environment

• If you must use the dryer: use dryer balls which stop your clothes from sticking together and reduce drying time by about 25%

Next time...we will help decipher the care instruction symbols on your garment labels!

Fabric of The Week - Soya

2010-08-06T14:54:00.000+01:00

Soybeans have been a crucial crop in Asia since history began, being a vital source of protein. It is now well know in the West in the form of tofu, miso, soy sauce...

Using soy as a textile was initially conceived by Henry Ford in the 1940’s as an alternative to synthetic fibres such as Rayon and Nylon. It is only recently that the relative ecological benefits of soya textile have returned it to the fore.

Soya fibre is made from the hulls of the soya bean, this otherwise discarded by-product of the soya food industry is given new life as an eco-friendly textile.

The production process is natural and free of any petrochemicals, making it an environmentally friendly product. Soy is a completely renewable resource and is biodegradable.

Characteristics:

Soya fibre dyes very well in a whole spectrum of colours, which isn’t the case with comparable fabrics such as silk. It is also sunlight resistant so will not fade if cared for properly. Conveniently soya fibre has outstanding anti crease, easy wash and fast drying properties.

The wonderful properties of Soya give both exceptional softness and the lustre of silk – perfect for chic ethical fashion. Knitted soya bean fibre has a very soft warm quality which is often compared to the feel of cashmere; it is even referred to as ‘vegetable cashmere’.

This soya jersey Beatrice Dress by Nancy Dee drapes beautifully.

For more gorgeous clothes made from sustainable fabrics click here

Equa Staff Pick Of The Sale

2010-08-05T00:05:00.000+01:00

The Equa sale is in full swing, but what are the staff's favourite bargains?

Thalia, Manager:

Kuyichi Lisa Nipi Belt

I got myself one of these earlier on in the season and I absolutely love it! It’s skinny enough to fit through the belt loops on jeans but I’ve also worn it knotted at the waist over dresses. It was worn this way when featured in The Observer Magazine’s LINE-UP (See our post in June). The tan leather gives it a rustic feel but the brass studding lends a harder edge.

Vivo Barefoot Union Plimsolls

We’ve had lots customers tell us that these are the most comfortable shoes they have ever owned. They are designed to be as close as possible to walking barefoot. This strengthens the muscles in your feet and helps to re-align your natural posture. The sole is ultra thin but puncture resistant. I’m very tempted to get a pair myself and see what the fuss is about!

Marta, Sales Assistant:

Annie Greenabelle Clown Dress

Adorable dress that gives a different twist on the classic summer stripy look. Love the pink ruffle neck line which gives a hint of colour.

Alchemist Linen Riding Jacket

A cute little jacket that looks cool with a pair of skinny jeans, a relaxed t-shirt and a pair of ballet pumps or heels for a smarter look. Love the shorter length at the back.

Christina, Sales Assistant:
Outsider Shirt Dress

Lovely airy shirt dress with subtle details that set it apart, lovely neck line and full skirt. This is a versatile dress that can be worn in the summer with sandals or in the winter with thick tights and boots.

Enamore Betty Bedrock Camisole

You can’t go wrong with a bit of leopard print, the blue background just makes it a bit softer. It is made of bamboo which makes it lovely and soft against the skin.

Ruth, Sales Assistant:

Annie Greenabelle Scoop Back Party Dress

So pretty and made from organic cotton, this dress is great for the beach with flip flops, or I would add leggings and heels and party the night away!

Stewart & Brown Oona Pocket Tunic

This casual weekend tunic is lovely worn over Monkee Genes for shopping or the park. Add some Just Trade brass jewellery to meet friends for a summers evening BBQ.

Fabric of the Week- Lyocell

2010-07-28T11:00:00.001+01:00

Lyocell is a man-made fiber of natural origin. It is considered natural because it’s made from the cellulose in wood pulp which is harvested from sustainably farmed trees, such as beech and eucalyptus. The pulp is dissolved and spun into a fiber which can then be dyed and blended with other fibers such as cotton, silk, linen and wool.

Eucalyptus Tree

The spinning process has minimal impact on the environment and virtually all the chemicals used in the production process are recycled, leaving minimal by-product. The resulting fiber is both biodegradable and recyclable, making Lyocell a relatively eco-friendly fabric.

Beech Tree

Lyocell is also known under the brand names Tencel or Modal.

Characteristics:

As it is a man-made fibre the diameter and length of the fibres can be varied which allow it to mimic other fabrics. The fibres can be very fine and long producing fabric that resembles silk, it can also be made with a cotton like feel to the fabric.

Lyocell is a very versatile fabric, it dyes easily, is resistant to wrinkling and is very durable. It is also soft and drapes well making it perfect for those wardrobe staple, jersey dresses...

..such as the Rianne De Witte Flora Dress. This dress drapes beautifully and has a silky sheen to it.

More Lyocell items from Equa:
Rhianne De Witte Starfish Dress

Holiday Wardrobe

2010-07-26T11:00:00.001+01:00

How many times have you arrived home after a holiday and realised that half of what you lugged around in your suitcase never got worn? To avoid over packing or arriving at your destination and finding nothing you’ve packed goes together requires some self regulation. Here’s Equa’s guide to making your holiday wardrobe work for you:

To start, identify key pieces that can be worn different ways for multiple occasions and build your holiday wardrobe around them. For example a dress that works as a beach cover up could, with a fabulous pair of earrings and a change of shoes, see you to the bar in the evening. Select lightweight accessories such as scarves, belts and jewellery will help you to give your key items different looks.

Next concentrate on separates you can mix and match to create multiple outfits. Lay your packing out and make sure that every pair of bottoms goes with a top from at least two other outfits. This will ensure you have variety without adding extra weight to your bag. Tip: It helps if you choose colours that complement each other.

Choose pieces that are comfortable as well as stylish. A jersey dress will come out of your suitcase looking fresh. Who wants to do ironing whilst they are on holiday!

This organic cotton jersey Hanni Dress by Jackpot is a gorgeous colour that will look fantastic when your skin has a summer glow.

Make sure you have a pair of comfortable flats. There is nothing worse than a day out in shoes that pinch or rub. And break them in before you go away!

The Sole Pumps by Beyond Skin have flexible soles made from natural latex and soft padded insoles for extra comfort.

If you will be baring skin prepare before you go with Whish Sugar Scrub. It’s free from chemical nasties such as parabens and sulphates. Organic brown sugar rasberry seed and bamboo powder exfoliate dull skin. Organic shea butter and organic aloe moisturise, organic avocado oil and vitamin E will renew your skin. Plus it smells good enough to eat!

Pack your cosmetic goodies in a Saffron Winds Wash Bag. They are made from recycled food sacks by fair trade organisations in Cambodia.

Happy Holidays!

Fabric of the Week- Linen

2010-07-22T11:00:00.002+01:00

True linen is a fabric made from the stem of the flax plant...who would have known that flax was such a beautiful plant!

Flax fibre is not only used to make linen but also paper and rope. The seeds of the flax plant are also used to make linseed oil which is reputed to have many health benefits

The fibres from the flax plant being woven into a fabric dates back to the ancient Egyptians. It was considered a noble fabric, and was a luxury worn by the Pharaohs. In the mummification process approximately 375 meters of hand woven linen bandages were used per body.

Linen is quite an expensive material to produce because flax fibres are quite brittle and have a tendency to break, consequently the process of separating the fibre from the woody stem has to be done by hand.

Characteristics:

Linen has a very distinctive quality and texture. It is known for feeling cool to the touch as well as being highly absorbent, naturally removing perspiration. Linen is quite a stiff fabric, which means it does not cling to the skin and has a billowy effect, however it does soften the more it is washed.

Linen fibres do not have much elasticity, explaining why it wrinkles so easily. Nevertheless the tendency to wrinkle is often considered part of the fabric's "charm", and a lot of modern linen garments are designed to be air dried and worn without the need for ironing.

Linen is a very elegant textile and has a distinct Riviera feel to it....

These Jackpot Alba Organic Linen Trousers are perfect and airy for those balmy summer evenings.

The Jackpot Perla Linen Dress, seen here in dark pink rose, also has that distinctive linen texture that sits loosely on the body without clinging.

More Linen items from Equa:

Jackpot Gisla Jacket

Alchemist Riding Jacket

Designer Interview - Bibico

2010-07-19T10:58:00.012+01:00

Welcome to a new section in the Equa blog. Once a month we will be featuring an interview with one of the amazing designers that supply Equa with our beautiful ethical clothing. For our very first interview we feel privileged to have Nieves Ruiz from Bibico.

Bibico is a design-led fair trade company that loves simple, easy-to-wear clothes that make you look and feel delightful. Each garment is stitched or knitted by women who work in co-operatives that are certified by the World Fair Trade Organisation.

Image:Bibico, Autumn Winter 2010

In a nutshell what was your initial motivation for becoming involved in ethical fashion?

After working for more than 11 years as a designer for the high street I was sick & tired of the direction that the fashion industry was taking so I decided that I didn’t want to be part of it and I quit my job in London.

After deliberating about other careers and directions I decided to apply my knowledge on the fashion industry combined with the skills of women from underprivileged backgrounds and Bibico was born.

What does ethical fashion mean to you?

It means fashion that gives back......fashion that you wear because you love it and that makes you feel even better because you know that a big percentage of what it takes to make the garment goes directly to the development of the community that make it.

What challenges do you face as an ethical designer?

There are plenty.....I come from 11 years as a designer on the high street so I can honestly say that as ethical designers we don't have it easy. The biggest challenges are the lead times and the minimum quantities set up for production.

Regarding lead times as ethical fashion=slow fashion things take much longer and it is very hard to compete with the high street. Whilst a normal high street brand brings new items every 2 days an ethical brand takes 4 to 8 months. Everything from the making of the fabric to the stitching of the garments takes much longer and there is not much we can do about it apart from planning ahead of schedule!!

Regarding minimum quantities the consumption of fabrics & clothes is so high that the producers of yarn & trims have set up their own minimums for productions very, very, very high thinking that we are all Arcadia, Gap or Zara so it is never easy to find someone that wants to supply you.

What are your inspirations for this season’s collection?

Warm cosy weekends away in the country side wrapped up with chunky knits over pretty floral & lacy dresses.

What advice would you give anyone looking to make their wardrobe more ethical?

Please come on board and you will be impressed by the long lasting quality of the ethical products. Also look around as there is plenty to choose from including all budgets & styles.

Once you are in, it will be hard to look back at the fast-fashion and you will finally realize that ethical fashion is possible and that it doesn’t cost the earth nor your wallet.

Who are your Style Icons?

I don’t have any really, it is very weird in the fashion world but honestly I believe in pretty nice pieces & I believe in independent unique people that wear what they wear because they love it.

What is the most treasured item in your wardrobe and where did it come from?

The hand knitted bolero from Bibico’s winter 09 collection. It is the update of the Aran cable in a fashionable, stylish, cute way....I wear it all year round and it is always a key piece in my looks....

It comes from the hills of Nepal where my ladies hand knits all our collections. I do the prototype but they are much better & faster than me so I give all the production to them.

In case you are curious, by popular demand this piece will be back in our winter 2011 range.

As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?

I wanted to be an architect or a singer. So I always had the creative side to me but later on in life I realize that my voice was far too masculine & that numbers and calculations were not my cup of tea so that is why I decided to apply my creative side into fashion.

Tell us something you are really excited about…

I am very excited to see the potential of ethical fashion and to realize that thanks to our hard work there are communities improving their lives....... this is what keeps me going....sometimes with all the hard work & all the dramas I forget about it, but every time I go and stay with my ladies I see the changes and the improvements in their communities and there is nothing more exciting that contributing to a better world!!!

Tell us something that really gets on your nerves….

The consumption of fast fashion at ridiculous cheap prices & the lack of a clear message between all the ethical organizations.

What's next for your label?

We are working hard to introduce fairtrade cotton in our collections. Our aim is summer 2011 and by then we will be 100% ethical.

Image: Bibico, Autumn Winter 2010

Thank you Nieves!

To view the current Bibico Collection at Equa click here >>

Fabric of the Week - Bamboo

2010-07-15T17:46:00.001+01:00

Bamboo is one of the most amazing plants on this planet!

It is the fastest growing plant in the world, it can grow up to 1 meter per day. It is a grass, so once cut it will continue to grow without the need for replanting, making it an incredibly sustainable resource. Amazingly, bamboo absorbs more carbon dioxide and breathes out more oxygen than trees. Along with the fact that it grows without the need for pesticides or fertilisers and needs very little water to grow bamboo is one of the most eco-friendly materials available.

Bamboo has been used for centuries in countries such as Japan and China, strips of the material would be used to makes hats and baskets. Being very strong and flexible bamboo was first used in the West as a structural material for corsets and bustles. In recent years technological developments have allowed the bamboo fibre to be spun into yarn. China has patented the process of bamboo textile manufacture, thus having a monopoly on production.

Bamboo clothing can be made from 100% bamboo yarn or blended with other fibres such as cotton and spandex.

Characteristics:

Bamboo is naturally thermo-regulating; it is insulating in cold weather but also breathable and light in warm weather. Since most bamboo is grown organically it is hypoallergenic and perfect for sensitive skin.

On top of all of this bamboo is luxuriously soft and comfortable against the skin.

Experience the silky cashmere feel of bamboo in these Bamboo Leggings by Bailey.

The Outsider Slouch Pencil Dress is also made of bamboo, but is a bamboo demin giving the design structure and shape.

More Bamboo items:
Enamore Lady Coco Camisole
Enamore Lady Coco Knickers

SALE!

2010-07-14T14:10:00.004+01:00

The Equa Sale has begun. Here are a few of our favourite bargains, catch them whilst you can!

Boratto Handbag by Matt&Nat. This vegan handbag comes with an additional chain shoulder strap. It has a pink suedette lining made from 10 recycled plastic bottles. The decorative zip detailing adds some rock chick glamour. Was £150, Now £120

The print on this Lenny Top by Komodo reminds me of a Futurist painting. The loose baby doll shape is perfect for keeping cool in muggy weather. Was £50, Now £40

Lisa Jeans by Kuyichi. These jeans are slim fitting without being super skinny. The pale grey wash looks great with sorbet colours or summer brights. Were £100, Now £90

Juniper Heels by Terra Plana. Made using recycled quilts, so every colour is a limited edition. I love the surprise element of this - you never know what colour will come out of the box! Recycled memory foam is also used in the inner soles making them some of the most comfortable heels I have ever tried. Were £85, Now £68

Eco Fabrics

2010-07-08T18:19:00.001+01:00

Have you ever wondered what an ‘eco-fabric’ actually is?

There are many variables to consider when classifying a fabric as being an ‘eco-fabric’. This includes everything from how the raw material is grown, the manufacturing process, the chemicals used to dye the fabric to the fabric ultimately being biodegradable or recyclable.

Over the next few weeks Equa will be featuring a different eco-fabric of the week…..

HEMP

Eco Credentials:
Hemp has been associated with cannabis since the 70’s but it is much more than that. For over a thousand years hemp was in fact the world’s largest agricultural crop, it was even the primary source of protein for both humans and animals. Hemp is now used commercially in a wide variety of products, such as paper, biodegradable plastics, health food, and textiles.

A hemp crop will yield 4 times as much raw fibre as an equivalent sized tree plantation. Hemp is a very hardy plant which can be grown in almost any climate and soil condition, allowing it to be grown on otherwise unusable land. It requires no pesticides or herbicides to grow, even replenishing the soil with nutrients such as nitrogen.

Characteristics:
Traditionally hemp produced a coarse woven fabric not suitable for clothing; however recent developments in processing have made it possible to soften the coarse hemp fibres into a soft wearable fabric.

If woven tightly hemp fabric acts as a natural sun screen by repelling 95% of UV rays. It is also a very light and airy fabric while being very strong and durable.

This summer try Equa’s Komodo Cobalt Tunic it is a hemp/cotton mix and has a raw loosely woven quality, which gives it a natural feel...

In contrast the Stewart Brown Varley Pleat Dress is made from more tightly woven hemp giving it a fine drape and luxurious finish.

Be A Good Sport!

2010-07-05T11:22:00.000+01:00

Sportswear was a big influence on the Spring Summer 2010 catwalks. Here at Equa we love the elegant take on this trend inspired by classic vintage sporting attire. Lacoste sent cable knit sweater dresses and white pleated skirts down the runway accompanied by a soundtrack of thwacking tennis balls. At Hermes outfits were accessorised with leather visors and old fashioned wooden rackets.

To stay in the game with an ethical version, look to pieces such as this Shirt Dress by Outsider. The drop waistline and full skirt perfectly channels the 1920’s tennis dress as worn by Suzanne Lenglen. The natty stripes in this organic cotton dress utilise the natural variation of colour that occurs in cotton plants, so no dyes or bleaches are used in its making.

Named La Divine by the French press, Lenglen was known for her practical style and simple elegance. She famously shocked spectators at Wimbledon by exposing her forearms and mid calves at a time when other female competitors were completely covered.

Unlike many catwalk trends this one is extremenly easy to wear and this organic cotton jersey Oona Tunic Dress by Stewart+Brown is no exception. With a pair of plimsolls it will take you from Frisbee in the park to sipping iced tea (fairtrade of course!) in the shade at your favourite local cafe.

This jaunty Bow Top by Bibico would also make a perfect double with shorts or white linen trousers, sweatband optional!

More of this look:

Bibico Skinny Stripe Tunic

Annie Greenabelle Vintage Sports Dress

Veja Volley trainers

Vivo Barefoot Union Plimsolls

Jewels of the Jungle

2010-07-02T08:22:00.000+01:00

The sun is shining and so too is our Just Trade Semilla jewellery. Fairly traded and made in Peru this beautiful jewellery is so popular this season. The perfect accessory for all summer outfits, effortless and so easy to wear for parties or the park!

Each item is made under the Zoe Project, a fair trade initiative working with women and young people in three of the poorest areas of Lima in Peru. Every piece is created from different seeds found deep in the jungles of South America, which are polished like precious stones to give an almost ceramic like quality.

Each seed has its own story.......

The round, black Choloque seeds used in this bracelet are approximately 12-15 mm in diameter and come from the Amazonian Soapberry Plant. The fruit looks very much like a grape, but the flesh of this fruit when mashed acts as a natural detergent and is still used by villagers in the jungle to do the washing.

The ‘Huayruro’ seed brings with it a long held belief among Peruvians that they have the dual power to attract good fortune and ward off evil spirits. The Zoe project uses the less traditionally recognised reddish orange Huayruro known as “female” and in this necklace the mottled dark red, which is thought to be a hybrid between the “male” and “female”

The smaller black seeds, which make an appearance on the necklaces, come from a ‘Hachira’, a plant which produces large red or yellow flowers. The seeds are also used in jungle villages; people dry them and place them inside dried pumpkins to make baby rattles or musical instruments.

The seeds on the red bracelet come from an Amazonian palm tree, are referred to as either ‘Taguita’ or ‘Coquito’ (small coconut). They have a brown husk which can be peeled away to show their white interior, which is then dyed using textile dyes to the desired colour.

Just Trade works closely with Zoe to develop new products, making use of traditional techniques and local materials to produce contemporary collections of jewellery and accessories.

View more Just Trade jewellery

Monkee Genes Turn Green

2010-06-28T10:00:00.004+01:00

For my outfit this week I've chosen my favourite new colour of the Monkee Genes Organic Sateen range - the Olive Green Skinny Trouser. This colour is new and fresh and will see you into the new season when it arrives.

Here I've teamed it with the People Tree Holly Ruffle Top (available in blue stripe or red stripe) which is made from hand woven cotton in India. I don't think this outfit would be complete without a pair of retro trainers like our Veja Trainers. Here I've picked the White / Red Veja, but you have a choice of many different colours from our website. The look is finished with fair trade brass accessories from Just Trade - the Single Hoop Earrings and the Brass Bracelet.

Total cost of outfit: £194.00

Fun Festival Fashion

2010-06-24T11:20:00.030+01:00

The festival season is upon us. So here's Equa's guide to looking fabulous in the fields.

Your festival wardrobe will work best if you combine practical elements with a good dash of fun. Playful prints such as this Luna Splash Dress by Julia Smith can be layered with leggings. Layering is the perfect solution to dealing with unpredictable British weather. The Jackpot Stavell cardigan is another great lightweight layer; keep it in your bag for chilly moments.

Jersey dresses are easy to wear and oh so comfortable. This Emmy Lou Dress by Nancy Dee has a cute print with sunrays peeping put from behind clouds, so wear it when you think the sun needs some encouragement to get its hat on!

Don’t be afraid to mix and match your prints. Accessorise a bold striped top with a pretty floral scarf, experiment and enjoy yourself!

At festivals my re-usable shopper comes into its own. It rolls up like a piece of sushi so it’s no trouble to carry around, and it’s great for sitting on when the grass is damp or to chuck muddy clothes into at the end of the weekend. If it gets dirty it can be washed under the tap and will be dry in 10 minutes.

Have a great time and remember.. don't forget your wellies!

More ethical festival fashion:
Komodo Lenny Top
Just Trade Long Brass Hoop Necklace
Kuyichi Nipi Belt

Annie Greenabelle Vintage Sports Dress

2010-06-23T15:00:00.003+01:00

This fab Annie Greenabelle Vintage Sports Dress is perfect for this hot weather finally we're having. Made from super soft and light organic Fair Trade cotton jersey with blue and white stripe trim. This is our salute to Wimbledon this year!

We've teamed it here with the Beyond Skin Sole Pumps with a fairly traded natural latex sole and extra latex cushioning to make these the most comfy eco-pumps ever. The Matt&Nat Santigold handbag and the all new Just Trade Fair Trade Brass Jewellery Collection that is already a best seller.

Equa in The Observer Magazine

2010-06-20T14:32:00.005+01:00

We were very pleased to have not one, but two, beautiful ethical outfits from Equa featured in last week's Observer Magazine. The Jamie Playsuit by Nancy Dee, Outsider's Oversized Shirt Dress and the Nipi Belt by Kuyichi were all picked out by Observer fashion editor Jo Jones.

Equa taking part in next weeks Ethical Fashion Sample Sale - Thursday 20th May - Sunday 23rd May

2010-05-16T11:02:00.002+01:00

Peaches & Cream for Summer

2010-04-21T10:59:00.002+01:00

The perfect way to add a splash of colour to your wardrobe this summer is by adding a touch of peach to your outfit. Nothing says summer more than a fresh colour like peach and here at Equa we've got all kinds on incarnations, from subtle splashes to full on block colour.

If you're looking to add a bit of colour to your work wardrobe try the Komodo Zinia Skirt, team it with the Matt&Nat Yacht Handbag for a fab outfit. If you're in need to a dazzling dress for a summer party try the Rianna De Witte Starfish Dress, this sexy dress adds a splash of glamour to any day.

The perfect pairing for peach is cream or white. Accessories your outfit with accents of the summer's staple colour - white. The Jackpot Stavell Cardigan is a great accompaniment to most summer outfits. Or put the Komodo Otis Linen Shorts with the Bibico Frill Sleeve Top and the Terra Plana Union Plimsoll.

But if you really love peaches and cream then the Outsider Oversized Shirt Dress is the one for you.

My Latest Ethical Dilemma - Ethical Maternity Wear

2010-04-07T10:37:00.001+01:00

As the buyer of Equa I have spent 5 years sourcing the best of ethical fashion for the Equa Boutique and Website. Especially in the early days it wasn't always easy, but today I think Ethical Fashion no longer deserves the old label many people still pin it of not being fashionable or desirable. Ethical fashion is fashionable and has been for a good few years now, with labels like People Tree, Annie Greenabelle and Bibico (to name a few) proving that ethical fashion can be achieved at high street prices. For the past few buying seasons I've felt confident that I'll find a great collection to showcase in our ethical boutique. Recently however, I've come up against a new challenge for my wardrobe - finding ethical maternity wear.

Since finding out I was expecting, I have done a combination of borrowing maternity clothes from family and friends and making the most of the clothes I have in my wardrobe that will expand with me. However as my due date approaches it is becoming harder to make do with what I have and as I have needed to get new clothes I wanted to find a few key pieces from Equa's SS10 collection that I could wear, at least until the last few months.
So here is my pick of the current season that I will be wearing with my bump:

This Alchemist Sequin Tunic is perfect. I have gone up a size in this one so give added room for expansion. There are slits up the side seams which will allow for further growth and it's nice and light so will keep me cool in the hotter days to come.

The Bibico Frill Sleeve Top will be another staple for me over the summer months. The tunic style provides lots of growing room. Again I've gone up a size in this one to give me more space.

This Bailey Pleat Front Dress I'm hoping will see me through a couple of the weddings I've got this Summer. The pleats at the bust are perfect for going over any lumps and bumps you may have and it's made from Bamboo which is a naturally cool fabric so if those wedding days are scorchers I should stay nice a cool in this number.

I've been wearing this People Tree Asymmetric Dress a lot lately. The design is perfect for a growing bump with the ruffles at the front providing room for growth. This has been one of our best sellers since it arrived in store, and I think it is easy to see why, it's simple to wear with flats like the Terra Plana Rizzo Pumps or the Vivo Barefoot Union Plimsols.

The Hazel Tunic is another one I've been wearing a lot of over the past few weeks. The empire line of this tunic has made it geat for me as I've been slowly getting bigger. Team with the People Tree Lotus Leggings and the Rizzo Pumps and you've got a great and comfortable outfit.

Other pieces I've picked out are:

Jackpot Perla Organic Dress

Bailey Summer Drape Cardi

Komodo Lenny Top

Komodo Tia Tunic

If you're like me and looking for ethical maternity wear, do not despair while there may not yet be a dedicated ethical maternity wear label, there are some choices that will get you through most of your pregnancy. For the rest, the best thing to do is borrow from friends and in turn lend them on to others so that the clothes get the most use from them. Good luck and enjoy!

Penny

New Ethical Label Bibico Now at Equa

2010-03-08T11:43:00.003Z

New ethical fashion label Bibico has arrived at Equa. This season sees beautiful stripe tunics and cute everyday cotton tops from this young ethical label.

Bibico's main aim is to produce fashionable clothes that are produced in a fair manner. Made in India by a woman's co-operative the Spanish designer of Bibico Nieves Ruiz spends much of her time in India overseeing production and design. The result is beautifully made collections that don't break the bank... perfect and we at Equa love Bibico!

Click Here to View the Current Bibico Collection >>

Click Here to View all our New Collections Just Arrived at Equa >>

New Ethical Labels at Equa for Spring 2010

2010-02-03T10:38:00.001Z

It's the time of year when many things are going on in the background at the Equa Boutique. The Winter Sale is coming to an end, and we're preparing the shop for the Spring season that will be coming in over the next few weeks. We're also looking at Autumn/Winter 2010 with Pure and London Fashion Week all happening in February. Both shows are now excellent for finding new and exciting ethical fashion labels. This season sees many new labels at Equa which were found at shows like these:

Jackpot
This international label works with MADE-BY, the organisation that helps fashion companies create an ethical supply chain. Our collection from Jackpot this season will feature the Jackpot Organic 'Donation Tee'. For every t-shirt sold, Jackpot donate 5 Euros to Indian agricultural cooperative, Chetna who help Indian farmers produce organic cotton.

Julia Smith Made In Africa

Equa is no stranger to Julia Smith, however this new diffusion line from Julia Smith is a new direction for the London designer. Made in Ghana Julia Smith works with a skilled batik printer Marian Essel and have formed a co-operative in the suburbs of Accra, Ghana's capital city

Using traditional African Batik prints Julia Smith has produced a collection of dresses that retail between £32 - £70. In this Julia Smith picture: Luna Splash Dress £40 and Miami Jacket £70.

Junky Styling

The East London designers from Junky Styling are renowned for reconstructing unwanted suits and men's shirts making them into a whole new outfit. Well this season Junky Styling is coming to Equa in the shape of two beautifully designed dresses.

The Audrey Shirt Dress, pictured, is made from men's shirts and comes in this blue pin stripe or a pink herringbone. Available from late February for £140.

Article 23

This French label designs classic collections that are essential for every wardrobe using organic cotton and other sustainable fabrics such as bamboo.

The Robyn draped tunic dress is made from Modal - a fabric derived from wood pulp. Available at the Equa boutique from early March at £65.

Annie Greenabelle Sale

2010-01-12T11:21:00.004Z

The Annie Greenabelle Autumn/Winter collection is now all on sale with great discounts across the line.

One of our favourite of this season's Annie Greenabelle designs is the Panel Party Dress. This is a great piece for all events and is made from 100% Fair Trade Foundation Certified Organic Cotton.

~~£62~~ £49

Click here to Shop >>

Forthcoming sale sneak preview!

2009-12-17T12:03:00.003Z

Snowflakes have been floating down past our shop window this week! We’re feeling all whimsical – and warm (given that we’re inside). We just couldn’t wait to share with you the desirable items that we’re celebrating and already planning to put on sale in the New Year. Hurray.

First up is the knockout Magic Sweater Dress by style conscious Dutch brand Kuyichi. This slinky little knit number is created with a wonderful blend of cotton, viscose and luxurious angora.

In a wildly dazzling electric blue, it hugs the body in all the right places, giving you sexy curves, and is perfect for Winter layering – whether with tights or skinny jeans. It’s a firm favourite with our sale assistant Marta - in fact she put top it of her Christmas wish list this year!

Its V neck combines a flattering ribbed centre that reaches down to a deep ribbed hem. This ribbing also carries along the elbows through to the wrists, creating form as well as detail.

Usually costing £85, Marta will be delighted it’s on sale for £59!

Another figure friendly dress we can’t take our eyes off this season is the Edun Homonid dress. Good on Ali Hewson and her team! It has got a gorgeous, suggestive high round neckline with its edgy slash detail crafting such style that there’s no need for a necklace this time. It also provides a keyhole button at the back.

Classical with its long sleeves, it is made with 100% organic cotton jersey in a blue/grey colour that reaches down to the knees. It can be worn in many ways, from its original proud and effortless appearance, to being accessorised up with a wrap belt and killer heels, or even paired with a smart tailored jacket for some office chic. The price has been cut from £159 to a well-worth-treating-yourself price of £97.

We were talking today about how you can’t really go sale shopping without purchasing a stable pair of jeans to wear through the seasons. You can’t, can you?

We’ve got style substance - in the dark indigo and yellow top stitching variety - with Kuyichi Lil Jeans. I really like these as they are youthful and slim fitting, and able to show off a lady’s legs. They are a harmonious design for women with slender frames, and they can work in a seamless combination with a feminine smock blouse (such as the Alchemist silk blouse) or with tunic. The jeans not only look good but they are incredibly comfortable -with organic cotton denim softness that has been combined with 2% elasthane . They also offer practicality with five pockets and an extra internal hip pocket. At £68 instead of the usual £95, we hope you’ll enjoy!

If you’ve been waiting to get your hands on an ideal bag with plenty of room and zipped pockets for all your on-the-go gadgetry, then look no further than the Jorja Vegan Handbag by Matt & Nat. Each fairly traded handbag is lined with faux suede made from 18 recycled plastic bottles! This classic style bag - a cognac brown colour with antique brass hardware detailing and tone on tone stitching - is lifted into time with its contemporary glossy edge. Other features include a magnetic snap closure and an external zip pocket suitable for reaching any travelling essentials quickly. Usually the bag is £165 but it’s going to be on sale for a scintillating £115.

There are plenty of other items on offer including shoes and sexy lingerie! So watch this space for us to say the sale’s now open! The great news is that if you don’t feel like going out into the bitter cold Winter streets yourself, you can enjoy the sale just as much from our online boutique.

Gorgeous garments and accessories, also included in the sale:
Empire Line Dress by Annie Greenabelle
Price: £57 Sale Price: £45

Hendrix Ankle Boot by Beyond Skin
Price: £160, Sale Price: £112

Violet Haze Chemise by Enamore
Price: £89, Sale Price: £58

Doll Quilt Shoe by Terra Plana
Price: £120, Sale Price: £84

Equa's January sale - get seeking!

Party dress of the week!

2009-12-17T12:00:00.003Z

Sexy spin moment: the People Tree Owlen Dress. This LBD will get you rocking around the dance floor at any Christmas party.

For £55, this V neck jersey dress is cut to achieve style- jealous glances and hot date offers with its super soft organic cotton fabric.

Its sexy petal skirt and curved hemming drapes to form the front of the dress that reveals a teasing, shorter fitted underskirt.

You can fall head over heels in love with this dress, particularly when teamed with a pair of bright red tights and some dancing shoes!

Now, where's that mistletoe?

Don't forget about free Christmas delivery (within the UK) - the offer ends 22nd December!

More womenswear to party in
Evening wear
Gorgeous day dresses
Accessorise up with tights
Accessorise up with jewels

Party dress of the week!

2009-12-08T16:17:00.003Z

Ahh! Annie Greenabelle. I’ve noticed that Equa shoppers often pick these feminine dresses off the clothes rack and encourage them to do a little spin on the hanger. This Annie Greenabelle Scoop Back Party Dress, for £72.00, is no different.

It’s got an absolutely divine shape to it, just asking to be swooshed and swirled on the dancefloor, as the design is cut so that it falls to mid thigh. Made from organic cotton and reclaimed fabrics, it’s got a unique vintage feel without losing any contemporary style with its black organic cotton jersey strap.

This strap boldly meets the beautiful reclaimed cotton floral print fabric for a high waist, and is adorned with a gorgeous contrast black bow. Black contrast binding at the side front pockets and a thick panel at the hem perfectly frames the figure.

The deep scoop back will reveal the party girl in you, while the neckline is classically elegant. It could be worn with a skinny tee underneath to keep the look casual, but our advice is to wear it by night as it will look ever so glam paired with some sexy party heels and black tights.

Don't forget about free Christmas delivery (within the UK) - the offer ends 22nd December!

More party dresses - for night
More party dresses - for day
Jackets for winter
Jewellery to glam up with

Last minute stocking fillers!

2009-12-08T16:15:00.002Z

Looking to style buy some last minute stocking fillers? We’ve got some lovely ideas that will ensure your stockings won’t stay hung up on the mantelpiece for long!

This fabulous and bright Saffron Winds Recycled Rice Bag Purse, £9.00 is a handy little friend to cheer you up and find a place for all those remaining coins after the big Christmas spend. Handcrafted by landmine and polio disabled artisans in Cambodia who are part of a fair trade group, it is made from a combination of recycled rice and fish sacks – hence the colourful design. It’s got two open pockets as well as front velcro fastened coin pocket and a zip pocket. We suggest you pop some fair trade chocolate coins in for a real treat.

We all welcome essentials at Christmas and I just find the dazzling blue and contrast green logo of these Pants to Poverty Organic Boxers to be an antithesis to those suggested winter blues.

They are a designer bargain at £10, particularly as they are created with the quality softness of Fairtrade Foundation organic cotton. I particularly like the cheekiness of the green printed bull motif – a symbol of corporate wealth - that pokes a bit of fun at greed by taking on a Hindu spiritual dimension.

If tights are more essential for the New Year parties to come, then the G=9.8 Footless Tights for £22.00 are fabulously stretchy and thick with a 60 dernier look.

Produced ethically in France using a pine pulp viscose and the elasticated goodness of LycraWear, these are just perfect for wearing under dresses and tunics and your favourite pair of peep heels. The tights come in flamboyant red as well as the more classic black or ash grey.

It’s just lovely giving some new jewels as a gift as you can see your loved ones wear them, and this Just Trade Zola Bangle is just, well wonderfully eco! Made under the Zoe Project, a Peruvian grassroots fair trade organisation that supports creating quality contemporary jewellery and accessory collections, it ensures women and young people earn a decent and, most importantly, stable income.

At £18.00 this particular bangle is worth every penny, having been made from cedar wood offcuts from a local craftsman’s carpentry business within Lima, before being wrapped in the colourful Peruvian cotton in a choice of either berry red or this gorgeous teal.

For an array of colours, go for the LeJu Uva Earrings for £50.00. The vegetable ivory that these are made from are a real conversation starter – particularly as you can state that it naturally originates from the floor of the rainforest and is very hardwearing – and bound to receive compliments!

Drop earrings are so in fashion (think Eva Longoria and Jessica Alba), and when offset with silver plated ear hooks, the little carved disks that each have a cute message carved around the edge – such as ‘friendship’ or ‘smile’ – give it a real contemporary flavour!

If there are relatives staying who want some private afternoon nap time amidst the bustling activity, or you know a friend with eager children who need a signal to not jump on the bed and interrupt the rare festive treat of a lie-in, then the fairly traded Eco Boudoir Eye Mask, £35.00 is a luxury solution.

Made from silk and printed with either a flyaway red or pine grey/black design, it offers ultimate relaxation, particularly after a relaxing bath soak. Easy to pop over your eyes with its elasticated strap, it’s very soft with its very soft with its black hemp/silk lining. It is presented in a gorgeous pouch with a matching print trim.

Don't forget about free Christmas delivery (within the UK) - the offer ends 22nd December!

More stocking filler ideas
More jewellery
More bath & body treats
Sexy lingerie and underwear - for him & her

Party dress of the week!

2009-12-03T14:47:00.002Z

Most definitely deserving of party dress of the week status, the OUTSIDER Circle Pleat Neck Dress is a gorgeous, stylish LBD that can help you look stunning for both work and play. It’s easy to sparkle it up with the appropriate jewellery or some wonderful bright high heels!

Sleeveless so that it can be worn through the seasons, you can dance the night away – or add an extra layer by teaming it with the OUTSIDER blazer.

Available in sizes UK 8-14 for £79.00, it’s cut from wonderfully soft black linen and features the luxury of a sustainable hemp silk mix satin semicircular shine detail around the neckline, and satin binding around the arm holes.

Fastened at the front with lovable and showy black crystal buttons, the dress comes with the versatility of an elasticated waist band, just in case you eat too much Christmas pud!

More Equa party dresses
More from Outsider
More Style Tips

Winter warmers & boots

2009-12-02T17:35:00.003Z

That Nancy Sinatra must have been talking about the Po Zu Pep Sheepskin Boots when she said, “These boots are made for walking”. Po Zu’s ankle boots, £142.00, are incredibly comfy and warm as they are lined with sheepskin! Nancy did however forget to mention that they will stamp eco style on the pavement as you go.

You can wear them with jeans or tailor cut trousers and they are just perfect teamed with some cosy knitwear for an after-Christmas dinner amble. Produced ethically within the EU, the leather is neither dyed nor bleached – the leather is tanned naturally with vegetable extracts.

The rubber is pure vegetable latex obtained the traditional way from the sap of the Lectae hevea tree, while the sole and packaging is made from tough coir (a mixture of coconut fibre and natural latex). I love what the makers of these boots suggest: the biodegradable shoe box they come in can also be used to grow seeds!

If you are looking for a pair of boots with urban sophistication then go no further than Terra Plana’s Haiti Boot for £150.00. These are low-heeled (just 2 inches) to give you a little height without you losing the ability to keep up with fast-paced city life. As they are mid-length, they can be worn easily with jeans. Available in chocolate brown or black vegetable tanned leather with the usual Terra Plana recycled memory foam for comfort, they boast a sexy back panel of either dark brown suede or textured woven laces, which I just adore!

For an ankle boot that will approriately suit the classic LBD look or some skinny jeans, why not enjoy the utter elegance of the Beyond Skin Hendrix Ankle Boot for £160.00? Black hemp is given a treat with an attractive black patent trim at the ankles, and there's a purple lining that will show when worn to tease any admirers.

I love cosy pairs of gloves to keep my fingers frost-free, but I see so many pairs of gloves that are warm but forget to embrace the chic. Shocking really.

The solution? These People Tree Feather Knit Gloves for £17.00 that utilise feather and fan stitch are just the ticket. Lovingly hand knitted for People Tree by Kumbeshwar Technical School in Nepal, I especially like the jade green colour as it really highlights the stitch design. And you can get a matching beret that will prevent ears from getting all chilly and pink.

It’s time to adorn yourself with a jacket that has a warming colour and fight off any winter blues. Embrace the classic tailored design of the Cecilia Hammarborg Mandarin Coat, for £245.00. Made ethically here in London, it’s simplistic with its impeccable cutting and craft yet it creates a dramatic shape effect with its back of wide pleats, a high collar (that will keep the breeze out) and puff shoulders. The covered buttons add pretty, modern detail while remaining fully functional.

The perfect winter boots
More winter warm accessories
More from People Tree
More from Terra Plana
More from Beyond Skin
More from Cecilia Hammarborg

Party dress of the week!

2009-11-26T13:26:00.001Z

Slinky, sexy and slimming – what’s not to love about the Alchemist Silk Dress, for £140.00 with its empire silhouette?

Made from sheer silk chiffon in dark grey, there is wonderful delicacy in the gathering detail of rectangular panels on the front and shoulders that will accentuate your bust, flatten your stomach and lengthen your body.

Perfect for any pear-shaped princess looking for her Christmas (k)night!

You can choose your weapon of choice to place under the dress, although the loose-fitting, delicate Alchemist Slip Dress for £85.00 in the same dark grey colour and spaghetti straps – which, by the way, are adjustable - is an absolutely perfect match!

Glitz up with some jewellery and heels to finish.

More Equa dresses.

Festive feet: eco party heels

2009-11-26T13:02:00.015Z

‘Tis the season to let your hair down, kick back and glam up your feet. Equa has some beautiful eco party shoes to help you become the belle of the Christmas ball that we just had to share with you.

Be a stunning red bomb shell with the gorgeous Beyond Skin Derby Heels for £124.00. Altogether foxy, it's perfect to bring extra panache to this season’s LBD, and is just as gorgeous with a pair of skinny jeans and a tailored blazer.

Using faux felt, with a black patent style cone heel, the shoes are vegan and available in sizes EU 38 -41.

The Sofia Court Shoe for £150.00, also by Beyond Skin is another fantastic faux felt design, with its timeless design and neutral grey colouring offset by black patent effect.

A practical height with its brogue design, it’s suitable for both office wear with a trouser suit or an elegant pencil skirt but can add the finishing touches to any outfit for after work festivities, saving you the need to try and cram an extra pair of shoes into your handbag.

What’s more, the shoe comes lined with a slick and stylish purple lining.

Another item on the Christmas party outfit wish list should be these Terra Plana Doll Quilt Court pumps, £120.00.

The fact that Terra Plana’s memory foam lines the souls of these shoes creating real comfort - not to mention the low-heeled appeal - these make for great dancing shoes. Using only vegetable tanned leather in a stylish cream tone back panel that offsets its funky heel, the classic Terra Plana detail of bright recycled textured woven materials towards the front design will add some spice to any outfit, whether it is jeans or an evening dress.

What’s more, if you are buying online then there is free UK delivery until Christmas – so you can stay snuggled up if you wish!

Now all you need to add is the sparkle!

Greenmystyle.com Editor’s pick: Luxe gifts

2009-11-18T13:18:00.011Z

Greenmystyle.com Editor Jen Marsden was in the Equa boutique this week, choosing her favourite Luxe gifts for Christmas. We asked her to share what she will be buying with us.

“I have a confession. I found it very hard to choose from the gorgeous selection of beautiful items in Equa. Mainly because the choice selection was already so quality and fabulous. I couldn’t just think about gifts for loved ones either - I had to choose one or two for myself!"

She immediately made a beeline for the OUTSIDER Pleat Collar Blazer, £149.00. "I have been looking for a tailored, gorgeous and ethical jacket like this for ages! I can dress up my jeans during the daytime and ensure elegance is not lost when I wear it over a dress or skirt when going for Wintertime after work drinks It feels absolutely lush with its hemp and silk mix and satin collar. I particularly love the flattering V neckline and practical single silver button, as well as the decorative pockets."

"I adore shower time, particularly when there is a lovely scent to wake me up! The Whishes Three Whishes Body Wash (£15.00) is really scrumptious, as it’s not only moisturising with its organic ingredients (and paraben free, I might add) but the citrusy and herbal elements of the lemongrass awakens the senses while soothing and toning my skin. Mmmn!" Jen thinks it's a, "perfect gift to help get people out of bed on a cold January morning."

"The scents of Timothy Han’s Orange and Clove scented 100% natural soy wax candle (£28.00) gives the home a really Christmasy feel - it reminds me of childhood - and is bound to bring smiles to the beneficiary. A real luxury treat!"

Jen declared that, "practical gifts are great".

And what would Christmas be without receiving a jumper?

"I love the V-neck organic cotton fine knit Edun Moraine Sweater, £169.00, particular it has a white owl pattern (somewhat angelic too) on the rear that sneaks to the front. Perfect to snuggle up in while looking eco chic."

Jen explained that she is currently seeking out someone to buy her the Fifi Bijoux Cheek Necklace, which costs £115.00. "It’s incredibly delicate and will sit as a feature on your neck, hanging from a 100% recycled gold chain .The pendant itself is made from 9 carat ethically mined gold from South Africa and made in my homeland of Scotland. I love the detail as much as the story of how it has been produced sustainably and fairly."

Jen adds: "I have a friend who would just love the natural and chunky nature of the LeJu Black Horn Resin Ring that has been cleverly carved out of just one piece of cow horn. Added to the charm is the inset coloured resin of purple, yellow and aqua blue, making the finger a feature." This costs £32.00.

Who wouldn't want a luxury gift at Christmas?

Gift Ideas £100 and over

Win! £50 Equa Gift Voucher

2009-11-17T08:30:00.002Z

Take advantage of our generousity splurge! We’re offering one lucky ethical fashion fan an Equa gift voucher worth £50, to either spend online or in the Camden Passage Boutique, Islington on whatever you wish for!

That means that any one of those gorgeous eco gifts under £50 that you saw in our blog last week could be yours! That could make for a cheaper Christmas gift spend - or it could be a way to treat yourself.

For your chance to win, just email info@equaclothing.com with ‘£50 Gift Voucher Prize’ in the email subject title by 15th December.

Want to treat someone?
Buy Equa gift vouchers in multiples of £5, with a minimum value of £15. To redeem, each voucher contains a unique code that can be entered in the check out area of the website.

Christmas Gifts for under £50

2009-11-12T08:15:00.003Z

The Christmas lights have been switched on. I had a festive moment: I began planning what gifts to buy the near ones and dear ones for Christmas. Some of my friends have been planning their ethical Christmas gifts for a while, creating loads of homemade chutneys spiced and packaged with all the festivities. I’ve not been quite as proactive but I now have a good idea of the presents that I wish to give – and hope to receive, naturally! And they all come straight from the Equa boutique.

I thought I would share some of my favourite gift ideas that will provide eco chic style to the Christmas routine and all cost less than £50!

These Violet Haze Short from Enamore, for £44, is likely to heat up the boudoir. A sexy and ethical item I think any girl will be pleased with if she finds it under the tree.They are full knickers made from organically grown silk in a luxe purple colour with a black lace trim. It also has a contrast off-centre yellow bow that oozes sophistication and elegance – while being a tad cheeky.

You can’t go wrong with this gorgeous, slouchy lilac People Tree Trinity Beret, £19. A practical buy for keeping you warm throughout the winter, it offers much seasonal style charm too. Fairly traded from Nepal, it uses the hand knitting craft of open trinity stitch. There’s also a matching scarf for £29. And, if you would prefer another colour or knitting style, then we have currently got a wide choice in the boutique, including a bottle green feather and fan stitch beret or a Samantha Holmes Leaf Knit Hat - a charcoal grey, hand knitted alpaca wool beanie hat.

I just adored Whish Three Whishes Sugar Scrub from day one and so had to sell it in Equa as it makes the perfect pamper gift. Made in the USA, it contains organic ingredients and is paraben free. For £26, the exfoliating sugar works on your dry skin while adding many moisturising oils in so that you can lose the dull skin and begin to glow. In two scents, I love the pomegranate option at this time of year as it is packed full of antioxidants and is perfect for rejuvenation.

I also take pleasure in the Cotswolds organic purity creation of the Ila Body Balm for Feeding the Skin, £39. This is suitable for all ages and is particularly great for those with eczema, as it uses essential fatty acids and antioxidants to do just what its name suggests. It’s particularly good to apply the balm after a warm bath.

For those romantic nights in under the mistletoe, then Timothy Han’s Tin Candle, £7.50, makes a sumptuous and sexy gift. 100% natural and handcrafted in London from pure essential oils with soy wax, these are free from genetically modified ingredients and avoid the usual black-smoking petroleum and paraffin. For Earl Grey tea drinking lovers, the Bergamot scented candle is particularly lush, and promises to burn for 12 hours.

So. What are you going to use for all your Christmas and January sales shopping? Our Envirosax Reusable Bags can easily be tightly rolled up and stored in your handbag until they are needed, so you never need accept a plastic bag again! I also keep a whole stash of them by my front door to remind me to use them when I'm nipping out quickly to the shops. I love the different designs these bags come in: from the inspiration of Australian rainforests to bohemian Art Nouveau, as well as the straightforward Oxford design, which is perfect for men. Each Envirosax Reusable Bag costs £5.99, however we’re also offering a lucky dip, special offer where you get 5 random bags for £25, which you can keep all for yourself or treat friends and family to as a bonus green stocking filler.

Other Christmas under £50 gift favourites:

LeJu Brown Horn Resin Ring, £32
Saffron Winds Recycled Cosmetics Case, £14
Eco Boudoir Eye Mask, £35

Gifts £50 & Under

New arrivals! Autumn/Winter 2010 treats

2009-11-05T11:37:00.002Z

I had a realisation this week and it’s one that comes to me about the same time every year as the atmosphere begins to feel very festive: running my lovely Islington boutique really is like celebrating Christmas all year around!

And, that feeling is never more pronounced than when the gorgeous ethical garments we’ve had on our wish list and ordered arrive into the shop. It’s a real joy opening the packages with anticipation and preparing them for the shop floor. I’m never disappointed.

Least of all this week, when we got the new range of jewellery by Made, the brand by the people for the people. Included in our bundle were these lovely Heart Hoop Square Earrings created out of thin slivers of recycled brass by cooperatives in Kenya. It’s a fresh take on the usual simple design hoop earrings, yet playfully adds one square and one heart into the mix. And there’s a matching pendant that should sit perfectly on any party diva’s neckline.

Not only that, the Made Hayley Mardon Rhombus Necklace is a stunning piece
utilising the contrast of a quadrilateral shape with brass disks that sits just below the collar bone. This would look great with a V-neck top, blouse or jumper. The result is beautiful. I already witnessed a friend of mine prodding her boyfriend with a hopeful look that can only mean she expects them as a gift under the Christmas tree - if not before...!

For less fussy designs, there is also Made’s Square Brass Pendant and Earrings. These drop earrings are fast becoming a favourite of mine too because they are so adaptable! A perfect accessory for the ever-so eco chic party dresses that we have this season, suitable with both our fab ethical LBDs as well as our more casual range.

Speaking of casual, we now have both in-store and online these gorgeous Kuyichi Desi Jeggings! Yes, you did read correctly – jeggings (jeans come leggings) are a super hot look. Favoured by the celebs this summer, including Beyonce Knowles and Lily Cole, this trend continues into winter.

These skinny jeans complement any tunic and are ideal for keeping warm when worn under a glamorous party frock through these cold winter months. And, if you’re worried they look a bit too skinny for you, worry not, they include a delicate touch of elastane to ensure they stretch and provide comfort.

I can imagine showcasing them at the weekend, offset with an easy top, while I warm up with hot chocolate in my local coffee shop. As with all Kuyichi’s range, these legging jeans are made from organic cotton and are fairly traded.This new style has some decorative features added with a contrast silver grey stitched faux jean style pockets that give it a little extra sparkle compared with most I’ve seen. Divine.

More by Made

See all Jeans

Style Tips - 2009's top Christmas party dress trend!

2009-10-29T08:48:00.003Z

It's nearly November ladies, and that means only one thing - Christmas! Yay. We love this time of year. Of course, it's a season all about giving and we love planning the perfect gifts to buy for everyone. But there's definitely one self-indulgent highlight in the season - finding the perfect Christmas party dress of course! We don't know about you, but we're seeing Christmas party banners up in bars and restaurants already and we're dying to get glammed up.

2009 has been a fashion homage to the opulent Eighties, with the comeback of numerous Eighties trends, from outsized bows to towering platform heels to sequins scattered over everything we can get away with. Keep fashion's current penchant for excessive details, playful silhouettes and vivid colours in mind when picking out your dress for the season's Christmas celebrations. It's definitely the hottest look of the year.

Pair overly-girly Eighties-style dresses with tough ankle boots to epitomise this season's catwalk looks. Go body-con and channel Christophe Decarnin's models at Balmain, or choose a prom shape in a mini length like ones seen at Luella. Either way, check the dress from every angle, and think what accessories you would complement it with; there's nothing worse than buying a great dress and discovering that nothing in your wardrobe goes with it.

Equa has a host of ethically-made party dresses to pick from. New in is a capsule collection of one-off prom dresses by designer Tara Starlet, who recently starred in BBC3's Blood, Sweat And T-Shirts, exclusively created by Tara just for us. Tufts of taffeta jut out from structured waistlines in perfect party fashion. The feminine, sweetheart, strapless neckline is a modest way to show off some decolletage. The plaid print version of this dress (pictured above) will make an unexpected, yet darling choice for any Christmas party. Play on the dress's femininity by adding some elegant peep toe stilettos or, as suggested above, contrast the dress with some heavy ankle boots.

Blue is not an obvious choice to wear for the festive season, which is usually filled with reds, golds and LBDs. So, why not go against the grain and wow with this electric blue parachute dress by Debbi Little (pictured right)? The recycled parachute silk falls to the knee and comes with a separate net petticoat for masses of volume. In addition to getting our vote, this dress has the celebrity stamp of approval after being worn by style icon Daisy Lowe in The Observer Magazine Ethical Issue.

This bow dress by Sika wouldn't look out of place on Lady Gaga thanks to the huge bow on the shoulder. The amazing detail is balanced out by the simplicity of the rest of the dress, resulting in an offbeat LBD with a twist. This is ideal for those who want to stand out whilst staying true to something classical and elegant. It's available at Equa right now in black or green. By Amiee Mann

See all party dresses at Equa
More from Debbi Little
More from Sika
More from Tara Starlet
The perfect Christmas party shoes
Christmas party clutch bags
More Style Tips

The ethical Christmas gifts we'd love to get (and give!) this year

2009-10-22T11:59:00.033+01:00

Behind the scenes at Equa we're getting ready for the Christmas season. We love creating our festive shop window, coming up with our instore treats (mulled wine, anyone?) and displaying our top ethical gift picks. Islington looks so magical at Christmas, especially Camden Passage where we're located.

We make a special effort to capture that Christmas magic online too, at both our online shop and on this blog, where we will be highlighting our best gift ideas and running a special Christmas competition (watch this space). We couldn't help ourselves this week, what with so many lovely new season pieces arriving on the shop floor. We just had to pick the ethical gifts we'd love to find under our eco trees!

Penny Dowling, founder & director

I love the Saffron Winds wash bag made from recycled rice and fish bags from Cambodia. I have an old wash bag that I think was a freebie from a magazine, so I think I deserve a new one! This one has been catching my eye ever since they arrived in store and I'm hoping that I've dropped enough hubbie hints!!

If I don't get that (or maybe even if I do), then my Eternal Creation slippers that I bought three years ago at one of the Fashion Made Fair sample sales are now so threadbare that I don't think they will last much longer. A great classic Christmas gift of a pair of slippers wouldn't go amiss and these Po-Zu Peasy slippers fit the bill for me.

Eva Phillips, sales assistant

Hmm, it's tricky to pick just one as I would love pretty much anything! But I guess if I'd been a very good girl I'd love to receive the Edun Morain sweater. But then again, I would also love any of the Ila candles as I adore scented candles, especially such pretty ones. I can never justify buying them for myself!

Christina Harnois, sales assistant
I would love to receive the Cecilia Hammarborg Mandarin coat because every girl should have a red coat to brighten up those crisp Winter days! This piece would be in my wardrobe for years to come, the quality and elegance of the fabric makes it timeless and the whimsical design would make me feel like a character in a fairytale. Now, who will I find to give it to me...?

Marta Krsteva, sales assistant

Top of my Christmas gift wish list is Kuyichi's Magic dress. I love everything about this dress: the colour, the fabric, the style, the length and the detailing. I'd wear it as a dress and as a top too, with skinny jeans or leggings. Electric blue is such a powerful colour and is my favourite!

Thalia Warren, sales and marketing assistant

Beyond Skin Hendrix vegan ankle boots: This is the kind of gift I would give because I really want them for myself! A vegan friend of mine says she missed leather far more than she misses any food items but I know she would love these gorgeous boots. They are super sexy and very chic. The flash of purple lining gives them a fun edge too. I think the fact they are hemp rather than all over plastic, as many vegan shoes often are, would be appreciated too.