I knew I wanted some sparkle and shine for New Year’s Eve this year. But I refuse to buy most any sequin or sparkly item new for a couple reasons. The garment is most likely not made with organic or sustainable materials, and I rarely wear “sparkle and shine” clothing so I don’t want to invest a great deal of money. The best way to go in this situation is thrifting or vintage boutique shopping. There have been plenty of sequin and sparkle items produced already and subsequently discarded to end up in thrift or vintage shops. No need to support fast fashion and buy a cheap, poorly made holiday dress–no need!!

I consulted with my friend Monica of The MidWasteland (my go-to vintage guru) and she sent me to Very Best Vintage on Chicago Avenue. I quickly and easily found a dress I’m thrilled with–it’s the blue sparkly number featured in the top left photo. A cute little shift dress, with a zipper in the back and a tie for the waist or as an accessory. In my mind I had visions of dresses similar to the other two pictured–frocks from Forever 21’s website. I’m so happy with my find and even happier that I did not need to go anywhere near Forever 21, Zara or H&M to find my outfit. Or break my budget.

(Photos on right from Forever 21)

Sustainable Inspiration category: These entries showcase popular looks or designs that have been posted on other blogs, shown in magazines or elsewhere, and then link to sustainable design options that can be purchased to style the look similarly. Always look for eco options to create your favorite looks when you can!

Frei Designs Fall 2009

I’ve been asked by journalists or out-of-town visitors many times since I opened Pivot what the “eco scene” is like in Chicago. I always answered a little bit differently each time, depending on what I thought the asker was most interested in: fashion, food, sustainable businesses, interiors, government, architecture, etc. In general, I would say there are many exciting “eco” events and communities to be part of in Chicago. But, there’s always room for improvement and growth of course. And while it makes sense to focus on events that feature your area of interest, it’s also great to get out of your comfort zone sometimes and try something new. Maybe you attend dozens of solar energy seminars and speaker panels every year, but what about learning more about and meeting people passionate about local food systems?

In the new Eco Scenes category, I plan to share upcoming events where you can find other people working to make communities and lifestyles more sustainable, or those interested in doing so. They might range from panel discussions and speakers to open houses and shopping parties. Hopefully at each there will be excellent opportunities to learn new things, connect with great people and gain inspiration.

Right now, I will be focusing on Chicago, but I’ll be looking for others to share insight on “eco scenes” in other cities!

FOR CHICAGO …

Thursday, December 3; 6 p.m. — Mindful Metropolis MindfulLive! Moving Screening Event

This month Mindful Metropolis, Chicago’s magazine that connects the conscious community, is screening the non-fiction feature Oh My God. The film stars Hugh Jackman, Seal, Ringo Starr, Sir Bob Geldof and more, and examines the idea of God through the perspectives of various people. Should be an interesting film, and Mindful Metropolis events always draw a great community of people to meet and connect with.

Saturday, December 5 (4 – 9pm) & Sunday, December 6 (12 – 6pm) — Insanely Beautiful Curiosities, Holiday Shopping at Workshop

If you are looking for thoughtful, unique, beautiful, ethically made and wonderful gifts (I hope you are!), you should definitely stop by Workshop, 818 West 18th Street, this weekend. You’ll find treasures from Frei Designs, Noon Solar, Abigail Glaum-Lathbury, Tania Bowers and more. Annie Novotny, designer of Frei Designs, opened Workshop this fall and if you haven’t been yet, you must make a visit to Pilsen to see her goregously curated space. This weekend is a perfect time since she has invited over these additional designers to make your holiday shopping easier … and better.

Eco Scenes category: These entries share upcoming events with a focus on learning about creating more sustainable communities and lifestyles. The point is to do more than “be seen on the scene.” Engage with others, take valuable information away, and use it to make positive changes in your life and others.