MIKA Organic 'Protect The Forest' Aspen Dress $280

MIKA Organic 'Protect Marine Life' Sting Ray Top $180

MIKA Organic 'Protect The Natural Habitat For Butterflies' Butterfly Top $220

MIKA Organic Tattoo Legging $90

At first glance MIKA Organic’s prices may seem a bit steep, but it’s a small sum to pay when you think about caring for the environment, saving animals and ultimately the planet itself. I’m not here to preach because seriously – this stuff is crazy cute, but I’m definitely down with designer Mika Machida’s accountability in creating sustainable, organic fashion; not to mention she donates a portion of her proceeds to non-profit organizations supporting endangered species and their habitats, amongst others. The entire scenario including the clothes? Gorgeous.

Farrah Dragon Silver Poppy Ring $667

Farrah Dragon Silver Lotus Earrings $863

Farrah Dragon 18K Gold Orchid Necklace $1,062

How cool is the name Farrah Dragon? I know. It’s like a Bond girl or something. Actually just an amazing jewelry designer whom I met through a mutual friend. Farrah’s sensibility and aesthetic are not only stunning and spot on, they’re also deep-rooted with inspiration from ancient artisans, as well as being eco-friendly and socially responsible. Here – I’ll let her tell you…

LASM: How did you become a jewelry designer?

FD: When I decided to do something different from interior design, I narrowed my dream job down to creating stylish baby slings or a conscious jewelry line. Ultimately I chose what I thought would give me the quality of life I was striving for, plus the most creative expression. By quality of life, I mean something that I could do while starting a family and something that I felt did not harm anyone or anything during the manufacturing process. I also thrive on business strategies and problem solving, so I wanted to be sure to go out of my way to choose something that forced me to make time for creativity. I chose to design and make an eco and socially responsible jewelry line. Since I had taken a jewelry making class in high school, I took a refresher course to learn soldering again and some other techniques. I then self-taught the rest at home.

LASM: Where do you derive inspiration for your pieces?

FD: Mostly in nature. I also love looking at ancient jewelry, because I hand-make nearly everything in metal and I have a lot to learn from artisans who were really only armed with fire and primitive tools.

LASM: Who are your personal favorites when it comes to jewelry designers/brands?

FD: Anything and everything Indian. Indian jewelers have techniques that are just mind-boggling. Their 22K jewelry takes my breath away. I had originally intended to do most of my line in 22K, but the price of gold doubled the year I was launching so it wasn’t realistic. I already have a 22K Indian necklace picked out for my fantasy stroll down the Oscars red carpet! For a surprise birthday present, my husband went to a few jewelry stores in Little India outside of L.A. and asked if their behind-the-scenes jeweler would mentor me; I think they were mostly confused and alarmed and shooed him out….but it was a sweet thought. I also love jewelry by Jar, Line Vautrin, Ted Meuhling, Hanut Singh, Gabriella Kiss, Tony Duquette and vintage Cartier.

LASM: How about clothing designers?

FD: My favorite brands/labels are, Antik Batik, Allsaints Spitalfields, Oscar De La Renta, Naeem Khan and Alexander McQueen.

LASM: Where do you like to shop online?

FD: To be completely honest, I usually only shop places like Victorias Secret, Delias and Alloy for trendy tops, dresses and swimwear. Apparently I’m a slutty teeny bopper at heart! Aside from jeans, I really only tend to like most of my clothes for less than a year, so I try not to spend a lot on them these days, then I can pass them on guilt-free when I’m on to the next thing. I window shop at 1st Dibs, Graham and Green and Vivre.

LASM: Any secret weapon cheap-chic jewelry picks for those who can’t afford the real thing?

FD: I have to admit that it sort of kills me to give away good secrets, but I’ll get over myself. African metalwork jewelry is a personal fave. African artisans create such beautiful, affordable pieces out of bronze, some of which have a color similar to gold, and the craftsmanship is amazing. It’s just so completely different than Western jewelry. Their brass beaded strands are particularly interesting, since they come in all shapes and sizes and layer well. On a totally different note, I think Sundance, J. Crew, Banana Republic and Forever 21 sometimes have great, affordable, stylish jewelry. Also, a cheap trick – Google a local gold plater and mail or drop off a pair of your own cool silver earrings; once gold-plated (under $30), your earrings will look like a totally different fancy new pair.

LASM: Love this idea! What are your favorite off the beaten path L.A. boutiques?

FD: Lost & Found on Yucca is my number one, no doubt; awesome clothing, jewelry, textiles and Moroccan cutting boards – everything is special, unique and stylish. I also love Bazar on Abbott Kinney and the women’s Ralph Lauren store in Malibu – just walking through makes me happy! Broken English and Arp are my favorite jewelry stores…they are both truly inspired.

(You can see the entire Farrah Dragon Jewelry collection at farrahdragon.com or visit Broken English both online and in Los Angeles to purchase.)

Logo tees? Not a fan. Slogans? Even worse. Stunning original artwork? In. I’ve featured Des Artistes in the past, in addition to wearing my own well-received Roots tee made from crazy comfy organic cotton and printed with eco-friendly ink. They’ve recently released their new look-book, complete with the original lineup of fine artists, in addition to a charity collaboration with conceptual artist Ai Weiwei, the proceeds of which will go to benefit Doctors Without Borders. *Applause* Chic, original, sustainable, charitable…love. (The Des Artiste collection is available for purchase at mytheresa.com.)

When Josie Maran contacted me via Twitter to tell me she loved my blog, to say that I was flattered would be an understatement. Not only is she gorgeous and smart, the birth of her first child motivated her to give back by launching her namesake all natural cosmetics line, when she was unable to find organic cosmetics that were as good for the planet as they were for the skin. L.A. Stylist Mom sat down with the Los Angeles local to find out a bit more about Josie the mother and the eco-conscious entrepreneur…

LASM: You’ve talked a bit about how becoming a mother inspired you to want to do other things. Can you tell us about that, and how your company grew out of it?

JM: When I was pregnant I became more aware of the power of nature and my place on this planet. It became important to me to be productive and to do something to give back. I had searched for healthy makeup throughout my whole modeling and acting career, but there was really nothing that lived up to the satisfaction and quality that I wanted. I knew if I wanted great makeup that performed well and was good for you, others would too. I realized that this could be my contribution, so I strive to make Josie Maran Cosmetics the best it can be for you and for the planet!

LASM: Love that! What would you say is the single, biggest, makeup mistake most women make?

JM: Too much makeup! I believe that finding a few magic products to give you healthy vibrant skin is the trick to being beautiful. My favorites are argan oil, tinted moisturizer, blush, mascara, and gloss for a natural look.

LASM: What three items do you think every woman should have in her makeup bag?

JM: An eyelash curler, argan oil infused lip gloss, and cream blush.

LASM: I’m two for three on that one. Can you describe a quick, five minute, morning makeup routine for busy moms, that actually makes a visible difference?

JM: Wash your face, apply my tinted moisturizer (which gives you moisture, an SPF of 30, and even coverage, all in one quick step) blush, mascara and gloss, will give you a natural, glowing look. It’s quick, beautiful, and not overdone!

LASM: What are the most important components in a skincare regime for women over the age of 30?

JM: A great organic moisturizer like my 100% organic Argan Oil, is a really great moisture option. It has vitamin E, EFA’s, and is packed with antioxidants. Plus, it’s one ingredient which ensures that your skins recognizes it and can utilize it to it’s utmost potential. Most moisturizers are so chock full of fillers, preservatives, etc., that your skin doesn’t know quite what to use and what not to use. A natural daily sunblock is also essential. Protect yourself from those wrinkle rays! I’m also a big believer in exfoliating once a week.

LASM: I always say that communication and exfoliation are the keys to life! You have gorgeous skin – what are your other secrets besides your line?

JM: Lots of sex! Just kidding….eating well, drinking lots of water and using my Argan Oil as a moisturizer.

LASM: I’ve actually heard that lots of sex does wonders for your skin, amongst other things…er…moving on. Since you’re a fellow L.A. girl – with great style,  by the way – will you share your favorite spots to shop for clothes in town?

JM: In L.A., Catwalk and the Rose Bowl Flea Market for vintage.

LASM: Any online faves?

JM: Mr. Larkin! (available at Becklina).

Here’s you chance to win a ‘Wildflower Powder Palette’ from Josie’s collection, containing a complete makeup wardrobe in one, chic, mirrored compact (a $45 value). Simply visit Josie Maran Cosmetics, choose your favorite item and leave a comment on this post telling us what it is – that’s it! You can  also earn an additional entry for Tweeting this post, using the handy dandy retweet button (only one Tweet per person please). Good luck!

Huge thanks to Josie for taking time out of her busy schedule to answer these questions. You can see her entire hair, makeup and skincare lines at Josie Maran Cosmetics, and be sure to check out her Lifestyle And Beauty Blog!

*All comments must be posted by the end of the giveaway on Thursday, March 25th, at 11:59 EST. The winner will be chosen by random.org, notified via e mail, and announced on L.A. Stylist Mom shortly thereafter. One entry per person, with a maximum of one additional entry for Tweeting this post. If winner fails to respond within three days of notification, a new winner will be selected. Open to U.S. and Canada residents ages 18 years or older.

Kristinit Organic Linen Jumpsuit $265

(Detail)

I bought an engagement ring for this jumpsuit. It is stunning in all of its feminine, modern simplicity, and surprisingly constructed from 100% organic linen (the jumpsuit not the ring, obvy). It features a gorgeous sculpted neckline and deep pockets (which I completely dig, even though I have never once put anything in them – what’s up with that), along with a flattering tie-neck halter and deep back.

Designer Kristina Lenss says that “Kristinet’s mission has always been to design with more than just style in mind. The line uses innovative organic fabrics, local manufacturing and fair trade practices, and continues to donate a percentage of each sale to One Percent For The Planet, as well as the Pachamama Alliance.”

Do-gooding aside, I think she designed a kick-ass jumpsuit that I cannot wait to call my own. You can too, since they’ll be available at Petro Zilia (love) in Los Angeles, and Purdy Girl in New York City at the end of this month. But wait! If you order yours by e mailing kristina@kristinit.com between now and March 15th, you’ll receive 30% off when you mention coupon code LA30 at the time of check out. Go. Because everyone else is, too.

'Wear Your Heart On Your Back' Organic Cotton and Velvet Girls' Tee $28.95

'Groovy Guitars' Wet Bag $18-$25

'Stack It' Recycled Oxidized Sterling Silver and Pearl Rings $98

Jillybean Green makes my heart beat fast. It’s like all the kid stuff I scour the web for, loaded into one happy little spot. And it’s fun to say (you know you just said it). Created by an L.A. mom who adores both her kids and the environment, Jillybean offers alternatives to adopting a greener lifestyle, without having to compromise the ‘hip’ factor. Every manufacturer they work with creates products that are either organic, made with sustainable or recyclable  materials, employ fair trade practices, or are recyclable, reusable and or/non-toxic. They also support local artisans, designers and good old USA manufacturing – woo hoo!

What I love best about Jillybean Green (besides saying it, okay I’ll stop) is the stuff; babies, kids, gear, bath time…moms, JBG has it all! In addition to my picks above, one of my most fave parts of their site are the 100+ items in the Under $25 Finds section, perfect for gift giving and otherwise. (P.S. How cute is that ‘Heart On Your Back’ tee?!) If you happen to be in Los Angeles, Jillybean now has a store located inside the birthday party locale of choice (*drum roll*) The COOP, located at 11118 Ventura Blvd, in Studio City. But  you don’t have to hop a plane to reap the benefits of Jillybean, since they have been generous enough to team up with LASM to offer one lucky ready a $50 gift certificate! As always, entering is easy when you follow these simple steps:

1. If you haven’t already, become and LASM Facebook Fan or Twitter Follower.
2. Visit Jillybean Green and choose the item(s) you’d purchase with your gift certificate.
3. Leave a comment on this post, letting us know the answers to questions 1 and 2. That’s it!
4. Get additional entries by Tweeting this giveaway (using my new Tweet Meme button), or posting on your site with a link back to this post.

*All comments must be posted by the end of the giveaway on Wednesday, February 3rd, at 11:59 EST. The winner will be chosen by random.org, notified via e mail, and announced on L.A. Stylist Mom shortly thereafter. One entry per person, with a maximum of two additional entries for Tweeting and/or links back to this post. If winner fails to respond within three days of notification, a new winner will be selected. Open to U.S. and Canada residents ages 18 years or older.

(The $50 Gift Certificate was generously donated for this giveaway by Jillybean Green. There. I said it again.)

UGH. It’s my least favorite part of the the holiday season: The dreaded un-decorating and disposal of the Christmas tree – utterly depressing in all of its messiness. In Sweden? Not so much. You gotta love the Swedes; they never miss an opportunity to turn a situation into a celebration. Not only does their holiday season extend until January 13th, it goes out with a bang (or in this case a resounding thump), as they quite literally throw their trees out…the window! And then of course it all wraps up with dancing and singing and candy eating and…why have we not taken a page from this yet? Let’s top it off with some more shopping, shall we? Twist my arm…

Polarn O. Pyret (being Swedish and all) is planning to prolong your holiday festivities with yet another extraordinary mid-winter sale, complete with cozy savings of up to 70%, and free shipping on orders of $150 or more! This includes their modern and versatile Holiday Collection that I told you about (and still adore) in December. Be sure not to miss this opportunity to stock up on items for the new year, or even the one after that (being that I’m a notorious fan of buying ahead in larger sizes during amazing sales), and as those rockin’ Swedes would say…? God Jul!

(Post sponsored by Polarn O. Pyret)

Paul Smith Multi-Stripe Double Billfold Wallet $220

Alternative Apparel Noonan Polo in 'Blue Slate' $38

Converse Jack Purcell CP OX in Charcoal/White $50

Thompson London Blue Carnival Skull Cuff links $102.90

Levi's 539 Organic Cotton Eco Vintage Jeans in 'Shadow' $39.99

Just a few of my faves for the dudes on your list! FYI for the seemingly randoms; the Noonon Polo is stupid soft cotton and an incredible fit. I bought one for J, I should have bought five. The jeans also have an amazing cut and wash, not to mention they’re eco, and for just forty bucks…?! I’m not a fan of ‘fashion’ sneakers (*shudder*), so keep it simple and classic with a sturdy pair of JPs. If you’re looking to splurge, do it on to-die-for cuff links he’ll adore, or a modern-classic Paul Smith wallet, because who doesn’t love Paul Smith?? (If you don’t, keep it to yourself.)

(Shout Out to the FTC: This post was not sponsored by any of the above vendors, nor did I receive a single item of swag.)

Funky Music Top (Child) in 'Greymelange' $26

Folklore Maternity Tunic $59.50

All Over Stripe Eco Leggings (Child) in 'Colonial Blue' $30

Wind Fleece Bunting in 'Poppy' $72.50

…for about sixty different reasons! Paramount amongst them, is that fact that not only are their clothes simple, modern, and comfy, 30% of every collection is designed around a UNI(sex) concept. Having not found out the sex of my children during either pregnancy (and having fielded the ridiculous and unending  question, ‘But how will you know how to decorate the nursery?!’ ), by the time of their arrival I was lousy with yellow, green, and white ensembles. Polarn’s newborn ECO collection is not only almost entirely designed with UNI in mind, it’s also made from 100% organic cotton and produced in a green manufacturing process.

Where have they been all your life? Unbeknownst to me, PO.P began in Stockholm in 1976, and has grown to over 100 stores across Sweden and Europe. It’s now available in the United States at polarnopyretusa.com, with retail locations to follow. Had I known about them prior to my first pregnancy, you better believe I would have scooped up their clean and classic signature stripe for not only my babies, but also for myself – that’s right – there’s maternity and nursing wear!

If you’re not already chomping at the bit? PO.P and L.A. Stylist Mom have teamed up to create a FREE SHIPPING code valid through midnight PST on Friday, November 13th; simply enter LAPOP at checkout. We’re also giving away a Wind Fleece Bunting for baby worth $72.50, in the size and color of your choice!* All you have to do to enter is visit polarnopyretusa.com, and leave a comment here letting us know which PO.P item is your fave – that’s it! Good luck, and happy shopping from LASM and PO.P…

All comments must be received by the end of the giveaway on Wednesday, November 18th, at 11:59 EST. The winner will be chosen at random, notified via e mail on Thursday, November 19th, and announced on L.A. Stylist Mom Friday, November 20th. Open to U.S. residents only.

*Size and color choice contingent upon availability.

Craptastic Photography Courtesy Of: Moi

Further proof that just because you’re a mom, doesn’t mean you can’t be fashionable. (And without having to spend a lot of cash.) Exhibit #001: D. At home, on a Sunday afternoon, look cuter. (And yes my chic mommy friends, beware; this does in fact mean that you are now fodder for my website.) After telling her about seven times how much I was digging her outfit, D sweetly acquiesced and allowed me to take her photo…and grill her about her ensemble item by item (details below). Yet another opportunity to demonstrate that having kids isn’t synonymous with looking schlubby. Thanks D! xoxo

Banana Republic Heritage Ruffle-Collar Shirt $24.99, GAP Destructed Boyfriend Jeans $59.50, Bernardo ‘Dream’ Flats in ‘Pewter Glove’ $129, Coopersong ‘Hipster’ Eco-Tote in Black $55

(All other jewelry and accessories are either no longer available, or cannot be purchased online.)