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.

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.

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.)

Coopersong Mid-Hipster Bag in 'Black Eve' (14"H x 12"W) $50

Let’s face it; we’re living in a wasteful time. I’m not going to get preachy, but given the opportunity I’ll certainly do my part where I can, since I’m a firm believer that every little bit helps. Coopersong is no exception, with their line of bags and accessories crafted from all-natural, organic, and re-purposed materials. Founder DeAnna Cooper creatively utilizes recycled bicycle inner tubes (that once trekked miles through the Colorado mountains) as the handles on all of her bags. She also features other reclaimed items such as baseball leather, as well as buttons and buckles from the 1940′s.

I happen to love the Mid-Hipster Bag pictured, which would make the perfect ‘un-diaper’ diaper bag; better still when paired with the adorable, polka dotted, Mommy Packs, that include an insulated bottle bag and changing pad. There’s also an awesome retro-print Stroller Bag in a pattern called ‘Women,’ for those of you who prefer a true diaper bag. For kids both young and…not so young (that’s you), be sure to check out the insulated Eco Lunch Bag, that comes in your choice of what seems like a skillion different fabrics – stupid cute!

Now for the best part; if you happen to be in the Los Angeles area this coming weekend, Coopersong is having a trunk show*, with prices ranging from $3 to $90, including numerous styles and items not pictured on their website! Not only will you get the first up-close look at the Fall/Winter 2009 collection, there will be snacks, door prizes and a play area for your little ones, so you can SHOP. IN. PEACE. For those of you not in the L.A. area, L.A. Stylist Mom is giving away a $25 Coopersong gift certificate! To enter, simply visit the Coopersong website, choose your favorite item, and then leave a comment** on this post telling us what it is – that’s it! Hope to see you at the show, and if not, be sure to tell them I sent you!

*The Coopersong Trunk Show will be held on Friday, November 6th, from 1PM-7PM, and on Sunday, November 8th, from NOON-4PM. Please call 310.415.8474 for location and details.

**All comments must be received by the end of the giveaway on Wednesday November 11th, at 11:59 EST. The winner will be chosen at random, notified via e mail on Thursday November 12th, and announced on L.A. Stylist Mom Friday November 13th. Open to U.S. residents only.

Felix Rey 'Toys & Trinkets' Eco Diaper Bag $360

You might have first heard about Felix Rey when they did their oh-so-lovely Target collaboration, of which I am a huge fan. My adoration started way before that, however, and boy do I wish that this was around when I was hunting for the diaper bag that I’d carry for the next three years. (I ended up with the Fleurville Mothership, which doesn’t hold a candle in the cute department.) In addition to their gorgeous clutches, handbags and beach totes, Lily Rafii Band and Soulaika Zarrouk have luckily for us, branched out into mommy gear!

Their ‘Toys & Trinkets’ diaper bag is not only eco-friendly (made from organic unbleached cotton), it’s stylie and practical in it’s simplicity; a welcome reprieve from the dreadful over-design that seems to be diaper bags of late. In addition to two front patch pockets (one which houses an adorable teddy bear that looks suspiciously like someone clocked him in the eye), there are two interior zipper pockets, and one on each side for bottles. There’s also an adjustable and removable shoulder strap, a quilted changing pad, and an 8″ x 13″ zip top pouch, perfect for stinky diapers or dirty duds. The other good news is that at 17″W x 14″H x 5″D, there’s plenty of room for your stuff too – nothing  more cumbersome than having to schlep a diaper bag and a purse. It’s also not a bad gig for when dad needs to haul it out; most can be exponentially worse in the girlie-department.

Although $360 may seem a bit steep, take it from a pro – this is the perfect scenario to do a ‘times carried vs. cost’ breakdown. Like I said – you’ll be towing this baby for some time, especially if you’ve got more than one little darling. You’re also in luck! If you purchase ‘Toys & Trinkets’ online between June 22nd and July 6th, you’ll receive 20% off when you enter code FR-LASMOM20 at checkout. Yet another reason to love Felix Rey…

Belissma by Moschitto Scroll Cuff in 'Ivory' $39

I looooooove this bracelet! As a mom and a human being, I would want to receive this from anyone. Marked down from $48, it also comes in ‘Kiwi’ (looks like jade), Black (self explanatory), and ‘Tokyo’ (tortoise shell). As part of Calypso’s ‘Mother’s Day Gifts That Give’ campaign, if you purchase a gift online from now through May 10th, you’ll not only receive 10% off your purchase, they’ll also donate and additional 10% to The Children’s Aid Society. Be sure to enter MDAY09 in the coupon field of your shopping bag!

Kate Spade 'Elyce Jane Street' Brag Book in Hot Pink $115

My mother needs this. She has impeccable taste, yet carries around her 6,000 pics of Z and R in a 99 cent plastic ‘album’ from the Rite-Aid – not to mention it’s falling apart. Pretty.

Tord Boontje & Artenica's 'Charming Charms' in Gold $27-$40 Per Pack

These rule, and they’re cheap! They come in packs of three on a black cotton cord, and are also available in sterling for even less. I prefer the 18K gold plate myself, and although I think they’re all beautiful, pack three would have to be my fave – something about that bunny/pod/flower combo…

Lotta Jansdotter Tote Bag in Grey $96

While I think this bag is lovely, the version I really like is the Purple, but I couldn’t get the pic – click on the photo to check it out. These pretty totes are not only chic and practical (not to mention roomy at 14″x18″), they’re also made from organic wool and cotton. I just discovered Beklina, and it’s very cool – enjoy a look around while you’re there!

Shoptwigs Small Gold & Silver Circle Earrings $48

These pretty brushed gold and silver vermeil earrings are both artisan and contemporary; I also think they look much more expensive than their price tag. Shoptwigs is also offering free gift wrapping on all Mother’s Day items, making these the perfect alternative to flowers for those out-of-state moms – they’ll also last a lot longer!

Misha Lulu Organic 'Elefantito' Dress $66

While I’ve featured Sparrow before (who can forget those darling little ‘Sweet Shoes?‘), I thought that their gorgeous things would be the perfect segue into this year’s Earth Day. Case in point this adorable dress from Misha Lulu; Such a refreshing departure from all the mass produced ‘mini-adult’ dresses that have recently flooded the market. It’s organic cotton elephant appliques, combined with the delicious candy cane stripes, remind me of a modern day Holly Hobbie (I know – I’m really dating myself with that one).

Baby Emi 18K Gold Plated Jingle Bells Bangle $55

I’m also loving these ‘Jingle Bells’ bangles from Baby Emi! Cool in a kind of hippie baby way, while at the same time symbolizing such a lovely sentiment; For thousands of years, Cambodian families have traditionally welcomed new babies with gifts of jewelry. The soft jingling helps mommies keep track of their little ones, and according to folklore, it’s believed that the bells are credited with warding off bad spirits. The bangles can be worn as either a bracelet or anklet, and are also available in sterling for $35.

These gifts and others can be yours with a $50 gift certificate, awarded to the first reader who correctly answers the following question; What is the name of the couple who are behind Sparrow? Click to shopsparrowla.com to find out. Good luck, and happy Earth Day!