Kindness by Review: Kowtow and The Silent Space

There's a confident yet illusive and ethereal quality to the consciously crafted designs of New Zealand born label Kowtow. The first thing you notice about their clothing is their minimalist beauty and exquisite construction - it's only later that you discover the deeply ethical practices underpinning the entire brand. Check out this short video documenting their supply chain from seed to garment:

Every single Kowtow garment is made entirely from premium certified fair-trade cotton using Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS) approved dyes that are free from hazardous elements such as nickel, lead, formaldehyde and pesticides. As they articulate on their website: "We don't believe anyone who is truly aware of what is going on in the world would want to turn their heads and support a slave trade economy".

I was delighted to be asked to give my thoughts on their amazing collection, 'The Silent Space'.  Drawing its inspiration from Tadao Ando's architectural work, the pieces in this collection were designed to embody 'bare concrete walls, sunlight creating shapes on every surface, raw materials echoing the meticulous randomness of nature, large openings framing wind, rain and light'.

Himeji Jumpsuit in Black on Chalk Blue - I found this edgy jumpsuit to be outrageously comfortable without compromising on style. While wearing it I felt strong, funky and ready for action! Vibe: Having an absolute ball on a rainy summer's day saving kittens from trees

Spatial Dress in Coral on Bone - The organic cotton jersey material of this oversized t-shirt dress felt so delightfully silky on my skin. The drawstring allows you to adjust the silhouette to your liking AND I love it when dresses have pockets! Vibe: Strolling through a sun-dappled park with an ice cream

Osaka Dress in Black - When putting on this unique dress I was instantly struck by how much heaver this organic cotton 280gsm loop knit fleece felt compared to the other outfits. You instantly feel your luxe level rising! Another thumbs up for side pockets :) Vibe: Cocktails with Audrey Hepburn in the 21st century

Vacation Parka in White - While this ingenious parka with its oversized hood, waist and hem draw-cords, back storm flap and front patch pockets looks great over your regular outfit - I thought it also makes a sumptuous poolside robe! Vibe: Palm trees, piña coladas and sweet pineapple breezes 

You can shop 'The Silent Space' and other Kowtow collections here. Want to connect with them? Check them out on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest :) 
 

Ethical Easter Treats for Ecochic Fashion Bunnies!

Easter is a very special occasion for a lot of people. For some it's a time of sacred significance, while for others it's a relaxing secular holiday filled with delicious chocolate treats.

Whichever way you like to spend this time of year, being mindful of your purchases means that you can enjoy yourself without negative environmental or social consequences.  

Here are just a few of my favourite ethical finds for Easter:

Chocoholic Soy Candle by Pigeon & Weasel - Give yourself or a loved one 40 hours of deliciousness with this limited edition soy candle, hand-poured into an upcycled beer bottle!

Carrot Soap from LUSH Cosmetics - Perfect for vegans who love some relaxing bath time! This soap may be shaped like a carrot but it smells of essential oils such as buchu, lemon and bergamot. Plus there's a tiny bunny to be found in each one :D

Coffee Truffle Easter Egg by Constant Craving Chocolates - Get your chocolate AND caffeine fix all in one sweet hit with these handmade vegan eggs

Organic Bunny Toy by Jen Galaxy Designs - I love the idea of giving children gifts that will last for generations :) This super cute bunny has been lovingly handmade using 100% organic cotton and filled with soft corn fibre

Desert Cottontail Clutch from NYhop - This upcycled vegan clutch with its hand-painted rabbit is quite simply ADORABLE! As they say on their website: "Let the bunny look after your money..."

Run rabbit, run rabbit...run, run, run Necklace by Vinyl Cuts - These distinctively sweet bunny pendants have been crafted from upcycled vinyl records!

Carrot Cupcake Bath Salts by Daily Repose - How gorgeous do these sound!!! Fill your bathtub with citrus, spiced with scents of clove, carrot, nutmeg, cinnamon, bay leaf and vanilla extract. Suitable for vegans and anyone wanting to unwind and sooth tired muscles

Organic Chocolate Cheeky Bunnies by Montezuma's - Have a cheeky splurge on these guilt-free vegan chocolate bunnies! They even come in sustainable packaging :)

Chick in Boots Tee by Pini Piru - Made from 100% organic and fairly traded cotton, this is such a funky tee for young ones and a great gift for Easter!

Orang-utan Friendly Easter Guide from Zoos Victoria - Did you know that your Easter yummables might be having a negative impact on orang-utan habitat due to the widespread use of unsustainable palm oil? The good news is you can now make smarter choices using this great guide!

Have a Wonderful Easter Everyone!
KB x