The Cat's Meow!

Yes I'm proud to be a Crazy Cat Lady! Check out my purrrr-fect pussycat picks! =^..^=

Meow Print Tank from Top Shop - Cute funky cotton tee

Silhouette Cat Tea Severware by Linea - Eeepa this so chic and fun! 

Nosy Cat Necklace by The Little Orchard - Handmade fabric necklace with oodles of kitty charm

Cat Woman Tee by Abbey Watkins for Focus Own - Add some ROAR to your wardrobe!

Learn how to make your own kitty ring out of recycled cat food cans at Inhabitat!

Orange & White Cat Print Dress from Dorothy Perkins - Love it!!! My whiskers would be tingling from awesomeness...if I had any!

Kitty Cat Silver Plated Hair Slides by Iz & Lotte - Adore these retro looking hair accessories which have been handmade in Melbourne

Happy Cat-rimony Tee from ModCloth - Cuuuuuuuuute!!!

Cat Brooches by Bon Bon Creative - These gorgeous handmade brooches are so unique and would make any coat, top or scarf super special

The King 3D Lion Tee by Sirius Grafik - For the man who wants to stand out...3D style! 100% organic cotton and sweat-shop free

Cheshire Cat Bangle by Swarovski - Hit the town with one of literature's most endearing felines!

The Colour Mango Tee by Look For Fiddle Heads - Fun colour, magnificent print

Ancient Tiger to a Tee by Looking For Fiddle Heads - 100% organic cotton with a lovely ethereal print

Love Cat Bodysuit by Insight - Versatile and sleek...just like a cat!

Fancy Cat Bangle by Paul & Joe Schmuck - Textile kitties to adorn your wrist

Small Cat Print Bag from Jane Norman - Sweet and practical all rolled into one!

Stitched Cat Tee from Delias - Wear this frisky cat with a cheeky grin

Siamese Cat Brooch by Tatty Devine - Based on ceramics from the 60s and 70s this perspex brooch is  delightfully eye-catching 

Wild Cats Print Crop Vest from Top Shop - Perfect for prowling the streets in style

Cat Cafe Top from ModCloth - Love it! Coffee + Correspondence + Cats = YAY!

Paul & Joe Cat Lipstick available at UrbanOutfitters - For that purrfect pout!

Cat & Mouse Cardigan from Ando Store - Keep warm while these furry characters chase about this cotton cardigan

Cat Eyes V-Neck from Wildfox - Dramatic and aloof like a streetwise moggy

Black Cat Half Hood by Spirithoods - This fun-filled hoods have been a recent hit with cat-loving celebrities 

Miaow Shopper Bag from Irregular Choice - Faux suede and mock croc has combined to become a kitty statement piece

Cat To Do List by Boygirlparty - Ticking off tasks was never so terrifically cute!

3D Cat Pullover from Forever 21 - This time it's 3D-themed kitties for the ladies!

Blue Cat Badges by Lilypad Designs - Each time I look at these handmade delights I go "EEeeeeee" :D

Cat Print Bandeau Dress by Killah - Kooky cat designs frolic about this youthful dress with removable straps 

Lazy Cats Crop from Top Shop - Colourful happy cats to accompany you on a summer stroll 

Cats by Tsumori Chisato - Sometimes cats prefer to be understated :o) 

Wild Cat Romper by Nasty Gal - Yes it wouldn't be Kindness by Design without a romper ;o)  Romp about in this cute print like a kitten with a ball of string!

When It Rains, It Purrs Umbrella from ModCloth - Owning this beauty will have you crossing your fingers that it'll be raining cats and...well...cats!

Passenger Angel Cat Pendant by Swarovski - Mysterious and dreamlike, this pendant is strangely compelling...very cat-like qualities  

Kate's Cats Gusset Bag from Harrods - Say no to plastic bags and yes to shopping the ecochic kitty way!

Purly the 2nd Guardian Cat by Woodyloo - A super sweet smiley cat from Israel to brighten up your home, available from Etsy.com

Cat Pyjamas from Peacocks - Well what can I say? They're the cat's pyjamas!

Wildcat Tank Dress by Hurley - For tackling the concrete jungle

Grandpa Cat Greeting Cards by Ask Alice - Ummm...Grandpa Cat? YAY! So suave ! Printed on 100% recycled paper  and packaged in a biodegradable sleeve made from corn. Available at Bluecaravan

Sassy Cat Hairclips from Cherish Vintage Treasures - Purchasing these kittens can help real furry kittens as Cherish donates 30% of sales to animal welfare charities

Laser Cut Cat Brooch by Tall Rabbit - Add some lighthearted cheekiness to your outfit!

Cini the Cat Kids T-Shirt by Pini Piru - Delightful designs from the Netherlands. 100% organic and fairly traded cotton

Cat Island in Blue Wall Art from Karina Jean - Gorgeous dreamlike artwork

Kitten Comfort Tee by POL - Break this one out when you're in dire need of some kitty  cheer

Eco-Kitty Brooch from Cherish Vintage Treasures - Handcrafted using new and vintage items. Love the kitty cameo! 

Cats Crop by Sweet and Sour - I LOVED this 80s cartoon! THUNDER THUNDER THUNDER THUNDER CATS ROWR! My only concern is the smudging of the print...

Friends Organic Cotton Shirt by Limeyts - Made from 100% certified organic cotton, this  is a very sweet and quirky shirt for bub

Black Cat Greeting Card from The Spotted Sparrow - Made from sustainably sourced paper and comes in a 100% recycled envelope. I love this atmospheric design! You can combine two very special things, cats and corresponding with loved ones

Black Thundercats Cufflinks from Bella Moda Co. - Looking for a special gift for your man? Was he born in the  80s? Look no further! He'll roar with pleasures at these Thundercat cufflinks!

Lynx Bobcat Tee from NY Illustration - Cats + Colours is a win in my book!

Here Kitty Kitty Reusable Sandwich Bag by Celeste Blake Designs - This food safe fabric bag will make a packed lunch  so much more attractive! So no to plastic and yes to pussycats!

Tabby Night School Pendant Necklace by CC Valenzo - Handcrafted so each piece is unique. I love this nocturnal scene! 

Vintage 1960s Tiger Dress from Capricorn Vintage - This cotton A-line shift dress is so much fun! For the girl who doesn't want to wear what everyone else is wearing

Twin Tabbies Salt'n'Pepper Shaker Set from ModCloth - Every meal could be kitty-rific!

Kitty Cat Pushpin Thumbtacks by Yum Yum Buttons - Love love love! What can I say? Just look at them! :D  Using Japanese fabric to turn something practical into something awesome

Vintage 1970s Cat and Mouse Dress from Modern Art - Another sweet and unusual vintage treat with a purr and a squeak!

Supa Hero Cats Stickers by Sissy Sparrows - Giving kitties the status they deserve! All are individually hand cut

1980s Save the Rainforest Men's Cotton Tee from Cairo Vintage - Featuring an Ocelot, a threatened species of cat

Toddler Hairband in Kitty Cats from Lil' Boppers - Super cute and machine washable!

Vintage Mushroom and Cat Tunic Dress from Repo Dress - This trippy dress grows on me the more I look at it! Not a colour I would have thought of wearing but combined with that fabulously loopy print...I love it!

Vintage 60s/70s Granny Sweater Vest from Sam Loves Vintage - Designed by Deans of Scotland, this kitty scene is extremely snuggle-worthy indeed!

Cat Print T-Shirt from See by Chloé - Soft, comfortable and eye-catching, this top is easy to wear under a tailored jacket with jeans and heels

Cat Ocean University Tee by Pussy Deluxe - Tee hee this silly tee makes me smile! :o)

Lion Sculpture from Ethical Gifts - This lovely lion sculpture is part of an eco-friendly and socially responsible program run in Kenya  

Cat Print Tailored Playsuit by Lipsy - So chic and so fun!

Nesting Style Kitty Cats Pin by joonE - Sweet fun-ables waiting for a new home!

Feline Women's Hoodie by NEFF - Love it! Be a cosy fashion kitten!

The Colour Kittens from A Little Golden Book - EEEeee! Do you remember Little Golden Books growing up? I sure do! I loooved the Colour Kittens! So naughty :D

Little Kitties for Big Cats from National Geographic - This excellent fundraising idea  lets your little  kitty help its bigger endangered cousins who have to fend for themselves in the wild

Ethical Designer Spotlight: Linnie Mclarty's Heart of Gold

I recently had the honour of interviewing one of the rising stars of the international jewellery scene, designer extraordinare Linnie Mclarty. This award-winning designer stands out from the crowd, not only because of her unique and beautiful aesthetic but also due to her commitment to ethical processes. Linnie utilises 100% recycled silver and gold that is officially certified as fairtrade and fairmined. 

Fairtrade Gold and Ruby Ring from the Discretely Bizarre Collection

Fairtrade Gold and Cirtine Ring from the Discretely Bizarre Collection

Q. How did you start down this path of ethical jewellery design?

I wouldn’t want to do anything other than design and make jewellery, I absolutely love it,    but I know that the fashion and jewellery industry needs to go a long way to address its environmental and ethical policies, and I think it’s my responsibility as a designer-maker to work in the most ethical and responsible way I can.  I aim to work with the most responsibly and ethically sourced materials I can find - using 100% recycled silver, fairly traded gemstones with a clear and transparent chain of custody.  I am also one of only 20 businesses world-wide licensed to use certified Fairtrade, Fairmined gold.  I would be a hypocrite if I said that everything I do as a jeweller is as green or as sound as it could be, but I’m making changes wherever and whenever I can.  When you find out something that doesn’t sit well with you, it’s impossible to ‘unknow’ it, and if you can’t change it, then you can only try not contribute to it.

Q. If you had to choose another career for yourself, what would that be?

I came to jewellery by accident. My mother was a painter, and I assumed I’d follow a similar path.  I considered theatre design, but instead studied fine art, began as a painter, ended up doing film, mixed media and installation.  If I were to choose a career other than the one I have then it would most likely be something along those lines.  I’d need to do something creative without doubt.  I’d love to be involved in film in some way. 

Q. In 10 words or less, how would you sum up your design aesthetic?

My.work.explores.the.nature.of.wearability.without.sacrificing.comfort.     

Q. In your opinion, what is the most pressing environmental issue facing the world today?

Global warming is obviously pretty high on the list. The rate of the deforestation of the rain Forest is truly horrific.   I have 2 young children, and I wonder how their children will be affected.  As a parent you can’t help worrying about your children’s future.

Q. You are one of only 20 licensees for certified Fairtrade Fairmined Ecological gold in world. Tell us a little bit about what this means.

Globally, there are over 100 million people who depend directly or indirectly on artisanal and small-scale mining and who are trapped in unfair supply chains, struggling to get a fair price for the gold they mine. Fairtrade gold is a way to slowly start to change this.  I pay an additional 10% of the London Fix bullion price which goes directly to the miners, ensuring they have a consistently fair wage, and also enabling them – as a co-operative – to buy machinery and to implement proper health & safety precautions.  As I’m a licensee for Fairtrade, Fairmined, Ecological gold, I also pay an additional 5% premium, which ensures that no chemicals (mercury or cyanide) are used in the extraction of the metal, and that restoration is undertaken as the land is worked.  The gold is mined alluvially, by panning, and using water, rather than open cast mines.

I am proud to be involved in the early stages of these improvements.      

Q. What advice would you give to designers who are interested in becoming more sustainable?

I think that a lot of designers are aware that they are working in an industry which needs to do a lot to address its environmental policies.  Often the sheer scale of what needs to be done can be so daunting that it actually prevents people from doing anything at all.  My advice would be to not feel that it has to be all or nothing.  Every small change you make has value.  Start by changing something you can do straight away.  It could be using energy saving bulbs, getting in to the habit of turning off equipment or machinery when it’s not in use.  Then you can begin to look at your business with a more critical eye.   We need to take a bit more responsibility about the products and materials we use in our work.  Ask your suppliers where they source their goods, who makes them.  As creative and imaginative people we shouldn’t find it too difficult to find alternatives to some of the less lovely products and materials we use in our work.  If something is ridiculously cheap and you can’t work out how they manage to make it for that price you need to question how it is actually possible.  Anyone who has internet access can find out a hundred ways to improve their business practice.

Q. What is one of the most personally rewarding pieces you've ever produced?

Oh that’s tough. I think whatever I’m working on at the time is most rewarding.  Especially if I’m working on a commission.  When I’ve finished a commission there’s always a moment when I think ‘what if they don’t like it?’  Once the client has opened the box and responded positively to the piece I can finally relax!  I suppose that’s when the rewarding part really kicks in!

Q. Your pieces are so refreshingly distinctive & eye-catching, what kind of things inspire you when you’re designing?

Thank you. Actually, I think it’s my approach to designing that is the key.  Years of art history and art theory have informed my practice as a designer, and it’s not what I look at, but how I look at it.  I can be inspired by absolutely anything and everything, but I think you could abstract and extrapolate a single idea almost indefinitely, if you know how to.  I also think you should be open to change.  I draw all the time, but I hardly ever work to a drawing, I use it as a starting point, and the physically work with the metal until the piece feels right.  I only ever make jewellery I personally like to wear.  I think if the work has integrity then it shows.  It may not be for everyone, but that’s not what’s important.

Q. What does the future hold for Linnie Mclarty Jewellery?

Immediate future – My next exhibition is in Tokyo, and I’m also looking forward to exhibiting at Sieraad in Amsterdam in November, plus -I’ve one or two collaborations in the pipeline.   I think it’s important to be open to things outside your usual frame of reference.  It keeps you on your toes.

For more information check out:

No Dirty Gold

Official Website of Linnie Mclarty

Linnie Mclarty's Blog
Linnie Mclarty on Facebook

Sometimes It's Good to Feel Blue

Today I'm inspired by the crisp blue Sydney skies in winter and the languid hues of the South Pacific seas. Sometimes being blue is a great feeling!

Jodie Dress by Nancy Dee - Organic cotton paired with a fun flamingo print. Quirky dress made under ethical conditions in India using environmentally friendly processes

Luna Dress by Julia Smith Made in Africa - This fairtrade label supports livelihoods in Ghana. I love this painting-worthy splash pattern! Fun and easy to dress up for evening

Blue Berry Brooch by Cherish - One-of-a-kind piece using upcycled vintage components. Great colour & fabulous design. As an amazing bonus at least 30% of sale will go towards an animal welfare agency!

Luna Blue Shoulder Bag from Ecoist - Made from recycled candy wrappers, perfect for fashionistas with a sweet-tooth!

Crystal Rim Sunglasses by Marc Jacobs - A very chic way to enjoy sunny weather!

BoBo Ertha Belt by Bourgeois Boheme - Made from organic hemp, this belt would jazz up your jeans or prettify your pants

Broken China Plate Magnets by JemmDeeCreations - Who said that your fridge decorations had to be garish? Add some style to your kitchen with these arty magnets

Blue Casual Pants by Stella McCartney - Love love love!!!! Extraordinary pants for extraordinary women ;o)

Vegan Steampunk Bag with Blue Patina Gear by Moda Industria -Looking for something futuristic for your ensemble? Look no further!

Fairly Dotty Chemise by Life's Not Fair...But My Knickers Are - Made from certified organic cotton and anitque lace. Available from Saumarez Lingerie, this chemise is adorable and ethical nightwear!

Peace Ninja's by Odd Sox - Available from Ethical Emi, each hand-made collectable peace ninja is unique

Rigby Blue Sequin Tube Dress from Alice + Olivia - This stunning dress is a sure fire winner for a night out on the town!

Inessa Top from Calypso St. Barth - Bright and breezy cotton top, perfect for a day at the seaside

Indigo Denim Mini-Shorts by Stella McCartney - Classic, simple shorts with a chic hem-detail. Wear casual with a tee and flats or dress-up with heels and a metalic top

Magnolia Print Dress from Warehouse - I think the print and colour palette are gorgeous. This is a striking yet soft dress

Flower Print Shorts by Cacharel - 100% cotton and 100% brilliant! I think these shorts are exquisite

Becky Kelso Turquoise Pendant Necklace from Max & Chloe - Had some colour to your outfit

W is for Whale Print by Mrs Booth - Printed on recycled paper using non-toxic vegetable inks, this sweet print is perfect for a child's bedroom or on the library wall for those young at heart. Available at Pure Design

Navy Livia Dress by Outsider - Fairtrade and 100% organic cotton, this dress has a timeless silhouette. Available at Think Boutique

Blue Flower Ring from Oxfam's Ethical Collection - Funky fair trade cocktail ring with a vintage vibe

Kimchi Jumpsuit by Komodo - 100% organic cotton. Would look great with some strappy heels and a messy up-do

Up-cycled Vintage Suitcase with Floral Hand Embroidery from Greener Abode - Stand apart from the crowd when travelling!

Upcycled Denmin 50s Handbag by Laundry Maid - This fun and functional bag was made from high waisted skinny jeans in order to reduce waste and consumption of raw denim

Vintage Fabric Flower Lapel Pin by Suzanne Smith - Smarten up any jacket or coat with this lovely pin. Available at Ethics Girls

Ostritch and Baby Elephant Vintage Wallpaper Silhouettes from Greener Abode - Add some whimsy to your walls with these delightful animal sillhouettes

Strappy Dandelion Dress from Maple by Some Odd Rubies - Great summer dress with a retro feel, available at Anthropologie

Curva Maxi Coffee 2 Table - An intruiging mix of modern techniques and antique lines using wood waste materials

Zip Neck Baselayer by BAM - Ecochic alternative for sporty women, this baselayer top is made from bamboo

Fairtrade Organic Cotton String Bag by Bo Weevil - Cute and convenient shopping bag, available at Eco Eco

Short T-Shirt by Camilla Norrback - 100% organic cotton with an eye-catching country house print. Available at Daisy Hill

Ultragirl Degrade Melissa Shoe designed by Edson Matsuo - Fabulous lines, excellent colour shading, beautiful shoe!

Equinox Stripe Maxi Dress by Deletta - Versatile and chic

Amy Organic Shoecut Jeans by Kuyichi - Made in Turkey under fair working conditions

Cielo Necklace by Green Age - Crafted by artisans in Columbia from the nuts of a local tree

Blue Solar Powered Fairy Lights - Make your garden into a wonderland with twinkling lights

1950s Vintage Hankerchief - Deal with the sniffles elegantly with this unique hankerchief

Checked Summer Shirt Jacket by Kuyichi - 100% organic and fairly traded cotton. Beautiful jacket!

Birds Escape and Fly Free Necklace by Vinyl Cuts Jewellery - Made from records, this necklace was recently featured in Good Weekend Magazine

Oak Tree Birch Tray - Made from sustainably sourced birch and the sweet designs are printed using vegetable based inks. Big "awwww" factor!

Eco Friendly Resuable Dryer Balls by Ettitude - Keep your clothes soft and toxin-free 

Huddle Eco Bean Bag - Made from 100% recycled content...comfy!!!

The Shirt Dress by Lowie - Made with fairly traded cotton. A good shirt dress goes a long way :o)

Lavender Scented Bird by Edward & Lilly - Made from recycled plastic bottles and filled with dried organic lavender, this little birdie will turn your house into a sweet smelling nest. Available at Ethikl