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Sustainablility

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Sustainablility

A quiet riverside safari retreat at Wilderness Chikwenya

Located on the Zambezi Valley on the southern side of the mighty Zambezi River is Wilderness Chikwenya, a brilliant, sustainable safari camp that feels part beach resort part camp.

You reach Wilderness Chikwenya via a small flight from Hwange, so don’t be surprised if you see elephants or baboons running along the small air strip upon landing (apparently, they thoroughly enjoy the fruit trees there).

Unlike Wilderness Little Makalolo and Wilderness Linkwasha, which are absolutely exposed to the roaring heat of the African sunshine, Wilderness Chikwenya enjoys a breezy riverside location between Mana Pools National Park and the Sapi and Zambezi Rivers, giving off relaxed beachy vibes. This also means that you will be able to see a whole suite of different animals that are more suited for life by the river. Expect to see plenty of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, water bucks and impalas – as well as an array of colourful birds, whose different calls you’ll learn to recognise during your stay at Chikwenya.

Most of the Chikwenya camp are shaded by large trees, which means that the temperature is slightly cooler at Chikwenya, which is a real treat since the tents have no air-conditioning. The tents are a sight to behold. Spacious, romantic and designed with a blend of coastal chic and African influences, they are light, bright and airy and perfect for ramping up the romance especially if you’re traveling on you honeymoon (we were). There is a four poster bed, an outdoor lounge and also a daybed and free-standing bath, perfect after a day out on the bush. There is an outdoor shower too – facing nothing but the mighty Zambezi and it is truly a liberating experience to shower there.

There is a convivial bar area, where guests are able to help themselves to all the delicious African wines and cocktails on offer throughout the day. Camp Manager Eddie is full of stories and told us about the female tribal leader, buried underneath a nearby baobab tree, whom the camp is named after. Wilderness Chikwenya also has a beautiful pool that overlooks the Mighty Zambezi River. Here, you can park yourself on a sun lounger in between game drives and work on your tan, while sipping on one of Chikwenya bartender Bob’s incredible Bob-garitas.

Instead of an afternoon game drive, go on a relaxing sunset cruise. These private cruises are wonderful and a great way to spot one of the numerous hippo pods cooling themselves by the river. Our guide Joshua had a wealth of knowledge of all the animal species in the Zambezi and also played some traditional Zambian tunes during our cruise, attracting the hippo pods nearby.

We had our final sundowner on the banks of the Zambezi, while enjoying an incredible cocktail feast made by Bob the bartender. We also enjoyed some delicious local Biltong, which quickly became our favourite snack during our game drives.

Chikwenya is a camp that is all about family, and we certainly felt like family from the moment we arrived. The staff even leave you hand written notes that say ‘Bush Regards from your Chikwenya family’ and we know that they truly mean it too.

So if you do ever plan to go on safari, there really is no better company than Wilderness. Wilderness is a safari company with a strong focus on conservation, understanding that without the magnificent animals and rich natural landscapes of the bush that there would be no such thing as safari. For Wilderness, conservation, sustainability and giving back to the communities in which it operates is part and parcel of business – and that is something that we can certainly get behind.

Factbox: Nightly rates at Chikwenya start from $USD 1,430 per person sharing; www.wildernessdestinations.com

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Adventures

The ultimate luxury safari getaway at Wilderness Linkwasha

Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies checked into the most luxurious camp in Hwange, Wilderness Linkwasha where glamorous glamping tents meet five-star service – and of course plenty of wild animals.

At 34,000 hectares, Hwange National Park is one of the biggest national parks in Zimbabwe (and we’re told that it’s as big as the entire state of Massachusetts!). Here, you will find endless grasslands filled with some of the most incredible animals of the bush.

Wilderness Linkwasha is one of the more upscale camps Wilderness has to offer and boasts incredible luxury surroundings, five-star service and fabulous (air-conditioned) glamping tents that would rival even the bougiest five-star hotels. Wilderness Linkwasha sits at the heart of Hwange National Park, giving guests easy access to the African Big Five and a host of other animals.

Wilderness Linkwasha’s sprawling main camp is painted in chic greys, neutrals with plenty of vibrant Ndebele patterns that give the camp a distinctive Zimbabwean aesthetic. There is a small pool surrounded by Balinese day beds, and two stylish indoor dining areas, but dinner is best enjoyed under the stars. Guests can help themselves to anything they want at the bar, be that a glass of rose or even old-fashioned.

The tents are superb. Spacious, elegantly designed, air-conditioned and with incredible views of the bush, there is nothing quite like them throughout the whole of Hwange. Here, you will find a large king-sized four-poster bed, a lush sofa, and every other luxury amenity you could ever need or want.

Interestingly, Wilderness Linkwasha has a ‘hide’ right by the watering hole, which means that guests can get up close and personal to the animals having a drink. We were lucky enough to be able to see a family of elephants coming for a drink and a splash to cool off.

Days at the bush start at 5am with a guide knocking at your tent to get you ready for breakfast. A continental breakfast is served around a fire, and by 6am you’re off on your first game drive of the day. At 3pm Wilderness Linkwasha does a delightful high tea before guests prepare for their evening game drive.

In Hwange, you’ll be able to see the safari ‘Big Five’ which are elephants, lions, buffalos, wildebeest and hippos. Lucky for us – all Big Five were in abundance during our drives. We also saw plenty of kudus, impalas, zebras, and even an African wild cat in the main game drive area called the ‘golf course’ which offers plenty of visibility for animals far and wide.

Both Wilderness Little Makalolo and Wilderness Linkwasha have teamed up with the Scorpion Anti-Poaching unit to keep Hwange’s precious wildlife safe, in line with Wilderness commitment to environmental conservation and protection.

During our drives we saw plenty of elephants, two cheetah brothers (two of only 18 in the whole of Hwange), a leopard who had hidden his kill up a tree, and a whole pride of lions, just a few meters from the truck – safari truly is a magical experience and there is no better way to do it than with Wilderness.

Nightly rates at Linkwasha start from $USD 630 per person sharing; www.wildernessdestinations.com

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Sustainablility

A wild riverside escape to Wilderness Toka Leya

Located on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River is Wilderness Toka Leya, a brilliant, sustainable safari camp that really walks the walk when it comes to sustainability. Hannah Tan-Gillies went to discover if life by the river really is oh so sweet.

Wilderness is a safari company with a strong focus on conservation, understanding that without the magnificent animals and rich natural landscapes of the bush that there would be no such thing as safari. For Wilderness, conservation, sustainability and giving back to the communities in which it operates is part and parcel of business – and that is something that we can certainly get behind.

All Wilderness camps try their utmost to minimise their footprint on the environment and also go above and beyond to give back through reforestation and various community initiatives. For example, Wilderness Toka Leya is part of the ‘Children of the Wilderness’ programme which provides impoverished children in remote villages in Africa the chance to have a good education. Through this programme, the children are invited as guests to the camps – where they can learn about conservation, wildlife and sustainability.

Wilderness Toka Leya is one of the more upmarket camps in the Wilderness portfolio. You make your way to the camp via a short boat ride on the Zambezi and onto the camp’s beach (watch out for crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks) Here, where you are greeted with a welcome drink and plenty of smiles.

Wilderness Toka Leya is centred around an airy lounge that blends indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor dining area is shaded by a giant tree and overlooks the Zambezi River. Watch out for some cheeky blue velvet monkeys who have the tendency to grab a bit of your dinner if the mood dictates.

There is also a gorgeous pool, viewing deck and a small gym that offers breath-taking riverside views. Believe us, you will fall under Toka Leya’s spell from the moment you check-in.

Upon check-in you have a quick introduction to the camp’s rule sand your guide. Rule number 1 don’t walk beyond the boardwalks as the camp is surrounded by plenty of wild animals. Rule number 2 don’t walk alone on the boardwalks at night (a guide must be with you at all times) and Rule number 3, respect the animals and guides during your game drives – all essential information when going on any sort of safari. During our stay, a whole family or wild boars crossed the path, and a few crocs were seen just by the riverbed – so sticking to the rules is a must. Your guide will then make a bespoke plan for you – which usually involves a morning game drive and an afternoon sunset cruise.

Wilderness Toka Leya is located in the wonderful Mosi-o-Tunya National Park, which doesn’t have any big cats or predators. This means you’ll be able to see plenty of zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, baboons (hundreds everywhere), elephants and even White Rhinos. Guests at Toka Leya can go on Rhino Walks guided by local rangers, who monitor them 24/7 – it is truly a rarefied experience giving you an up close and personal look at these endangered animals.

Thanks to its location in Livingstone, Wilderness Toka Leya is also close to other cultural attractions too like the Victoria Falls and Livingstone Museum, meaning there’s plenty to do beyond the bush. You can even go white water rafting or fishing if you so desire.

Wilderness Toka Leya supports a local Sinde Village – and guests can also visit the village to meet the locals. During our visit, we learned that Wilderness helped the villagers with electricity, running water and other outreach projects – once again staying true to its commitment to give back.

There are 12 luxurious tents in the Wilderness Toka Leya Camp. The tents are air conditioned (most safari tents are not) and so this is a real treat, particularly when the African sun hits the hardest during the early afternoons. Here, you will find an indoor and outdoor shower, a large king-sized bed, luxury amenities and plenty of romance. There is nothing better than waking up and hearing the roaring waves of the Mighty Zambezi right outside your doorstep. Wilderness Toka Leya is a truly magical place, in a world where so few still genuinely are. It is also run by a company that’s genuinely one of the good guys, committed to keeping Mosi-o-Tunya a magical place in the years to come

Factbox: Nightly rates at Toka Leya start from $USD 750 per person sharing; www.wildernessdestinations.com

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Sustainablility

How Sustainable Pet Products can Enhance Your Pet’s Life

Living a more sustainable lifestyle is a great way to save money long-term, while helping the planet along the way. While we all know about recycling and avoiding single-use plastics, becoming a more sustainable pet owner is something you may not have even thought of!

Being a sustainable pet owner comes with many benefits to ourselves, our pets and our planet. And doing so doesn’t actually take a lot of time or effort. It can be something as simple as switching out some generic pet products to longer lasting sustainable pet accessories.

Here are some ideas for lowering your carbon paw-print!

Firstly—adopt, don’t shop!

Many pets find themselves in shelters around the world every year for no fault of their own. Adopting one of these cats, dogs, birds or small pets not only helps give these animals a loving home and second chance at happiness, but it also decreases the demand on deliberate breeding and the impact this has on the environment. It also helps prevent overpopulation and discourages ‘backyard breeders’—there is real impact here!

Not only that, but there is something special about the love an adopted pet gives in return for being welcomed into your family and home.

Make Mittens obvious to local wildlife

While pet cats should ideally be kept indoors, when determined enough—they will find a way out and into the big wide world! Adding a bell to a quick-release breakaway cat collar gives wildlife, like birds and other critters, a heads up if your cat has made a break for it and is heading their way.

Sustainable pet collars are also a great way to lower their carbon pawprint, as generally they are made using sustainable and high-quality materials that last a lot longer (reducing impact on the planet).

Consider switching to eco-friendly food

Switching your pet’s food can be better for both your furry, feathered or scaly friends, and the environment. The next time you go to buy pet food, take a moment to look at the ingredients and packaging.

Every pet will have different nutritional needs, so it’s best to have a chat with your vet. However, looking for natural ingredients is always a good place to start.

Planet-friendly play time with sustainable toys

Did you know many recycled plastics are not only planet-friendly, they’re also harder for your pet to destroy? Less mess and help the planet—yes please!

Any pet owner will know the pain of replacing the mountain of pet toys their four-legged friend chews through. The good news is, many eco-friendly pet toys are made from bamboo, recycled plastic and other animal-safe materials, which also tend to be sturdy enough for even the sharpest teeth to gnaw.

Level up their grooming products

Some pet grooming products are filled with unnecessary and harmful chemicals. Making the switch to more sustainable grooming products can help prolong the life and health of your pet, but also be more beneficial to the planet too.

Eco-friendly pet grooming products tend to be made with more gentle, natural ingredients chosen for a specific benefit. So making the switch may mean a shinier, happier pet.

Making the switch to just a few sustainable pet products will help you create a greener footprint for you and your pets. Plus, most of them mean a happier pet too, making it win-win!

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Accessories

Earth Day, Every Day

As Earth Month comes to a close, we should recognize that if we are really looking to make a difference –Everyday should be Earth Day.

Expanding on my original story for House of Coco, which you can read here; adding a few more brands that make sustainability a pillar of their brand ethos.

Ready – To – Wear

Craghoppers

70% of this outdoor clothing brand is made using recycled materials and the brand is continuing to focus on developing technology that is planet friendly. The water repellent technology named EcoShield DWR, uses 63% renewably sourced content from a variety of plant-based sources.

ETICA

Based in Los Angeles, ÉTICA is rooted in the ideals of fair labor practices and environmentally conscious manufacturing. Their factory, Hera Apparel has been manufacturing for the premium denim industry for over 20 years by using the most sustainable and eco-friendly technologies available. The brand is a supporter of One Tree Planted, a non-profit organization focused on global reforestation. For every purchase made on eticadenim.com a tree is planted.

French Lime

Founded by Denise Saad, French Lime is the sustainable athleisure brand designed to last (with a 10-year warranty), using quick dry eco-friendly fabric that won’t lose its shape or vibrancy.

Kinflyte

Designed by women, for women. The patented Posture System will support your posture and lifestyle, no matter what you do. Offering sizes in XXS-6XL, and A-K Cup, the brand prides themselves on being an inclusive brand that creates sustainable apparel to help everybody move better.

Kindly

Kindly, the planet-friendly, Walmart-exclusive intimates brand, is on a mission to make the world a kinder place. Launched by the lingerie manufacturer Gelmart, the brand’s goal is to offer affordable, inclusive, and sustainable intimates to consumers. All of the products in the line – which also include underwear – is made from 75% recycled materials. The brand partnered with Walmart to bring you the first-ever plant-based bra cup made from sugarcane, and a collection of intimates sourced from recycled materials.

LA RELAXED

This female-founded eco-friendly brand is making clothes in a more responsible way, all under one roof in Los Angeles. It takes less than 100 steps to complete a garment, dramatically reducing their carbon footprint. LA RELAXED is made in limited runs, using natural fibers and deadstock fabrics, offering beautiful pieces designed to be worn across seasons and trends.

LILYSILK

The sleepwear and home brand uses the finest Grade 6A silk from China – the producer of the world’s finest silk and Grade A Cashmere from Inner Mongolia. LILYSILK partnered with TerraCycle on a Recycling Program, which offers a free and convenient way to recycle non-donatable silk and cashmere products including bedding, women’s/men’s apparel, and sleepwear.

Losano

Made locally in Los Angeles, Losano empowers consumers to reduce waste by buying less and investing in quality. The collection of elevated fitness wear, lounge sets, and athleisure uses recycled and recycled and eco-friendly materials throughout. Losano’s high-performance garments don’t sacrifice style or comfort and are available direct-to-consumer.

Londre Bodywear

Londre Bodywear is a sustainable fashion label offering ultra-flattering swimwear made from recycled plastic bottles and butter-soft loungewear made from sustainably harvested wood pulp. Dreamt up by founders Ainsley Rose and Hannah Todd on a beach in Mexico with the goal to empower and educate women on both environmental issues and social change. Ranging from versatile swim pieces to beachy loungewear, all pieces are available on LondreBodywear.com ranging from sizes XS – 5XL.

Luxeire

Luxeire’s mission is to provide women with sustainable, sophisticated wardrobe essentials that are exceptional quality, comfortable and easy-care. Developed from founder Gina Kuyers’ frustration with the discomfort and high maintenance of luxury clothing. With a 20-year career and PhD in school psychology, Gina spent decades applying research to real-world problem solving. She brought these well-honed skills to the challenge of designing and producing a line of elevated wardrobe staples made from luxurious, eco-friendly technical fabrics.

Marcella NYC

The sustainable fashion brand founded by Siyana Huszar, creates minimalist with an edge, pieces for the ultimate New York City woman and beyond. Their just-in-time production practices help the brand to stay on top of trends without creating unnecessary waste while using fully sustainable materials. With their vertical integration, the brand focuses on fair wages and compensation for all workers starting with their production teams including initiatives to enhance the livelihood of girls and women around the world. Marcella NYC is ensuring their impact is anything but minimal but always sustainable.

Neem London

The London based brand’s collection ranges from T-shirts to collared shirts, sustainable merino knits, and regenerative cotton button downs, all allowing for essential style with the advantage of supporting a carbon neutral company ethos.

Nudies and Nubies Essentials

Nikki Chu, a celebrity interior designer and entrepreneur, created Nudies for women who are always on the go, love to travel, and still enjoy being chic during that time of the month. The designs have a gentle effect on the environment and are made with biodegradable 100% cotton fabric with recyclable packaging and low impact dyes. Nudies recently expanded into the kids sector with Nubies , to encourage children to practice hygiene at a young age.

State Cashmere

To maintain the quality of its products, State Cashmere ensures sustainable practices across all facets of the process committing to sustainability and transparency; proudly being fair-trade and cruelty-free. Using pure Grade A cashmere and offering the fairest prices without compromising the wages and livelihoods of their shepherds from inner Mongolia, State Cashmere works to raise the circular economy and sustainability initiatives in the cashmere industry.

Tiare Hawaii

Since 2009, all pieces from Tiara Hawaii are handmade with love in Bali using traditional dyeing techniques that have been used for centuries. Branching out (pun intended) the brands latest eco-friendly collection, Naturals uses fibres from Banana, Bamboo, Eucalyptus, Pineapple, and Mulberry Bark Silk.

Accessories

Allurez

Allurez offer lab-grown diamonds that are both eco-friendly and affordable. All Allurez jewelry is proudly crafted with love locally in New York, USA with superior materials and craftsmanship.

AMYO Jewelry

AMYO Jewelry make minimalist and classic pieces meant to last at an affordable price point. Not only, does the company guarantee a fair wage and good working conditions for their artisans, but also upcycles and recycles materials for new jewelry.

Emma Israelsson

Born in Stockholm and with a touch of Los Angeles, the Swedish brand quickly entered the fashion market when it launched in 2013. Offering sustainable and lasting jewelry, always on-trend, and with a signature piece and bestseller representing a Peace Dove, the collections have been must-haves for many.

Haverhill

The sustainable luxury jewelry brand uses ethical practices in all steps of their production. With conflict free, traceable and 100% recycled gold and silver, they are known for their ability to personalize necklaces, rings, and bracelets. Rooted in confidence and thoughtfulness, they crafted a series of premade collections that are dedicated to giving back and they are also currently donating funds to save the children in Ukraine with their new Solidarity collection.

Idyl

Idyl offers the finest materials handcrafted in their Antwerp ateliers. The brand’s signature modular design allows customers to mix and match various styles over time to grow a collection that is easy as it is affordable. In addition to transparent pricing, the Belgium born brand proudly donates a portion of all profits year-round to the Global Fund for Women, a global champion for the human rights of women and girls.

M.Gemi

Each week M.Gemi releases new, limited-edition designs. By effectively speeding up the supply chain and building small batches of inventory more rapidly than typical manufacturing models, they’ve created limited surplus inventory, allowing them to keep product out of landfills and in your closet at an accessible price point.

Merry People

Merry People is the Australia-based, female founded, unisex, vegan gumboots brand that look cool enough to wear anywhere! Merry People’s quality vegan rain boots are 100% waterproof and made with natural rubber and lined with 4-millimeter neoprene, which adds warmth and comfort to the entire shoe. Unlike other rainboots, Merry People boots hug the foot a little more, and lines the footbed, giving the whole shoe a much more snug, comfortable fit that only neoprene can.

Modern Picnic

Founded in 2018 by 25-year-old, Ali Kaminetsky, Modern Picnic was born following an attempt to find fashion-forward adult lunchboxes in lieu of wasteful brown paper and plastic shopping bags. Committed to using organic fabrics and ethical manufacturing, Modern Picnic aims to provide working women with a chic and sustainable alternative to the traditional lunchbox. Crafted with functionality in mind, Modern Picnic feature high-quality vegan leather exteriors, insulated interiors, and available in several rich colorways with an option for hand-painted monogramming.

Paradigm Eyewear

Paradigm Eyewear is committed to offering products that are produced responsibly and sustainably so that the consumer can feel as good about their processes as their products. Using ISCC-certified recycled materials in their latest collection enables Paradigm to reduce the amount of newly produced plastics while also meeting increasing customer demand for sustainable fashion. Throughout the year, Paradigm donates a percentage to the National Forest Foundation.

Interested in sustainable beauty too? Read this piece on VOGUE.

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Designer

Look Good & Do Good – Rebecca Minkoff’s Earth Day Collection

Last month, I had the opportunity to meet New York designer, Rebecca Minkoff at her media launch for her Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter collections. It was such a treat to meet her and join in the fun.

In honor of today, Earth Day (April 22), Rebecca has re-launched RM Green(e), a collection of made to order pieces that are size inclusive and environmentally friendly. The name pays homage to the original Rebecca Minkoff flagship store, 96 Greene Street.

In partnership with Resonance, this collection uses cutting-edge technology to help mitigate waste, ensure fair labor practices, eliminate toxic inks, and reduce excess water usage, while using a block-chain traceability system.

Check out this Sustainability Made Collection.

Looking for more Earth Day/Sustainable fashion articles? Read more from our House of Coco team: Laura Bartlett, Anna Willatt and Elena Murzello and this article about sustainable fashion designers in VOGUE.

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Beauty

International Women’s Day: The Online Beauty Retailer Championing Female-led Brands

Here at House of Coco we are big fans of businesses that support and celebrate women which is why we are quickly falling for new kid on the beauty block, Counter Culture.

Co-founded by Wendy Martin, who previously held senior roles at Visa, she turned her back on the corporate world to create a sustainable, ethical online beauty retail destination that champions female-led brands. To celebrate International Women’s Day House of Coco caught up Wendy to find out more about this exciting new brand.

Wendy’s passion lies in championing sustainable, ethical businesses and driving consumer change. The beauty industry came into sharp focus when her research highlighted the average consumer uses 12-16 products a day and the industry, as a whole, produces some 120 billion units of packaging every year, much of which is not recyclable. Along with her co-founder, Mark Wisniewski they wanted to make it easier for people to discover, shop and switch to more sustainable alternatives and to empower them to shop in-line with their values, whether that be vegan, cruelty-free, plastic-free, refillable, multi-purpose or upcycled.

Counter Culture is focused on building a community of like-minded people. Their aim is to help connect conscious consumers and businesses with their brands and products and this is highlighted in the discounts and rewards they give to customers for sustainable living activities, such as recycling pre-loved clothes in return for a Counter Culture voucher or by offering discounts via partners for food waste or recycling activities.

Here at House of Coco we love the brand for its discoverability. While they stock some of the best known beauty and wellbeing brands like Olaplex, Medik8 and Trilogy, they also stock smaller, indie ranges making it easier for people to discover and switch to new, upcoming brands. Wendy recommends putting Centred, Fighter shots and Dehlicious on your beauty radar. These hot new brands are stocked on the site and set to blow up in 2023. She’s also got her eye on new collaborations and says, “we’d love to bring Byoma, Cultured Biomecare, Wild Science Lab to our platform soon.”

Supporting female founders is important to Wendy. Research shows all female-founded businesses secured less than 2p in every £1 of venture capital investment, despite the fact that female-founded companies continue to outperform in the broader market. She says, “within our broader vision we aspire to help support emerging, female-founded businesses get investment and retail ready. But right now, recognising we are still very early in our own journey, we’re focused on championing as many female founders as we can. Over 85% of the brands on our site are female-founded.”

The beauty market is crowded so being innovative and fresh is key to getting standout. Wendy says, “There are so many brands killing it right now. I’m a fan of those that are focused on “anti-stress” beauty. Great examples include Faace, with their period and menopause masks and Centred and Abyssian with their focus on scalp as well as hair health. I love multi-use products, like Seeds of Colour with their make-up balm that’s perfect for lips, cheeks and eyes and Dr Lipp with their stripped-back, multi-use products. Some products that are personal favourites, include Medik8’s Press and Glow and Crystal Retinal and Juice Beauty’s Prebiotix Freshly Squeezed Glow.”

It’s an exciting time for Wendy and her Counter Culture team, watch this space as she’s only just getting started.

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Accessories

Earth Day 2023: Sustainable Fashion Brands

Interested in vintage stores and resale platforms? Check out VOGUE’s Global Guide to the Best Vintage Stores and Resale Platforms You can even nominate your favourite store if you don’t see it on the list.

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Roots Canada

Sustainable Attributes: Through Roots Cares we have committed to donate 1% of the sales we earn from every online purchase to one of the many charitable partners we support. One of the options focuses on protecting our environment and green spaces.

Sustainable Fabrics Used: Organic Cotton Fibers, Responsibly Sourced Wool, Responsible Down, Leather, Recycled Fibers.

Brilliant Earth

Sustainable Attributes: As part of our commitment to environmental responsibility, Brilliant Earth primarily uses recycled and re-refined gold in our fine jewelry. Our precious metals are high quality and responsibly sourced.We use recycled precious metals for our products. Our precious metals are sourced from certified responsible refiners that have been audited for standards set by organizations such as the Responsible Minerals Initiative and London Bullion Market Association.

Sustainable Fabrics Used: Currently, our gold fine jewelry is made of 93% recycled gold and our silver fine jewelry is made of 99.8% recycled silver.

Simon G.

Sustainable Attributes: Every diamond is guaranteed 100% conflict free. The brand only sources diamonds from Kimberley Process compliant diamond sources. Ethically sourced stones ensures peace of mind that no chemicals were used in the production of each piece. Simon G. ensures that all diamonds are natural, and not synthetic. When diamonds are purchased from suppliers, they test every parcel for CVD & HPHT. Simon G. condemns the current actions of the Russian government and as a result does not purchase diamonds from Russian diamond suppliers.

P.E. Nation

Sustainable Attributes: Holds a standing commitment to the climate and is currently working to become B-Corp certified. P.E. Nation has partnered with i=Change where each $1 from each sale will be donated to 1 of 3 social and environmental charities.

They have also recently partnered with Pangolin Associates to measure their carbon footprint, determine ways to improve environmental processes and policies, and offset greenhouse gases. Each collection is enriched with recycled and regenerated fabrications. The product development team researches and sources world-class recycled active fabrics that are better for the planet, and fit for purpose: passing through high standard tests.

Sustainable Fabrics Used: The majority of the performance styles feature 65% – 92% recycled and regenerated materials to soften their impact. The loungewear is created with hemp, bamboo viscose and 100% organic cotton.

Cotton On

Sustainable Attributes / Sustainable Fabrics Used:

Our best-selling Mother Puffers are made with 100% recycled polyester in the shell, lining and fill. Converting to recycled materials reduces our reliance on conventional synthetic fibers. Now we’re working on doing even more, by exploring recycled alternatives for the trims.

Our recycled ranges make up part of our bigger circularity goal. We’re collaborating with suppliers to source recycled fibers that repurpose plastic waste, diverting it from our oceans and landfills. This year, we’ve been working with REPREVE©, the world’s leading brand in recycled performance fiber made from recycled bottles. Our sights are set on launching a new recycled swim range in the USA in early 2023.

We partnered with RESET Carbon, a specialist supply chain and environmental consultancy, to measure how we’re reducing our impact in a meaningful way. Compared to the industry average, our denim uses 21% less water, 25% less energy and 19% less carbon.

Africa Cotton Program: What began as a pilot program now spans across Kenya and Mozambique, with the mission to train farmers in sustainable farming practices and open pathways to explore agriculture as a meaningful career.

Link to The 2022 Good Report

Route

Sustainable Attributes: Route gives consumers the power to track all of their e-comm orders in one place and with a visual map. The app also automatically calculates and offsets the carbon emissions associated with any delivery – Route has neutralized over one million shipments resulting in 25,000 tons of CO2 removed annually. The company works with major fashion retailers such as Alo and Rebecca Minkoff. Carbon neutral shipping is automatically included every time a customer protects their package against loss, theft and damage. With Route’s +Green, +Grow, or Enterprise plans, every single shipment is automatically 100% carbon neutral.Route is trusted by 5M+ users with 200k+ reviewers have given Route 4.8/5 stars.

THRILLS

Sustainable Attributes: THRILLS is proud to use sustainable fabrics and packaging to lessen their impact on the planet. They also work with a global team of manufacturers who share their dedication to ethical trade, exceptional quality and building long-term relationships that mean more than reaching sales targets. THRILLS also understands that giving back to the planet and community is a major factor in sustainable practices, so the brand partners with local non-profits that align with their core values

Sustainable Fabrics Used: Organic Cotton, Hemp, Linen, Recycled Fabrics, Ramie.

The Giving Movement

Sustainable Attributes: While The Giving Movement hopes to keep growing towards a 100% sustainable future, they currently use sustainable fabrics and materials for clothing and packaging. They have been awarded sustainable certifications such as the Global Recycled Standard, the Global Organic Textile Standard, and the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Label.

The Giving Movement also partners with One Tree Planted to plant one tree per every employee each year.

Sustainable Fabrics Used: Organic cotton, recycled nylon, recycled polyester, recycled spandex, semi-synthetic fiber (Tencel).

g.o.d. Eyewear

Sustainable Attributes: Frames are crafted using premium Italian Mazzucchelli acetate, which is a renewable non-petroleum plant-based plastic that originates from wood pulp and natural cotton fibers.

Sustainable Fabrics Used: Italian Mazzucchelli acetate.

Check out these previous pieces from the House of Coco team about sustainability and fashion: Laura Bartlett, Anna Willatt , Hannah Lynn Tan and Elena Murzello

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Food & Drink

The Seafood Specialists

Wright Brothers are synonymous with seafood, what these guys don’t know isn’t worth knowing so when I was invited to a behind-the-scenes peek at their Billingsgate market operation and an opportunity to chat to founders Ben and Robin, I jumped at the chance.

Ben and Robin started Wright Brothers 20 years ago with a passion to spread their love of oysters and seafood. From 2002 to 2022, the business has grown quickly, and they are now the leading seafood supplier in the UK. Starting with wholesale then restaurants and oyster farming, they have devoted the past two decades building a recognised and reliable brand. Alongside their three London restaurants, they supply over 500 restaurants around the UK including Michelin starred chefs.

The set up at Billingsgate is run with military precision. After the catch arrives at midnight, straight off the boats at Brixham, the team are tasked with prepping, packing and getting it out the door all by 6am. During this period they can process up to £100,00 worth of seafood. Their clients include Gordan Ramsey, The Ivy, J Sheekey and Fortnum and Mason. Ben explains that all the fish is cut to suit the customer. Head of Production, Joe Palmer is a fish slicing ninja, responsible for making sure there’s no waste and the fish is accurately cut. There’s also a ‘watchlist’ to ensure everything that leaves the market is of the highest quality. When it comes to sourcing and sustainability, they are constantly reviewing their policy and procedures. The coastal team works with smaller boats that use the most sustainable catch methods, these include pot-caught crab and line-caught wild sea bass and for every lobster sold they donate to the National Lobster Hatchery in Padstow.

Naturally they supply their own restaurants so after a couple of hours in Billingsgate we catch a boat down the Thames to the Battersea restaurant. On the boat Robin explains how they had to switch things up during covid and while restaurants were closed they got creative and started going direct to consumers with bespoke fish boxes that are delivered straight to the customers door. It quickly caught on and this side of the business has continued to grow. The brothers (in-law) are always innovating and have recently collaborated with Japanese chef, Yuki Gomi to create a Let’s Roll Sushi kit, which includes all the essentials required to make high quality sushi at home.

Both Ben and Robin are keen to smash the myth that fish is tricky to cook or must be part of an elaborate dish. They want to take the fear out of cooking seafood, Robin tells me that ‘simplicity is key’ and their website is a great source of inspiration and recipes.

At the restaurant the team bring over a selection of oysters to try. I’m slightly indifferent when it comes to oysters, I don’t dislike them but I’m not a big fan, I don’t get the hype. For some reason they always make me feel like I am slurping the sea. Ben encourages me to try the Ostra Regal explaining they are best served with a squeeze of lemon and that throwing it back isn’t the way to do it, instead he recommends chewing it a couple of times. He’s right, it completely changes the taste of this divisive aphrodisiac. The waiter brings across one of the best Bloody Mary’s I’ve tasted and when he proffers another rock I don’t shy away. If shucking oysters isn’t your thing then the extensive menu at Wright Bros serves a combination of seafood staples like fish pie as well as share plates and simple pan-seared fish. They also have a cracking breakfast menu that includes a fabulous Lobster Benedict.

A visit to a Wright Bros restaurant is a must for seafood lovers, their combined knowledge, passion and 20 years’ experience is what makes them the top of their game.

To book a table at one of their restaurants or for more information on their Let’s Roll Sushi Kit visit thewrightbrothers.co.uk

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Beauty

Cliveden Spa launches a unique, new facial workout

Award-winning five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel and spa, Cliveden House needs no introduction. This stunning, majestic manor house sits surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens on the edge of the river Thames and is the perfect countryside retreat to relax and reset. I was invited to their iconic spa to check out their new residency with sustainable skincare brand, Proverb and experience a signature treatment.

With a background in elite sports, nutrition and health, Proverb founders, Kirstie and Luke Sherriff are on a mission to deliver truly clean wellbeing products that work. The range includes refillable deodorant, hand sanitiser and their hero skincare which is showcased as part of their exclusive residency at Cliveden Spa. The couple have applied their passion for sustainable living and knowledge of sports wellness to create a unique spa experience that uses stretching and toning to create a workout for your skin.

From the moment I arrive at Cliveden I am wrapped in an envelope of zen. The grounds are a tranquil oasis, blooming with autumnal colours. I instantly unwind and after a warm welcome from the Proverb team, head to the spa. Set within a secluded walled garden, screened by mellow brick walls covered in scented roses, the spa includes an indoor pool, gym, sauna and steam, and a relaxing orangery-style room with views of the outdoor pool. My morning comprises of reading my book and hopping between the outdoor pool and hot tub.

Post swim I experienced the Proverb Skin Workout Facial. This 60-minute treatment is a specially devised high-performance skin workout like no other. I settle on the bed while the Ibiza beach club tunes fill the treatment room, a pleasant alternative to the usual generic whale music piped out in spa’s. My therapist starts by checking my range of movement with a few stretches and gentle neck rotations. She goes on to warm and prep the skin ready for the cardio section of this facial with a double cleanse and exfoliation using active natural and organic ingredients – proteins, antioxidants and enzymes formulated for lab proven results. We then move on to the workout which uses massage movements that mimic a HIIT class. The therapist’s expert hands dance across my face and neck delivering facial push presses and skipping movements. Ice globes and Gua Sha tools get to work on plumping my face, strengthening my muscles, and lifting my jowls. The energetic movements are invigorating yet surprisingly relaxing. As the face cardio comes to an end, I’m treated to a head massage.I sink further into the bed and notice not only do the products smell amazing they are delicate on my sensitive skin. My therapist finishes by checking on my range of movement, repeating the earlier assisted stretches.I am less stiff and flexible than I was before my treatment. My skin is left feeling soft and plump, a patch of dryness I’d noticed in the morning has also disappeared.I spend the journey home checking out my post-facial glow in the car mirror. I can confirm that this exclusive spa residency is going to be a HIIT.

The Proverb spa offering at Cliveden House will include a Spa Day Package and three Skin Workout Facials. Proverb Spa Days are available Monday – Wednesday from £330pp. Proverb Skin Workout Facials are available Monday – Thursday from £100pp and Friday – Sunday £120pp.

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