Ways to Chill
LUXE LAYERS
We can’t get enough of these wardrobe staples from designer Kate D’Arcy’s Toggery Collection: exceptionally soft fine-knit organic cotton and bamboo rayon shirts ($44-$79) in a variety of styles, from fitted tank to funky drape back to flowing tunic. They are lightweight enough to layer yet substantial enough to wear on their own, taking you comfortably through all seasons and settings. www.toggerycollection.com.
BOOT-IFUL
Some would say “eco-friendly leather” is an oxymoron, but for those who won’t be swayed from wearing suede, there’s Naya Shoes, which deems its line of leather shoes and boots eco-friendly due to its vegetable tanning process, water-based adhesives and recycled-content packaging. The Naya Artemis open-toe boots ($185), while they won’t keep your toes warm, will certainly keep you stylish with their bamboo heel and “Kimono Knot” detailing. And the boots are awfully comfortable, too. www.nayashoes.com.
KISS OFF
In the thick of winter when you could split a lip just by smiling, CO Bigelow Mentha Organics Sheer Lip Tint ($7.50) is our latest favorite lip lube. It comes in three shimmery, subtle pinks—Barely There, Sheer Rose and Just Blushed—and layers well with that favorite matte lipstick that’s just too dry on its own this time of year. Made with over 90% organic ingredients and real peppermint oil, it’s not sticky but still has staying power…though you may have to reapply often because it tastes so good. www.bigelowchemist.com.
ART OF LOVE
Heart by Kerry makes beautiful botany-inspired collages ($34-$46) in which this elementary school teacher-turned-crafty entrepreneur recycles fabric scraps and paperboard into one-of-a-kind, frame-worthy folk art. A lovely gift for your Valentine, and with enough notice Kerry will even customize a piece to suit your beloved’s desires and décor. www.heartbykerry.etsy.com.
RACK ‘EM UP
Raxstars ($25) is a genius solution for the occasional skier or snowboarder who wants to transport their gear without the investment or gas-mileage increase of a permanently affixed equipment rack. Small enough to stash in a console compartment when not in use, Raxstars turns a standard roof rack with crossbars into a secure winter-equipment carrier in under five minutes, and at a low enough price that buying two or three to accommodate multiple snowboards or a quiver of skis will still cost you less than one of the leading permanent ski racks. www.rackstars.com.
ONE DAY AT A TIME
Have you seen this calendar? It’s become a year-to-year fixture on family bulletin boards from Washington, D.C., to Washington State, from whence artist Nikki McClure hails. McClure illustrates children’s books, journals, posters and notecards, slicing all her images in one continuous cut from black paper using an X-ACTO knife. The scenes emerge in the relief space—scenes of nature and wonder, solitude and solidarity, matched in the calendar to single words with wide applications like “Accept,” “Give” and “Behold.” The images reflect a pace of life slow enough to savor the moment, even while planning the week or month to come. The Endeavor 2011 Wall Calendar ($16) is printed on recycled paper with soy ink and available from buyolympia.com which supports local artists online and at Land, its retail shop/art gallery in Portland, Oregon. www.buyolympia.com.