August is the time for our final fling with Summer! Well, we will stretch things into Sept. & October, but I have a few suggestions for stylish things to check out and wear…while we soak up the last bits of Summer.
You MUST go to Amour de la Terre, french for ‘Love of the Earth’. Owners, Alisha and Kristopher Kettner have just opened up the first boutique of its kind, right here in Oak Park! The shoes & accessories available are from all -vegan manufacturers, who have an eco-mindset, and produce only under ethical standards. A variety of materials are used including organic cotton, hemp, microfibers, recycled & reclaimed materials. A vegan & huge animal lover, Alisha was inspired to open the shop when she learned just how bad leather is from an environmental standpoint. The tanning process uses over 200 toxic chemicals, such as formaldehyde & chromium – contaminating waterways, contributing to disease, illness & even child labor internationally.
Clutches, totes & cross-body handbags, belts, and kids shoes as well as a few mens shoe options are all eco friendly. In the works for later this year are hats, and wallets. Take a few moments to admire the bright interior: “We tried to keep our build-out process as eco-friendly as possible: bamboo for shelving, flooring and our cash-wrap”built by local Master Carpenter Michael Piazza. The beautiful coffee-table is made from recycled glass. Head in soon to find beautiful sandals & transitional -season flats and booties!
Don’t forget to shop all the sales nearby – if you haven’t yet, there are still a few deals to be had! Crave more fashion news and advice? follow me on Twitter and Facebook, & subscribe to my Styling Newsletter: you can sign up by visiting my website: http://suzesolaristyle.com/