The Rise of the Scandinavian Cocktail: Getting to Know Aquavit

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The Scandinavian spirit aquavit isn’t just for pickled herring and potatoes anymore.

Simple and clean are words often used to describe Scandinavian design, but it also goes for Scandinavian drink, particularly aquavit. Say the word “schnapps” and you might immediately conjure up visions of a sugary, peppermint-infused hot chocolate drink, but in Scandinavia, snaps is something completely different, and it’s hitting the United States.

Snaps is the name for a shot of strong alcohol consumed in conjunction with a large meal, traditionally at holidays like Christmas and Midsummer – think big dinner parties fueled by …

Upcycled Fashion Explores Designer Imagination

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Fashion labels, like From Somehwere, are upcycling discarded textile materials to turn waste into beautiful, unique garments. 

Upcycling is defined as the act of turning waste materials into a desirable and usable quality objects. This method of manufacturing is right in line with the cradle-to-cradle philosophy, and engages the consumer in an understanding of how their responsible purchase has kept the landfill from growing a little bigger. In the world of fashion, garment designers are realizing the wealth of opportunities in the realm of upcycling and are doing a fine job of proving that style definitely doesn’t have to be sacrificed for the sake of sustainability.

EcoSalon is Giving Away a Winter Skin Care Kit from Osea! [$242 Value]

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One lucky EcoSalon reader’s skin will soon be very happy with this incredible skin care gift bag courtesy of Malibu’s OSEA! Valued at $242, you’re going to love these luxurious organic skincare products infused with natural seaweed and algae, perfect for your winter skin care needs. Want to enter for your chance to win? Read on!

Nutritional Breakdown: DIY Granola Recipe

Granola

Granola is one of those “health” foods that can be quite misleading. While some brands seem virtuous with their organic labels and promise of only natural ingredients, they are still quite heavy due to all the oils, syrups, and sugars. And while some of their ingredients, such as oats, nuts, and dried fruits are in and of themselves nutritious, their calories can add up and ultimately leave you feeling weighed down. That’s why I put together a straightforward homemade granola recipe that keeps the bulk at bay but still provides

Can A New Outlook on Sex Save the World?

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And you thought we’d never ask.

We know that sex, at its most basic function, perpetuates us—or at least, creatures that sort of look like us.  Aside from peopling, we enjoy sex for other reasons, none more popular of course than the fact that it feels, really, really good. Whether alone, with a loved one, or with several people (you sly dog), a healthy sexual encounter makes us feel instantly better—even somewhat renewed and more confident. It’s a soul reset button. And the big question on a lot of minds: can it also …

Isabell de Hillerin’s Fashion Draws on Moldavian Heritage and Craftmanship

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Designing fashion for the future with century-old techniques, Isabell de Hillerin embraces heritage for Spring/Summer 13.

One would think that in fashion, the “new” is welcomed almost as much as a friendlier price point. But not to forget, also in fashion, are passageways that inspire designers and pull them back to heritage, history and hopefully, an embracing of something deeper.

Berlin-based Isabell de Hillerin is one of those designers. In her Spring/Summer 13 collection “Eclectic Line,” she combines traditional Moldavian craftsmanship -think flamboyant handmade embroidery and handwoven fabrics with modern designs- to  …

Slimming Our Social Media Appetite

The Facebook Diet

Step away from the screen—at least for a while

When British author and artist Gemini Adams was living in Los Angeles several years ago, she was at an uncertain transitioning point in her life. Feeling unsettled, she found herself turning more and more to social media outlets such as Facebook to quell her pangs of loneliness.

“I had a scenario where four of my close friends in LA had moved away and I was feeling vulnerable and bereft,” Adams said. “There was a gap between the life I had …

5 DIY Home Hair Treatments To Keep Hair Moisturized Through The Winter

Hair Treatments

It’s just about that time of year when our hair begins to show the signs of Winter wear. With cold, brittle air and excessive blow drying come the dry, frizzy, and lackluster tresses that are anything but flattering. Instead of using an over-the-counter moisturizing condition or mask, look no further than your refrigerator and pantry, where some of the most potent home hair treatments can be found.