Eco-Brand Zoe & Zac Hits Stores

Payless has finally released their first eco-collection of accessories--Zoe & Zac. The brainchild behind the line is the original "Eco-Model" Summer Rayne Oakes. Oakes, a model and environmental advocate, is also the author of Style, Naturally: The Savvy Shopping Guide to Sustainable Fashion & Beauty. Oakes, while still studying entomology and environmental sciences, decided to use her burgeoning modelling career to bring attention to issues of sustainability through fashion and mainstream media.

The launch of Zoe & Zac is a perfect example of her life's mission. Made entirely from man-made or natural materials, the line is not only eco but vegan as well. A variety of footwear, jewelery, and handbags are made from organic cotton, canvas, and rubber from recycled materials. And, if this wasn't exciting enough, the entire range is under $30.

Snap Dragon ballet slipper, organic cotton upper & inner lining with recycled rubber sole, $24.99Persimmon Large Tote, organic cotton & waterbased ink, $24.99

Payless has committed to donating $1 for every Zac & Zoe item and for every reusable shopping bag sold to The Nature Conservancy, towards their tree planting efforts.

Payless reusable shopping bag, $1.99

Online shopping available on the US site only.

Happy Earth Day

It's past Noon, prank-time is over, time to get serious. As today is the first day of April, the month of Earth Day, I thought it appropriate to change focus a little. Green and vegan are often lumped together, for a number of reasons, so I thought it would be fun to look at all things green (and vegan) for the month of April.

What better way to start than to educate ourselves a little?

Earthlings takes a hard look at the true nature of our relationship with animals and nature: economics. Earthlings is incredibly moving and forceful, holding nothing back. Brace yourself.

In my past life, I had the great pleasure of meeting and working with Director Shaun Monson--a kind and passionate person who lives what he preaches. I've heard rumblings that he has already begun work on his next project, which I am eagerly anticipating.

Fuel,the Sundance Award winning documentary from Josh Tickell, explores America's destructive relationship with oil.

The film is currently traveling across the US. Consult the website for local listings.