SUNDAYS |

Sundays are the week’s way of telling you to be free. To some of us, that means packing up the car and heading to places unknown. For others, it means more time spent in warm sheets, maybe an extra cuddle or two.

Sundays are for comfort and skin, soft lighting and doing whatever your heart wants. They are for no schedules and no responsibilities. They are for getting lost in a good book, carried away by another world. They are for savouring good coffee. Cozying up in your favourite cottony attire. Or no attire! #NoPantsSundays #NoPantsNoProblems 

Sundays are for nourishment. Give yourself permission to fill your brain with nourishing words, from a book, from a song, from your own internal monologue, whatever grabs you. Nourish your body, whether that is by staying in to recharge or getting active, listen to your energy levels. Fill a jar with water and get hydrated. Feed yourself with whole, colourful food. 

Ever heard of a Kitchen Party? It’s basically the term for when you have people over, and big inviting living room or not, everyone always ends up in the kitchen together. Sitting on the counters, the stools, the floors. Just talking, eating, cooking, bonding. You don’t need a crew to have a Kitchen Party though, you just need the kitchen. You are party enough all on your own! Get cooking, get creative.

Break out that Vegan Buddha Bowl recipe that you have been saving on Pinterest for weeks and get creative. If you’re in the mood for comfort, go off recipe a little, add in some baked yams and switch up the dressing for some miso gravy. #SoloKitchenParty #NoPantsParty

In this go-fast, right-now, immediate gratification world of smart phones and drones and e-mail instead of letters, make the time to take real notice of your surroundings. In mindfulness, there is meaning. Don’t just stop to smell the roses, stop to plant some. Interact with your environment, finding a new level of connection with nature, with your home, and with yourself. Go on, we know you want to. 

 

SHOP THE LOOK  |  

Adriatic Tunic  |  $84 

White Mug  |  $25

Coffee Dripper  |  $45

from SALT Shop - Journal https://saltshop.ca/blogs/news/sundays

FIBRE TO FABRIC |

There are a lot of buzz words in the eco-fashion world. Things like organic, sustainable, and fair-trade are all ones that we would hope authentically describe the products they are attached to; but how do we know?

Education is everything, so start by becoming an informed consumer and do some pre-purchase investigating. Internationally recognized certifications can save us from sifting through technical jargon and provide assurance that that from fibre to fabric, every step of a product’s supply chain is considered, regulated, and monitored. 

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and the Global Recycle Standard (GRS) consist of very similar sets of sourcing and production regulations, the main difference being that the GOTS is for natural fibres and the GRS addresses synthetic materials that contain recycled content. These standards each have a long list of environmental, technical, and social criteria that dictate how the fibres are sourced and treated.

To protect the planet, the source of the fibres, the types of dyes allowed, and the packaging used must be up to snuff by a set of environmental standards. Chemical restriction and use, water use and treatment, and energy consumption are all monitored and contribute to the waste management standards that each company must meet.

All materials, whether raw inputs or final products, must meet technical quality requirements and be safe for human use (i.e. not too toxic or suffocating.) The social practices must be in line with the criteria set out by the International Labour Organization (ILO); things like the job must be freely chosen, provide hygienic conditions and humane treatment, and payment must equate to a living wage.

To obtain and keep a certification for these standards, companies must consistently meet all the requirements and also pass the audits and unannounced inspections that enforcement teams conduct.

Why should we care about these standards? Because they are helping keep people and the planet safe by dictating respectful practices for where, what, and how things are manufactured, and respecting the people who do the work. Every time you choose an item that is produced using these standards, you are making a choice with your purchase to support the betterment of humanity and how we impact the planet.

“The clothing industry is the second most polluting industry in the world (next to oil) and one of the largest employers of slave and child labour.” - Zady

 

If we as store owners, clothing designers, and consumers don’t use our dollars to show our support for better practices, the harmful production processes and working conditions so rampant in the clothing industry will just be perpetuated. You might not be able to single handedly get rid of sweatshops, but at least you can make an effort to ensure that none of the items in your house came from one. One sustainably made pair of jeans won’t necessarily change the carbon footprint of an international company, but a lifetime of mindful purchases will make not only an impact, but a statement. You can be a leader for change by sharing awesome sustainable brands with your family and friends and encouraging them to also be responsible with their purchases.

All the fabrics we use to create our locally designed SALT line of clothing are sustainably sourced, like our bamboo jersey styles. Bamboo is a sustainable, durable fibre that is used in many industries and has been a welcome addition to the array of sustainable fabric options out there. Check out our bamboo styles and more online or in-store and add a little mindfulness to your wardrobe.

 

SHOP OUR BAMBOO COLLECTION  |  

 

 

Sources 

• http://www.kendortextiles.com/my_new_page.htm 
• http://www.ecolabelindex.com/ecolabel/global-recycle-standard
• https://oecotextiles.wordpress.com/category/certifications-2/global-recycle-standard/
• http://www.made-by.org/consultancy/standards/grs/
• https://zady.com/thenewstandard/product-people-planet

 

 

 

from SALT Shop - Journal https://saltshop.ca/blogs/news/fibre-to-fabric

ADVENTURE 01 | Brugge

As mentioned in my last blog post, I am off on a little holiday in Europe! It's funny as this is my third visit to this area of the world and there is still so much more to see. The main reason for this trip was to visit with my two closest friends. But, I cant escape from the day to day without a little adventure. 

Mornings together in Brugge were spent seeking unique cafe's, while afternoons were full of laughter, wandering and more food. Above are some snaps of my favourite find for a caffeine fix, Cafe Nero. It is tucked away slightly off track in a small square. I love the decor, coffee and, that is run by two woman! Feels great to support a small independent business like myself! We have to stick together!

Other then coffee, when in Brugge one must consume the following: First, A large blob of mayo accompanied by a heap of Frites, or Belgian French Fries. Second, a Liege Waffle, I suggest without all the extras as these are sweet and delightful all by there lonesome! And lastly, a good stew with some Belgian beer, also usually accompanied by more frites!

Being late January the sparkling canals of Brugge were somewhat icy. Which I found had its own charm. There is something to the stark beauty of winter, and it's not only that the crowds are less. Life also seems to move a little slower, and sometimes when you are on vacation in such a tourist driven city it is nice to remind yourself to move slow. I was grateful to have two great friends to share this trip with.

Stay tuned for more travel stories! I will have some favourites from Dusseldorf, Germany coming up as well as the wilds of Scotland before I am home! Also, be sure to follow our Instagram @saltshop.ca to see what I am doing day to day on our Instagram stories! 

Thanks for reading! 

from SALT Shop - Journal http://saltshop.ca/blogs/news/adventure-01

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS | Winter

As some of you may know I am on my way to the wintery side of Europe on Thursday.. and I am SOOOO excited! My two closest childhood friends are taking up residence in different parts of Europe and I am popping over to say hi and share some adventures. 

First stop with be the cozy home of my friend Kylin and her small family in Dusseldorf, Germany. I have never spent much time in Germany, other then a quick stop over in Berlin on my post high school European adventure. So, I am excited to sink into the city life and try a new selection of foods! Plus, getting a chance to connect with little Theo, her 14month old, will be the highlight I am sure! 

Moving on from there will be a ladies night in Brugge, where the three of us come together to reminisce and catch up! Then onto a three night stay in London with Caitlin. From London, Caitlin and I will then continue to seven days in the highlands of Scotland hiking and sight seeing. We have rented a car and although that is a little nerve wracking, driving on the wrong side of the road and all, I can't wait to see some highland scenery!

Below I have compiled a few winter travel essentials from SALT alongside some staples in my life. Things I can't live without, and things that will make traveling easier as well as capture the moments!

 

 

My long flight itinerary with layovers will be made more enjoyable thanks to a few items from Artifact Skin Co. My Konjac Sponge is pure magic! It will help to keep me feeling refreshed between flights! I'll also be sure to have my Artifact Honey marshmallow lip mask with me to keep my lips moisturized within the dry air of the cabin.  

Above Mira is show wearing a distressed pair of jeans alongside a Demi Sweater all made by MUD, a ethical brand from Europe. This chunky sweater will be essential on my highland walks as well as my favourite, dependable 'Blundies'. These boots were made to last and have a great tread for walking. 

I'll be kept safe from the elements no matter the wether with a combination of my Camp Cap, Granted pom pom toque, Westerly Umbrella, Linen Scarf and Ray Ban sunnies! Lastly no trip is complete with out something to capture the memories. I have spoiled myself with a new camera just in time for this great adventure, a Canon 5D iv. I can't wait to capture video alongside some breathtaking stills! I'll be sure to share then with you here! 

 

See something you need? Grab it from SALT now!

• Camp Hat  |  Black  $48
• Drifter Umbrella  |  Black $45
• Lip Masque  |  Honey Marshmallow $22
• Konjac Sponge  |  Charcoal  $24
• Mud Jeans  |  Organic  $128
• Demi Sweater |  Charcoal  $135 
• Linen Scarf  |  Earth  $85

 

 

from SALT Shop - Journal http://saltshop.ca/blogs/news/travel-essentials-winter

NEW YEAR | Adventurous Horizons

It seems that at the start of a new year our minds light up with ideas of self improvement and the overall hunt for a change or thrill in the year to come?  In some ways, we as humans, look at the start of a new year as the start of a new US! A better version. As much as I love this idea, I fully believe that we have to be relaxed in our approach and realistic in the demands that we put on ourselves. Life is a marathon, not a sprint. Therefore it is all about the consistent steps! 

I have two main wishes for myself this year. The first MORE TRAVEL, and the second MORE TIME. I feel that these two go hand in hand fairly well! I also have many dreams for SALT, but you will see those as they come along. I have to keep you on your toes!  

Inspired by my dear friend Brittany, of Life Set Sail, with her recent adventures and her wonderful blog I am committed to making my adventures a part of the Journal here at SALT. Something I am so excited to share with you! 

First up is a little tour thru Germany, Belgium, + Scotland! I leave in 20 days and I cant wait! I will be sure to take my SALT favourites with me and let you know just what those are! I will be 100% traveling with my fave's, the classic Ula tee as well as my Mud Denim, Pacific Sweater and a trusty pom pom hat! 

SHOP THESE IMAGES  |  WHITE ULA TEE  |  SKINNY LILLY - PURE BLUE  |

from SALT Shop - Journal http://saltshop.ca/blogs/news/new-year-adventurous-horizons

HIMMELI HEAVEN | A Holiday Tradition

With the holiday season nearing many of us are thinking about decking the halls at home. It is during this season that numerous families honour age old traditions in search a nostalgic memory from holidays passed. Traditions as unique as a family recipe or as broad as decorating the home with ornaments and twinkling lights.

 

 

Having a home for the first time this year, I am excited to take some of my family traditions and combine them with ideas I would like to make a part of my heritage some day! One being my love for a Finnish tradition, the Himmeli. Now, I am not sure if I have any roots that link to Scandinavia, but I feel it in my heart, so I must have some.... RIGHT?

A few years ago I met Johnna from Lumota Designs, I was captivated by her handcrafted Himmeli's I started to collect them at home and share them with local customers. I find them almost meditative! 

With this growing appreciation I started to look into the heritage of these geometric ornaments. With roots all over Europe and a different name depending on the country. The name Himmeli means heaven or sky, in honour of winter harvest. Originally created using straw they were hung over the table during harvest festival to ensure a good crop the following year – the more elaborate the himmeli, the more abundant the following year’s crop. The most beautiful himmeli's were stored hanging from the rafters of attics from one Christmas to the next. If treated with care these unique shapes can last for over 100 years. 

 

 

Today, the modern Himmeli is often made from brass. Built to last from year to year with ease. I hang mine year round, but adapt them to the season, holing air plants in the spring and foraged foliage in the fall and winter. These himmeli's have become a part of my home and I love to highlight there existence around the holidays! 

See our collection of Himmeli's available from local maker, Johnna from Lumota Designs in Shawinigan Lake, B.C.

from SALT Shop - Journal http://saltshop.ca/blogs/news/himmeli-heaven-a-holiday-tradition

Autumn Sun and the Tidal Pant

Every year as the leaves begin to fall I look forward to a change of pace in our small town. I know for some it may bring a moment of sadness as the days grow shorter and the grey clouds move in; many may miss summer. I, myself welcome these seasonal changes as it encourages me to take a step back from being an extrovert and allows me to have some calm moments amongst life's busy forward motion. 

One of the best things about the early fall is the warm glow of the mid afternoon sun. I relish the opportunity to head to a local beach and enjoy a cozy moment with friends or a latte in the crisp fall sun. I see fall as the last golden opportunity to embrace the fading moments of summer as they transition into the beauty of winter. 

This all brings me to Autumn comfort. It is the season of warm bevy's, afternoon adventures and hearty comfort food, all needing to be pair with fashion that can stick with you thru it all. There is nothing better then a comfortable pair of pants and your favourite ULA tee! Brittany, my long time friend from Life Set Sail is modeling two of our best sellers with true Californian style. Shop for yours online today! 

 

Shop the ULA TEE   |   Shop the TIDAL PANT

 

 

Clothing by @Saltshop.ca  |  Modeling by @LifeSetSail  |  Photos by @miltonphoto  

 

 

from SALT Shop Salt Spring Island - Journal http://saltshop.ca/blogs/news/autumn-comfort