The summer holidays have finally arrived and for some of us it seems like a great big yawning chasm of time has opened up.

We sympathise. It can be an impossible task, coming up with ideas to keep us and our families busy day after day. So we’ve got some great, eco ideas to keep us occupied, entertained and reduce moaning to a minimum.

1. Do the tourist trails
There’s so much to do on your doorstep, sometimes it’s easy to miss. It’s often only when visitors come that we do the tourist trail of our own local town or city. We all see the open top buses travelling around so, this time, why not jump on one? Or try a themed guided tour – ghost walks are always a scream! Local art galleries can be a real eye opening experience and are often free to visit. Or how about discovering a museum you’ve never set foot in before? The possibilities are endless, check out your local tourist board for full listings.

2. Visit the Eden Project
Arguably the UK’s most spectacular eco tourist attraction of the 21st century, the Eden Project guarantees a fun day out. If you live in easy reach of Cornwall or are passing through, pay them a visit to discover the largest conservatories in the world, cutting edge iconic architecture and awe inspiring gardens. There’s always something going on, from concerts and art shows to talks and educational courses. To find out what events are on and all other information, visit edenproject.com

3. A trip to the local library
Local libraries are a great place to start or finish your summer holiday. First you can use it to inspire your summer - find a new recipe book, look up tips on a craft you’ve always wanted to try, pick up a language book and learn a new tongue. As September draws nearer and the novelty of family time is wearing off, it’s the ideal place for a bit of peace and quiet. So show your support for one of the most enduring eco-instititions.

4. Follow a nature trail
Nature trails can be a devious way to get the kids close to nature and learn more about the world and the environment. And it’s amazing how imaginative they can be. Try the Woodland Trust’s naturedetectives.org.uk website for lots and lots of inspiring ways to help younger ones to see the world in a whole new light and have a fab time to boot. Download one of their activity sheets and you’re sorted.

5. Discover BeWILDerwood
Located on the Norfolk boards, Be WILDerwood is a park full of tree houses, zip wires, walks and more. The park encourages parents and children to get involved, and get lost in the stories of BeWILDerwood, meeting curious characters along the way. Even the surliest child (or adult) will start to enjoy the great outdoors. They cater for families and large groups, as well as birthday parties. To find out more and book tickets, visit bewilderwood.co.uk

6. Go camping
Camping’s another great way to get closer to nature with the people you love, and get closer as a family to each other, literally. You can do it at the drop of a hat and can even convince reluctant teenagers to get involved by letting them bring a friend. Just remember the warm clothes and waterproofs! You’re never far from a camp site, with some starting from as little as £1 a night.

7. Have an eco day in
Raining outside? Of course! It’s the British Summer! So plan the perfect eco day in. See who can make the best dressing up outfit, robot, monster, fairy castle or time machine with (clean) rubbish. Or why not turn an old cardboard box into a television or puppet stage and put on a performance. When you’ve done that, good old fashioned games like hide and seek or hunt the thimble are hard to beat.

8. Rockpooling
If you’re close to a beach (and let’s face it, we are an island nation) rock pooling is a guaranteed way to keep everyone happy. Pack nets, a magnifying glass and some buckets and get exploring. Kids and adults will be amazed by the mini monsters that lurk beneath the rocks. Don’t forget the non-slip shoes and always put beasties and rocks back where you found them.

9. Organic farms
Here’s another way to sneak an educational experience into your summer. Visit your local organic farm and get close to the animals, learn how farms work and see if you or the kids can spot the wildlife (much more likely here than on an intensive farm). Visit this page on the Soil Assocation website to find the nearest visitor friendly organic farm near you, plus info on what to do when you’re there.

10. Homemade pampering
As the summer draws to a close you have surely earnt yourself a good dose of pampering. Lock the bathroom door, and have some alone time. Using basic ingredients from your kitchen cupboards you can give yourself a real treat. We’ve got some great recipes here. Here’s to a happy, chilled out eco summer!

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People Tree beja dress

The summer holidays are upon us, but it’s not just the kids who wanna play. 

Whether you’re heading for a day out on the beach, some ball games in the park, a summer barbecue or even a spot of gardening, you deserve to look your best whilst having fun. 

We’ve put together the perfect ethical outfits for your summer plans. What’s more, all the items can be coordinated with each other to create a range of summer looks. Perfect! 

A day at the beach
Whether you’re taking the kids to the beach or going with friends, it’s important to be comfortable. An easy beach outfit starts with denim cut offs. Either make your own from some old jeans or take these from Urban Outfitters renew range, £28. Team with a Save the Sea Katharine Hamnett tee, £40, to make a statement. Add some Unitdot bamboo sunglasses, £80, zara leaf sandals from Komodo, £28, and a People Tree straw hat, £31, and you’ll look effortlessly stylish on any sea front.
Shorts from urbanoutfitters.co.uk, t-shirt from katharinehamnett.com, sunglasses available from excentree.com, sandals from fashion-conscience.com and hat from peopletree.co.uk. 

Summer barbecue
Whenever a BBQ is planned you never quite know what the weather it going to be like. There’s nothing worse than having your outfit planned, only to wake up on the day and find the heavens have opened and you don’t have a back up. Well it doesn’t have to be hard! Take this dress from People Tree, £18. The tie belt makes it flattering to any figure, and the demure length means no embarrassing slip ups. If the weather’s good, wear it alone with the perfect wedges, gold cork wedges from Neu Aura, £72. If it takes a turn, layer up with some leggings and a cardigan and voila – ready whatever the weather!
Dress from peopletree.co.uk, wedges from fashion-conscience.com. 

Trip to the park
Be ready for a lazy day in the park or running after the kids in these cotton trousers, £19.90, by Nomads. The lightweight fabric means they’re perfect for summer weather, but practical at the same time. Add this stripy boat top from People Tree, £12, to keep stylish but comfy. Pack everything you need in this People Tree tote, £12, and you’re ready to go. Why not add the straw hat and sandals from a day at the beach – the perfect summer capsule wardrobe! 
Trousers  from nomadsclothing.com, top and bag from peopletree.co.uk. 

Ready for anything!
What with children, the weather, and everything else, sometimes you’ll have nothing but a moment’s notice to be ready. You’ll need the perfect playtime outfit to ensure you will arrive stylish and stress free. These cropped capri pants from Casia, £23.80, are a fool-proof wardrobe staple. Add a button back vest top from Annie Greenabelle, £20, and you’ve got a basic outfit. For casual, team with the People Tree straw hat and sandals from the beach, as well as a straw bag, £17 from the Natural Store. To dress up, clip on a knitted brooch from People Tree, £5, and wear with some pink heels from Terra Plana, £70. Another summer must have is a pair of pumps – try these white ones from the Natural Store, £50. Easy peasy!
Pants from fashion-conscience.com, vest top from anniegreenabelle.com, heels, bag and pumps  from thenaturalstore.co.uk, and brooch available from peopletree.co.uk. 

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Organic Pharmacy Carrot Butter Cleanser

It’s easy to find products recommended for your skin type but harder to know if they work in synergy. 

And which ones can be trusted to be free of the chemicals that could pose a risk to you and the environment? 

We have put this question to a woman who, along with her business partner, is probably the UK’s foremost expert on green beauty. 

Jo Fairley and Sarah Stacey are the people behind the famous beautybible.com and are passionate about it’s eco-arm, the greenbeautybible.com. 

Jo and Sarah both write for the leading national press on green living and offer expert advice to organisations like the Soil Association and the Women’s Environmental Network. Jo co-founded Green & Blacks with her husband, Craig Sams, and now also runs an organic bakery and food store. 

Their research for the Green Beauty Bible book and website has been meticulous, setting up strict and clear qualifying criteria (see their website for more on this) and only recommending products thoroughly tested by thousands of people. 

Sarah Stacey and Jo Fairley

And so we are very excited to have from Jo an exclusive list of the best products to use together for your skin type. Invest in these to get your skin in the best condition it can be. 

DRY SKIN 

CLEANSER: The Organic Pharmacy Carrot Butter Cleanser (£31.95 for 70ml from theorganicpharmacy.com) 

MOISTURISER: REN Vita-Mineral Radiant Day Cream  (£23.50 for 50ml from lookfantastic.com) 

FACIAL OIL: Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate (£37 for 28ml from uk.lizearle.com) 

FACIAL MASK: Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare Intensive Nourishing Treatment (£12 for 50ml from uk.lizearle.com) 

OILY SKIN 

CLEANSER: A’kin Rose & Geranium Pure Creamy Cleanser & Toner in One (£13.99 for 225ml from mypure.co.uk) 

MOISTURISER: Neal’s Yard Remedies Frankincense Hydrating Cream (£23 for 50g from nealsyardremedies.com) 

FACIAL OIL: Jurlique Skin Balancing Facial Oil (£34 for 50ml from jurlique.co.uk) 

FACIAL MASK: Korres Pomegranate Cleansing Mask (£16 for 40ml from lookfantastic.com) 

COMBINATION SKIN 

CLEANSER: Liz Earle Naturally Active Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser (£13 for a 100ml pump starter kit with 2 muslin cloths from uk.lizearle.com) 

MOISTURISER: Liz Earle Naturally Active Skin Repair Light (£17.25 for a 50ml pump from uk.lizearle.com) 

FACIAL OIL: Vaishaly Night Nourisher for Normal/Combination Skin (£65 for 30ml from vaishaly.com) 

FACIAL MASK: Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic Rose Formula Anti-Oxidant Mask (£24 for 50g from nealsyardremedies.com) 

NORMAL SKIN 

CLEANSER: REN No 1 Purity Cleansing Balm (£28 for 150ml from renskincare.com) 

MOISTURISER: Neal’s Yard Remedies Rose & Mallow Moisturiser £19.50 for 50g from nealsyardremedies.com) 

FACIAL OIL: Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic Orange Flower Facial Oil (£23 for 30ml from nealsyardremedies.com) 

FACIAL MASK: Korres Wild Rose Mask (£16 for 40ml from korres.bathandunwind.com) 

SENSITIVE SKIN 

CLEANSER: Vaishaly Cleansing Balm (£59 for 150ml from vaishaly.com) 

MOISTURISER: Vaishaly Day Moisturiser SPF15 (£45 for 50ml from vaishaly.com) 

FACIAL OIL: AD Skin Synergy Nourishing Night Treatment (£32 for 50ml from lovedbyyou.co.uk) 

FACIAL MASK: Dr Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Mushroom Skin Calming Face Mask (£31 for 100ml from origins.co.uk) 

A note on toners: Jo and Sarah don’t believe that toners are necessary. But if you swear by them, Jo says she would recommend the Neal’s Yard Remedies Rose Toner (£9.50 for 100ml from nealsyardremedies.com)  for every skin type. 

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For more product recommendations and information on the criteria used for selecting the products you can visit the beautybible.com.

For the top green products for every beauty job, plus tips and advice and interviews with top green beauty gurus, we recommend Jo and Sarah’s indispensible Green Beauty Bible book, £14.99 published by Kyle Cathie.

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Horrocks classic clothing

Did I ever think I would say it! 

It’s too hot for London! This is Mint Julep weather, the kind that includes long languishing lunches in the balmy west country, not sitting or standing on overcrowded platforms with billions of tourists. 

Plus everyone has resorted to streaky legs, because how the hell is one supposed to wear trousers in this heat. I guess they haven’t heard of Gina Conways new organic tan treatment available at their salon, ginaconway.co.uk. That’s why I am starting to feel like this hapless chap in a bear costume in the middle of New York. Even the sales are not managing to revive me, oh gosh! 

Although I have managed to get excited by a couple of things. This white H&M organic cotton top down from £12.99 to £3. Still liking H&M shorts in tencel (sustainable fabric) which haven’t moved in price at £14.99. Also their garden tops for £12.99 are nice and fresh to look at but maybe not so cool in this heat as they’re from recycled polyester. 

Muji is also worth a look, I found a recycled pet coat in a dull khaki down from £65 to £25. It also comes in Navy blue so quite a bargain there. They also do some rather cool recycled yarn tops which I have had my eye on for a while which are down from £15 to £5. 

Their organic cotton jeans, dark denim and grey wash are still a steal at £39 but you’ve got to be a skinny jeans fanatic to go down that route! Talking about jeans, just got a whiff of reco jeans the true recycled jeans brand. 

Their new collaboration MrNY with Matthew Langille who has designed for Swatch and Marc Jacobs is worth checking out. It’s hitting the shelves (not sure where) in autumn, but yours truly will keep you posted when they have their London outing, they do look pretty amazing check www.recojeans.com. 

Of course can you wait ? No! Well thank the Lord that at the end of July, Goodone has a superbly original alternative, her online Summer Sale with a 20% discount on S/S 2010, check out goodone.co.uk. What’s unique about this particular sale is the designs are all from recycled pieces and come in a variety of colour ways, with one being able to order one’s own individual colour preferences. A sort of haute couture arrangement at a discount. Yum! 

If that s not cool enough, how about a brand new fashion concept store that opens on Tuesday 20 July in the heart of East London, 123 Bethnal Green Road, unveiling a new approach to sustainable fashion. The first of its kind, 123 is dedicated to bringing the consumer cutting edge, one-off, high fashion and ready to wear collections all made out of recycled material. 

People like DR NOKI is presenting a One-Off diffusion line, the NHS, exclusively designed for 123. Now this is going to be seriously awesome! Check out images on their website for a preview, 123bethnalgreenroad.co.uk. 

Now me and glasses are a synergy that go beyond reason , so I was amazingly surprised to find the Unidot bamboo wayfarer sun wear range for only £80 at excentree.com. They are great weight and fantastically finished,check before the secret is out! 

Chai Wallahs

Festivals and summer kind of go hand in hand, always had a little soft spot for festival venue Chai Wallahs and finally this May they launched their website chaiwallah.co.uk. Not to do things by half, they have already teamed up with Supreme Being. Together they are producing a 100% organic tote bag, complete with environmentally friendly Life water bottle. Every bag bought at a summer festival this year will go towards supplying clean drinking water to children worldwide in desperate need of it. Check out for the venues chaiwallahs.co.uk. 

The new exhibition at the Fashion and Textile museum starting 9 July til 24 October is a must. Horrockses Fashions Limited (manufacturer of one of the most respected ready-to-wear labels of the 1940s and 1950s) is what I aspire to look like in this kind of heat, feminine cool and manicured (in other words in control). The company is best known for its full-skirted dresses that were sought after by women everywhere and were even worn by Queen Elizabeth II. 

This exciting and inspirational exhibition represents the many elements that made up Horrockses Fashions. Divided into different sections, you can experience the feeling of a 1950s summer through In Search of the Sun, hanker after some wonderful outfits in Glamorous Evenings; and pretend you are watching an episode of ‘Mad Men’ with Sophistication at Home and From Kitchen to Office. The exhibition also explores the Fashion and Styling, Artists, Designers and Pattern Design that built up the brand. Could this herald the return of the house coat - OMG! 

Of course I have to finish with the most important event of all in July and I guess that’s why the sales are not so inspiring,yet! I just need to thin my wardrobe and the Big Swish London event at the Platform bar and restaurant on the 10th is the perfect opportunity. Make a day of it, by first of all popping into Borough market to pick up some organic fayre, then come onto swish, followed by a quick jaunt to the Fashion and textile museum down the road on Bermondsey Street for the Horrockses exhibition! 

See you there! 

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Lupe Castro is a leading ethical stylist. Check out her website at ethicalheaven.com

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Home grown - the freshest salad you will ever eat

Below are the top five easy vegetables that the One Pot Pledge team (more about them below) recommend to anyone who wants to give growing a go.

All you need is a pot, some peat-free compost and some seeds.

• Summer salad leaves: Possibly the easiest thing to get started with is salad leaves. Using your pot, seeds and compost, you will need to wait between 4-12 weeks until you can tuck into your tasty greens. The bonus is, if you harvest them correctly, they’ll keep on going throughout the summer months!
• Rocket: Notoriously expensive in shops, rocket is a delicious leaf that can be grown easily in a pot within a month. It needs a partially shady spot too so you don’t even have the lack of a sunny windowsill as an excuse.
• Coriander: Any Indian curry lover’s must have, coriander only takes two months to grow from seed to plant. Sow in a pot, keep in a sunny spot, water regularly and wait until harvest time. Great added to salads too.
• Beans: if you want to grow something in a bigger pot, French, Dwarf or Purple beans are easy and can supply you with a summers worth of delicious greens. Those you don’t eat you can dry out and cook up in a stew later in the year. Beans take between two to three months to go from seed to plant, and need a sheltered spot outside.
• Basil: Instead of buying a pot of basil from the supermarket which dies within a week (this isn’t your fault – there are so many seedlings crammed in the pot that they quickly outgrow the space) why not grow your own basil plant. Not only will it be healthier than any shop-bought variety, it should last into the autumn if you look after it well and keep it in a sunny spot.

For more information on what to grow, step by step advice and offers on gardening starter packs, go to onepotpledge.org. 

The One Pot Pledge campaign exists to help gardening newcomers to grow an edible crop by using simple steps and clear advice to encourage and enthuse them. It’s run by Garden Organic, the UK’s leading Organic Growing Charity.

Through the One Pot Pledge campaign Garden Organic wants 30,000 people to make the One Pot Pledge and sow, grow and harvest their own food for the very first time in 2010.

You can make your pledge via the One Pot Pledge link above.

For more gardening tips and recipes to help you make the most of what to grow, visit our Grow, Cook, Eat blog.

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The Hayloft living room and kitchen

The beautiful 18th Century historic Stable Block was lovingly restored in 2008 using natural eco-friendly materials and traditional methods.   

The attention to detail is sublime and thoroughly deserves the Green Tourism, Gold award and 4 star self catering status. 

The owner Sherry Forbes greeted us warmly and her enthusiasm and love for the Stables was contagious. I instantly felt the ‘relax’ begin; shoulders dropping ever so slightly, a deep breath and calm! 

Sherry’s team converted The Stables into two separate, authentic, self catering apartments with exposed beams, lime washed walls and wood-burning stoves. 

After a quick look around The Bothy, the cute ground floor apartment, we were shown up to The Hayloft, the impressive, first floor apartment where we were staying. If you are looking for a place to hide away, this is definitely it. Spacious and cosy too, the Hayloft offers immediate tranquillity. 

It was a home from home, where everything had been considered. On arrival, we found a vegetable basket bursting with home grown, organic produce and a food hamper full of local treats and goodies including locally-made jam, cheeses and chutneys, plum loaf, organic chocolate, a bottle of wine made from apples from their own orchard. 

Taking in the space, the living area is warm, decorated in natural materials and earthy colours. The kitchen had every utensil available, and the washing liquids and soaps were all kind to the environment. 

The main bedroom sleeps two people on a cast iron bed whilst the unusual cosy ‘snug’ or ‘box bed’ in the living area provides an inviting place for relaxation or an additional sleeping space for two small people. 

Our favourite room by far was the luxurious bathroom, with the deep copper bateau spa bath (lots of fun!), tv, sauna, and steam shower. Heaven! 

The Manor House Stables have been thoughtfully renovated to an exceptionally high standard. We loved the attention to detail; nothing had been forgotten from the sachets of eco-friendly shampoo to the local maps and literature. Sherry had even included a food map detailing where all the local produce had originated and how far it had travelled. 

Outside, you have your own private garden, with relaxing loungers, a swing, table and BBQ and the view over the vegetable beds is beautiful. You won’t hear traffic or invasive noises, just the birds in the trees. 

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The Manor House Stables is situated close to the Wolds, Coast and Fens in an area renowned for good walks, cycling, bird watching, golf, angling and the great outdoors. The Edwardian town of Woodhall Spa with its famous golf course and cinema and the historic city of Lincoln with its cathedral and castle are both only short drives away. 

Courses and workshops
Day courses, which can also be included as part of your holiday if pre-booked, are regularly run at The Stables. The choice is  varied and includes rag-rug making,  jams and chutney making, baking scones, hand-made paper making, cookery, bread making, healthy eating, wood-turning, candle-making, herb gardening, and many more besides. And in summer months there is also a gift shop. 

Prices start at £300 for a short break. For more details contact Sherry Forbes on 01526 378 717 or visit the website.  The Manor House is at Timberland Road, Martin, Nr Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN4 3QS.

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Henrietta Ludgate

In honour of our four favourite New Yorkers returning to the big screen, the Daisy team have taken inspiration from Sex and the City to create a fashion gallery that is all fabulous and totally ethical.

Blushless
These dresses are stunning, fact. They are intended to be wedding dresses, but when did that ever stop Carrie? TheLUNDIone is made up of antique linen lace and is given a modern edge by the asymmetric shoulder.

TheLILOUone is a dress for the brave for it bares the skin to give maximum impact. Made from microfibres the one arm draped dress may flash the flesh, but sure knows how to make a fashionable statement.

The last is my personal favourite; theLENI is a silver microfibres gown that uses wave stitching to give an amazing gathered look to the dress. The asymmetric hem shows enough leg to be sexy but still give the formal feel through the floor length piece on one side. Wear with simple shoes and no jewellery because the dress speaks for itself. For the rest of the collection head to blushless.com.

Minna
For accessories look no further than Minna. Their ‘Olivia Corsage’ is made from 100% remnant silks, lace and buttons, mixed with feathers. The pieces are all handmade so you will never see anyone with the exact same one. Costing £25 this piece can be added to any outfit, whether it be a coat, bag or dress. If that isn’t cute enough then the 100% recycled gift box it comes in should top it off.

Minna also have a lovely hand made and dyed silk corsage necklace that consists of three flowers and a silk ribbon tie. Costing £100 and it’s perfect just to be worn with a simple t-shirt to give a vintage appeal. Both items available from minna.co.uk.

Beyond Skin
Here we show you some new shoes that are not only fully function fashionably but are also vegan. Let me introduce you to ‘Bertie’ and ‘Marie Rose’. Since shoe boots were thrust upon the fashion conscious world they have become a staple for any shoe box filled wardrobe.

‘Bertie’ is a simple boot with a banana heels and lace up front and only costs £135. For something a bit more fancy there is ‘Marie Rose’. Topped with a corsage over the peep top the satin finish makes this shoe perfect for any occasion, weddings, balls or just strutting down the pavement to a hot date. Trot on down to beyondskin.co.uk for these beauties.

Henrietta Ludgate
Hailing from the Highlands of Scotland comes a designer whose clothing helps the Scottish Textile industry. The dresses in our gallery show her impeccable skill and innovative designs. The first is a simple halter neck dress that is in a pale yellow colour, bang on trend for this season’s pastels.

This simple dress reminds me of the a similar one worn by Carrie herself in season 4 in which she accessorised it with a parasol. For something a little bit more avant-garde Ludgate has created a dress that looks like it is being held together by the thin leather belt around the waist. Head to henriettaludgate.com for full collection and stock list.

Izzy Lane
Since our weather has the same unreliability of New York’s there is an occasion for knitwear, but before you start worrying that we have seen the last of the sun, Izzy Lane offer you a cute and modern cashmere cut out waist coat. The fine weight material won’t have you sweating off your clothes but will leave you feeling breathable and looking professional. It’s on offer in four different colours, Dirty Pink being my favourite, and available on izzylane.com for £148

Kitty Cooper
To round up our ‘Sex and the City’ fashion-fest it seems only right to end on the thing all the girls are searching for; the perfect pair of shoes.

Kitty Cooper creates vintage inspired footwear that are all hand made and they source as many fabrics as they can from the UK. They also use ribbon from the 1920s all the way through to the 1970s. The ‘Rich’ shoes are pin-up inspired sling backs, detailed with a bow and pearls from the 50s on the front. These nautical beauties will cost you £325.

Another pair from this designer that would leave Carrie weak at the knees are the ‘Rose Lees’. Made from dove blue satin from the 50s, there t-bar heels are adorned with a ribbon from the Gallerie Lafayette in France from the 1910. These shoes cost £315 and both shoes and more can be found on kitty-cooper.co.uk.

Click on the images for the whole picture

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The Body Shop Sweet Lemon range

Bursting with nutrients and smelling good enough to eat, get your five a day the beauty way with our pick of the best fruity beauty products…  

Jason
This Apricot and Kiwi volumising shampoo was tested by our very own Nicola. I went down a treat “It has a lovely fragrance, was really uplifting and left my hair feeling nice and soft.” she said. From biggreensmile.com for £6.69.   

Lush
Lemony flutter by Lush, £5.50, is a moisturiser that can be used all over the body. Daisy girl Alison gave it a try, and was pleased as punch with the results.  

“This product was lovely to use, its intense lemon smell hooked me straight away. “I found it worked best on my feet. With holidays approaching and the need to get your feet looking great in flip-flops this product is a must. The thickness of the cream was good and found a little goes a long way. I used this before bed and found that the next morning my feet felt dramatically softer and nourished.” From lush.co.uk  

Weleda
The pomegranate range by Weleda offers a wide range of products in this delicious fruity smell. I tried the handcream, £7.95, which was great as a little goes a long way. It kept my hands soft all day, and wasn’t greasy, which is vital in the warm weather. It comes in a handy tube which I popped in my handbag. I also tried the body oil, £19.95. I’m not one for oils, as any grease isn’t good with my skin, but this was great. It worked best after a shower when my skin was still damp, and really sorted out the dry skin I get on my legs after shaving. From lucyrose.biz  

Purity
Purity’s product range is chock full of cranberries. We all know cranberries are good for you, and your skin can benefit too. There is a whole range of products available, and fashion editor Liz gave the anti-aging serum, £8.99, a go.  

Although it had a ‘funny texture’, Liz said, “It’s really easy to use, and lasts a while. I found by using it once a week, my skin was noticeably softer and smoother.” I tried the facial wash, £4.99, and exfoliator, £5.99. The wash was really gentle on my skin, and doesn’t majorly dry it out, which can sometimes happen for me. The exfoliator was a welcome change if I felt my skin needed a good scrub, so swapping between the two products was really good for me. All from purityorganicskincare.co.uk  

Paul Mitchell Luxury Haircare
Thicker hair with more volume is what many of us are chasing after. This tea tree lemon sage thickening spray could be a solution. it claims to build body, prep, style and protect. Priced at £6.95 for 75ml, it also comes in a shampoo and conditioner for a full routine. Both £4.25 for 75ml. Visit paul-mitchell.co.uk to find your nearest salon.  

Enter our competition to win a Paul Mitchell hair care set   

Daniel Galvin JNR
This ‘hair juice’ has an irresistible citrus smell, made with organic orange blossom and lemon oils. It was the winner of a Natural Health Beauty Award and claims to ‘gently cleanse hair of impurities and stimulate the scalp to strengthen hair.’ Sally’s hair is now shinier and perkier thanks to Daniel. There’s also a matching conditioner. Available from danielgalvinjnr.co.uk for £4.99.  

The Body Shop
I have long sworn by the Body Shop’s body butter, so was thrilled when I heard they were releasing a sweet lemon range. There’s a whole variety of products available, from soap to body scrub. Initially, I was disappointed by the smell – I expected it to be a lot tangier. But when you take the ‘sweet’ element into consideration, it lives up to its name. Like its predecessors, this butter leaves skin nourished all day and leaves the skin with a gorgeous fragrance. The range starts from just £2. From thebodyshop.co.uk  

Green People
Our Nic tried the Fruity face scrub by Green People. She rated it “…a really effective product, the scrub is just firm enough to clean the face and leave it smooth and soft, without leaving you raw!” Made with organic mandarin, apricot and carrot it is packed full of goodness. £9.50 from greenpeople.co.uk  

Yes to Tomatoes
Often mistaken for a vegetable, the tomato is actually a fruit and not one to be missed. This ‘new to the UK’ range from the makers of Yes to Carrots takes the antoxidant power of organic tomatoes and creates a great line of products for face, body and hair. The 99.6% natural range balances oily skin but also adds moisture to dry areas, so they’re super all-rounders. Prices start at £7.99. From victoriahealth.co.uk and selected Debenhams stores  

Eminence
Editor Sally was completely won over by the Blueberry Soy Exfoliating Cleanser. It’s loaded with natural AHAs to polish and the tannin-rich blueberries and ultra healing soy to help you to reduce and perfect pores. “This smells truly amazing. But I resisted the temptation to gulp it down and used it to make my skin velvety smooth instead.” £28 from the skinsmith.co.uk  

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Outsider dress

Flaming June! Whoa finally barbecue and festival weather! Loads happening this month.  

From 14 June till 4 July you can check out Minna’s pop up shop collaboration with A142 to showcase pieces from the Spring Summer 2010 collection. Address is Area (www.area142.com) 142 -17 Lamb Street, Old Spitalfields Market and 29 Charlotte Road, Shoreditch. Prices start £195.  

Julia Smith (juliasmith.co.uk), is having some party fun at the Connaught Village Fair which runs from 14 -19 June. Check details on connaught-village.co.uk.  

If you didn’t get a chance to make it to London Jewellery Week at Victoria House don’t fret too long. Maria at Cerise, (ceriseuk.com), is giving Daisy Green readers a whopping 30% off all items till the end of June on her website (code MDAISYGREEN).  

Her beautiful shop on Columbia Road is a haven for British designed handmade jewellery and accessories that add a little bit of magic. Only open Sundays till the end of June. Pop in for a browse and a cuppa with Maria.  

Oh and on the subject of jewellery, Just Trade, (justtrade.co.uk),  have got the most amazing golden bangle available from Equa at only £15. With prices of gold soaring through the roof this gorgeous bit of shine is a real steal and an amazing alternative to the real McCoy!  

A quick note: after months of pleading from their male fan club Juzionline.com have launched their collection for boys!  

Mary McCartney has designed organic t-shirts for the Danish children’s wear label Mini A Ture. Proceeds of the sales of the t-shirts go to the Sunway Children’s Home, a small orphanage in India. 

So far, funds from the Mini A Ture t-shirts have helped 20 of the children to go to school and funds have now been set aside to build a house for the children too. T-shirts are available at Selfridges and can be purchased through their website selfridges.com  

They are so cute I am gutted they only go to a size 10…(children’s of course).  

But finally some proper sizing, as Bibico’s range designed for La Redoute goes up to size 18, hurrah! Personally, I am loving the yellow cotton dress!  

Actually talking about sizing, pingush.com is opening a retail showroom in Barnes for June.  They are a firm favourite with actresses like Judi Dench, who, we are told, owns seven of their Alpaca coats in a varying array of colours, and wore one on the set of the film Nine. Their sizes start from petite to 22.  

naturalboutique.com the Green, Glam and Gorgeous online store has kitted itself out to serve all festival season and music lovers everywhere, London and UK wide! 

They have the most brilliant collection of essential kits including brands like Green People, Rawganics, Lavera, John Masters, MÁDARA and Fusion Condoms.  

So what else do we need! Oh yeah my red flower print Outsider dress! And my lovely Bedcrumb vintage silk scarf. Check out bedcrumb.co.uk  

OK so for the more exclusive urban sophisticates out there, Kelly Hoppen MBE, the world-renowned interior designer, is crossing boundaries yet again by launching a Home Fashion Collection for Earth Couture. 

Using organic materials, her signature neutral colours and natural dyes, the outfit combinations and will see you through from train, bus, and port, with longer length tops to prevent exposure to drafts. With each sale, Earth Couture donates a much-needed mosquito coil to families in need in Nigeria, helping to protect them from life-threatening malaria, to which all children are particularly vulnerable. For more info visit earth-couture.com. 

Actually I rather like the idea of completing the look by teaming it with the De La Rue silver flip flop to create a truly south of France Riviera look! Yes move over SATC! Sandals at bboheme.com.  

If your first days of June started like mine - dark and hurtful –  there really is nothing like a bit of retail therapy to spring you up again. The Vintage Fair taking place between 11.00 and 4.30pm on 20 June at the Urdang , The old Finsbury Town Hall in Rosebery Avenue London Ec1,  just ticks all the boxes!  

PS. Heard a little rumour that the team from Beyond Skin are going stateside to dazzle the Americans in Vegas with their shoes. Go girls go! And a certain brand of ethical footwear is teaming up with a terribly big high street brand! It’s raining shoes again… 

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Lupe Castro is a leading ethical stylist. Check out her website at ethicalheaven.com

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Time to flash some flesh. Eek!

With the changing season, lengthening days and a little bit more warmth we very quickly shed a few layers of clothes and become aware of our slightly pale, dry, dull looking bodies we’ve been hiding all winter. 

We spring clean our homes, so maybe it’s time to spring clean our bodies. With a few simple homecare tips we can breeze through these spring and summer months feeling body beautiful and confident. 

So here are a few essentials to getting your body naturally beautiful. 

1. Morning detox
Make this a change forever. To get your body going first thing in the morning, ditch the coffee and tea and go for a boiled water with lemon, I have done this for years and I couldn’t start the day without it. It’s a great way to kick start your bodies natural detoxification, which is what we need for healthy, clear skin, circulation and immune system. I also add a slice of ginger for that extra boost. 

2. Scrub up
To bring some renewed life to our dry, dull bodies there is nothing better than a full body scrub. You could have a very thorough professional body polish at a spa or do it yourself at home. 

Allow ten minutes for a thorough full body scrub, and you can do this once a week. Strip off, and with dry skin stand in the bath or shower. Starting at your feet including the soles, firmly and quickly apply the scrub in big circular moves up your legs, concentrating on thighs and bottoms to really get the circulation going. Don’t forget about the stomach, back, arms and chest. 

Your skin will become slightly pink but this is good, this means your circulation is stimulated. Great for thighs and problem areas. Now turn the shower on and rinse off. Your skin should feel beautifully soft. I love the new Jigsaw range of Soil Association body care products, especially their scrub. This is how a scrub should be. It contains caster sugar and crushed argan seeds to exfoliate. This is in a balm so it’s not swishing around in oil. It’s invigorating and leaves the skin feeling smooth, nourished and fresh. £22.50 from amarya.co.uk. 

Home made scrub
As this scrub is for the body we can keep it really simple, a cereal bowl is a good size to mix enough to do a full body, because it’s in an oil base, any left over can be used on another occasion. 

- Quarter cup of caster sugar (fine sugar gives a more thorough and comfortable feel) 

- Quarter cup fine brown sugar or salt 

- Half a cup oil – olive, sunflower, or avocado 

- Essential oils of your choice, 2 – 5 drops (Lavender and mint work well) 

Scrub away! 

3. Moisturise
Dry skin always looks and feels less than beautiful. Regular moisturising will keep your skin super soft. You can do this as regularly as you want, the more the better. To get the best out of your body cream I would apply after you have bathed or showered when the skin is still damp. For an affordable, beautiful smelling Ecocert body cream try Evolve Mega omega moisturising cream, full of omega 3, 6 and 9. £11.99 from biggreensmile.com. 

4.Tan
There is nothing worse than putting on your first pair of shorts or skirt of the year only to be blinded by the whiteness of your slightly dull looking pins. 

We all feel so much better with a little bit of colour, and faking it has become an easy option. There are some good natural tans; one of my favourites is Green People’s self tan lotion, £16.99. Non-streaking, it is not intended to give the appearance of a two week holiday but more of a subtle glow. I applied it two evenings in a row to give me the colour I wanted. For the best results exfoliate with a none oily scrub and rinse off. 

Your hands can be a real giveaway, so to avoid obvious tanned palms try to massage a good amount of hand cream into your hands first. I personally wear a pair of light textured marigolds to massage the tanning cream all over my body then remove them when I get to my hands. This allows me to be quite controlled then about how I apply it to my hands. Available from greenpeople.co.uk. 

Click on the images below for the whole picture 

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Abigail James is a natural facialist and skincare specialist. Find out more or book an appointment with her at abigailjames.com. Enter our competition to win a facial with Abigail here.

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