Tom Petty Inspired Style

It’s fun to imagine famous people, like Tom Petty, wandering the pages of Soul Flower. What would they buy? Most of the time it isn’t that out there to imagine what their picks would be, just glancing at a few photos of someone, like the rockin’ Tom Petty, can tell me what they would probably want to buy and,who knows, maybe they will. Tom Petty are you out there?? 😉 


Ha…right right, JacQ, Petty reads this blog each night before he goes to sleep.

HEY, you never know, buds! There’s no shame in runnin’ down a dream. 😉


Anyways, here’s what I imagine Tom Petty would dig:

 

Tom Petty Inspired Style by jackyleev featuring Threads for Men

 

He’s all about those crew neck T-shirts, collared long sleeve shirts and Southwestern prints…simple ‘n’ badass is his rock ‘n’ roll.

So, Mr. Tom Petty, feel free to call Soul Flower and place your order. Ask for Jacqui! 😉

 

 

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Organic Dresses, Adventure Wear

Last summer I gushed about the Organic Milkshake Maxi Dress and it’s bike-ability. Truth be told – I’m still wearing that dress. But to mix it up, I rock the Saltwater Seas Organic Maxi Dress. I can get from Uptown to the north loop in three shakes of a lambs tail and I’m racing those shirtless mohawk guys on fixed gears. Last weekend I even had one get out of my way. (HA!)

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Rockin the Drive-in movie with a BBQ and a maxi dress
Photo By Cole Koehler

Last night I wore the organic maxi dress to the drive-in. Three movies for $8? Awesome. Mosquitoes? Ew. Luckily my legs were safe and I hosed my arms down with bug dope.

Check out a video review I did on this dress!

When I’m not mowing down bike boys I’m on set making movies. Last weekend my team participated in the local 48 Hour Film Project. We shot outside on a cloudless Saturday landing us in the direct sun for about 12 hours. I wore Soul Flower’s organic On Horizon Hoody Dress. The light cotton dress breathed with me and air dried quickly.

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SO SWEATY. This dress moved with me, through swamps, horse pens and tennis courts.
Photo By Colette Ricci
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SUNBLOCK: The hood kept the sun off my scalp and neck!
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Ahem. The on set photog really liked the detail of the dress…
Photo By Colette Ricci

I couldn’t recommend these dresses more. If something can keep up with me, it’s quality.  Add in organic and fair trade, and these are must haves!

Have fun out there, buds. Drink water, wear sunblock, be awesome and recycle!

~Bri

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Field of Dreams Bag : Why Moms Love It!

This is a bag for the mama warrior on the go. You know how “mom” bags look really corny and sedate? I remember browsing diaper bags while I was pregnant and thinking, “No. No. No. None of these will do.” Here’s the thing, you don’t need a “mom” bag to carry all of your mom gear.

The Field of Dreams bag is 10” by 15”, which means it can fit your diapers, your wallet, your phone and keys (there’s a handy inside zippered pocket), a spare onesie, some snacks, and all of those other mysterious things we end up carrying in the bottom of our bags (hey how did this dead beetle and random doll dress get in here?) But when you close up the 100% cotton canvas messenger style flap it all disappears.  The straps are made from cotton webbing and the closures are antique brass turnbuckles so this bag is strong and can put up with a lot of abuse, travel, weather, and kid goop.

The best part is, instead of a corny kitten and calico fabric screaming to the world that yes, you are a human napkin and milk wagon, there’s a very cool mandala on an army green background. You can be you. You can be hip and stylish and still carry all of the trappings of parenthood.

The bag name kind of made me giggle. I remember the movie Field of Dreams. And I may have even taken a road trip as a teenager to said field in Iowa just to play a game of catch with my best friend. Those were good times, young and free. But I gotta tell ya, this bag is serving a very different field for me these days. I like to think that the subtle military theme is very appropo for a young parent. Yes, you are in the trenches now. Wear your bag with honor and soldier on. May it serve you well.

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Make Old T-Shirts Into Pillows

Did the pillows in our Spring/Summer 2012 catalog look familiar? Perhaps they reminded you of our tapestries and T-shirts? Because that’s exactly what they are! Our bud, Karly, took our slightly damaged Soul Flower tees and tapestries and upcycled them into the most adorable pillows for our photoshoot. 

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Tapestries and T-shirts turned pillows – oh my!

It started out with a simple daydream of an amazing indoor fort with tons of pillows sprawled about. Once we had that in our heads, there was no turning back…you just can’t forget an idea that cozy! So at first we were asking each other to bring whatever couch pillows we have at home, but then Karly pipped in with an even better idea – she could turn our old T-shirts into pillows!

Best part is, she says it’s easy, so you can do this very pillow upcycle in your own home! 
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Here’s a simple tutorial from Ruffles & Stuff that you can follow in order to turn your old Soul Flower favorites into pillows, too. 

Better yet, two of you won’t even have to make your own – we’re giving a couple away!

One winner will receive our one-of-a-kind Take a Hike pillow, and the second winner will snag our handmade Be Yourself Pillow with butterflies.

The designs on each of these pillows are Soul Flower originals and are hand drawn.

For a chance to win, simply  leave a friendly comment below sharing which pillow you would like & why. We’ll randomly select 2 lucky winners on Thursday June 14, 2012! 🙂

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Hemp History Week – Legalize Hemp

This week, June 4-10, is Hemp History Week! Hemp is an environmentally sustainable plant that can be used in a multitude of earth-friendly ways. Here at Soul Flower we believe this miracle plant Industrial Hemp is something that should be legalized to be grown in the USA. It can do so much, including Hemp Clothing, Hemp Accessories, Hemp Food and Medicine!

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Via: Dispelling Myths About Hemp

Hemp clothing, such as these stylish pieces, are a smart, eco-friendly choice. Hemp uses less resources, such as land and water, and unlike many other plants, hemp actually revitalizes the soil as it grows.  It’s also insanely durable, and is known to have three times the strength of cotton fibers!  And, did you know, hemp is UV and mold resistant? Yeah, it’s a pretty versatile, beneficial and amazing plant!  The environmental benefits of hemp go far beyond what I’ve listed above…if I get into it all now, this blog post would never end! 😉

If you are unfamiliar with hemp, the official Hemp History site is a great place to read up. They have info on the many ways hemp can be used, why it’s beneficial, and clears up the misconception about hemp and cannabis being one and the same; hemp is NOT a drug.

They also have great information on the history of hemp (of course!) which includes a helpful timeline. Did you know that in 1942 Henry Ford made an experimental car door using hemp fibers, which turned out to be ten times stronger than steel! I didn’t. Learning something new everyday here! 🙂

Happy Hemp Week, Buds! 

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Natural Baby Clothing & Cuteness

Each of these baby bodysuits are as natural as your little one’s cuteness. Meaning, they’re all organic cotton, sweatshop free, and made and printed in the USA using water based inks. Plus, they’re hand drawn Soul Flower original designs. It doesn’t get much greener than this….
Couldn’t get much cuter, either – don’t think we could handle it! 🙂
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Party Like a Folk Star
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Pick Flowers
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Treehugger 
Babies deserve the kindest & the safest Mama Earth has to offer; they’ll be SHOCKED if their best baby face can’t win them that much. 😉 Right?
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Hug Me
Natural baby clothing is just one of the many ways you can help support the healthy world you want your little one to grow up in. Take a look at our organic baby bibs and organic baby gifts too!

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Happy Camper
 Also, a baby bodysuit is 13 ounces or less and can be sent nice and cheap using standard shipping. They make the perfect shower gift! And little buds love em on their 1st Birthdays – we’ve written plenty of Happy 1st Birthday cards over the years. Simply write a gift message at checkout, and we’ll send a nice handwritten note along with your order, too!
 

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Playlist : The Livin’ Is Easy

Throughout our Summer 2012 Lookbook we quoted several rockin’ songs, and we figured you’d enjoy these tunes even more if we created a free playlist for you! So, here ya go buds, the songs from our summer lookbook, all in one place; flip through & groove!

 

 

And if you haven’t checked out our lookbook, The Livin’ is Easy just click here and ENJOY! 🙂

 

Let us know what new items you’re diggin the most these days!

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Summer 2012 Lookbook : The Livin’ Is Easy

One of the best things in life has gotta be summer style. The sundresses, bright colors, bare feet, blaring music, and the crazy amount of jewelry we wear when the sun’s all out ‘n’ shinin’… It’s summertime, and the livin’s easy! Within our latest Lookbook we’ve put together some outfits that we hope you’ll love, and maybe even wear with your best buds on a road trip…or two?

To flip through Soul Flower’s latest Loobook CLICK HERE – and enjoy! 🙂

And if you’d like a little live action look into the makings of our Summer 2012 Lookbook, check out this video. Can you believe these pictures were taken on a rainy, rainy day? Yup. They were. Talk about “Carry your Own Sunshine!” 🙂

AND right now we are having an awesome FREE SHIPPING deal to make your summer clothing cravings a bit more excusable. 😉   US orders $75+ use checkout code: Summer12. International orders get $8 off shipping on $75+ by using code: INTL12 (Good until June 3, 2012 11:59 pm CST) ☮

We hope you love our latest looks & don’t forget to let us know what your new favorite threads are! 

Peace, Love & Happiness,
JacQ & Your Buds at Soul Flower

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Peacock Eco Hoody : It Has Its Uses

I have been thinking a lot lately about my clothes and why I am drawn to wear some things more than others. There are some pieces of clothing in my wardrobe that are old favorites, some may be a hot new trend, or old things that I have repurposed or recycled. On any given day, though, my item of choice is usually a great hoodie.

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Peacock Eco Hoody!

A versatile sweatshirt is one of my essentials! My hoodies have to be able to handle my busy life as well as make me look and feel good. A great sweatshirt is sometimes like an old friend, always there for you when you need them and they’ve always ‘got your back’! I dont think there is an article of clothing that is more useful than a hoodie, here are a few of the ways I have used a favorite sweatshirt beyond the norm:

1. a picnic blanket 
 2. a cozy travel pillow 
 3. a booster seat 
 4. a baby wrap
 5. a disguise for my bad hair day

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Someone’s camera shy! 😉

This new, wonderful Peacock hoodie from my buds at Soulflower is perfect! It is the most beautiful sky/sea blue color (I am calling it Santorini Sea Blue!) and the slightest bit of a burnout look, like it is already broken in and has been a favirote of yours for a while. The gorgeoulsy deatiled peacock design is lovingly hand drawn and printed on a fantastic blend of organic cotton and recycled soda bottles, right here in the USA! Soda bottles you ask?? Why YES! Those hideous, floating litter makers can be turned into beautiful fabric. Leave it to Soulflower to seek out and find this awesome stuff and turn it into a thing of absolute beauty! I am always noticing small details, so naturally, I love the cute braided tie string, and the small feather print on the front pocket.

So, whether you are hitting the beach, a picnic, the streets, or the hay, bring along this gem of a hoodie, I know you will love it. Wear it proud like a peacock and ruffle some feathers!

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The last pic taken before my camera took a tumble! 🙂 

In closing I would like to say that these photos were shot at the Arcata Marsh in Arcata, California. It is a wildlife sanctuary as well as an innovative waste water treatment facility, and is a great asset to our community. With over 300 protected acres of land and over 5 miles of walking trails, it benefits many people, animals and the Earth! More info here: arcatamarshfriends.org. A special big thank you to my 5 year-old son for being my go-to photographer and a sad RIP to my camera that took a tumble.

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Orange You Glad Orange is In?

If orange is your favorite color, jump for joy! We sure have a lot of it lately. Easily add some tang to your wardrobe with these Orange-rific pieces!

 

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Midday Mango Scarf & Sugar & Spice Asymmetrical Skirt

 

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Illumination Necklace

 

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I Heart Soul Flower T-Shirt
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Zinnia Summer Dress
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Top:Take a Hike T-Shirt, Sunrise Surprise Tank, Sands of Time Tube Top
Bottom: Mighty Mini Stripe Pack, Sunflower Shoulder Bag, Go Round in Circles Skirt, Marigold Cuff Bracelet
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A Day at the Beach Kids’ Patchwork Pants

 

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Matata Tie-Strap Tank Top

 

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Carmella in the Morning Sundress

How you like them tangerine dreams? 

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Strike A Pose in the Yoga Organic Tank

Oh, Soul Flower, you’ve stolen my heart again! I’m in love with your whole yoga/loungewear line, and this yoga tank is a true beauty! It’s a visually striking top that is comfortable to wear. I’m stoked that we’re having such warm weather in the South right now so that I can wear it as much as possible! It’s another Soul Flower item that can go anywhere too—yoga class, out on the town, or lounging in the yard to let the sun’s rays warm your shoulders.

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Yoga Pose Organic Tank

As you slide the tank on, the first thing you will notice is Soul Flower’s signature soft organic cotton that bathes your skin in luxury. The next thing you will notice is the super comfortable fit. It’s loose in the upper body, which allows room for whatever you have to fill it, and plenty of room for movement. You won’t get uncomfortable underarm binding in this tank!

Another wonderful design feature is the long length, which not only provides good coverage, but it helps the top to stay in place as you move into any position.

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Wonderfully long length

The design is gorgeous—a female figure sitting serenely, and she is filled with flowers. The design reminds me of the chakras. The root chakra is her legs and the design climbs up and culminates with her hands above her head in the crown chakra, which, on the shirt is at your heart chakra. This reminds me of our interconnectedness and to act with love toward all beings. Even if you don’t get the whole chakra thing, the design on the shirt reminds you to lift up through your body and be filled with energy. It’s like having a yoga class in the shirt! This is one of the things that I respect about Soul Flower—so much thought goes into all of their designs that they seem to resonate somewhere deep in the sub-conscious.

Adding to the beauty is the dark blue color of the tank. The color blue is said to invoke relaxation. It also goes well with the colors of Soul Flower’s yoga pants, capris, and skirts, so you can mix and match your yoga lounge wear. I know I have been!

The cherry on top is that the top is eco-conscious. It’s made in the USA with GMO free organic cotton and dyed with low impact organic dyes. Thanks for keeping it real, Soul Flower!

The Yoga Pose Organic Tank made me want to do arm balances, so I put together a sequence for you on my blog: http://yogaventures.blogspot.com It’s a great way to start warming and strengthening your body as we head into the active time of year!

 Happy Spring Everyone!
 Andria

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Aphrodite’s Abalone Ring

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Via

Oh, I just adore this Aphrodite Abalone Ring and its old world feel! In fact, upon opening my little prized box I immediately imagined the ring having been worn by a Greek sea goddess. Now, many moons later it’s been washed to shore still possessing great mystical powers… for which I haven’t discovered yet. 🙂 hehe  I love the ocean and travel there when possible, which isn’t often enough. Seeing this ring on the Soul-flower website reminded me of the many walks I’ve had along the beach. The wrap design of the pewter coils around my finger, representing waves as they fold into one another. They crash to the beach then recede to reveal the treasured shells underneath.

I don’t tend to wear much jewelry but, this ring is different! The creators, (although not sea goddesses), are a group of fair trade female artisans in rural Tecalpulco, Mexico. They, without a doubt have captured the tradition of fine Mexican jewelry beautifully in this piece, making it truly worthy of a great sea goddess. These empowered women make me feel a bit mystical and definitely inspired wearing their work! The fit is smooth and comfortable. I miss my Aphrodite abalone when it’s off, and realized quickly that the thick (somewhat heavy) appearance was quite deceiving because it hugs my finger and fits like a glove. I’d venture to say I might forget I’m wearing it if it weren’t for the fact this ring commands attention (with its striking physique) from everyone it meets! 

Just be, Woo

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How Our Grandmothers Taught us to be Green

“Did your grandma do anything green back in the day?” That’s what I asked my buds here at Soul Flower, and you know what? None of them said no.
Here’s the wonderful things they did say:
 
“Gramma has composted ever since I was a little girl. I used to always poke at the steamy mess with a stick. My grandparents also have organic gardens, and I remember going out to fill my ice cream bucket, picking and eating green beans as I went. I’d always come back to the house with dirt between my teeth! In their hometown of Fargo, they even supplied stores with their produce – Talk about keepin’ it local!” –Bri

 

“My grandma grew all her own veggies & canned everything – she knew how to preserve all of her veggies so they would last throughout winter.” –Peggy
“She always had her homemade clothes on the line outside, and a garden. I know growing up my grandma had all sorts of duties on the family farm in Italy. Instead of plopping us in front of the TV, she’d read to us and take us for walks; luckily, she didn’t see TV as a way to distract us and keep us busy.” –Jenn

 

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Via
“Besides the usual carpooling, wearing hand-me-downs, and repurposing leftovers, one cool thing that my grandparents did at their house was make their basement energy-efficient. They built a wall and door to enclose a small corner of the basement where the TV and couches were, so instead of heating the whole chilly basement, you just heat that one little room!” –Leiah

 

“She taught me that beauty can be taken from the fridge and cupboard. All that fancy spa stuff is already in my house. I hated the egg whites mask she’d make me wear; I’d have to wait till it dried and it would pull at my skin…Uck! Lol…but she insisted it would make my skin great! Now that I’m older, I’m happy to know that things such as honey, olive oil, sugar and then some can achieve just as much as all those cosmetic chemicals we’re told we need.” –Jacqueline

“She ate a lot out of her very own garden. Freezing and canning to make things last, and sharing with us so we weren’t eating a tomato off some truck from far off locations. I remember going through the garden, picking and trying everything…it was all so good and we grew it!” – Brit

“My grandma has a garden and is all about home cookin’ – no fast food at her house! Her idea of vacation is close to home, usually camping or horseback riding, no cruises or long flights. Hey, you remember that one poster that said something about reusing and making do? That makes me think of her.” –Joe

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Yes, I do, Joe! And now I realize there were many posters like this, especially during the war.

See, our ideas of green being the new black, and all that, they aren’t new. Our grandmother’s were doing all of these things before we ever decided to call it cool. And they did it with that brand of hard work and dedication we should all strive for. This Mother’s Day, we just want our Grandma’s to know, we appreciate all you’ve done to keep Mother Earth beautiful, and we’re thankful you’ve taught us what amazing things the earth can give us.

 
We couldn’t “make-do” without you! Happy Mother’s Day! 

May your smile be gritted with dirt! 😉
Your buds at Soul Flower

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Hippie Tapestry Decor

Are you a Hippie Tapestry lover? Well we are! And we love finding inspiration on how to use  hippie tapestry decor in rooms and otherwise, so read on to find out more about how to decorate with a hippie tapestry and Free Your Room!

I never wake up and decide to spring clean. When a flower blooms, I do not get an inclination to run inside and dust…I just tend to recline outside and, well, stare aimlessly at the flowers. Not that I’m messy….not that I’m a neat freak, neither; I just don’t pencil in a spring cleaning, I guess.

Spring does, however, get me thinking about – Possibilities.

Sometimes our surroundings no longer feel like “us” and we need to spruce them up, and add that this-is-me flair to our places & spaces. Soul Flower’s hippie tapestries always get me thinking about alllll the possibilities my lil one bedroom apartment really has. Because tapestries have a way of adding freedom to the smallest of rooms…they just do; it’s in their bohemian spirit. Check out this hippie tapestry decor:

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And while this living room doesn’t have a Soul Flower tapestry in it, I love!! the idea of FRAMING a tapestry! How boho-tastic is this room?? That print there does look a lot like our Mandala Tapestry, so it wouldn’t be too difficult to snag this look after all by taking a Soul Flower Mandala Tapestry and cutting the center of it to frame!

The look below is a Soul Flower tapestry mixed with Christmas lights – this is a look I’m  going to mimic in my apartment with Soul Flower’s World Tree Tapestry! I heart, heart, HEART how it works as a headboard, and elongates the bedroom while giving it that needed pop of color.  
It’s just amazing how much style a single tapestry can add to a room.
I’m also a fan of tapestries used as curtains.

Decorating a dorm room or bedroom with a variety of tapestries is even a really fun look! 

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Our dorm has: Into the Mystic as a curtain, Sanganeer as a couch cover, and canopied on the ceiling is our World Tree Tapestry.

So, who said you can only put one tapestry in a room?
 Lalalala,  caaaan’t hear ’em. 😉

I’ve even had customers write me and say they’ve sewn their hippie tapestry into a shower curtain! I haven’t been sent a picture of this, yet, but if any of you have decorated your home with one (or some) of our Soul Flower tapestries, I’d loooove to see it! Feel free to share your pics on our Facebook wall!

And, maybe your awesome hippie tapestry decor will convince me to do a little more spring cleaning than usual…Mmm…maybe. If anything, I’ll for sure add a tapestry to my mess! *high-five* to that. 😉

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For the Sustainable Slacker In All of Us

There are definitely days when I know nothing but a hoodie is on my wardrobe menu. You know those days, right? The days when you don’t have to (or want to) do anything but chillax and enjoy the simple things. That’s my favorite time for a comfy zip up sweatshirt like my newest edition the sustainable slacker! I have a good assortment of hoodies just for these kind of days… yep, I’m a hoodie hoarder in the biggest of ways!

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The Sustainable Slacker Hoody!

Why the hoodie? What’s the fascination? I’ve thought this through and if I’m being truthful here (and of course I should be), first and foremost it’s just the ease! Yes, one simple teeny tiny itty bitty step makes all the difference. What’s that step? There’s simply no pullin’ over my head!! Oh what a relief! Must be so exhausting! Such a difficult task! Yeah, I know pathetic aye? But on a truest of slacker days, that’s just how it’s gotta be!

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For both guys n gals, cuz we all need to slack off now n then 😉

Second, a hoodie lets you can be noncommittal. Maybe I’m going to wear this all day and maybe I’m not. Maybe I’ll wrap it around my waist on a whim I might want to wear it later. Whatever the case, zip up hoodies are the best decision for the undecided! Third, you can be recognizable or go incognito! Maybe I’ll sorta hide out under a tree beneath the brim of my hoodie and work on my poetry. The three ultimate slacker reasons for my ultimate slacker days.

Why has this particular sweatshirt become a bestie? What’s not to love? It’s got the most rockin’ vibe! The banded wrists and waistline – shall we say circa 78? I like the sweet color mix, a fierce mustardy yellow sun against a heather gray blue sky! Might I also add that the kangaroo pockets are excellent for carrying my ipod, phone, snacks and especially my Soul-Flower lip balm. 🙂 BTW the sustainable slacker is super duper soft, too! Guessing that’s because of  the oh so sustainable fibers – partly recycled polyester (eco-fleece) and organic cotton! So, while I may feel like a complete slacker on my hoodie days, I’m actually making a difference. See! Now we can feel better slackin’ on our slacker day!!

Live long and slack well!
Woo

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Double Headband Magic Tutorial

 

Our new boho tube headbands are colorful, stylish, and multi-functional. Our bud Brit shows off how to rock ’em in her video, but here’s one more way to mix it up: Wear 2!
Two headbands in a knot style! How does one conjur such magic? you may be asking. Read on.
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Start with 2 of your fav headbands:

Lay them out in oval shapes:

Overlap those ovals so it looks like red, purple, red, purple:

Pick up both sides of the bottom headband (purple):

Start lifting that purple one:

Grab the red in one hand, purple in the other:

Pull them apart & you’re ready to wear!

Wear it as a headband:

Or use it as a necklace:

Wear it off to the side:

You can pull apart the fabric to better show off the print:

I’d like to make a note that while 2 headbands knotted together in this way looks sweet, it does cause the headband(s) to fit more snugly against your head. Definitely tighter than one headband on its own. Be cautious and don’t squish your pretty little head! 🙂

PEACE!
Leiah

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Earth Day Every Day

Here at Soul Flower we try our very best to keep Mother Earth in mind…not just for Earth Day, but Every day. We keep the Kenyan proverb, “Treat the earth well. It was not given to you by your parents, it was loaned to you by your children.” close to heart. After all, what we make of our world today, is the world we must live in tomorrow.

Here are a few of the things we do to make Soul Flower and our earth a greener, kinder place. 
  • We carry eco-friendly clothing items, many of which contain organic cotton, recycled fibers and hemp.
  • We have an extensive line of Soul Flower Original designs using eco friendly & organic fabrics, that are printed in small batches in the USA with natural inks.
  • We support fair trade organizations to ensure that local artisans work in a healthy environment and receive a fair wage.
  • We carry many products made from repurposed and recycled items.
  • We offset our climate footprint through Carbon Fund to support renewable energy and reforestation projects that reduce CO2.
  • We ship all of our UPS packages using their Carbon Neutral Shipping Option which helps us offset the environmental cost of sending your goods from Minnesota.
  • We reuse paper, boxes and envelopes whenever possible. Don’t be surprised to see your items packaged in reused boxes or envelopes…remember reusing is even better than recycling!
  • We are Green Office Certified through the Greenline Paper Co., which means we use energy wisely, we recycle, we use recycled products & we are overall environmentally savvy.
  • We use Priority Mail boxes (which are post consumer recycled) and rarely add packaging materials. But, when we must, we reuse packing materials that have been sent to us by others. In the last 7 years we haven’t bought a single padded envelope or packing peanut.

  • All day-to-day printing is done on recycled paper & we always use both sides.
  • We recycle all unusable paper, cardboard, newsprint, plastic, metal and glass.
  • We recycle unusable Tyvec envelopes through an agreement with Dupont, who uses them to make park benches and playground equipment.
  • We print our catalog using soy-based inks on recycled paper with at least 10% post consumer content.
  • We plant two trees for every one tree used in our catalog production through a collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation.
  • We make regular donations to organizations working hard to further environmental efforts, including theIowa Natural Heritage FoundationGreen AmericaArbor Day Foundation, and CarbonFund.
If you have any other ideas that would help us do even better, please let us know! 

What are you doing for Earth Day this weekend? 🙂

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DIY Tin Can Planters

Every Earth Day I end up having memories of grade school. That day I’d bring my tin can to class, play in the dirt,  and plant some seeds. As I gave my seed its first watering, I truly believed my life was about to become a reenactment of Jack and the Beanstalk. I had the name covered, I snagged the seeds without trading a cow, and now this baby was going to grow into something my parents would be proud of. I’d check on my little tin can numerous times a day, hovering over it with a watchful and curious eye, expecting that it would burst through the dirt into a leafy explosion of awesomeness… any. moment. now. Even though it was never quick or theatrical, I was always thrilled the second I saw that itty-bitty bud poking through the dirt. Honestly, I still am. Checking out creative tin planters like these definitely get the green thumb itching: 🙂

Print cans have amazing vintage appeal!
Who knew upcycling a crumpled can could be so cool?
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Recycle thick paper for a funky, fun look .
Get retro & put all those soda & beer cans to use.
Let the kiddos paint their tin cans to happy brightness!
Then they can hover over their own tin can planter, waiting for their beanstalk to arrive. 
Will you be planting anything green for Mother Earth this weekend? Anyone in your home making their tin cans? If so, I hope you’re feeling inspired; it’s so fun figuring out new ways to turn trash to treasure. 🙂
 

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Top 10 Places a Free Spirit Should Wander

I was born with a gypsy soul. For as long as I can remember my dad has called me his little gypsy girl. I think I’ve done well by that nickname. I’ve seen the sun rise over the Atlantic and set over the Pacific, and the gorgeous land that stretches in between. You know, I really love a good road trip, I think it’s my absolute favorite thing to do. In November 2010, I took the most epic road trip via Route 66. Just me and my friend Steph in a white convertible taking in some of the most amazingly weird sights our country has to offer. Everyone should take that trip once in their lifetime. Just take my word for it…

In true gypsy spirit, I’m gonna share with you my top ten favorite places/sites to see. I’m always up for suggestions myself, so feel free to share some of your favorite places to gypsy off to. Before you go, be sure to get yourself a Gypsy Soul Tee from Soul Flower to wear on your travels. When Soul Flower added this item, I couldn’t believe it. If ever a tee was so apropos for me, it’s surely this one.

Cam’s Top Ten Places For All Gypsies To See In This Amazing Land Of Ours

1. Savannah, Georgia— an eclectic mixture of characters in a truly beautiful & historical setting. Pirates, Spanish Moss, & River Street, oh my! Added bonus: it’s home of the ‘Go Cup’, where else can you walk around downtown with a good adult beverage in your hand? The simply isn’t any other place like it.
2. Nashville, Tennessee— the bouncers downtown wear cowboy hats. True Story. Grab your cowboy boots & guitar and head down to Music Row.
3. San Francisco— standing on the corner of Haight & Ashbury felt like an amazing psychic connection to a time I wish I could have been around to see.
4. The Grand Canyon— a place to just go and be small and take it all in. We are a part of something beautiful here on earth.
5. Las Vegas— because if you’ve been, you know why…for better or worse. And, if you haven’t…there is no way I can properly explain it to you. I saw The Beatles Love Show by Cirque, and it was almost a religious experience.
6. Live Oak, Florida— come for Wanee at the Spirit of the Suwanee Music Park, it’s the Allman Brothers Music Festival held annually in April. Last year, we saw the Bros, Widespread Panic, Robert Plant, Steve Miller Band, Stephen Marley, Ween, …and, so many more talented musicians. This year, the Bros will be back headlining with Further, also among many others are Government Mule and Ray Manzarek of The Doors. As a lifelong Doors fan (credit to my dad), I am beyond psyched to see Ray. You can find me down front when he takes the stage…
7. Yasgur’s Farm— the only place on the list I haven’t been to yet, but it’s on my short list for upcoming road trips. I’m gonna go soak up some hippie vibes, who’s with me?
8. Big Sur, California— where the mountains meet the sea. Watching the sun set into the Pacific ocean was a moment I took in in complete solitude & silence…just blessed to have been a witness.
9. Seligman, Az— my favorite Route 66 destination. A small map dot (but, you’re gonna love the scenery on the way there!) serving as a lasting tribute to the Mother Road. Be sure to stay at the Route 66 Motel, eat at the Road Kill Cafe, and pop in at the Snow Cap for a real treat. On the menu? Dead Chicken. That’s what it says 🙂
10. The Rockies & The Appalachian Mountains…for compare & contrast. Okay, I definitely cheated a little on that. But, you really do have to see both.

I haven’t spent much time in the northeast, but my gypsy husband, Berg has and he says NYC is another place to check out. Also, someday I’d like to see the Mall in Washington DC.

Don’t forget to share your travels with me in the comments, buds. And, grab your Gypsy Soul Tee from Soul Flower before you take some trips this summer. Maybe we’ll see you on the road 🙂

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Caine’s Cardboard Arcade: Earth Day Inspiration

Last night I came across Caine’s Arcade video. This little 9 year-old “businessman” created an arcade out of cardboard, tape and odds & ends. His creativity, commitment and smarts completely won me over. I just want to hug him and play all of his arcade games. I want a game pass!

With Earth Day right around the corner, it’s awesome to see a child using their imagination to turn what they have into something fun (something incredibly fun!). Caine has inspired other children and adults to step away from their TVs & video games and make something amazing.

Thank you, Caine, for reminding us all what hard work, dedication and imagination can accomplish!

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An Interview with the Karma Captain

Every time I page through a catalog, I can’t help but wonder what inspired it. Out of all the themes and all the clothes in the world, how did this catalog come to be what it is? Even though I work here at Soul Flower and take part in much of this inspiration while it’s in the works, I still find myself wanting to ask….what spurred all of this? Well, if anyone would know, it would have to be Peggy, our Karma Captain & Co-owner.

 

 

What inspired the Soul Flower Spring/Summer 2012 clothing line?
It is two fold – bright, patterned, flowing fabrics for much of our imported line and printed positive, powerful images for our US made line. Both can easily be combined together for an eclectic, bohemian look. Our clothing is thoughtful and active  – two important parts of my lifestyle and also soul flower’s philosophy. Since a lot of our clothing has a yoga quality to it, much of our graphics & images are rooted in that. As are the messages –you will find both positive images and positive messages mixed into our active wear – things like fly free, be yourself, and let your soul flower. Finally, we are always inspired by mother earth and try to keep things as eco-friendly as possible.

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This seasons many patterns!

When you select pieces, do you keep entire outfits in mind, or does it just fall into place?
I do try to think about how pieces will work together. We look for common themes in prints and colors in hopes that our buds can find lots of creative ways to work the pieces together. We buy a lot of designs and patterns that can be layered together for unique looks.

Looks like the Soul Flower Originals line is really growing, especially with all the new yoga/lounge sets – any particular reason why?
We wanted a line that was comfortable but stylish, US-made but affordable, eco-friendly but fashionable. Since we hadn’t found it elsewhere, we decided to make it ourselves. We found a great source for organic cotton and recycled fabrics here in the US. And we have a group of Soul Flower buds here that makes it work – lots of ideas for designs, graphics and messages are always flowing, so it is fun to be able to make it from scratch!

How did this year’s line inspire the catalog’s overall theme of Everyday Bliss?
I always go back to comfort, being cozy, and feeling happy and confident in your own skin. I like to think that our clothing helps people do that – we design for a lot of different styles, body-types and looks while keeping it comfortable – to help our buds best express themselves. Everyday Bliss means feeling happy right where you are, just as you are and wearing positive, comfy clothing can help that!

 

What’s your favorite thing about this seasons catalog?
I love the idea of finding bliss right where you are – embracing those you love around you and not always trying to search for something more. For this catalog, we imagined things like building forts on a rainy day, snuggling up with the ones you care about and really taking the time to notice what you have. It became a crazy-fun set up at soul flower – cool random bunkers with fabric, tapestries, scarves – these comfy-cozy forts where our buds could hang out in their soul flower threads. 🙂

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Boho Tube Headband Video Review

Our bud, Brit, did a fun little review of our new Boho Tube Headbands. They fit a variety of personalities and are great for feelin’ pretty or gettin’ sweaty! Whether you’re a yoga chic or a biker babe doesn’t matter, they’re pretty rockin’ for anyone! Check out Brit’s video for the finer deets! 
Other prints & designs available:
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Feathers
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Dots
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Positive Messages
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Soulshine Bursts
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Paisley
Hope you like them as much as we do! 🙂
Peace & Happiness from your buds at Soul Flower

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Spring/Summer Catalog – Behind the Scenes

The catalogs are in the mail and our online catalog is available Monday. To give you a taste of the boho-organic awesomeness that is Spring/Summer 2012 – here’s a little behind the scenes.

Keep your eyes on the mail box for our totally recycled catalog! If you still need to request one – go HERE. Look for the online catalog Monday! Make sure you get the latest Soul Flower styles and sweet promos by signing up for our email HERE.

I’m so excited and I just can’t hide it
I’m about to lose control and I think I like it
Brianna

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