HIMANE Sustainable Designs

Life-Size Plane for Spring 2012 Paris Couture Week Show!

2012-01-25T08:00:00.003-05:00

As if fashion wasn’t already synonymous with environmental excess. (Tell us something we don't know, Really!)

Karl Lagerfeld commisioned a life-size aircraft to house Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2012 couture show inside the Grand Palais in Paris on Tuesday. Subtlety has never been the designer’s strongest suit—this is the man who flew a 265-ton glacier to the City of Lights on a whim, after all—but the display of such extravagance in a depressed economy feels gauche even by the most liberal standards. Set designers didn’t just spend five days constructing the plane (or at least, the innards of one) from anodized aluminum. They also outfitted it with an extra-wide 164-foot aisle, 180-degree swivel seats for 250 high-profile guests, double-C monogrammed carpet, a holographic cockpit, and a slatted roof that revealed a vista of clouds. Mon dieu!
I will add to that: COMPLETEMENT RIDICULE, VRAIMENT!

You can view more pictures here: http://www.ecouterre.com/chanel-builds-life-size-plane-for-spring-2012-paris-couture-week-show/

What Happens to Our Cast Off Clothing?

2012-01-24T23:52:00.000-05:00

A friend sent me this great article and I wanted to share it with you. Please do take time to read it.

Ever wonder what happens to your clothes when you just have to let them go? Maybe you were kind enough to spare them from ending up in a landfill by donating them to a thrift store for a tax credit; maybe you were even clever enough to “new-life” them into cut offs, a mini-skirt or something else relatively simple to make.
There are many ways to keep our clothes from contributing to landfills and pollution, and according to Dr. Jana Hawley, whose focus is on finding solutions to textile waste in fashion, “Our clothing are 100% recyclable.” So why then, according to SMART, a textile recycling organization that partners with Goodwill and The Salvation Army, do roughly 75% of our discarded clothes get put in the trash and end up in landfills?
Clothing has an enormous, toxic, environmental footprint, one that gets bigger when it is unnecessarily wasted and not given the opportunity to live up to its fullest capacity through multiple lives, multiple owners or textile recycling.
While we may never consider our clothes after we’ve discarded them, our cast-offs go on exciting adventures around the globe. Thrift stores are simply the first of many depositing and sorting grounds. Which part of the world they land in really depends on what shape and quality they are in when they leave your hands.
When your clothes arrive at the thrift store they get sorted, and provided they’re not terribly damaged, they are put on the racks. The premium grade used clothing has several possible fates in the drop-off store, one of which is purchase for resale at international vintage shops.
Vintage store owners around the world have been mining American thrift stores for cheap vintage, only to resell our cast offs back to us at premium vintage prices. Americans in particular get rid of some of the nicest digs in the world. In Paris you’d never find designer vintage on sale anywhere outside a pricey vintage shop. But here in the States, mint condition, vintage Gucci dresses on Salvation Army racks sell for $19.99. It’s no wonder that the world comes here for it’s vintage. At $5-$10 a pair, beat up old Levi’s might collect over $500 by a vintage dealer in Japan. And the hat your grandmother painstakingly hand knit you could easily end up in a Swedish or Dutch vintage boutique.
“We get all of our vintage from the States. The store owners take a 4-6 week long summer vacation in the U.S. visiting the same favorite routes to thrift stores year after year. Within a few weeks, they’ve more or less made the annual store inventory,” says an employee from Zipper, a vintage shop in Amsterdam.
Of course, all of this can be found on thrift store floor racks, where meticulous and discerning shoppers have the opportunity to snatch up the premium second hand at thrift store prices before they reach the vintage dealers provided they are willing to dig through racks.
Sometimes, this pursuit can seem more like archaeology than shopping, sifting through cross sections of society’s discarded duds to find the rare diamonds in the rough.

Please continue to read: http://ecosalon.com/ecosalon-investigates-what-happens-to-our-cast-off-clothing/

Your Waste Materials!

2012-01-12T01:58:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday. Did you take time to make a wish or set a goal ~~again~~ this year? Not me, I decided not to do so and just let things flow and take it one day at a time.

Throughout the years, clients I used to make samples for and work with had left so much stuff around and most of them items I cannot and wont be able to use in my line of work, so I decided to donate them as I hate throwing things away. Such a waste!
After I was done cleaning with a total of 6 bags I started to make a few calls to some companies that so far said they will collect materials.
Big surprise and some disappointment on the way.
The first one told me that the total of the materials need to be worth at least $1500.00 and as for fabrics each roll need to have 3 to 5 yards.
The second one told me that I need to take pictures of everything I am ready to donate, wrote the quantity of yard per material and email to them, then they will review and see if it is worth to be collected. Really?
After the third one I said no more. I sincerely could not believe my years and was disappointed, mad, frustrated and all.
So why is it so hard for a company to collect 6 bags of materials? As donation!!!!

While calling those places and after listening to them, I had to share a little bit of what I do for living and about my work. I go and collect most of my materials, whether it is via Freecycle, other designers studio, people who are donating unwanted materials, I do not ask them to send me pictures of their items first, or asking them the worth of their total donation (it is a donation, right!!!) I just go and collect them. Most fabrics from the factories, whether they are getting rid of them or not unless it is scrap I do have to pay for them. Nonetheless I am very proud and happy to re-purpose. I love to recycle because it is great way to help by putting our landfills in a tough diet.
I use to wonder why people around Park Slope leave boxes sometimes full of clothes, shoes outside or why they just hang them around their gates, why not call the Salvation Army or those Waste collector to have them picked-up? Maybe they give them the same turn around they gave me. Sorry folks, I wont criticize any longer, I do understand better now.

I am and still will continue using discarded umbrellas, recycled materials in my work because for me it is the right thing to do. I wish I had enough money, a bigger studio and people working with me so I can collect and recycle more materials. We are living in a society where everything is disposable, we will have waste for a while, but if we can try to recycle as much as we can it will make a big difference.

All that to tell you that I am so grateful to Build It Green NYC (visit their website. http://www.bignyc.org/) located in the Gowanus. They will collect the bags at my studio and bring them to Materials of the Art. Yeah. So wonderful. Those babies will be able to find another home and possible a caring hand to take care of them as I have been shelter them for more than 2/3 years.

Please think about Recycling as much as you can. Help yourself, Help your environment!

HIMANE 2011 in Review! Happy Greenly New Year.

2011-12-31T02:36:00.001-05:00

This year has been a great and wonderful year and all that is "Thanks" to you. You have showed how much you care, appreciate the hard work, and how dedicated you are when it comes to recycle and Upcycle.
I came to meet so many wonderful people, received so much support it has just been purely greenly wonderful. You keep me going in this hard and tough economy.
2011 have been a rocking year.

1- I was invited to do a presentation and be a Sustainable speaker at GFA- Green Farm Academy in Westport, CT. The students were awesome (age group range from 6 to 16 years old), the parents were amazing and some of them became clients. Thank you.

Art class 1, products presentation.

In the auditorium with the young ones. They had a lot of questions!

2- Big Brother, Big sister Sunday workshop at HIMANE studio.
It is a pleasure to gather other artists at the studio so we can teach kids about recycling and sewing.Thank you Guys!

Making your own pencil holder, using magazines cut out and cans.

Teaching about sewing.

How to thread a sewing machine. (Smart girl)


At the end I received a beautiful cut out card, a big "I love you Catherine" and a big Hug. Priceless!

3- The interview with Tristin and Tyler from Tales in the city. Umbrella Rags to Riches. Thank you guys! http://www.tristinandtyler.com/videos/

4- I was commissioned to work with the NYC Department of Aging to conduct workshops for women 55 and older on:
How to take care of your clothes naturally in a tough economy and How to Recycle your closet.

5- Special Recognition Award for my INNOVATIVE & EXCEPTIONAL CREATIVITY from the European Union Women Inventors & Innovators Network (EUWIIN) in Iceland.

Recognition Award

At the Award Reception Blue lagoon, Reykjavik Iceland

The President of Iceland, welcoming all women from all over. First Day Conference

Two great women I came to meet in Iceland.

The day of the eco Fashion presentation at the New Harpa in Iceland. My outfit was made from men khaki pants and an old blazer.

6- Film maker Rob Weiss have been working on making a documentary about my work and the HIMANE story which will be released in January 2012. It was a very emotional journey and really amazing. Thank you Rob.

7- Copywriter-songwriter-performer Mrs. Carla R. Fisher commissioned me to do some upcycle work for her and her family. The story here if you missed it a couple of weeks ago: http://saidandsung.com/operations/an-upcycled-unforgettable-thanksmas/
See also http://himanerad.blogspot.com/2011/12/upcycled-unforgettable-thanksmas-q.html

8- The interview on Oprah Magazine: http://www.oprah.com/blogs/Rainy-Day-Woman-The-Designer-Who-Gives-New-Life-to-Old-Umbrellas#comments

9- The interview with Global Cristian Post: http://global.christianpost.com/news/oprah-winfrey-to-become-haitis-goodwill-ambassador-64780/

10- For those of you who speak Italian: http://laborsadelriciclo.blogspot.com/2011/12/piove-apriamo-una-borsa.html#comment-form

11- The supporters.
During the Sustainable speaker series this past Summer to which I was a participant, I was fortunate to meet a great wonderful woman, and a lawyer, Ms. Aliza S. F. This wonderful woman for the past 2 months have been collected umbrellas in the streets of Manhattan while going to work or on her way home. She was so surprised when I told her that the total of umbrellas so far she had collected and sent to me was 226. Just amazing! Thank you so much one hundred times more for the great support.
Thank you to a young lady, student at John Jay University, Ms. Justyna M. who also collected over 15 umbrellas.
Thank you to two wonderful students from NYU for their package. They collected 25 umbrellas.
Just this week, Tuesday morning I received a phone call from another young woman from Manhattan. She told me how much she appreciate my work and what I am doing with those discarded umbrellas. She also has been collected umbrellas since she came across my work and will be sending a package next week.
Thank you to V. and M. physicians for their support.
Saying THANK YOU to all of you, I feel definitely that it is not enough, offering a bag as a small token to show my appreciation to your devotion also will never be enough. But nonetheless, I will say it again and again and again "THANK YOU, THANK YOU" from the bottom of my heart.

Funny, I remember like it was yesterday but really it is almost 7 years now when I first started using discarded umbrellas. I never knew we will be here today. I so love and appreciate the support from each and everyone of you.

Another Thank you to a wonderful woman, a very good client for over 3 years now, Mrs. Judith L. This beautiful lady have been supporting me since the day her husband surprised her in my studio with the Odray dress (the umbrella cocktail dress). Not only she loves every design of HIMANE, but she also took the time to introduce the products to her entourage, by hosting private sales event at her beautiful home. Thank you, without your help 2011 would have never be the year it was starting by your support to my trip in Iceland. Thank you.

TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU: CLIENTS, SUPPORTERS, FRIENDS AND OTHER, THANK YOU AND FIRST OF ALL THANKS TO MY BEAUTIFUL MOM, THE LOVELY HIMANE WHOM I MISSED SO MUCH. NOT A DAY GOES BY WITHOUT ME THINKING ABOUT HER! I SO WOULD HAVE LOVED FOR HER TO BE HERE NOW.

HAPPY HEALTHY GREENLY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL, MAY 2012 BE EVERYTHING 2011 WAS NOT AND THEN MORE. SEE YOU IN 2012

Happy Holidays & Happy Green wrapping!

2011-12-22T15:00:00.000-05:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU ALL!

Because of Clients like you we had a wonderful year at HIMANE. So we would like to say THANK YOU to you all for your dear support.

May 2012 brings us Joy, Health, Love & lot of Success.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR.

A little bit of Green/Recycled wrapping tips!

This Holiday Seasons instead of using wrapping papers, use fabric remnants, old scarf, old table cloths that you no longer use by using the beautiful technique of Furoshiki for all gifts. Your family and friends will love you more and you will be doing them a huge favor as they wont need to drag that usual garbage full of papers and wilted bows to the dumpster.

The Furoshiki technique is a great way for the environment and less garbage in the landfill.
Here some great pictures and on how to use the Furoshiki techniques.

History of Furoshiki

Nara Period (Eighth Century): Starting in the eight century, a square piece of fabric called hokei-fuhaku was used to wrap special items of value, including clothing for Buddhist priests and elaborate minstrel costumes. The wrapping was called tsutsumi, and its main purpose was to protect and carry garments.
Edo Period (1603-1868): As bathhouses increased in popularity, the square wrap became known as furoshiki: furo meaning "bath" and shiki meaning "to spread." Furoshiki were used to carry toiletries and clothing to the bathhouses and were also placed on the floor to act as bathmats. During this period, wealthy families commissioned bridal furoshiki of different sizes, decroated with their family crests and symbols of good luck.
1800s: When cotton was introduced from overseas, furoshiki began to be produced on a larger scale. At the same time, people of Japan were traveling more for pleasure, often selling goods along the way. Furoshiki were used for not only transporting the travelers' belongings but also their goods for sale.
1900s: At the turn of the twentieth century, the advances in textile production — mainly automated looms from overseas — made furoshiki even more accessible to the public. Furoshiki became mass-produced, and the tradition of using cloth to wrap gifts was established. Gifts wrapped with furoshiki would often be presented in person; the person giving the gift would unwrap and reveal the gift, and then keep the cloth to take home. The bridal furoshiki also became commonplace, and the bride used the large cloths for wrapping her belongings and the small cloths for wrapping gifts.
Post-World War II: After World War II, the Japanese became more highly influenced by American culture, resulting in the decline of furoshiki. The invention of the paper bag, followed by the plastic bag and the emergence of supermarkets across Japan in the 1970s, contirbuted to the disappearance of furoshiki. Plastic boxes and bags replaced furoshiki as a means of storage and for carrying goods. By the 1980s, the custom of using furoshiki to wrap gifts had declined almost to obscurity.
1990s - Present: When Japan's economic boom ended in the early 1990s, people began to reflect upon the disadvantages and waste in a disposable society. In 2006, Japan's then Minister of the Environment, Ms. Yuriko Koike, launched a campaign to encourage the use of furoshiki, instead of paper and plastic, and bring back the cultural tradition of wrapping and carryin gitems in fabric. She designed a furoshiki called the "Mottainai Furoshiki," mottainai, translating to "waste not, want not." The result has been a renewed and widespread interest in the tradition of tsutsumi and a flowering of creativity associated with it. Furoshiki are beginning to be seen outside of Japan as people worldwide embrace greener lifestyles and adapt different cultural solutions to their own ways of living.

The 4-Tie Box Wrap is simple yet elegant. This wrap can hold almost any square box securely, and it works equally well for small or large and light or heavy packages. You can even carry the box from the top, holding it under the knots as a handle. The knots on top of the box give the illusion of a fancy bow.

HAVE A GREAT TIME FUROSHIKI WRAPPING!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

An Upcycled, Unforgettable Thanksmas Q&A

2011-12-13T16:08:00.000-05:00

The past few months I have been working on an "Upcycling, Unforgettable Thankmas" project with a very great and lovely client by the name of Carla Rose Fischer.
Instead of using my words, Carla which is a great writer wrote about her experience while working with me about HIMANE Upcycling and how we met.

December 2, 2011

I first met Catherine in January 2011 at a Style with Glee clothing swap in Brooklyn, and I was immediately taken with the idea of Himane and its upcycling approach to fashion — using discarded items like umbrellas to make useful and fashionable clothing and accessories. But when Catherine mentioned that the skirt she was wearing was made from her late mother's blouse, I knew our paths had crossed for a reason. I had just lost my father to cancer four months earlier, and my mother was having a hard time still seeing my father's clothes in the closet each day. So I told Catherine that I wanted to make gifts for my family out of my father's clothes for the following Christmas.

Carla Rose Fisher with her lovely father the well-dressed Anthony Arnone, stands with me at an ASCAP performance in NYC in 2001. (Picture, courtesy of Carla Rose Fisher.)

Months later, I brought three bags of my father's clothes by her workshop, and we put together combinations of slacks and blazers and ties in order to create handbags, wallets and eyeglass cases for 18 members of my family. Catherine worked with me to come up with items that took into consideration the styles and ages of my family members — and the results are stunning. She kept the integrity of the fabrics, using every portion of each source item for the upcycled pieces.

Since I won't be home for Christmas this year, my husband and I surprised my family on Thanksgiving with the gifts. My mother had forgotten that I had wanted the clothes to see whether they could be repurposed. My entire family was overwhelmed, and thrilled. They were so touched by the idea, and especially by Catherine's handiwork. They cherished the items, with my brothers and my father's best friend (who each received wallets) saying that now they can "carry my father in their back pocket every day." My uncle even went so far as to hold one of the items up to his face and kiss it for luck, and he won $300 later that afternoon! That's just a fun story, but having these pieces made us all feel so special. Catherine really made 2011 an unforgettable Thanksgiving for us all.

Pants and Tie Before.

Pants and tie after as a clutch.

Ties before.

Ties after, as eye glasses holder

Tweed Blazer

Blazer after as a messenger Tote.

Inside Messenger Tote

Messenger Tote

Part of Blazer into a small bag.

Envelope clutch, made of pants and tie.

Tote, made of pants and Tie

Tote made of Pants and Tie

Tote

The Ties

Wallets made of Ties.

Wallets made of Ties


Carla Rose Fisher with her lovely Mother. "My mom said these upcycled gifts (hers was a handbag and an eyeglass case) were the most incredible, thoughtful gifts she could imagine."

Carla Rose Fisher with her lovely family during Thanksgiving 2011.

What Upcycle with Himane does is already so admirable — taking something that once was of us and not only recycling it, but also making it better, for both the recipient and the environment. But more so, she has given me something irreplaceable. I'm comforted by these one-of-a-kind items made from the clothes he wore, and to have it be something functional that my family and I can use every day is a huge bonus. Now, a part of my father can travel with me wherever I go, and Catherine has made that possible. Through her hard work and ingenuity, she has given me the greatest holiday season I can imagine — enabling me to give lifelong gifts to those who remember their dad, husband, brother, grandpa, uncle and best friend. For that, along with Catherine's creativity and compassion, I am forever grateful.

—Carla Rose Fisher, New York

Carla Rose Fisher, once again THANK YOU, for your trust and free wheel to let me choose the designs and all the support and kind words. Honestly, I am writing those words with tears in my eyes. I don't think I will be able to express my feelings. While working in your items, I did not consider it as work, it was more like therapy for me. So I, myself will say again Thank you.

You can read Carla Rose Fisher blog here: http://saidandsung.com/operations/an-upcycled-unforgettable-thanksmas/ and to learn about her work as well.

Happy Holidays to you all.

Cool Items in our Online Store!

2011-12-12T23:57:00.000-05:00

We have some great items in our online store. Take time to browse, contact us if you have a question or would like to request a custom made item by visiting us @ http://himane.bigcartel.com/products

Some of the cool items we have now: a whole collection for your Mac Book, iPad, Laptop made of Recycled Umbrellas, Ties and Leather.

13" Laptop Sleeve $75.00

13"Laptop Sleeve $70.00

13" Laptop Sleeves

13" Mac Book Pro $55.00

13" Mac Book Pro

iPad Sleeve $35.00

iPad Sleeves

We also have some great bags, you just have to choose from the list. Made from Recycled umbrellas, tarp and organic canvas.

Marmelade was $150.00, now $120.00

Gelee C-14 was $65.00, now $60.00

Gelee C24 was $65.00, now $60.00

Erisna

Sotdo UD was $135.00, now $100.00

Free Umbrella Tote

Spend $80.00 and more and you will receive a free Umbrella Tote.
This great deal will end on December 22nd.

Soil as Fabric Dye? Earth Dyeing Hits Pay Dirt

2011-11-21T07:15:00.000-05:00

Did you ever look at dirt and think about can I do with that?

No? Well it goes, dirt may seem like an unusual starting point for a clothing collection, but Hyun Jin Jeong of Earth Dyeing is doing just that. As novel as it sounds, the technique isn’t new—people have been using soil to imbue their garments with vibrant reds and balmy yellows for centuries. Ancient and mostly forgotten, the art of earth dyeing uses soil from different geographic regions to create a varied if subtle color palette. Chemicals in the textile-dyeing industry have a troubling legacy, Jeong says, but natural dyes are often seen as niche or impractical.

http://www.ecouterre.com/soil-as-fabric-dye-earth-dyeing-hits-pay-dirt

Recycled Coir (Coconut husk) into Vegan Friendly Outwear!

2011-11-17T01:00:00.001-05:00

I came across this article on ecouterre website and I was so thrilled to read about it. http://www.ecouterre.com/category/fabrictionary
Nau (pronounce Now) a sustainable company located in Portland, is using the coconut husk (Coir) material in their jacket. Great!!!!

Here it is one of their alpine jacket, insulated with a recycled polyester/COCONA blend that's derived from coconut husks.

Not only the Coconut husk (Coir) have being recycled and using for making finer brushes, string, rope, fishing nets, packaging and also to design Floor but now they are Upcycling it into fine materials as well. VERY COOL.

Being from the Caribbean, we have plenty of coconut trees, (love to eat the coconut flesh inside and drink the coconut water, it was so good and refreshing).

Memories, great times I do much miss quite a lot. Also, things I do remember seeing people do with the coconut palm, the fiber, the hard shell growing up in Haiti was unbelievable. I would have never guess that one day it will be used inside of a jacket. So little did I know then.

A little info about Coir/ Coconut fiber:

1-Coconut palm tree

Coconut fiber or coir is natural fiber taken from by product of coconut husk (pictures above) then cleaned and compressed into bales. (pictures below)

Coconut fiber belongs to the category fibers/fibrous materials, Coconut fiber is obtained from the fibrous husk (mesocarp) of the coconut (Cocos nucifera) from the coconut palm, which belongs to the palm family (Palmae). Coconut fibers have high lining content and thus low cellulose content, as a result of which it is resilient, strong and highly durable. The remarkable lightness of the fibers is due to the cavities arising from the dried out sieve cells. Coconut fiber is the only fruit fiber usable in the textile industry. Coir is obtained by ratting for up to 10 months in water followed by sun-drying.

Some links:
http://www.nau.com/mens/categories/jackets/insular-jacket-033M01.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coconut#Coir

Jute cultivation and Process

2011-11-12T00:43:00.000-05:00

I love Jute materials or Burlap, because of their natural beauty and many ways they have been and can be used. I have been so passionate (way before my love for recycling umbrella started) about this material it is unbelievable.
Not too far from my studio, there is a coffee factory doing import/export, so I have been going there for the past 2 years to purchase their recycled coffee Jute bags so I can Upcycled into beautiful one of a kind bags that I combined with the umbrellas, Organic canvas and/or upholstery materials.(pics below of HIMANE "REFAIT" Bags)

So of course I have been very curious on how this great fabric is made and also needed to know about the history.
This is what I found out so far. Enjoy!

Introduction.

The material commonly called burlap in the United States is known as "hessian" in parts of Europe because it was used in the uniform of soldiers from the state of Hesse.

What is it?

The course texture of burlap comes from the fact it is made from the skin of the jute plant, one of the least expensive textile crops in the world--and one of the strongest. Jute fibers have a high content of cellulose, a major component of plant stalks, as well as lignin, a constituent of wood. The result is a textile fiber that is part cloth and part wood, heat resistant, easy to dye and very strong. Jute cultivation requires standing water, so most production comes from Bangladesh and Indian regions that benefit from a heavy monsoon season. After cotton, it is the second most important vegetable fiber in the world.

Applications
As it turns out, jute is a very versatile material. The lining component makes for an itchy material if used for clothing, but when separated into very fine threads, has been used to make imitation silk. The tensile strength and low cost of jute fiber make it ideal for industrial applications. The fact that it's entirely natural and biodegradable makes it a popular choice for uses where these qualities are desirable, such as in covering and binding plant roots for transportation and replanting, or to prevent erosion.

I found so much info that I would not be able to post everything at once.
Please by all means click on the links below to learn more if of course you did not. Thank you and happy reading.

A few pics of the materials of the drying process and more.

Some links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jute_cultivation#Strengths_of_major_jute_producing_countries

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jute#Production

HIMANE is on OPRAH Magazine!

2011-11-10T22:22:00.000-05:00

I knew the O Magazine was supposed to hit the stands late November but not so soon.

I got a phone call around 12:15 from a client, follow by almost 100 more, friends, clients and other people. I was speechless and happy for sure because of the way people did react to the article and the idea of reusing discarded umbrellas.

Made from discarded umbrellas. Easy to store, great for travel and perfect as an extra bag. Other colors available or have one customize just for you. Email us or cal us for detail.

Made from recycled Sunbrella (Sunbrella is the material used in patio, beach umbrella, Canopy) combine with Jute materials. Great Tote to have. (SOLD OUT)

Poly Construction Tarp- Upcycle

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

You have noticed those blue Poly Tarps wherever there is a construction. Right? Their colors may varied, sometimes they are blue, Brown, Black, Grey and/or White.

Ikea shopping bags are made out of those Poly Tarp materials as you know.

But do you ever wonder, about what do they become after construction is over and they have no use for them? So a few weeks ago I was on my way to the city for my volunteer work at the Green City Chalenge event in Union Square.

Walking on my street to the train station, I saw those workers pull out the Blue tarp and suddenly I had an idea. I asked them what they were going to do with it, one of them answered "nothing, we are done here so we don't need it. Why?", So I asked if I can have it, they were happy to get rid of it.

So a couple of days later after washing it...

Here it is ready to be thrown away. It does look sad, don't you think so? (lol)

Here it is now. Do you recognize that old poor Poly Tarp? Looks much happier!!

You have a beautiful Upcycled strong bag that you can carry everything your heart desire, full with pockets, easy to clean and of course water resistant.

More designs are on the way.

Film Biz Recycling donate a big piece to me as well as they also recycle

Umbrellas, Strong Poly tarp I am so excited, so let's the fun begin!

Long silence, and we are back!

2011-11-08T00:49:00.000-05:00

I would like to say one more time a quick thank you to the European Union Women Innovators and Inventors Network (EUWINN), GWINN INT., KVENN for a beautiful and memorable ceremony.
The Mayor in Iceland did host a welcome reception and all the finalists were there. Also since I was from NY the American ambassador, his wife and other members were there. It was a very nice event.

I was a little nervous when I did my presentation in front of the judges but other than that everything went well.

A few pics with the American Ambassador, a picture of the president of Iceland doing his speech and welcome us follow by the prime minister of Iceland as well and below a few pics during the night of the ceremony.

I received a Special Recognition Award for my Innovative & Exceptional Creativity.

As my award takes its rightful place in my "Upcycled" life, I will treasure it as a token of inspiration, hard work, courage and acknowledgment of my journey.

Wearable Technology Water-Purifying Raincoat Keeps You Dry, Quenches Thirst on the Go

2011-09-08T07:15:00.000-04:00

Water, water everywhere and not a drop to drink? Meet “Raincatch,” a hooded slicker that not only keeps you dry in a downpour but also purifies rainwater for wetting your whistle on the move. Designed by Hyeona Yang and Joshua Noble from the Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design, the multitasking garment uses a system of charcoal and chemical filters to create potable water, which is stored around the hips for weight distribution without strain.

http://www.ecouterre.com/water-purifying-raincoat-keeps-you-dry-quenches-thirst-on-the-go/

Summer is almost Over- Welcome to Fall!

2011-09-08T07:12:00.000-04:00

We all know that the end of summer comes much too quickly. Now is the time to see what you have for Fall if they still fit or not or if you still want to wear the same clothes for last year! Great, what about thinking on cleaning your closet space and upcycle your life style - just in time for FALL?

Think: Reinvent, Redesign, Reuse, Recycle and UPCYCLE! In the wild crazy recession you know these are the best way to go!

HIMANE's Tips for Fresh Upcycling:

Plan: Set aside some time to go through your closet and pull anything you or your husband are tired of, ill fitted, hate, or never wear. For sure you have quite a few of those!!!. Put them on the side!

Organize: Pick one item at a time to Recycle, Reinvent or Upcycle. Look at that item, search deeply and find one thing you like about it. It could be the fabric, the great prints, the buttons maybe or just the style is awesome. If you cannot find anything good about it, move it on the side for now and choose something else. Do that for each and every item you pull out from your closet.

Time to think about how else an item can be used for.

Ideas: For example, a never-worn edges of mattress pads can find new life as table runners, glasses cases, or padding and reinforcement for a number of items.
Old sheets can be made into garment bags, wedding gowns or much more.
Children love to dress up. Can your clothes be given to a child for play?

From a Dress

A different dress for yourself or a child
A blouse for yourself or a child
A child's jumper or short set
A boy's shirt
A pair of shorts for yourself
A top to wear with pants

From a Skirt

A child's dress
A child's skirt
A child's coat or jacket if the skirt is heavy fabric
A blouse or vest for yourself

From a Man's Suit

A skirt or a jacket for yourself
A jumper for yourself or a child
A child's coat or jacket

From a Coat

A jacket for yourself
A child's coat or jacket
A jumper for yourself or a child
A Tote or handbag for yourself and your child

From a Man's Shirt

A child's skirt, dress or blouse
A dress or top for yourself
A Tote for yourself and your child

Rainy Day brings HIMANE lot of luck!

2011-08-24T00:20:00.000-04:00

This past Friday I got caught in the heavy rain on my way to a meeting within seconds from hips down I was completely soak, but not my beautiful HIMANE Signature Tote. All dry with everything inside. We all need an HIMANE Signature Tote. Why? because it is very practical, very light, easy to clean, water resistant and not expensive. Here are a few of our TOTES! Call us for more details.

Tottie Tote

Totou

Tobou

On my way back to the studio, big smile on my face because I collected 5 beautiful colorful umbrellas. One of them a leopard print made me think about something Loren Talbot from Local Labels said:
" Each one is a potential bag or dress, a design and a metaphor. When I see people carrying a particular interesting design, I think about how she would turn it into a clutch or duffel bag. This upcycling of abandoned umbrellas by Catherine is an amazing example of using abandoned resources for useful (and in her case very fashionable) products."

You can read more here from Local Labels: http://locallabels.blogspot.com/

A few pictures of REFAIT the New Upcycling umbrella bags line by HIMANE. Contact us for more details.

Wilma- Upcycled Umbrella and Recycled Leather

Marmelade UJ

Sotdo UL

Betisda

Pako

Toya

Planner Tote

Erisna Duffel

Recycle your CLothes!

2011-08-19T00:20:00.000-04:00

Americans throw away 68 pounds of clothes on average each year, and we only buy 10 pounds of recycled clothes annually.

The materials used to make our attire are often environmentally toxic and require significant amounts of energy and water during the manufacturing process. If you are going to buy new clothes, why not buy those made out of sustainable materials? Such as:

Sustainable cotton
Hemp
Bamboo

Of course, buying recycled clothes has an even smaller environmental footprint.

The 12 to 15 percent of people who shopped at consignment and thrift stores in 2006 saved 2.5 billion pounds of clothes from re-entering the waste stream.

What you can do?

Sell your clothes online. E-commerce sites like eBay allow you to sell them at the price of your choice or watch as people bid madly back and forth to get their hands on your old shoes and vintage jeans. You can also list your clothes on Craigslist and Freecycle.com.
Go to your local consignment store. Places like Buffalo Exchange and Crossroads Trading will give you cash or store credit in exchange for the clothes they buy from you. Other consignment shops will give you a cut of the profit they make on your old gear.
Donate your clothes. Goodwill and Salvation Army are in almost every state and offer tax forms you can file for incentives. You can also look in your neighborhood for clothing collection boxes for local charities.

About your Clothing!

Be smart about washing the clothes you now own. 80 percent of the energy our clothes consume is used when we wash them. Roughly 26 billion gallons of water are used each day in the U.S., 4.5 billion of which go to operate washing machines. Dry your clothes on the line and wash them only when necessary.

When you do wash your clothes, wash them in cold water. Washing clothes in cold water can cut CO₂ emissions by 100 pounds and save you up to $64 per year on your energy bill.
You can also line-dry your clothes in the spring and summer instead of using the dryer. This will keep 700 pounds of carbon dioxide from making their way into the environment.

Japanese Designer Rie Hosokai Turns Balloons Into Inflatable Couture

2011-08-18T18:14:00.001-04:00

Pins and needles may be an integral element of most garment construction, but for Japanese artist Rie Hosokai, the pointy tools could leave her designs coming up flat, literally.
You see, Hosokai deftly twists and manipulates balloons—yes, that’s right, balloons—into statement dresses that are far removed from the latex animals you see at kids' birthday parties.

Come Shop HIMANE in Nyack, Piermont, NY at GrandView,!

2011-06-18T11:42:00.000-04:00

Come and shop HIMANE and the new Accessory Designs line "REFAIT" at GRANVIEW located at 11 South Broadway Nyack, NY. 845-353-4189

GRANDVIEW, owner Veronica Jones have been creating fashion industry trends & miracles in NYACK since 1987. Dressing women for all the chapters of their lives. A warm and wonderful experience begins to happen as you open the door to GRANDVIEW. A plethora of beautiful clothes and accessories stimulate the palate. This is fashions best kept secret. If you dare to be different but fabulous you must discover this chic boutique.

This weekend is ARTWALK in Nyack, it will be a lot of fun. My dear friend Michelle, owner of LATALAYE Catering will have some great appetizers all day tomorrow at the store. Come to shop and have fun. Mention HIMANE blog and automatically receive a 10% DISCOUNT.

Iceland, Reykjavik, Last day- May 25 2011

2011-05-26T16:13:00.001-04:00

So, I decided to leave beautiful Iceland, Reykjavik today just to be on the safe side since flights to NY are still operating and also because we don't know what might happen next when the wind start blowing because of the ashes from the Volcano and all. So I will be leaving this afternoon ):(

This morning some wonderful and powerful women came to visit to see my work and I was so happy to see them. Thank you Elinora, Margret, Sofie and Hulda, it was such a pleasure and looking forward to seeing you again.

Receiving from Dear Margret an Ave Maria CD, another CD and DVD of Hatidin Heilsar (my translation is not that good, but I think it means Health Festival, yes I purchase an Icelandic/English book)

With Elinora, my God she bought me a box full of Fishes skin. When I was looking at those at the art store yesterday, she was not even close and had no idea to know that I wanted to have them and here it is the next day, that beautiful, good heart woman knew exactly what I was dreaming off and bought me what my heart desire the most. Thank you Elinora. I will be sending some great pictures of my designs your way to see what I did with those those skins. Þakka þér svo kærlega fyrir að mikil gjöf. Þakka þér.

Talking about my designs and doing some demonstration. This Fourre Tout is made of discarded umbrella and recycled jeans. (SOLD)

This clutch is made of recycled yoga mat.

Sofie looks so hot and great in my Femi top. Beautiful person, so positive, charming and wonderful. (Sold)

Yes, she bought it and as you can see she is so happy!

Well, Margret love them all!

Group pics as it is getting close to say goodbye.

Hulda and I brainstorming on new ideas for my Wilma clutches. You are wonderful Hulda! Thank you.

That's it, the Shuttle Service bus came to pick me and we are on the road to the Airport. My heart is crying, feeling so sad and feeling so unhappy suddenly. I just cannot explain this. I travel to so many places before; Paris, Germany/Frankfurt/Berlin, Holland, Curacao, Aruba, St- Martin, Bonaire, Panama and Venezuela but never feel this way. I feel that I am leaving part of me behind and just cannot explain it!

Passing The Reykjavík Summit House, where President Reagan met with Mikhail Gorbachev in 1986.

Arriving at the Airport!

Leaving Iceland. Up in the air. Bye!

Beautiful view from up there. Really, never paid any attention before.

Approaching NY after 5 hours and 15 mns.

Landing at JFK Airport.

Visiting Iceland change something in me, deep, deep inside of me. I am so glad for taking that (short) trip. I have a lot of great ideas and looking forward to start working tomorrow with my fish skins and the lavastones I received.

Hope you did enjoy the pics I shared with you as much I enjoyed my trip to the far away beautiful magic land.

Bye now and come back soon to visit and read my blog again soon. I will be posting some new inspiring work pics influenced by my trip, the people and places of Iceland.

Þangað til næst. Bless bless

I need to say thanks to my dear brother Johnny (love you so much) and his company Meditel, S.A., my dear friend and sister Rhomy from Tristan World Travel/T-Zell and childhood friend and brother Jean-Mayard who made this trip possible. Thank you to you all, for believing in my work and for your support.

Remember You can make the impossible, possible! Just have to believe.

Iceland, Reykjavik, Day 3 May 24 2011

2011-05-26T10:59:00.000-04:00

My third day in Iceland, Reykjavik, God I am so loving it here. The peacefulness, the clam, the fresh air, looking at the beautiful mountain that is so remind me of Home.
Because of the brightness throughout the day I go to bed late, a little after 1 am and only when I put the shade down. Because when you like outside it feels like it is still 6 or 7pm and in June they will have 24 hours Sunlight. Oh God, would like to see that. At noon my new friend came by for coffee, to see my work, talk about recycle products and different type of materials we can use and we left for a walk. A little breezy but not that cold, very sunny and beautiful. The Volcano? Oh we are not even close and have no clue where the eruption was, so I am so not worry about that.
My dear friend went back to his hotel and I continued my walk.
Enjoy the pictures.

The HARPA house, one of the place for the EUWINN event, beautiful . A little group of us will be having diner there tonight. Lovely!

Ingolfur Arnarsson, the first Nordic settler in Iceland. According to Landnáma he built his homestead in (and gave name to) Reykjavík in 874.

House of Cultures. I was not allowed to take pictures of the exhibition of course, so below are a couple of pics. http://heimiliogskoli.is/english/

One of their movie theater.

A theatre

My destination for today, that far, far away pic. Come on, let's walk with me!

Oh, an art store! Those my friends are fishes skin, they are so soft. Love it I would have love to buy them all. Have so much ideas running in my head now. Ok next time maybe!

A Ceramic shop. I am going inside. Love ceramics.
This is the oldest Ceramic shop in Iceland, has been in the generation for years, the grandson Mr. Einarsson (the word son after all men name in Iceland means the son of..., so in it's case Einarsson means the son of Einar) owns the shop now. http://www.listvinahusid.is/grunnsidur/listvinahusid/english.html

Mr. Einarsson at work. Some of the pictures are showing part of the process (not all of course), incomplete and complete. He was nice enough to offer me a few lavastones and of course I purchased one of the small Volcano candle holder.

Those Vikings are so tall, (lol) look at me I look like a tiny little woman next to him :). He was very nice. Thank you Mr. Einarsson for the stones.

My destination, The Hallgrímskirkja church, 244 ft whoa just amazing. The tallest building in Iceland, this Lutheran Chuch. Learn about the story here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hallgr%C3%ADmskirkja

The statue of Leifr Eiríksson, you can read about him here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leif_Ericson

Inside of the Church.

On my way to the tower, 8th floor to see the view up there.

Close pics from way up. Took a lot but only are posting a couple. Was very breezy and stay only a few minutes and rushed down.

7:00 pm, in front of the Harpa going to diner with Elinora and Sofie from Greeland. 2 beautiful and nice women. So glad I met them! I am wearing my umbrella dress, my upcycle Vintage jacket and carrying my Wilma clutch made of recycled umbrella and scrap of leather.

Joined by 3 other people from Italy and Germany. Lovey people! a very well international group.

The aperitif, forgot the name but it was so yummy, the right thing to get you started.

Main course, grilled Squid and Langoustines. Oh my God, I could have 3 more like this. So good and did enjoy every single bite. Thank you Elinora.

Sofie, had Cod fish with some other.... don't remember the names but she said it was delicious.

The Salmon Salad of Elinora with cucumber and other..... Sorry I am good on eating not remembering names. She said it was more than good and I took her words for it!

The Icelandic tiramisu version, which they do right in front of you step by step. Was delicious.

On our way out from the Harpa. The sitting area, relax with some good Icelandic beer, (had one and it is gooooood) glass or wine or else, just to chill or while waiting for your table.

Nice little cozy cafe in the entrance of the Harpa House. The main lobby.

After diner, on our way now to a women choir Concert.

All girls and women from the ages of 6 to 80 years old.

Margret, the conductor, such a lovely soul, positive energy, full of charm and a lovely, lovely person. I was taking away by the performance. Learn from her work here http://www.voxfeminae.is/?lang=en

Iceland, Reykjavik, Day 2 May 23rd 2011

2011-05-24T07:30:00.000-04:00

Iceland, Volcano Eruption, fear, questions, Travel and all. We all are aware of what is going on and unfortunately since people are very concern, the organizers had no choice other than cancel the event. There are 5 of us who already made it to Reykjavik to be frank if people do not tell you what is going on, you will never know because the volcano eruption is so far away from the city. My mother used to say, always try to turn a bad situation into a good one and I am planning to do just that.
I was in my little apartment studio all day getting things ready for the conference and as soon as I found out it was canceled, I got in contact with the local Representative here, to the UK organizers as well and after took an Icelandic shower (will get to that later, lol) and out I go. A little chilly for a summer but it will do as I am wearing my new convertible bag/umbrella spring coat!
I visited a store/shop where they used the LAVASTONE and turn them into beautiful jewelry pieces. Could not believe my eyes and while there I met a very nice man, an architect from Norway using only recycle materials also, guest what? No no Umbrella (lol), coconut! Yes, coconut to make tile floor. I am telling you we are smart people, who will ever think about that. Anyway we spent 2 hours talking with the owner of the place and I help him (really asked me) choose a piece of jewelry for his wife. (Hope she will like it, lol)

Here are some pics for day 2. Enjoy!

All those beautiful pieces below are made from lavastones.

Some of the stones have been reworked around and some they used it just raw. Beautiful. Love nature

The display inside the store.

Here you have Hrannar from the store (white t-shirt) and Per (pronounce Pear) the architect.

Posing with Per, he could not believe that my jacket was made out of recycled umbrellas and he is using coconut to design floor. Go figure.

Coconut. We have so many in Haiti. I even talked him about making a trip to my country. Let's wait and see!

Ok back to the lavastone! Here you have the raw stones.

Where they have been burned to get the dark color below and cast.

Those pieces are within the natural color and was not been burned compared to those on top, and the raw piece in the center was the one dear Hrannar was nice enough to offer me as a souvenir.

The man behind the creativity of those beautiful designs.

Went to eat after for a walk. Believe it or not I took those pictures below around 10 pm. Do you see how bright it is? The sun goes down around midnight and you will think it is only 6 pm.
All stores close here at 6pm, restaurants and bars open at 5pm until 3 or 4 in the morning I have been told.

Love the originality of the stores so here are some pics.

Walking around at 11 pm. Just wanted to take some pics, because I could not believe how bright it was still.

I love the way they use their resources on practically everything.

Bye now!

Iceland, Reykjavik, 1st Day May 22nd 2011

2011-05-23T12:25:00.000-04:00

As all of you must know by now I have been nominated for a Recognition Award regarding my recycled designs using umbrella by the International European Women Innovators and Inventors and there will be an eco fashion show as well.
I arrived in Iceland at 6:20 am (1:30 am ET) and felt in love with this place instantly. The place were I will be staying at, Welcome Apartments in Reykjavik had sent a Shuttle Service bus to pick me up. The driver was the nicest person I ever met, full of info, withing 20 mns and the 60 minutes drive from the Airport to the city I knew all the Islandic pertaining story possible. Here some pics I took while driving.

Well I can say that I have been to Mars (lol). Pictures cannot show what I saw or to describe it. Pure paradise. So lovely!!!

The boat

(above) that carry all the aluminium to the factory (below) to be melt and turn into utensils and other stuff.

Some little farms along the road.

The first town before the city. Beautiful.

Entering the city. Reykjavik

The place I will be calling home for the next few days. So clean, so fresh and so natural. (lol)

My little studio apartment, better than an hotel, much, very much cheaper than an hotel room. Yes, it is exactly just like that: little kitchen area, sleeping area (2 twin size beds together and are detachable), night stand, flat TV (will be able to watch some, since I don't have one in NY. No I don't, what for anyway. I do have Netflix for all documentaries and movies, NPR/WNYC & WBAI for News thank you)

Those 3 pics above are places located in the back of the Apartment building.

After some great 6 hours of sleep, well deserve I went for a little walk and some grocery shopping.

The Embassy of India and right across you have the Reykjavik Art Gallery. Pictures below.

Walking by the highway. This is the most friendly highway I never been, you can cross it with no problem. Unbelievable!

The Polar Bear store in Downtown and some stores below.

Beautiful Iron boat.

Those 3 pictures below were thinking while inside of the beautiful Reykjavik Art Gallery. Of course no pics of the painting were allowed.

Some people chilling in the balcony of their flat! Lovely!

I asked a nice couple from Sweden to take those pics of me. Very nice people, spend a few minutes talking to them and have been invited to have tea with them tomorrow. Looking forward to it.

That's it for today about my first day in Beautiful Iceland, while they are talking about Volcano eruption.

All flights will resume Monday at 6:00pm which will be close to midnight ET.

Ciao for now.

HIMANE Spring/ Summer 2011

2011-05-14T19:46:00.002-04:00

The Marmelade Weekender (Tote) Made of recycled umbrella and salvaged denim. Front and back pocket, fully lined with 2 interior pockets. Magnetic Closure. Big to carry all you want, great for the weekend, to travel, use it for the gym or for the beach 18.5"Lx15"Hx6"W. $140.00 Contact us for other color combination.

Available in plain cotton Organic Canvas and print $175.00. Other color available

Torbech Duffel, made of recycled umbrella and jute coffee bag. Front pocket, fully lined, zipper closure with 2 interior pockets. Available in Green, Black, Brown, Red, Yellow recycled Umbrellas with the jute.$175.00 Also available in Organic Canvas and recycled jute. Color available in Organic Canvas are Avocado and Sweet Potato $180.00.

Retro Rumper, comfortable, classy and sassy. Limited edition only as all materials are recycled.
Those two are available now and are available in the exact color show. Size 4 and 6 $150.00

The shorter version of the Retro Rumper. Create your own style (pictures showed 3 different versions with tie) $85.00

Salihae dress, made of Organic Jersey and salvaged leather for the pockets. Available in Black (1) Grey (2), Olive (1 pictured here), Black and white stripes (1 pictured below) $125.00

Raziya dress/top, all you will need for the summer. You can dress it up or down, with leggings, jeans or not, it will all depend on you. Made of 100% recycled Oxford cotton men shirt, each piece is unique and one of a kind. Contact us for other color options. (More pictures to come) $70.00

NY PIX Morning News Blog – WPIX-TV

2011-05-14T16:48:00.000-04:00

NY PIX Morning News Blog – WPIX-TV

The History of Earth Day!

2011-04-23T23:41:00.000-04:00

Earth Day

Earth Day is a day that is intended to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth 's natural environment. Earth Day was founded by United States Senator Gaylord Nelson as an environmental teach-in first held on April 22, 1970. While this first Earth Day was focused on the United States, an organization launched by Denis Hayes, who was the original national coordinator in 1970, took it international in 1990 and organized events in 141 nations.

Senator Gaylor Nelson & Environmentalist Denis Hayes

The Earth Day name

According to Senator Nelson, the moniker "Earth Day" was "an obvious and logical name" suggested by "a number of people" in the fall of 1969, including, he writes, both "a friend of mine who had been in the field of public relations" and "a New York advertising executive," Julian Koenig.

Koenig, who had been on Nelson's organizing committee in 1969, has said that the idea came to him by the coincidence of his birthday with the day selected, April 22; "Earth Day" rhyming with "birthday," the connection seemed natural. Other names circulated during preparations—Nelson himself continued to call it the National Environment Teach-In, but press coverage of the event was "practically unanimous" in its use of "Earth Day," so the name stuck.

Earth Day is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network, and is celebrated in more than 175 countries every year.

Earth Day Network

Earth Day Network was founded by Denis Hayes and the organizers of the first Earth Day in 1970 and by other national organizers, including Pam Lippe, to promote environmental activism and year-round progressive action, domestically and internationally. Earth Day Network members include NGOs, quasi-governmental agencies, local governments, activists, and others. Earth Day Network members focus on environmental education; local, national, and global policies; public environmental campaigns; and organizing national and local earth day events to promote activism and environmental protection. The international network reaches over 19,000 organizations in 192 countries, while the domestic program engages 10,000 groups and over 100,000 educators coordinating millions of community development and environmental-protection activities throughout the year.
In observance of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, Earth Day Network created multiple global initiatives, ranging from a Global Day of Conversation with mayors worldwide, focusing on bringing green investment and building a green economy; Athletes for the Earth Campaign that brings Olympic, professional, and every day athletes' voices to help promote a solution to climate change; a Billion Acts of Green Campaign which will aggregate the millions of environmental service commitments that individuals and organizations around the world make each year; to Artist for the Earth, a campaign the involves hundreds of arts institutions and artists worldwide to create environmental awareness.

Some interesting links;
http://earthday.envirolink.org/history.html
http://www.nelsonearthday.net/
http://www.earthday.org/earth-day-history-movement
http://wilderness.org/content/gaylord-nelson-and-history-earth-day?gclid=CKm9-9OctKgCFeM85Qod4FaqEA

Slow Fashion part 2 !

2011-04-02T00:43:00.000-04:00

Slow Fashion is a unified representation of all the “sustainable”, “eco”, “green”, and “ethical” fashion movements. It encourages education about the garment industry’s connection and impact on the environment and depleting resources, slowing of the supply chain to reduce excess number of trends/seasons and to encourage local quality production.

A different sort of approach is picking up steam in the fashion industry. It’s a different kind of business model where designers respect the rights of workers and the environment while still producing beautiful and conscientious clothing. This is slow fashion.

Slow fashion brings designers, retailers, and consumers together through an awareness of our clothing’s impact on the environment and the people that make it. In this way, it’s truly about living better.

Do you know (an amazing statistic) only 2 percent of the clothing Americans throw away every year are actually worn out? Well, I think I can tell you a little about that, counting the amount of clothes, I came across people do throw out and some still with their price tag attached.

Tell me something how many times do you rummaging around in your closet looking for something to wear and then occurred to you that you have given, thrown away a lot of clothes over the past years.
Darn, you’d love to have some of those items back don't you, and if not the items themselves the time it took for you to shop, clean, and manage them into your wardrobe.
I bet you wonder who’s wearing those clothes now and sometimes even answer "I wish, I were"

The slow fashion practices include:

Buying secondhand/vintage/thrift/charity clothing and consigning/donating your unwanted garments.
Choosing artisan products to support smaller business/fair trade/or locally made.
Choosing sustainable clothing made with sustainable/recycled fabrics and/or is ethically made.
Choosing quality garments that will last longer, transcend trends style, and/or be repairable.

When you do think of cleaning your closet, and before you do think about, reinvent, re-purpose, re-cut, recycle and upcycle your clothes into something else. If you cannot do it yourself, find a professional to help you or better yet contact us and we will work with you.

Remember your clothing can be a good source of fabric for another garment.

Slow fashion seeks to make a major shift from quantity to quality and questionable to ethical. It is built on the availability of information through relationships where persons/consumers are able to support designers and local retailers who espouse ethical transparency in their businesses.

Slow Fashion Award http://www.slowfashion.at/en/home.html

La mode éthique se fait chic! Quoi demander de plus?

2011-03-25T00:49:00.000-04:00

Il est de plus en plus facile (et agréable!) de s'habiller tout en respectant l'environnement et sa conscience sociale. De plus, la mode éthique se fait chic! Quoi demander de plus?

Éthique, écolo, bio, recyclé…
Difficile de s'y retrouver entre les différentes appellations qui sont récemment entrées dans le vocabulaire. Le carrefour du consommateur responsable, définit la mode éthique comme «une mode qui a un impact positif sur l'environnement, c'est-à-dire une empreinte écologique moins importante que les vêtements traditionnels», dise Brenda Plant, co-directrice du site www.ethiquette.ca

Les critères évaluées? «D'abord les textiles. On privilégie les tissus récupérés ou ceux produits avec moins de pesticides, car l'industrie du vêtement est à la base très polluante. On recherche également des entreprises qui respectent les travailleurs en leur offrant des conditions de travail décentes, les entreprises à vocation sociale, c'est-à-dire qui s'investissent dans leur milieu et, enfin, on mise sur la fabrication locale, ce qui évite les coûts de transport.»

Éthique ou équitable. Respectueux des travailleurs et de l'environnement.
Bio ou écolo. Cultivé sans nuire à l'écosystème, en utilisant des engrais naturels.
Recyclé. Usagé, ou fait en tout ou en partie de matières recyclées. Les photos ci-dessous de Catherine Edouard Charlot, qui utilise seulement seulement aves les materiaus de recyclage comme les tissus des parapluies pour creer des pieces uniques. Vous pouviez voir les creations de Catherine Charlot sur son site ici www.himane.com

Faire de bons choix
Les qualificatifs écolos sont devenus des arguments marketing pour les grandes entreprises. Par exemple, le bambou, un arbre qui se renouvelle rapidement, constitue une option écologique pour les parquets, mais il nécessite de nombreuses étapes de transformations polluantes pour produire des fibres nécessaires à la fabrication de vêtements donc, le chandail en bambou n'est peut-être pas une bonne option. De même, un textile biologique qui sert à fabriquer des vêtements dans un atelier de misère en Asie ne peut pas être considéré comme éthique.

Un outil pratique
La mode responsable est croissant, mais elle constate qu'il est difficile pour monsieur et madame tout-le-monde de s'y repérer: «Filtrer les infos, faire des recherches, cela prend du temps et il n'y a pas de logo reconnaissable que l'on puisse identifier simplement sur les étiquettes.» De là, l'utilité d'un organisme comme Éthiquette qui fait le travail de recherche, propose des adresses et enrichit son site des différents renseignements glanés par les consommateurs.

Bonne lecture et a tres bientot.
N'oubliez pas de lasisser des commentatires!

What is Slow Fashion?

2011-03-22T02:33:00.000-04:00

I was in a meetup group this Monday March 21st and the topic was about What is slow fashion?

All the way home I had the word in mind.

So, what it is" Slow Fashion"? Good quality? Custom made? One-of-a-kind item? Sustainable? Fair trade and locally made?

For me ''Slow Fashion'' is about thinking of a different approach when it comes to shopping because we need to recognize that the impacts of our collective choices can affect the environment and the people. It is also about slowing down on consumption; reducing raw materials by decreasing fashion production can allow the earth’s regenerative capabilities to take place.

I believe in good quality not in brand name. I don't believe in mass production, I like designs that are unique and it reflect amply in my work.
At Himane when we are co-creating garments for our customer we are offering a service with emotional significance, as most of the time each item have a story behind it to tell and we always invite the customer to be part of the design process, the needs of creativity, identity and participation can be more than satisfied.

As Kate Fletcher stated in 2007: "Slow fashion is about choice, information, cultural diversity and identity. Yet, critically, it is also about balance. It requires a combination of rapid imaginative change and symbolic (fashion) expression as well as durability and long-term engaging, quality products.
http://www.theecologist.org/green_green_living/clothing/269245/slow_fashion.html

Below are some pictures of items I extended their lives between 2005 and 2009 into new style, new view and new purpose. Great for the environment and life extension for the clothes. All items were made in my studio in Brooklyn, the turn around was between 2 to 3 weeks and a little bit more for the wedding gown.
The designs are timeless, innovative and one of-a-kind.

The wedding dress below, the fabrics used were over 40 years old still in good condition and I was able to create that beautiful dress, which was sold for over $3,000.00

Pictures 1, 2, 3 and 4 are made from reycled umbrella and organic Hemp.

Dresses #5, made from repurpose men shirts.

Those 3 tops below are made also from repurpose men shirts. The first top, the front piece is expendable and you can wear it up to your 5/6 months pregnancy or more.

The clutch, the eye glasses pouch and the wallet are made using recycled yoga mats.

All the bags below the first two are made of recycled umbrellas, the tote from repurpose jeans and recycled leather and the clutch from recycled umbrella and leather.

I love what I do, for more than 20 years I have been aspire to make a difference in the world in a creative and innovative way. But for the past 7 to 8 years I only been doing just that, as small as my little service and impact have been.

Join my group http://www.meetup.com/Brooklyn-Recycle-Reuse-Repurpose-Upcycle/ were you can learn to repair your clothes or upcycle them into new style or just ask your designer to help you, it’s easier than going shopping.
Ask your favorite stores about repair services that may get them thinking!!!

Please let's hear what you have to say about your idea on Slow Fashion. Share with us!!

Could Polyester be the Next Eco-Friendly Fabric?

2011-03-21T13:21:00.000-04:00

Out of all the fibers, polyester has the worst reputation—and unfairly so. I know eco-conscious people who would rather wear conventional cotton than let a polyester garment touch their skin. They scoff at me when I proclaim I love polyester, often questioning my intelligence, sanity, and taste. Yet I believe that consumers who refuse to wear synthetics are buying into one of the biggest misconceptions about fashion’s sustainability problem.

Read more here: http://www.ecouterre.com/category/ask-a-designer/

A recycled-polyester dress from the H&M Conscious Collection

Post Holiday Clothing Swap: Start the year off on a fashionable foot! January 15th.

2011-01-09T23:34:00.000-05:00

The holiday gift giving madness is behind you, which is the perfect time to figure out what to do with the clothing gifts received which you knew was destined to collect dust in your closet.
Well we have a happy answer to that! Your “trash” becomes someone else’s treasure or you can Upcycle. Whether you have purged your closets for the New Year or it is an unwanted present, bring it!
What sets the Style with Glee swaps apart from others is that you get Stylist Gabriela Lee’s expert opinion on what items others have bought that should go home with you. She reviews each garment and will style you on the spot. (www.stylewithglee.com)

Presentation:
Catherine Charlot, owner of HIMANE who tell you how you can UPCYCLE items by creating a BRAND new accessory or garment. Transform items that you just can’t part with into a piece you would enjoy wearing, like a leather jacket into a bag, a shirt into a dress or dress into another dress!

Learn about Upcycling here: http://himane.com/upcycle.aspx

Cost: $10 (can be applied to any Style with Glee or HIMANE private services)

When: Saturday Jauary 15, 2011

Start at 1:00 pm

Location: Branded Saloon
603 Vanderbilt Avenue (corner of Bergen Street)Brooklyn, NY 11238(718) 484-8704

Welcome 2011- Upcycle Your Look in French & English!

2011-01-03T20:33:00.000-05:00

The very best Successful wishes for a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2011.
Thank you for reading HIMANE Upcycle Your Look blog!

To start the New Year we would like to share a few tips to get you started in living a sustainable lifestyle:

1. Visit your local farmer's market for organic fruits and veggies and use organic personal care.
2.   Recycle everything! Paper, bottles, plastics, old clothes, all type of materials and home items!
3.   Support your local artists and designers by purchasing items made out of Recycled materials.
4.   Purchase energy efficient appliances.
5.   Participate or even organize your own clothing swap.
6.   Support sustainable businesses producing green products to improve your indoor air quality by using chemical free cleaners, live plants, sustainable fabrics and paint in your home.
7.    Green your home: Reduce your use of and eliminate junk mail.
8.    Green your travel.
9.    Make every day choices matter.
10. Instead of driving, use public transportation or ride your bike daily.

Voici la nouvelle année, comme un chemin qui se dévoile.
Que sur la route de vos projets, le soleil se mêle aux étoiles.

Chaque jour est unique,
chaque année est une promesse de joies et de découvertes.

Que 2011 soit pour vous une année spéciale,
que des milliers de petites joies viennent embellir votre vie.

Bonne Annee, Vivre Vert 2011

!!! Vivre Vert!!! Choisissez des vetements et accessoires faites avec des materiaux de recyclage!

And We are Back!

2010-10-29T19:23:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the long silence!
A lot of things have been going on: trip to Haiti, working on new designs, new website coming up, working with another company (more details later) to create more eco friendly designs and much more. Interview with WNYC/NPR, ZDF (German TV), CNN International and R7 (Brazilian TV)
Since I cannot leave you out any longer so I wanted to share with you some of the work. Most of them will be in the new site for you to shop, just one more week to go.

From HIMANE' studio to you: The Sophia Jacket Collection (S, M, L). One of a kind, made of recycled materials like: shirts, suits, dead stock and silk organic hemp.
The Wilma Clutch collection, made of recycled umbrella, Vegan leather and remnants of leather.

from this old shirt to -----------> a beautiful tailored Jacket! Fabrics are cotton (shirt) and recycled wool.

The Sophia Jacket collection you can dress them up or down depend of your mood. Wear it with your skinny jeans, tights, your mini skirt or just wear it for that corporate look. It is up to you, just make it work.

Plaid fabric was from a dead stock from a factory and the black fabric is organic silk Hemp.

Re-claimed Fabrics not sure about the content but the type of silk and rayon.

Note: A large portion of fabrics use in our designs are from recycled or/and re-claimed materials for which the fiber content is not always know. If it is not know it will be referred as "fabric type" which means we will state what we believe it to be. Please bare in mind this cannot always be accurate. Thank you.

The WILMA Clutches collection made of recycled umbrella (body), remnants of leather (ties and flap) and Vegan Leather. Lined with silk, rayon and/or cotton. The collection come in 3 different sizes; small 13"X8", medium 15"X8" and large 17.5"X8.5"

Thanks to Victoria and Patricia, you ladies are great and it is a pleasure working with you.

Until next week.

Have a great weekend!

Green in Brooklyn Workshops

2010-08-30T22:48:00.000-04:00

Every Sunday in September, Myrtle Avenue (between Hall & Claremont) becomes a pedestrian-friendly public space for dance, music, food, art & much more. There will be kids’ activities & games, sidewalk cafes, yoga classes, performances, cooking demos & a daily raffle to win $100 gift certificates.
Here at Green in BKLYN, they also have an amazing schedule of events with:

Brooklyn authors signing books
Composting experts answering questions
Bags being made from umbrellas
Local honey being extracted from local hives
An international dog artist making art
And electronic waste being collected (& safely disposed of)

Plus, they will be collecting books for the local community center & broken umbrellas for making into bags.
Be sure to mark your calendar. September’s gonna rock the ‘hood! Here’s the schedule to prove it…

Sunday, September 5th

Himane Umbrella Tote

Fish stew from Casamance (Caldou)

Your kitchen waste solution

12-2: Himane Designer Catherine Charlot Makes Bags from Broken Umbrellas
2-4: Vokashi Reps Answer Composting Questions & Talk About Embokashi Composting
4:30-6: Pierre Thiam Signs Yolele! Recipes from the Heart of Senegal

All Day: Drop Off Broken Umbrellas for Himane’s Umbrellas to Bags Program

Sunday, September 12th

12-2: Tillamook Cheddar, Renowned Dog Artist, Makes Art & Meets the Public
2-4: Vokashi Reps Answer More Composting Questions
4-6: Kate Hanley, Author of The Anywhere, Anytime Chill Guide: 77 Simple Strategies for Serenity, Leads a Lollipop Meditation

All Day: Drop Off Electronic Waste for Recycling by the Mac Support Store

Sunday, September 19th

12-6: Ranjit Bhatnagar‘s Installation Tweets Beautiful Birdy Tunes
12-2: Vokashi Reps Answer Some More Composting Questions
2-4: Honey is Extracted & Labels are Made with the Three Sisters Honey Family
4-6: Thomas Chatterton Williams Signs Losing My Cool: How A Father’s Love & 15, 000 Books Beat Hip-Hop Culture

All Day: Drop Off Books for Donation to the Ingersoll Cornerstone Community Center Library

Sunday, September 26th

12-2: Pangea Organics Beauty Advisor Talks Gorgeous & Gives Away Samples
2-4: Vokashi Reps Answer Even More Composting Questions
4-6: Cathy Erway Signs The Art of Eating In: How I Learned to Stop Spending & Love the Stove

All Day: The Big Bike Thing Returns with Magnificent Mia (2 seats, 2 drivers, 9′ tires, all fun)

Intimacy, Transparency Adjustable Dress.

2010-08-29T18:57:00.000-04:00

The dresses presented in this post is designed by Dutch designers Studio Roosegaarde and V2_. Called Intimacy, the garments are made of electrically-sensitive foils that become opaque or transparent according to alterations in current.

Intimacy Black is made from strips of black material that turn transparent as another person gets closer. (left) Intimacy White varies in transparency depending on the wearer’s own interactions with the dress. (right)

The illuminated globe or “pearl” contains a wireless device which communicates with the dress using RF Transmission. When the “pearl” is brought closer to the dress, the dress slowly becomes more transparent.

Intimacy is a fashion project about the relation between intimacy and technology. Its high-tech garments ‘Intimacy White’ and ‘Intimacy Black’ are made out of interactive technologies and smart e-foils which become transparent based on personal interactions.

BioCouture: U.K. Designer “Grows” an Entire Wardrobe From Bacteria

2010-07-16T00:00:00.001-04:00

I came across this article on ecouterre site by Jasmin Malik Chua, , found it very fascinating, super interesting and my dear friend Rachel send it to me from Denmark as she could not believe it. See and read for yourself.

Suzanne Lee can conjure clothing out of thin air. No, wait, that’s not entirely accurate. She’ll need at least a couple of bathtubs, some yeast, a pinch of bacteria, and several cups of sweetened green tea. Lee, who is a senior research fellow at the School of Fashion & Textiles at Central Saint Martins in London, is the brains (and brawn) behind BioCouture, an experiment in growing garments from the same microbes that ferment the tasty caffeinated beverage.

The ruffle-embellished jacket is the latest addition to Lee’s kooky collection of biofilm wearables, all of which can be swiftly composted when they wear out.

How Eco-Friendly is Bamboo Fabric, Really?

2010-07-13T16:12:00.000-04:00

Bamboo is the fastest-growing woody plant in the world, capable of growing up to four feet a day. Most of it is grown organically (though very little is certified organic), and in most locations requires no irrigation or fertilizers. There are some concerns about its use, namely depleting natural bamboo habitats (for pandas) and clearing forests for bamboo plantations. But for the most part, the growing of bamboo can be considered sustainable. Fabric made from bamboo, however, is more controversial.

BAMBOO RAYON

Bamboo stalks contain bast fibers that can be processed into a relatively stiff and rough fabric like flax (linen) or hemp. Most bamboo fabric in the market, however, has a smooth, silky hand that feels similar to rayon—because that’s essentially what it is.

Most bamboo fabric has a smooth hand that feels like rayon—because that’s essentially what it is.

Rayon is a regenerated cellulose fiber, which means that a natural raw material is converted through a chemical process into a fiber that falls into a category between naturals and synthetics. The source of cellulose can be wood, paper, cotton fiber, or in this case bamboo.

RAYON ALTERNATIVES

Patagonia’s material developers have been investigating bamboo since 2003, but since almost all available bamboo fabric is made using the viscose process, we don’t use bamboo fabric in our product line. We’re aware of some linen-type bamboo fabric that is processed as bast
fiber, but currently we’re not using it because we have hemp fabrics that perform well in this type of application.
The appeal of bamboo fabric is usually the drape and the hand that is a product of the viscose-type chemical processing. We’ve searched for an alternative fabric with these attributes, but with less harm to the environment.

Tencel is also a regenerated cellulose fiber, but processed with a nontoxic spinning solvent in a closed-loop system.
Read more here via http://www.ecouterre.com/20176/how-eco-friendly-is-bamboo-fabric-really/

Trip to Philly-Umbrellas pick-up

2010-07-09T00:30:00.000-04:00

Dutch Umbrella in Philly have been supporting our work very closely. Not only we will be making totes from their own discarded umbrellas, they also did conduct an Umbrella drive during the month of June, Independent Retail Week for HIMANE.

My visit to Philly on June 18th

Karen Rostmeyer from Ducth Umbrella is loading two boxes full of umbrellas in the car. Such a nice and beautiful person.

with my scissor and seam ripper two hours before I headed back to New York. The umbrellas skeleton were collected by Dutch Umbrella to be recycled.

In Karen Rostmeyer words:

HIMANE Friends of Dutch Umbrella

Catherine Charlot of Himane takes time before heading back to NYC to breakdown the nearly 100 umbrellas Dutch Umbrella donated during Independent Retail Week in Philadelphia. I was amazed at how quickly she could break them down!

What I do with your "retired" Umbrellas materials among other things.

If you are in Philly and would like to donate your old umbrella, contact Dutch Umbrella or you can do exactly that "see below".

Dutch Umbrella

In Philadelphia we'll collect your broken umbrella and get it to Himane. Just leave it at a RainDrop and we'll take it with us when we restock at the beginning of every month.

Those little guys from the umbrellas are also recycled and reused as accessories/art items in many different ways.

Support our effort and let's recycle together. Before putting this old umbrella into the trash can, think about the environment and our landfills.

17-Year-Old Former Refugee Turns Spent Bullets into Pro-Peace Jewelry

2010-07-03T00:00:00.001-04:00

Beautiful girl, great and smart ideas. So proud of her. Turn the bad things into something good!
Read full story below.

Out of ashes comes new life and Lovetta Conto, who grew up in Ghanaian refugee camp, knows that better than most. She was only 18 months old when she fled her native Liberia with her father to escape its civil war. When she turned five, they reached Ghana, where she spent the next nine years living with with 47,000 other people. At 14, she left her father and moved to America as part of the Strongheart Fellowship Program. Now 17, Conto makes jewelry using the spent casings of bullets fired during the same civil war she escaped.

ANTI-WAR FARE

Despite a difficult upbringing that frequently included going without food and water, Conto always harbored aspirations of becoming a fashion designer. With help from the Austin-based Strongheart Foundation, notably founder Cori Stern, who spent two years getting her a U.S. visa, Conto is now designing her own line.

“Akawalle,” which translates into “also known as love,” uses spent bullet casings from the Liberian civil war.

Named “Akawelle,”, which translates to “also known as love,” Conto’s collection includes bullets that were used in Liberia during its civil war. The top of the bullet is is melted down and refashioned into a leaf-shaped pendant, which Conto engraves with the word “Life” to symbolize the promise of new life arising from even the worst hardship. The bullet’s bottom is filed and strung on a chain like a bead.
Proceeds from each necklace benefits the Strongheart House, a safe house in Robertsport, Liberia, for gifted youngsters from the developing world who are displaced by war or other circumstance. “I wanted to keep the memory of my people alive,” Conto says. “Everything I was doing, I had in the back of my mind ‘I can use this money to help the other people who are left behind: kids whose parents died in the war or kids who don’t have the opportunity I had.’”

+ Akawelle
[Via CNN]

Salmon Leather: A Fishy Fabric, But Will Designers Take the Bait?

2010-06-30T15:25:00.000-04:00

SALMON LEATHER

A dyeable textile made from salmon skin—a byproduct of the fish processing industry that usually gets tossed into the landfill—using chemicals that are less toxic than those for tanning mammal hides because fish scales are easier to remove from skin than hair. (Note: no new salmon is killed expressly for its skin.) b: A resilient fabric that is stronger than most land leathers—and does not smell like fish. c: A reliable, affordable source of “sea leather” used by companies such as ES Salmon Leather, One October, Unnurwear, and Skini London in clothing, accessories, furnishing, home decor, and even bikinis.

Salmon leather was recently used in the form of die-cut paillettes by fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi to create an entire ensemble (jacket, dress, open-back shoes) for the Nature Conservancy’s “Design for a Living World” exhibition at the Cooper-Hewitt Museum in New York City.

by Jasmin Malik Chua

http://www.ecouterre.com/269/salmon-leather-a-fishy-fabric-but-will-designers-take-the-bait/

Upcycle 101- Changing the purpose of an Item

2010-06-15T09:00:00.004-04:00

Instead of getting new clothes or throwing out the family old ones, why not try to UPCYCLING them into great, beautiful usable additions items to your wardrobe!

Here are some great ideas for things that can be made:
1- From a Dress

2- From a Skirt (Depends on the size of the skirt)

3-From men shirts

Want to learn how to? Visit us at www.himane.com/classes
or give us a call

Our first Trashy Chic event Pictures

2010-06-11T09:02:00.001-04:00

The June 3rd event at Linger Cafe & Lounge was our first "Trashy Chic" Thursday. Why Trashy Chic? We came up with the moniker because it characterizes what we do. We design our crafts by recycling discarded remnants of materials (umbrellas, old garments, plastic bags, found objects and more). In a nutshell, this is the rationale behind “Trashy Chic”.

At our first presentation, I was joined by the very talented and outstanding Stephanie Huffaker who makes jewelry out of discarded plastic bags. Those present were in awe at the ingenuity behind her work, and the symbiosis between dresses and jewelry made out of discarded materials was needless to say inescapable.

Stay tune for more exciting "Trashy Chic" events.

Here are some pictures of the event, enjoy.

Abby is wearing a cocktail dress (little black dress) made of recycled umbrella and her jewelries (necklace and bangles) are made of recycled plastic bags of Garbage of Eden.

Phoebe is wearing a dress made of :insert piece; recycled umbrella and the body of the dress of Organic Hemp. Her bangles are made of recycled plastic bags.

Laiza is wearing a dress made of recycled men shirt, and the old collar is been used as accessories. Her bangles are made of discarded plastic bags of Garbage of Eden.

Natalie is wearing a skirt made of men recycled sleeve shirts.
Abby is wearing a dress made of recycled men trousers and recycled tie.

Abby is wearing a top made of recycled men shirt.

Stephanie of Garbage of Eden is wearing a dress made of umbrellas and organic Hemp.

I am wearing a dress made of recycled men trousers and I added a beautiful scrap of lace to accentuate the look. My bangles and ring are of Garbage of Eden made of recycled plastic bags.

Laiza is wearing a top made of a recycled men shirt and the insert is from a recycled umbrella.

Natalie is wearing a dress made of recycled materials, the front piece and tie are from a men trousers.

Sebila is wearing a dress made of recycled cotton and silk and her jewelries are of Garbage of Eden.

Laiza is wearing a dress made of recycled materials. 100% cotton.

Phoebe dress is made of recycled materials and her tote is made of recycled umbrella and upholstery materials.

7 Eco-Friendly Sandals To Kick Off Summer in Style (ecouterre)

2010-06-08T11:37:00.001-04:00

They look so comfy and I need one.

Kick off those restrictive, cool-weather bindings—hello, it is the 21st century—and slip your tootsies into something with plenty of room to breathe. Above, a pair of eco-certified leather sandals ($85) from Simple Shoes

http://www.ecouterre.com/17726/7-eco-friendly-sandals-to-kick-off-summer-in-style/eco-friendly-sandals/?extend=1

Flip-Flops Made From Recycled Chopsticks

2010-06-06T21:08:00.000-04:00

Months ago (almost a year now), I started collecting chopsticks, don't ask me why, I look at them and think I might do something later with them. Going to Chance Bistro http://www.chancecuisine.com or Em Thai Restaurant http://emthaikitchen.com/main.html on Smith Street for lunch, I will leave with a bunch of used chopsticks. The waitress at Chance will ask me why am I collecting them and my answer will always be don't know yet but when I do I will let you know. By the way the food at both locations are great. Check them out if you are in Brooklyn, Carroll Gardens area.

I came across this article in ecouterre, could not believe it but find the idea super brilliant!
Palmer created a pair of surf-and-sand-ready flip-flops from completely recycled materials (we think; more on that later). Composed of chopsticks salvaged from a dumpster behind a Japanese restaurant, cork from an old bulletin board, and leather straps from a discarded bag... http://www.ecouterre.com/18411/chop-flops-eco-friendly-flip-flops-made-from-recycled-chopsticks/

Stay tuned for more great and beautiful ideas !!!

The Sound and music vibe in NYC Subways

2010-06-05T12:40:00.000-04:00

Our first "Trashy Chic Thursdays" was a success last night. Most of those who confirmed did not show and those who didn't show up. It was great, we had some fun, made a few sales and everyone was happy.
Pictures will be posted as we received them.

Today I decided to stay in, a break well deserved.
Later in the afternoon I went to the studio to collect some pieces that needed to be delivered to BTJ and head out to Williamsburg for a little stroll and fun.

While walking on Eastern Parkway to the Subway. Beautiful

The free entertainment in NYC Subways. Just amazing!
While on 14th street station Union Square, a group of 3 men were playing beautiful music from the 70's, at another platform another young man was all Bob Marley, another platform two gentlemen were all about Michael Jackson and the last one, was an African singer/player as you can see below. The beat was so great and tempting I even dance to the beat. I did enjoy them all but the African beat was something else and just by the look and the attention of the other commuters it said it all.

Even I could not understand what he was saying the beautiful smile on his face, the melody and the beat was wonderful and I just cannot describe it.
Walking the subways of NYC you have seen it all, and what better entertainment can you get and for free!

Have a great Saturday and see you soon!

Our TRASHY CHIC THURSDAY @ Linger Cafe & Lounge June 3rd, 2010

2010-05-22T16:09:00.002-04:00

Join us on Thursday, June 3rd for our fist "Trashy Chic Thursday" at Linger Cafe & Lounge.
Opening Reception 7:30 to 8:00 pm, follow by a Fashion Show at 8:00 pm of Haitian Designer Catherine E. Charlot of HIMANE and Stephanie Huffaker of Garbage of Eden.

The two designers will introduce their apparel and accessories designs made using recycled old clothes, discarded umbrellas and plastic bags.

Trashy Chic Thursday is a monthly party/exhibition series introducing the work of local artists and designers who focus on recycled materials while supporting and important cause (www.chfoundation.org). Come check out the excitement (and the excellent food!) at Linger Cafe & Lounge, located at 533 Atlantic Ave between 3rd & 4th ave.

All items will be on sale, 30% of your purchase will go to support the Collective Hands Foundation (www.chfoundation.org) in their effort to promote recycling program in schools and to help build and sustain a unique art and design school in Haiti.

Still not convinced of what we can do with your "TRASH"? We have more to show you on Thursday June 3rd.

Stay tuned for more "Trashy Chic Thursdays" as we keep coming with our blow out coverage of different events.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

RSVP @

Kontak@himane.com

Hot Saturdays @ Linger Cafe & Lounge, Kicks off Saturday April, 24, 2010

2010-04-17T23:02:00.000-04:00

C.H.Foundation in collaboration with Stevie's Artisans, present a series of Hot Saturdays at Linger Cafe & Lounge, 533 Atlantic, (betw 3rd & 4th Ave) The series kicks off Saturday, April 24, 7 to 10pm with a Fashion Show presentation of Dominican artist and designer Ivette Urbaez's original silk screened fashions.

Hot Saturdays promotes and introduces the work of emerging artists and designers in a fun get together/networking event that includes music and good food.

A raffle will be held to benefit the Collective Hands Foundation: aid to art education. Donated raffle items include a tote bag designed by Ivette Urbaez, a Stevie's Artisans jewelry item and a unique design by Catherine Charlot.

An Artistic Journey in Brooklyn - Saturday, April 3, 2010

2010-04-04T17:08:00.000-04:00

My dear friend Pauline, whom I have not seen in a while, decided to meet me this Saturday to enjoy a beautiful day in Brooklyn through art.

First, we went to Linger Cafe Lounge for brunch, where we had an exquisite meal. This is one of my favorite places to unwind in Brooklyn.

After brunch we went two doors down to the new de Castellane Gallery, where Rowland Scherman's incredible life's work behind the camera is currently being featured. Scherman's camera captured images of legends such as Sammy Davis Jr., Bob Dylan, John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, The Beatles, Woody Allen, and many others. Also featured in the gallery is a collection of other artists' work, including those of the owner, Hans de Castellane. The other artists include: Michael Tharp, Cortne Lanier, Alex Yudzon, Ted Dimond, Alexis Winslow, Taylor Fox, Jenny Pope, Cindy Vallino and Lau Gallico.

Here are just a few pictures I took at the de Castellane Gallery.

Some of Rowland Scherman's beautiful pictures on display.

Hans de Castellane, the owner of the Gallery, posing in front of his work.

de Castellane paintings

Hans with my friend Pauline
With Hans

Rowland Scherman (front) with Hans.

With artist Lau Gallico,

posing by her work while joking around. What a lovely lady!
Art by Cindy Vallino

Toki the cat, was an observer as well. He is at the Gallery everyday with his dad, Hans de Castellane.

Pauline posing by the pictures of the late Robert Kennedy, by Rowland Scherman.

My friend and I were surprised to discover that the lady with the tea cup is a young Barbara Walters, during her early days at NBC in the 60's.

We finished our lovely Saturday at the Brooklyn Museum. The first Saturday of the month permit visitors to participate and witness free events, such as live music, movies, lectures, new art exhibits and more. Check it out you---you won't regret it!

The following pictures chronicle our wonderful experiences at the museum.

When we entered the Rubin Pavilion, we were greeted by a wonderful performance by Zikrayat, who performed music inspired by Egypt's golden age of musical cinema.

We also saw mummies in the Egyptian collection in the first floor. This mummy is significant because the person inside was not Egyptian; he was Greek. A small portrait of the man where his head used to be! We also visited the African collection!

It was a lovely day very instructive, relaxing, enjoying the company of a good friend. Enjoy the pictures and think of taking a day off to enjoy the beauty around you, even if it is in your own neighborhood!

Donations- Cereals boxes and other using as Tags.

2010-04-03T01:33:00.000-04:00

A dear teacher/designer found my contact via a client/designer, had a bag full of scraps of fabrics to donate which she collected from another designer and a "retired" umbrella.
I collected everything this morning on my way to the studio. Beautiful and very interesting scraps of materials. Pictures are not very clear but believe me when I told you the fabrics are amazing.

Found a beautiful little shopping bag in front of my studio door this morning. Surprise! 3 umbrellas nicely folded inside, donated by a good person whom I have no idea who he or she might be. Thank you whomever you are.

Since my designs and work have been focusing on recycle and waste reduction, a year ago I decided to use light cardboard boxes (cookies, cereals, oatmeal and others) as my clothing and accessories info/price tags. Had my stamps made, been collected boxes from friends and other people before they discarded them. The stores I deal with of course love the idea, find it very original and today I have a total of 150 boxes in my studio. Here a few pics.

The Weeks in Review- March 11th to March 31st, 2010

2010-04-02T02:25:00.000-04:00

Due to my crazy schedule, I have not been able to do any update.

I wanted to brief you very quickly on the latest news for the past few weeks.

The night before at Linger Cafe, just to fix a few paintings.

Some pictures of the event's night on March 11th.

The food was great Latalaye Catering and the staff at Linger Cafe outdone themselves.

TiGa the entertainer with client Eliza and sweet baby.

The boys.Cathie with Eliza sweet baby

Michele (left) the owner of La Talaye Catering (check the website) and Jessica the owner of Linger Cafe Lounge (pick a boo at her website).

Thank you ladies, with your great cooking you made the night a success.

March 17th, I met with the President and Program Director of the Advocacy Lab (check their website). Prior to our meeting their Program Director contacted me and offer me to be a part of their effort and programs with different schools, which will focus on Human rights issue of poverty, specifically in Haiti in the aftermath of the tragic earthquake. The students will be focusing on art and activism, and will be making a huge display with the letters "Empower Haiti". Found it very lovely.

Pictures of our meeting.

I met a great woman, the owner of Stevie's Artisans, at our event on the 11th of March.

We met on the 20th of March and agreed to join forces as our companies will be a great support to each other. Will share with you later some great news. STAY TUNED!!!!

March 22nd met at my studio in Brooklyn with the Program Director of the Advocacy Lab, Marissa G.V. they need some fabrics for their schools program and I want to donate some scraps of fabrics for the students Empower Haiti project. Also I have been invited to visit, work and to do a speech in a couple of weeks at one of the school in Brooklyn. Exciting.

The building of my studio on 2nd Ave in Brooklyn.

March 24th have been invited to attend the New York Women's Foundation event. A link about their foundation (http://www.nywf.org/about.html.
Did invite Stephanie Trudeau from Stevie's Artisans to come along since we had some business deal to discuss. Had a great time and met a few of the women from the organization. Very lovely ladies.

A few pictures of the ladies belong to the organization.

A soggy month of March left a plethora of broken umbrellas on the city’s streets and in its trash cans and I have been very busy collecting them. Some dear friends and colleagues were nice enough to also collect them for me and I did receive a few as donation as well.

Pictures of those forgotten jewels.

Beatrix (left) an artist from the building collected 6 umbrellas this week and Mary (right) another designer found on Wednesday those 2 "goodies" and brought them at the studio.

So the total of umbrellas I collected for the month of March was 113. Very good, so exciting.

For all the support, and donations to you all I want to say thank you.

So happy to have "you" in my life.

Thank you!!!!

Art Expo and Fashion Presentation

2010-03-03T15:01:00.000-05:00

Please join us for a fantastic artistic night at our favorite place: Linger Cafe, located at 533 Atlantic Ave. Brooklyn, NY on March 11th from 7:00pm-10:00pm!

Come see what HIMANE designer Catherine Charlot have in stores for her Spring/Summer collection (available at local stores in Brooklyn and Manhattan) and also for you to discover Haitian art and local artists here in New York.

Light appetizers provided by Latalaye Catering (www.latalaye.com) and Linger Cafe. Plus, great music by Haitian entertainer, Ti Ga.

Himane will be raffling her signature tote bags and there will also be an art auction. The paintings will remain at the location for a period of one (1) week on display.

$20.00 at the door
Please call us for any additional details.

A Peek Behind the Eco Fabric Curtain: An Overview of Raw Materials

2010-02-28T18:10:00.000-05:00

I came across this article by Lorranie Smith, Sustainability Consultant and I found it very interesting and educative:
A Peek Behind the Eco Fabric Curtain: An Overview of Raw Materials

Here, another article by Vanessa Friedman about:
Sustainable fashion: what does green mean?
The link to the article: http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/2b27447e-11e4-11df-b6e3-00144feab49a.html

Gucci designer Frida Giannini believes “sustainable fashion” means “quality items symbolized by a timeless handbag you can pass on”

SNOWY DAY & TRIP TO THE TRAILER IN JERSEY CITY.

2010-02-25T21:00:00.000-05:00

I have been working myself to death lately with; getting things organized and ready for my next future events, meeting with clients demand, looking for sponsors for different events.

I guess sometimes I do think that I am a super woman or something, but last night my body litterally shut down at around 9 pm and for the first time in 2 months I slept until 8 am this morning. So, since I did not have any meeting today I decided to stay in to update my website and do other little work here and there.
At around 9:45 am my dear friend and model Marija Kero called and was on her way to pick me up.

Marija is so dedicated to help with my project in collecting donations from all over.
A good friend of hers, Adonis Mayol from EVANS DELIVERY COMPANY, Inc. donate a trailer which offer me the opportunity and ability to ship everything to Haiti.
So being off today as well Marija and brother Roko came to pick me up so I can finally meet Adonis to thank him for his gift and generosity, also to collect the keys and to start loading boxes in the trailer.
So at around 10 this morning all 3 of us drove to Jersey City in that crazy weather but feeling wonderful and joking all along the way.

Adonis and his family own the trucking company and was so generous to donate that 53 feet long trailer for me to ship donations I have been collected, tents, sleeping bags and other necessary items I purchased from money I collected at my last event on January 28th and will be looking to purchase more in the near future to send to Haiti as I am trying my best to reach out and help families, friends, hundred of people who are in need, a country and a nation in despair.
Marija, Roko, Adonis and to all of you I would like to say thank you for your help and support.

For those of you who would like to donate, live around NJ and to drop your donations, the trailer is located at 400 Duncan Ave., Jersey City, NJ. 07306
The phone number is 201-309-0711 ask for Adonis, but please do contact me prior at 646-250-5101
It will be the trailer with words HIMANE- HAITI RELIEF you will look for and leave your donations in or just leave the packages with the security guard.
Remember you can always bring your donations to my studio in Brooklyn if you are in Brooklyn, Bronx, Staten Island or Manhattan and cannot make the trip to Jersey.

A list of items we would like to receive and need: Antibiotic Ointment (Neosporin); Analgesics (Tylenol, Aspirin, Advil, Aleve); Sinus Medications; Diapers; Baby Bottles; Antibacterial solutions (Peroxide); Hand Sanitizers; Masks; Sterile Gloves; Rolled Bandages; Baby Formula; Infant Re-hydration (Pedialyte); Kaopectate antidiarreal medications; Personal Care Items (Toothbrushes, Toothpaste, Soaps, Feminine Hygiene Supplies), Cooking oil, Canned Foods, Water, Sleeping bags, Tents etc.

A few pictures of today at Adonis' trucking company.

Marija with Adonis showing the trailer's key

The trailer

Adonis, opening the trailer for us to take a look.

Inside of the trailer. It is huge. I am going to need a lot of items to fill this 53 feet long trailer before I ship it.

Roko, Marija and Adonis

With Adonis. Such a lovely person. Thank you so much my dear.

With Marija. Very dedicated woman. She is helping me collecting donations from her friends, family and different schools. Thank you my dear friend.

A picture of the trailer while leaving the area.

It was a great and lovely day!!

We are on our way to look for a place to eat before heading home.

HIMANE Sustainable Designs

Life-Size Plane for Spring 2012 Paris Couture Week Show!

What Happens to Our Cast Off Clothing?

Your Waste Materials!

HIMANE 2011 in Review! Happy Greenly New Year.

Happy Holidays & Happy Green wrapping!

History of Furoshiki

An Upcycled, Unforgettable Thanksmas Q&A

Cool Items in our Online Store!

Soil as Fabric Dye? Earth Dyeing Hits Pay Dirt

Recycled Coir (Coconut husk) into Vegan Friendly Outwear!

Jute cultivation and Process

HIMANE is on OPRAH Magazine!

Poly Construction Tarp- Upcycle

Long silence, and we are back!

Wearable Technology Water-Purifying Raincoat Keeps You Dry, Quenches Thirst on the Go

Summer is almost Over- Welcome to Fall!

Rainy Day brings HIMANE lot of luck!

Recycle your CLothes!

About your Clothing!

Japanese Designer Rie Hosokai Turns Balloons Into Inflatable Couture

Come Shop HIMANE in Nyack, Piermont, NY at GrandView,!

Iceland, Reykjavik, Last day- May 25 2011

Iceland, Reykjavik, Day 3 May 24 2011

Iceland, Reykjavik, Day 2 May 23rd 2011

Iceland, Reykjavik, 1st Day May 22nd 2011

HIMANE Spring/ Summer 2011

NY PIX Morning News Blog – WPIX-TV

The History of Earth Day!

Earth Day

The Earth Day name

According to Senator Nelson, the moniker "Earth Day" was "an obvious and logical name" suggested by "a number of people" in the fall of 1969, including, he writes, both "a friend of mine who had been in the field of public relations" and "a New York advertising executive," Julian Koenig.

Earth Day Network

Slow Fashion part 2 !

La mode éthique se fait chic! Quoi demander de plus?

What is Slow Fashion?

Could Polyester be the Next Eco-Friendly Fabric?

Post Holiday Clothing Swap: Start the year off on a fashionable foot! January 15th.

Welcome 2011- Upcycle Your Look in French & English!

And We are Back!

Green in Brooklyn Workshops

Intimacy, Transparency Adjustable Dress.

BioCouture: U.K. Designer “Grows” an Entire Wardrobe From Bacteria

How Eco-Friendly is Bamboo Fabric, Really?

BAMBOO RAYON

Most bamboo fabric has a smooth hand that feels like rayon—because that’s essentially what it is.

RAYON ALTERNATIVES

Tencel is also a regenerated cellulose fiber, but processed with a nontoxic spinning solvent in a closed-loop system.Read more here via http://www.ecouterre.com/20176/how-eco-friendly-is-bamboo-fabric-really/

Trip to Philly-Umbrellas pick-up

17-Year-Old Former Refugee Turns Spent Bullets into Pro-Peace Jewelry

ANTI-WAR FARE

“Akawalle,” which translates into “also known as love,” uses spent bullet casings from the Liberian civil war.

Salmon Leather: A Fishy Fabric, But Will Designers Take the Bait?

SALMON LEATHER

by Jasmin Malik Chua

http://www.ecouterre.com/269/salmon-leather-a-fishy-fabric-but-will-designers-take-the-bait/

Upcycle 101- Changing the purpose of an Item

Our first Trashy Chic event Pictures

7 Eco-Friendly Sandals To Kick Off Summer in Style (ecouterre)

Flip-Flops Made From Recycled Chopsticks

The Sound and music vibe in NYC Subways

Our TRASHY CHIC THURSDAY @ Linger Cafe & Lounge June 3rd, 2010

Hot Saturdays @ Linger Cafe & Lounge, Kicks off Saturday April, 24, 2010

An Artistic Journey in Brooklyn - Saturday, April 3, 2010

Donations- Cereals boxes and other using as Tags.

The Weeks in Review- March 11th to March 31st, 2010

Art Expo and Fashion Presentation

A Peek Behind the Eco Fabric Curtain: An Overview of Raw Materials

SNOWY DAY & TRIP TO THE TRAILER IN JERSEY CITY.

Tencel is also a regenerated cellulose fiber, but processed with a nontoxic spinning solvent in a closed-loop system.
Read more here via http://www.ecouterre.com/20176/how-eco-friendly-is-bamboo-fabric-really/