Eco Baby
The Fleurville’s Mod Pod changing kit makes an ecological statement while looking like no ordinary diaper pad. The PVC-free and Teflon-free Fleurville’s Green-LAM line is made with environmentally friendly polyurethane laminate. This moisture-repellent bag, which is made from recycled plastic bottles, has garnered a following among such celebrity mothers as Gwyneth Paltrow and Sarah Jessica Parker.
$50, at La Jolie Rose and Hannah Bear Boutique, Grosse Pointe; 313-882-6966.
Steal of Approval
Boxed wines were once considered shoddy, but many have improved in quality. Bandit wines, from California’s Three Thieves Vineyards, are decent pours, and can be tossed in the cooler for picnics. Plus, they’re ecologically sound. One truckload of cartons equals 26 truckloads of empty wine bottles. Here’s the best part: Bandit’s 1-liter cartons offer a third more than 750-ml bottles.
$7.99 for pinot grigio and chardonnay at Holiday Market, Royal Oak; 248-541-1414, and other wine retailers.
Sun Powder
We’ve come to associate SPF protection with lotions, creams, and oils. But powders are getting into the act. Benefit’s Hello Flawless compact contains a lightweight, sheer finish available in six shades that all offer SPF 15 protection as a matte insurance policy best used in combination with your usual sun-blocking products.
$34, at Sephora locations.
Fashion ‘Conscience’
In high fashion, “green” is typically regarded as a color — nothing more. For designer John Patrick, it’s more a philosophy than a hue. “I wanted to show that fashion could be achieved through the use of a slower, more gentle way of design and manufacturing,” says Patrick, whose pieces are made from sustainable, biodegradable, and recyclable organic fabrics. Sensing a missing niche in luxury fashion, he created pieces that fit the customer’s closet — and conscience. “People are finally realizing that you can be organic and gorgeous at the same time.”
Organic by John Patrick, exclusively at Linda Dresner, Birmingham; 248-642-4999.
Walking Tall
If you’re “pro” walking, you might consider trying the “anti-shoe,” as the MBT (Masai Barefoot Technology) bills itself. MBT claims its rocking curvilinear sole distributes pressure equally on the foot, minimizing heel impact and leading to improved posture, reduced joint stress, and the activation of neglected muscles. Our staff testers say MBT encourages erect posture and eases back pain. A gradual acclimation is recommended, however, because your calves and hamstrings will definitely feel the effects of increased muscle activity. Men’s Chapa Water style (pictured),
$250. At The Walking Company, Somerset Collection North, Troy, Twelve Oaks Mall, Novi, and Partridge Creek, Clinton Township; Foot Solutions, Birmingham, St. Clair Shores, Rochester Hills, and West Bloomfield; and Naturalizer, Lakeside Mall, Sterling Heights.
Bar None
Treats are called treats because they’re not (or shouldn’t be) an everyday event. But when it’s time to commit a sugary sin, make it worthwhile. Our staff testers (lucky us) gave rave reviews to Zingerman’s Zzang! candy bars. The handmade, slab-style confections come in three varieties: Original with peanuts, What the Fudge with malted-milk cream, and the Ca$hew Cow. Each is bathed in a thin layer of dark chocolate that, believe us, is nothing like a Milky Way.
Available at Whole Foods and Plum Market; zingermansbakehouse.com.
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