THE ECO INFLUENCER

Have a greener 2021 with sustainability expert Armelle Ferguson

JUST ADD SOCKS

As a stylist, I always encourage my clients to take risks and to get adventurous with their outfits. One of my personal favourites for a quirky touch: socks! As soon as I saw the gorgeous pairs from A Woven Plane, my heart melted. They’re made from quality materials and are free from harmful substances and environmentally damaging chemicals, making them the ideal accessory to add a little colour to any outfit.

GOLDEN TOUCH

This bar necklace is a small touch to elevate any outfit. In partnership with People Tree, this beautiful piece was created by the incredible artisans at Bombolulu, a Fair Trade business in Kenya. The project supports disabled artisans to overcome their physical difficulties, and empower them economically and socially. It’s jewellery that looks good, feels good, and does good.

SEXY SILK

I’m in the mood to invest in some new sexy lingerie (even if it’s just for wearing underneath my loungewear!). This set from Ayten Gasson, made from organic bamboo and Peace Silk is my pick for beautifully designed underwear. The pieces in the range are made using organic silk, bamboo, modal mix and recycled vintage fabrics.

3 ECO TIPS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS

These small, sustainable changes can make a difference. 1

Create a website using a web-hosting service that is kind to the planet. Kualo is 100% green powered, and has packages from just £2.99 a month. kualo.co.uk 2

Want to box up your products beautifully but fretting over the waste? Noissue offers compostible, recycled or reusable packaging, from tissue paper to stickers and tape, and it’s all fully customisable. noissue.co.uk 3

I try not to print anything at home, but I do enjoy a nice handwritten note; it reminds me of the person behind the business. The plantable seed paper (right) from Wildflower Papers is a great compromise. Once the note has been read, it can be planted, helping create a beautiful garden. plantableseedpaper.co.uk

SOCKS, £18, awovenplane.co.uk

As I go from one Zoom meeting to the next, I’m finding I don’t need lots of shoes. I much prefer having a small selection of sustainable pieces, and you can find everything from slippers to heels at Allkind. Handmade in Spain using sustainable materials, the footwear is also vegan and cruelty-free.

NECKLACE, £32, peopletree.co.uk

ORGANIC BAMBOO BRALET, £58; ORGANIC BAMBOO KNICKERS, £40, both aytengasson. com

SLIPPERS, £90; COURTS, £150; HEELS, £170, all allkind.co.uk