If you are a fan of distressed denim, it is time to go hunting for second hand rather than buying new in order to get the vintage look. NGOs have been attacking the sandblasting of new denim and lobbying for this particular trend to fall out of fashion due to the little known human and environmental cost.

The Good Shopping Guide has launched a new ethical shopping app for (initially) £2.99 revealing the good, bad and ugly of the world’s leading brands, (based on the the world’s best-selling ethical shopping guide which retails at £14.95). The app allows consumers to get up to date advice on the ethical status of goods and services as they shop through their mobile phone. 10% of net revenue will go to Friends of the Earth.

We are lovin' these inspired tu tu costume kits created by Ruth Douglas of Summerland. There are fabulous colour combinations and 6 different themed kits to choose from. Personal faves are the Mermaid and Pirate. Inside the kit you'll find everything you need to create your themed tutu, matching head dress and bracelet. Don't worry if you're a stranger to the sewing machine as these kits are completely 'no sew'. Could it get any better? Not for me.

Christmas can be a complicated and extravagant business so this year we are making a concerted effort to have a simpler and greener festive period to enrich the soul and do our bit for the environment.