Pure Design

Sans automobile - what' a girl avec bump et toddler to do in Weybridge?

2012-03-14T08:03:00.004+00:00

Morning Lovelies!

Here I sit, a slightly overcast Wednesday morning in Weybridge contemplating activities for the day ahead, albeit without my trusty automobile. My lovely husband wanted to get an early start so rather than train it to work, he has opted for my wheels instead.

He did at least remember to take the buggy out the boot bless him, so we have some wheels available to us. Being 7 months pregnant now, with a toddler in the 91st percentile for weight (she's gorgeous, just a solidly built half dutch girly), I am a little daunted by getting about without my car but always up for a challenge. So what is a girl to do in Weybridge sans wheels avec bump et la bebe?

First off is the journey into and back from town... Its a good 30 min walk into town from our abode, which I have done several times but mainly in my first trimester. I'm now feeling the bump, the breathlessness, and the Braxton Hicks, so a little apprehensive about how far I'll get. I am sure I have seen bus stops along the way, so I'm thinking I could always hop on a bus home (that's the uphill bit!). Although I shall have to raid the piggy bank for bus change. Last time I went on the bus I remember being shocked by the sack of silver change required to get me from A to B, surely a taxi is the same price???

So, on the basis, I make it into to town what awaits me there? Well i can always get a FREE Latte from Starbucks today with my name on it - courtesy of their 14th March 'we are personalising your coffee from now on' campaign. Quick, run, get yours now!

So far my googling has turned up a mums and bumps NCT group meeting this morning above Weybridge library (every weds morning 10-12) - which I'm thinking could be a very good place to meet some local mums.... Alas, most of my mummy friends from first baby have all gone back to work - sigh. None of this stay-at-home malarkey it seems. I thought there were supposed to be more of us modern homemakers - where art thou?

Mums and bumps could also tie in very well with my plan to get some enlightening books on how to introduce a new sibling to the family. Having cuddled some friends tiny babes recently in view of my own 15 month old - I realise she isn't best pleased with mummy's affections being lavished on another tiny human being. Hmmm. Any tips from second time mums on introducing a new baby to the family are most welcome.

We of course have the compulsory visit to Waitrose planned to pick up yet more milk and something yummy for dinner, and I will be swinging past the various charity shops to see what they have for my growing girl. It's only been a few months since the last clothes outlay and legs and arms are already protruding. I guess its the feeding that does it.

And you know what, I think I might just stop there, seems like plenty to be getting on with for the morning. Although Space NK might be worth a visit. They have such lovely stuff and I think the bump is telepathically telling me to buy myself something indulgent for Mother's Day this Sunday.

And most importantly, I need to get home for that afternoon nap I am soooooooooo going to be having!

Wish me luck!

Check out this link for more info on what's on for mums and babes in Weybridge... All About Weybridge

August Bank Holiday Sale 20% OFF till 04/09/09!

2009-08-31T13:08:00.006+01:00

20% OFF throughout the Pure Design store from now until 11pm on Friday 4th September. Not only that, for existing and new members we're still offering free shipping - offer extended until Friday 4th September!

To become a member, sign up now for free and receive discount codes in your welcome email. So better hurry and and check out the store for some bargains.

Happy shopping!

Elaine & Shelley x

Smokin Hot!

Award-winning Firehose Belts from EaKo
Check out the discounts you can now get on the EaKo range of belts and bags made from fire hose that would have ended up in UK land fill. We've spotted Cameron Diaz and singer Justin Rose wearing one! We're also proud to announce that EaKo are finalists in the Good Entrepreneur 2009 competition which awards ethical and ecological ideas and businesses. We're keeping our fingers crossed that they win.

Summer Lovin
Still got a few late summer weddings to go to and not found the dress? Well your luck is in because now you can get 20% off Julia Smith dresses at Pure Design. If you have the dress but need the hat then click to see Julia's great hairpieces.

All Things Bright and Beautiful
Ann Ellis transforms the everyday plastic carrier bag into unique, bright and eye catching jewellery. Check out the Faux Boa, Pin Wheel, Chrysalis and Pebble ranges of earrings, necklaces and bracelets.

And don't forget......
There's our free shipping for members extended till Friday 4th September! It's so easy. Available on all orders over £25.00. If you're not already a member subscribe now for free and receive details of the promotional code.

Meet our Friends: Delectable Natural Bodycare From GreenOreNatural

2009-08-06T13:40:00.012+01:00

GreenOreNatural share Pure Design’s mission to raise awareness of ecological and ethical issues.

GreenOreNatural’s body care is natural, SLS and paraben free. Their range of Sow Tomorrow soaps are beautifully packaged in fully biodegradable seed paper. And because Suzanna and Kevin developed GreenOreNatural to change their own health for the better, they are convinced you will feel the benefit of their all natural body care too.

August '09 Pure Design Members Offer:

Pure Design Members will be automatically entered into this month’s draw to win a natural and organic bodycare pack from GreenOreNatural containing Sow Tomorrow organic soaps in zingy lemon, sweet orange and grapefruit and ginger crush and dawn mist organic bath oil. The draw will take place on 01/09/09 and the winner’s will be contacted by email and will be announced in our September newsletter. Not yet a Pure Design member? Subscribe now for free.

GreenOreNatural is a home-grown business, established in 2006 with eco entrepreneurs Kevin Moseley and Suzanna Miles at its heart. Like many entrepreneurial start-ups GreenOreNaturals came about because of a problem Suazanna was facing and that she couldn’t find an existing solution to. In 2005 she was diagnosed with ME. Suzanna was determined to do what she could to maintain her health and support her immune system. She was advised to reduce the levels of toxins in her diet as the less ‘invaders’ your body has to fight off, the more energy it will have to support the rest of your body to function in a healthy way. Not only did she take stock of her diet, eliminating obvious toxins such as alcohol and caffeine, Suzanna also looked at hidden toxins that might be harming her body by stealth, such as chemicals found in everyday body care products like shampoo. It is quite shocking just how much we absorb through our skins and how little thought most of us give to the chemicals in the pots and potions on our dressers. Our skins are permeable; think about how nicotine or hormone patches work, and how quickly chemicals are absorbed into our bloodstream. Yikes!

When Suzanna struggled to find truly natural products free from toxins, she and Kevin (her partner and a qualified pharmacist) decided that they weren’t prepared to compromise Suzanna’s health. And so created a range of new and natural soaps, lotions and scents that were all natural and they could trust and GreeOreNaturals was born.

The GreenOreNatural collection….

Sow Tomorrow – naturally scented soaps and plantable packaging

These naturally scented organic soaps are SLS and paraben free. The inner wrapper of Sow Tomorrow soaps is designed to be planted after use by following the planting instructions on the outer sleeve. A percentage of profits go to one of the following charities, The World Land Trust, Tusk, Send a Cow, Acorn & Bath Cats & Dogs Home.

And if you are new to organic skin care like I was you are probably wondering what exactly is so bad about parabens and SLS…

Here’s the science bit….
Synthetic parabens can be found in everyday products around the home, toothpaste, shampoo, body lotions etc and they are used as additives to add colour or flavour or as a preservative to reduce spoilage. Although parabens have been used for many years, of late they have fallen under greater scrutiny and have been linked to damaging health effects such as premature ageing of the skin, increasing oestrogen which affects female and male reproductive organs and most frightening the possible increase risk of breast cancer. SLS (Sodium Laryl Sulphate) is a detergent that started it’s career as an industrial degreasant and garage floor cleaner. Yikes again!

Organic First
Wherever possible, GreenOreNaturals source organically certified raw ingredients for every product they manufacture. Where this is not possible they select high quality, wild harvested, fair trade and/or local ingredients instead. They do not use SLS or Parabens in their skincare and soaps and generally what's good for you is good for the planet.

Preservatives
GreenOreNaturals’ only use preservatives that are accepted in organic standards. To ensure their products are as natural as they can make them, they use the absolute minimum preservative that would be effective. Suzanna told us “there are a number of products out there that claim to be totally natural but when you check the labeling it isn’t totally clear which and how much preservative is being used. We make sure our labels are clear and easily understandable, so our customers can be certain of what they are using.”

This Month Pure Design Member’s Offer:
Win natural and organic starter pack from GreenOreNatural containing Sow Tomorrow Citroheaven organic soaps in zingy lemon, sweet orange and grapefruit and ginger crush and dawn mist organic bath oil. All Pure Design members will be entered into August's prize draw. Take advantage of this and other great offers now! Subscribe now for free.

Vote for an idea that will change the world!

2009-07-29T13:52:00.004+01:00

Watch Elaine pitch her idea for ethical eco design and fashion to the CNBC dragons. The closing date is 31st July, so share your comments of support and votes now - they will make a difference.

If you want to see the design and fashion industry change for the better - please support Elaine's pitch.

“Anita Roddick is my inspiration. I want Pure Design to be to the design world, what The Body Shop is to the beauty industry”

If you haven't watched Elaine's "Pure Design - Ethical design retailer" pitch watch it now.

The individual named “The Good Entrepreneur of 2009” will receive a prize package valued at more than €250,000 in support of their ‘good idea’. The package includes exposure on CNBC as well as comprehensive business support from Allianz.

The finalists will then be filmed to feature in a four-part televised series on CNBC, documenting the progress of each person. In the series finale, a panel of high profile judges will reveal the winner of the competition. The series will be broadcast across Europe, the Middle East and Africa and in Asia during the autumn of 2009.

Watch Elaine's pitch for a more ethical and eco design industry now.

New Designers 2009 - I spy with my little eco eye...

2009-07-12T10:09:00.010+01:00

2009 New Designers in Islington opened its doors to the public this Thursday, and for the fourth year running I was there to see what promising new graduate talents are in store for the UK design industry, and of course my radar was set to sustainable!

What is special about this design trade show?

With over 3,500 of the best new design graduates represented for the two weeks the show runs, New Designers is definitely one of the highlights of my design calendar. Not only is the quality of the work on show fantastic, the buzz about the place is great, and the designers are overwhelmingly positive and all eager to talk about their work. Week one exhibitors include contemporary applied arts, ceramics and glass, jewellery and precious metalwork graduates, and the ‘One Year On’ exhibit tracks award winners from the year before. Week two includes product & furniture design, visual communications and spatial design, and as above ‘One Year On’ of award winners from 2008 in these disciplines.

How to spot the green goods?
The irony when searching for new eco design products and talents for Pure Design online boutique, gallery and gift shop, is that Pure Design is a design-led sustainable company – so we don’t go looking for accessories that look green we go looking for design pieces that have the ‘ah’ factor and then we ask the designer the deal breaker “are your products eco or ethical?” So it is actually quite hard to ‘spot’ eco products in a way. In my view the best eco design does not scream out “I’m green and good, pick me, pick me” – it is quietly and confidently stylish and doesn’t need to flaunt its virtues to be noticed.

Over the past few years of visiting design fairs and exhibitions and interviewing designers, I have learnt which disciplines of craft and design tend to score high and low on the eco scale. There is often little eco joy to be found in acrylic - although I have met several designers trying to reduce, reuse or replace the use of plastic, for example opting to use plant based bio-resin alternatives. Ceramics and glass are usually not particularly eco, and sadly many of the textile designers I speak to do not use natural or non-toxic dyes. However, I have been pleasantly surprised when I have been proven wrong and a designer has pointed out that they have found a way to turn a material on its head.

This year, with limited time and a few hundred stalls to get round I decided to try the top to bottom approach, so duly started on the top floor and set off into the world of ceramics….

Now I have to admit I do usually move quite swiftly through this section as to date, with the exception of Sarah Jerath of Sustain Ceramics who incorporates recycled car window glass and reclaimed china in her work, I haven’t encountered much in the way of eco ceramics. However, I am ever hopeful and would be delighted to be proven wrong, so answers on a postcard please if you have any tips on eco ceramics!

Tomorrow’s News Jewellery

Having exhausted the ceramics section quite quickly I moved into the contemporary applied arts section and immediately spotted some jewellery that intrigued me. Sidling up to the cabinet for a closer look and to read the designers statement, I saw the magic words ‘eco range’ – bingo! I am pleased to say Julie Linn the designer was also nearby and having spotted my obvious interest she very kindly chatted through her range, ideas and ambition of creating a fully recyclable range of recycled paper jewellery. Julie’s range recognises the transient nature of fashion and offers an affordable and sustainable product that can reinvent and recycle itself with every new season. In my opinion a great alternative to the endless new ranges of bright plastic or cheap metal jewellery the high street retailers seem to be awash with at the moment.

Intrigue & Attics
I had also received an inside tip from an ex-colleague (from crafts charity The Making) that there were some intriguing flying light bulbs at the Falmouth college stall which I couldn’t resist seeking out and am very glad I did.

Curious, intriguing, humorous and a little Tim Burtonesque are just some of the adjectives I would pick. Luckily before I had a chance to meddle and break the delicate workings of these automata pieces, Richard Hackney the designer came over and explained that all of the parts were salvaged treasures from his grandfather’s loft. As a self-confessed attic/second hand /antique shop addict, I found these little reclaimed sculptures instantly likeable and how great that they were the result of a dusty rummage through family treasures.

I then descended onto the main floor of the centre – awash with textile swatches, banners of printed paper draped floor to ceiling, upholstered gilded armchairs in bespoke textiles and eye-catching screen printed dresses and fashion designs.

Amongst the sea of textiles, the next promising designer I met was Jenny Clarke a graduate from Nottingham Trent University. Jenny carries out intricate hand embroidery on reclaimed textiles and second hand clothes and unlike one of her chosen subject matters ‘Marmite’ I didn’t think it was a love or hate affair. I really liked Jenny’s work – the concept was simple but the application of her craftsmanship and creativity inspiring, and I am sure her work would appeal to a wide range of audiences. And amongst all the super modern technologies, trends and textiles, Jenny’s work showed that even the very traditional applied crafts such as embroidery have a place and a market in our style obsessed but eco 21st century world.

Elaine Dutton is the founder and Director of Pure Design, contemporary ethical design online, and an award-winning social entrepreneur.

Pure Design sell beautifully designed and made environmentally friendly gifts, eco fashion and contemporary jewellery, and decorative arts and accessories for you and your home. And because Pure Design only sell products that are ethically and ecologically sourced you can feel good about shopping with us too.

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Go Green Team! 10th July Green Britain Day is almost here...

2009-07-02T19:09:00.007+01:00

10th July 2009 - "Green Britain Day" marks the launch of Team Green Britain. The aim is to have London leading the world on climate change by 2012. Whether you're an eco-beginner or an eco-warrior, you can get involved.

And we will be doing our bit by hosting a special ‘Pure Design Team’ and would love it if you joined us. In fact we are also looking for a great team name so please email us your ideas. ‘Eco Angels’ is the current winner! We’ll be having a ‘swishing party or two’ (swopping clothes) as I have my eye on Victoria Pendleton’s fabulous Wayne Hemingway dress! Watch a video on Victoria and Wayne Hemmingway on our YouTube Favourites. We will also be getting involved in lots of green activities and sharing everything we learn about how to lead a greener life with you. It's also a great way to meet like-minded people, so don't be shy - get involved and help us make the most of our team!

As part of my personal commitment to a greener life I am turning veggie for a week in the run up to Green Britain Day. Which is no mean feat for a BBQ and bacon butty loving girl!

Did you know The UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation has estimated that meat production accounts for nearly a fifth of global greenhouse gas emissions? And I recently read in The Guardian that vegetarians are less likely to develop cancer than meat eaters; so hopefully my week will do my body some good too. And as I tend to do all the cooking, my husband (who is Dutch - which equals carnivore) will involuntarily be vegging out with me. So that's two people living a greener life already!

If you do want to get involved all you have to do is first sign up on the Green Team website, and let us know that you'd like to be part of our team by dropping us an email, or by subscribing to our newsletter and opting in to receive our news and updates and to be a member of our Green Team when prompted. Subscribe now!

In a few weeks time we will be in touch with more information about the team and how you can get more involved.

And as a wider member of Team Green Britain, you'll also get the opportunity to win a day at the London 2012 games....

Go Green, Go Team!

Celebrity Eco Chic! Cameron Diaz models EaKo's Firehose Belt

2009-06-24T22:33:00.006+01:00

Cameron Diaz was photographed in US Vogue by Mario Testino wearing EaKo's firehose belt.

Lead singer Jarvis from Phoenix Rose wears EaKo's Big yellow...

Coming Soon: New Work by Sustain Ceramics

2009-06-23T22:35:00.008+01:00

We have exciting news! Sustain Ceramics have a new collection of home accessories about to launch at Pure Design and its' divine! Crafted by Sarah Jerath, the innovative ceramicist behind Sustain Ceramics, the range of pots and ceramic bottles are beautiful in their simplicity and rich mocha and light cream colours. They look like they would be perfectly at home in an exclusive beach house in Maine New England, they really are very eco chic....

All handcrafted by Sarah in her eco friendly studio in Yorkshire - Sustain Ceramics is award winning in its use of recycled materials.

We will be launching Sarah's newest collection in our Newsletter and including 'an offer you can't refuse', so if you like what you see, don't miss out - sign up now. As a member you also get loads of other fabulous offers, including a birthday gift, and you will hear about all our new products and designers before anyone else!

Sarah also holds a very special place in our heart as she was our first eco designer to join the Pure Design eco family and we are delighted to see that she is making new, and still very fabulous earth friendly work.

Here are a few preview piccies...

Your chance to win! Faux Boa Bracelet by eco jeweller Ann Ellis

2009-06-11T14:46:00.014+01:00

Become a Pure Design member before the end of June and Refer-a-Friend and be entered into our prize draw to win contemporary eco jewellery by our newest eco designer Ann Ellis.

Not a Pure Design member yet? Subscribe now. As well as great prize draws and exclusive member discounts, as a member you will be the first to hear about our new designers and products available in store.

Already a member then don’t miss your chance to win! Refer us to a friend now. Remember to tell your friends to name you as their referee when they sign up.

This range of Ann's eco jewellery includes necklaces, bracelets and earrings from just £25.00 available exclusively from Pure Design. And this competition is a great chance to start your summer eco jewellery collection for free!

Ann Ellis is an award winning eco designer and member of the Society of Designer Craftsmen. Her colourful and contemporary jewellery is crafted from recycled plastic bags. Eye-catching and light and comfortable to wear, Ann has transformed the infamous plastic bag into an affordable and coveted eco fashion style statement. What a star!

BEST FASHION PRODUCT – Awarded to Cherchbi’s silk printed scarves

2009-06-04T21:25:00.015+01:00

Our congratulations to Adam Atkinson, who has been awarded BEST FASHION PRODUCT by a prestigious design panel at PULSE London trade show. Adam is the very talented designer behind Cherchbi’s, a British Made luxury ethical and eco accessories range. Cherchbi’s range includes fabulous quality leather men's belts and regionally iconic solid brass ‘ram’, ‘ivy’ and ‘fern’ key fobs, and of course his glorious silk scarves.

Organiser’s of the London trade fair PULSE 2009, Clarion Retail, sourced a broad range of industry experts to judge the 2009 awards. The judges for this year were Katie Law (Evening Standard) for Best Home Product and Best Gift Product; Janet Fitch (Journalist and jewellery consultant) for Best Fashion Product; Nigel Carrier (creative director, Clarion Retail) for Best Dressed Stand; Michelle Alger (furniture and lighting buyer, Liberty) for the Liberty Award to Best Newcomer; and Poul Madsen (founder, normann copenhagen) for the Best New Product in Launchpad.

Janet Fitch, journalist and jewellery consultant said of Adam’s scarves “This product is beautifully designed, authentic, eco-friendly and had a vintage look with a modern take and they are unisex too!”

Adams range is available from Pure Design, all belts and key fobs come gift wrapped in a presentation box. Adam is also extending his range with new belts and scarves available from Pure Design soon...

A little bit more about Cherchbi….

Cherchbi appears in the Domesday Book describing the town of Kendal on the edge of the English Lake District, the company's home. It is an ancient English word meaning 'by the church'. The company was born out of a fascination with Britain's design and manufacturing heritage, and in reaction to the quality and environmental impact of mass produced goods. All goods are entirely manufactured in Britain. Each item displays craftsmanship and detail reflecting its individual inspirations. The materials used are natural. Many are sourced locally and they are all sustainable, recyclable or biodegradable.

Don't miss out! Sale Ends Sunday 31st May

2009-05-28T18:40:00.007+01:00

A great chance to nab some fabulous environmentally friendly gifts and eco fashion bargains this weekend. Don't miss out!

Pick up some of our bestsellers for less including Stella Corrall's Recycled Vinyl Coasters were £16.50 , now a steal at £13.20 for a set of six! EaKo's fabulous fire-hose accessories including their slider belt was £25.00, now £ 20.00, and Tamasyn Gambell's fabulous organic cotton scarves were £35.00 now £28.00!

As our products are exclusive and many are limited editions it is first come first serve. So don't hang about, bag yourself some designer accessories right now...

Interested in receiving our latest Tweets? Follow us on Twitter.
Want to hear about exclusive members offers? Become a Pure Design Member.

Images: Stella Corral Recycled Vinyl Coasters, EaKo Fire Hose Slider Belt and Tamasyn Gambell's Organic Cotton Scarf.

Elaine's 'Swish' new eco wardrobe!

2009-05-25T21:16:00.012+01:00

I am a swishing convert! I went to my first ever swishing party this Friday and thought it was fabulous! Always having been a fan of charity shops since my mum worked in the Good As New Boutique in Singapore, I have considered myself a bit of an expert when it comes to sniffing out second hand bargains, and I am amazed I have only just discovered the fulfilling and surprising world of swishing!

For those of you who haven't heard of swishing or who aren't quite sure what it's all about...it's an informal but organized get together/event where everyone brings at least one item of quality to 'swish' which basically means to swop. And yes it does have to be a quality item. There wasn't anyone checking through the bag of goodies I brought to swish and vetting them - but it's just not part of the spirit of swishing to bring rubbish along. One of the ladies whose cute Rasco designer clip on earrings I swished up summarized it perfectly in that swishing makes you feel really good. As well as finding amazing goodies for free that you can take home, you do also get a real buzz from seeing someone else’s eyes light up when they spot the shoes you brought along. E-baying just isn't as much fun.

Need I mention the fact that over 1 million tonnes of clothing ends up in UK landfills every year - and swishing can help you cut your contribution to that in half! So if you are looking to revamp your wardrobe and cut your carbon footprint this is a great way to start.

For my first swishing experience, I took along a two pairs of shoes that I had only worn a handful of times. One pair that just didn't suit me at all, and the other pair were too big. If you are a woman reading this post, I am certain you don't need to ask why I bought them in the first place as you have no doubt done exactly the same at some stage - they looked great in the shop! And both were snapped up by eager swishers, so somewhere someone is wearing them with pride. And I now have space on my shoe rack for my swished treasures: a pair of silver Kenneth Coles and gorgeous and environmentally friendly Terra Plana pumps. I also found a great pair of Gingham clip-on earrings that turned out to be by New York designer 'Rasco'. Result!

I did almost mistakenly swish my Cacharel perfume away, that I had forgotten was in the bottom of my carrier bag, and had to disappoint the organizers slightly who had thought it was a very cute swishing gesture - woops! I did however take along lots of pretty belts and necklaces as well as the shoes that didn't fit me - so hopefully I contributed as much to the evening as I gained.

The swishing party I went to was the first ever accessories swishing party, organized by Futerra's Helen Spoor, and although the organizers said they were nervous about handbags being brought into the competitive environment, the evening turned out to be a real success.

I also met some great people, like-minded and all embracing a new and fun way to be stylish and sustainable. All in all it was a great evening and not only do I intend to keep in touch with some of the new friends I made, I plan to host some swishing parties of my own - so ladies of Richmond and Kingston, get rooting through those wardrobes and get ready for a summer of Swish!

For more details about swishing visit www.swishing.org

New Website Launch & 20% OFF!

2009-05-14T18:23:00.007+01:00

Attention eco savvy shoppers! I am very proud to announce that our sparkling new Pure Design website is just waiting for you to stop by and browse. To celebrate the launch of our new site we are offering 20% OFF all products for the month of May. It's pure May Madness!

A brand new look
Pure Design was launched only last year, however, it's never too early for a face lift! We know style and design are important to our customers and so we have created a clean and stylish new website. Our customers told us that they wanted more images of products so that’s just what we have given them.

We have made some new friends!
Along with our sparkling new site we're proud to introduce you to some exciting new design friends and their fabulous collections. Visit the site and check out Katie Chaplin's Kimono brooches, each one is hand-made from vintage Japanese kimono silk - a genuine one of a kind. Or how about the stylish EaKo accessories, bags and belts made from reclaimed fire hose. And if you want a 'jaw-dropping' statement piece for any room then check out Studiomold's Spaghetti Princess Chandelier.

Extra, extra read all about it!
To be the first to receive our exclusive on line offers, find out about new products and get an exclusive birthday present from us register for our monthly newsletter. Not only that you'll receive a 10% voucher as a welcome gift to Pure Design. And if you have a friend who loves design as much as you, why not spread the eco love and Recommend Pure Design to a friend.

I hope you love the website as much as we do - if you have any comments please share them with us at sales@puredesigncompany.co.uk

Happy Browsing!
Elaine x

Pure Design’s Ethical Jewellery Designers ‘Oria’ Travel to Sierra Leone To Establish Jewellery Workshop for Local Women Miners

2009-02-23T20:24:00.008+00:00

Fair trade fortnight is upon us again - wow the last year has zipped past! And here at Pure Design we have some really exciting news about two of our designers and their fair trade inspired project that will be taking place over the coming weeks...

Synnove Saelthun and Tania Kowalski, the talented duo behind Oria Ethical Jewellery, have always been driven to do more than just craft beautiful jewellery - they want to make the industry greener, more ethical and more transparent. An exciting new project will see Synnove and Tania travelling to the Yele region in southern Sierra Leone to a gold mine where some of the gold they use comes from. There they will help establish a workshop and teach local gold-mining women jewellery making skills. Currently the workshop is under construction, and as part of the project Tania and Synnove will be fitting it out with specialist equipment sourced in the UK.

The women benefiting from the project are employed hand panning for gold in the mines and will be taught basic jewellery making skills so they are able to produce a range of gold jewellery to sell on. The workshop will continue to run and offer employment one it has been set up. The project is focused on women as for cultural reasons gold-mining is an assumed female role in Sierra Leone, whereas diamond mining is assigned to men.

As a positive sign of the changing times, most of us have now heard of conflict free diamonds, but not so many have heard of ethical and eco gold or silver - and this, Oria and Pure Design would like to change. The mine already has ethical and eco standards in place including a fair wage for its workers, and as the gold is hand-panned, the mines do not use heavy metals and toxins to extract the metals from the ground. This project and the training workshop are an additional way the mining company contributes towards the local community - helping local workers to develop both their skills and ability to generate an income.

Pure Design is delighted to be engaged in the promotion of Oria’s Fair Trade project and will be posting regular updates and news from the project right here on our blog. If you have any questions for Tania and Synnove or want to comment on the project do get in touch.

Both designers and Pure Design are excited by the uniqueness of this opportunity. Synnove and Tania will see the mining of gold in Sierra Leone first-hand and help empower those women whose efforts are so fundamental to supplying gold for the jewellery trade – but to whom many of us as consumers rarely give a second thought. The trip will also allow Synnove & Tania to further review and develop the integrity and transparency of their precious metal supply chain.

The jewellery designers are looking forward to, if a little daunted by the task ahead of them. However, Tania will be drawing on her past experience teaching in Kathmandu, where she trained and managed a workshop, ensuring the quality of the jewellery produced and sold. And both of them are relying on bags of nervous but excited energy!

The full range of Oria Ethical Jewellery is available to buy from Pure Design.

Why not show you support for fair trade fortnight and go bananas! Click on the image below for more details on Fair Trade Fortnight and some of the events happening over the fortnight.

How to become a fashionista without spending a penny!

2009-01-13T23:11:00.007+00:00

Untitled by Keren B.

This fantastical 'set' of clothing and accessories has been created by Keren B online at Polyvore. This is a great American site where you can choose from the range of amazing pieces of fashion and accessories already on the site, or link into some of your favourites (as long as they are out there in cyberspace). And the best bit is there is no limit on your creativity, fiscal or otherwise!

We were flattered to see that a range of Pure Design products have been selected and featured in people's dream outfits - including Esther B's vintage lace handbag in Keren B's creation - no relation as far as we know!

What better way to parade your sense of style - and it is certainly kinder on the wallet and your carbon footprint. Go on, have a dabble... and don't forget if you ever want to make your dreams a reality visit Pure Design boutique we have some great goodies for you.

2009-01-07T23:09:00.002+00:00

Special Offer: £15 to spend on Oria Jewellery at Pure Design. Use code 'Lovebirds' on checkout for the month of February 2009.

Show your lovebird how much you love them this Valentines with a gift of ethical and eco jewellery from Pure Design. We are certain Oria’s ethically and eco mined silver jewellery will set your loved one’s heart aflutter.

At Pure Design we specialise in bringing you beautiful designer eco products and this range of jewellery is no exception. Oria’s contemporary range is crafted from solid silver and is now available to order online . Pure Design and Oria ensure that their suppliers adhere to their strict eco and ethical values. Oria buy Silver and Gold from verified mines that ensure fair trade conditions for workers and do not use toxic chemicals such as cyanide to extract the precious metals. The mines use hand panning and restore or reforest the land once the mines close.

Based in the north London’s jewellery quarter, Oria Jewellers Tania Kowalski and Synnove Saelthun, design and finish all jewellery in-house before sending out orders gift wrapped in a gorgeous hand sewn jewellery pouch and presentation box.

Did someone mention the S word?!

2008-12-18T22:12:00.004+00:00

If you can even begin to comprehend beyond Christmas, do! We promise to have some amazing offers for you across our ranges. Visit Pure Design Christmas Eve to find out what's 'in-store'...

Elaine x

Eco Design Fair December 2008. Eco goodies galore....

2008-12-15T20:04:00.009+00:00

I hope you managed to make it down to Brick Lane this weekend to see the myriad of wonderful (and some weird!) eco design products, people and concepts at the Eco Design fair. Despite the rain, wind and chilly boiler house conditions, the fair was buzzing. The air was filled with the scent of warm mulled wine and mince pies and eco savvy Christmas shoppers had their purses poised.

We were delighted to have a range of work from several designers on show, all of which attracted the admiration of the public. People thought Karin Helena Turner's gift wrap was beautiful, one lady was so delighted with it she bought a piece to frame in her hallway. EaKo's fire hose belts were a hit and Stella's coasters were snapped up. All of the designers work on show (without exception) were showered with compliments - Audrey Hayes striking scorched wooden stools and sculpture, even became a bit of a touch stone at the show.

There was a great range of wonderful eco products on show and from so many different companies, small and large, new and old. One of the Pure Design team was lucky enough to be asked to 'model' for a shoulder massage demonstration from our holistic therapy neighbours - I was obviously in the wrong place when that offer went out!

My thanks to all the designers who provided their work for us to include in the fair, to Louise Kamara for organising such a great event, and also to our intrepid volunteers who helped in front of and behind the scenes. We can all rest easy now knowing there are a few more eco friendly pressies out there being placed under the tree, and wrapped in Karin's eco paper - it might be a green Christmas after all...

Image: Elaine and Pure Design @ Eco Design Fair, Truman Brewery London, December 2008

Last Minute, Easy Eco Gifts - Eco Design Fair @Truman Brewery this Saturday

2008-12-08T20:54:00.004+00:00

This Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th December is your chance to browse and buy fabulous, unique, designer eco gifts, at one of London's leading Eco Design fairs.

Taking place at the Truman Brewery, in Brick Lane.

The fair opens 12-7pm Saturday and 11am-7pm Sunday and looks to be bigger and better than ever. Pure Design will have eco-fashion, jewellery, furniture, sculpture, lighting, throws, belts and bags from a range of our designers. Designers include: Oria Ethical Jewellers, Susiemaroon, Stella Corrall, Laura's Loom, Audrey Hayes, EaKo, Esther B, Julie Roberts, Tamasyn Gambell and Karin Helena Turner Designers. We will also have some fantastic last minute bargains for you, and we will be offering a free eco gift wrapping service on all Pure Design purchases over £25.

So, if you are looking for the last of your Christmas presents, or just want to treat yourself and join in the festive eco fun, come and visit us at the fair this weekend.

.....see you there! Elaine x

Images: Susiemaroon vegetable tanned leather ToolBelt, Oria Ethical Jewellery Silver necklace (recommended in the Guardian Gift Guide 2008), and recycled plastic and fabric coasters by Stella Corrall.

The Guardian list Oria Ethical Jewellery on 2008 Christmas Gift Guide

2008-12-01T20:55:00.004+00:00

Great news! The Guardian have listed Oria Ethical Jewellery's 'Tony Owl and Blossom' necklace (available through Pure Design, at sale price £75.60)) as one of their top gifts for Christmas.

Visit Pure Design's Gift section for more great Christmas eco gift ideas, or visit The Guardians' illustrated online gift guide now.

Pre-Christmas Sale & Bargains Galore

2008-11-20T21:10:00.006+00:00

What better way to beat those winter blues with some eco friendly bargain hunting with Pure Design. There is currently 10% off all products across the online store until Christmas Eve. And the even better news is that you don't have to queue from dawn in the cold, or arm wrestle your way to the till! Everything you need is right infront of you (accompanied by your flexible friend of course!). Click here to visit Pure Design online boutique.

By doing your Christmas shopping online you can save on fuel, parking, and carbon emissions. It's the greener way to do it.

I recommend your pour yourself a warming glass of mulled wine and nestling down in a comfy sofa to browse our collections at your leisure. We have some fab new ethical jewellery from Oria Ethical Jewellery, Coasters by Stella Corrall, and the softest warmest throws by Laura's Loom. And if you are stuck for ideas why not try our suggestions under our Gift Ideas.

However, if you simply can't resist the thrill of the high street bargain pursuit, you can always visit us this Saturday 22nd November at Bohemian Butterfly, 18 Kensington Church Street, which is sadly the last day of our showcase there (a big thank you to BB for their hospitality). However a very exciting day for our customers as we are offering a super special discount of 25% off display pieces. Failing that, your last chance to see us in the flesh this year will be at the eco-design fair Truman Brewery on Saturday and Sunday 13/14th Dec near Brick Lane.

Don't forget though that all the amazing eco designer products in our collection are handmade and limited editions, so if you have your heart set on something, don't hesitate!

Image: Stella Corrall, Recycled plastic coasters. Set of four from £13.50 (sale price).

Pure Design Press Evening

2008-11-16T15:07:00.007+00:00

Just a short post to say thank you to everyone who joined us on Wednesday 12th November for our press reception at Bohemian Butterfly. It was great to see you there and we hope you enjoyed seeing some of our latest designer products, and of course the bubbly!

For those who couldn't make it, do email me at elaine'at'puredesigncompany.co.uk and I would be happy to post you a press pack (includes latest press releases and images and special press discount code!).

Pure Design Director Elaine is a Future100 Winner!

2008-11-15T15:17:00.017+00:00

I am really proud to report that I have just been recognised as a Future100 in relation to my work with Pure Design. All the hard work and sleepless nights are beginning to pay off!

The Future100 is a select group of social entrepreneurs in Britian who have been recognised as changing the face of British business for the better through entrepreneurial flair and innovation. The Future100 has been set up by Social Enterprise development agency Striding Out.

Founder of Striding Out Heather Wilkinson said:

"The future of our world is in the hands of individuals who are committed to generating commercial and ethical returns. Challenging economic times can offer opportunities to question the way we operate as both a business community and a society. We are looking for the 'Future 100' young entrepreneurs who are changing the face of everyday business and improve commerce's impact on the wider world."

With Pure Design having just celebrated its 1st birthday, founded in October 2007 and launched in spring 08, I am so pleased to have had the progress I have made to date celebrated and recognised by this award.

Striding Out have organised a Future100 event taking place on the 18th November at the British Library, London, to celebrate the Future 100 winners - the event takes place during Global Entrepreneurship Week 17th - 21st November. Special guests from government, policy innovation and media will be invitied, and samples of Pure Design's eco accessories will be on display including EaKo FireHose bags, Susiemaroon belts, and Oria Ethical Jewellery. Click here for more details on the Future100 event and Striding Out.

Show your loved one How Much You Care this Christmas - Ethical & Eco Precious Jewellery by Oria

2008-11-06T22:09:00.005+00:00

Show your loved one that you more than care this Christmas by putting your money where your heart is.

Oria Ethical Jewellery is now available from Pure Design is beautiful and timeless and you can be sure the gold and gemstones used have been mined in a socially and environmentally responsible way.

The Nina Collection design is based on the Chinese Phoenix, a mythical bird of fire, so gentle that it crushes nothing, signifying justice, honesty and high moral values.

The large Nina ring in 18ct gold is priced at £1,364.00, and is available set with diamonds £1,560.00 – £1,992.00. The stack rings are sold individually and are available with a pink or green Tourmaline, Amethyst, or Champagne Diamond, priced £559.00 - £1,590.00

Free delivery on all orders over £150.00 and all jewellery gift wrapped.

More about Oria Ethical Jewellers
Oria was formed in 2007 by Tania Kowalski and Synnove Saelthun. Having worked within the jewellery industry for a combined 25 years, they became increasingly concerned with the environmental and social impact of mining and production within the industry and with the lack of transparency within the supply chain. They created Oria to put their concerns into practice. The Nina range is named after jeweller Tania’s sisters bold and beautiful personality. Oria say “We take great care to source our materials from ethical suppliers who ensure workers are paid a fair wage, that working conditions confirm to fair trade protocols, that no child labour is used, and the extraction and production methods minimize the impact on the environmental. For example cyanide and mercury are not used in the extraction of gold and silver. “

EaKo Scoops HSBC Start-Up Stars Green Award for 2008

2008-11-04T17:25:00.007+00:00

We are extremely pleased to announce that EaKo (one of Pure Design's featured eco designers) has scooped the respected Green Award from HSBCs Start Up Stars event. Well done them! The timing is also perfect as EaKo are launching their new range of Fire Hose eco accessories. The Fire Hose range of products are all available to order from Pure Design.

The range includes a fabulous ladies Tote, men's saddle bag, wash bag, card holder and four very hip styles of unisex belts. And for a limited time only the full range of products are available to see and buy at our Pure Design showcase at Bohemian Butterfly (until 22 November). Bohemian Butterfly is an independent jewellery store located on Kensington Church Street, London, nearest tube High Street K ensington. Please see our post dated Monday 13th october for more details on the showcase. Please note EaKo's full range will be available to order from Pure Design throughout this period and in the future.

We will also be selling EaKo FireHose products at this year's eco design fair in Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London on 13/14th December. So there's plenty of chances to bag yourself a truly eco and stylish accessory or christmas gift, and no excuse to miss out!