The Professional Vegan

New Site of Vegan Interest

2010-02-02T09:33:00.003-05:00

I know I disappeared for a month. But I am back with a great new site of vegan interest: Our Hen House. I found it via one of my favorite law professor blogs, Animal Blawg. (In addition to posting, I also am catching up on my blog reading.) Our Hen House is a blog and “a central clearinghouse for all kinds of ideas on how individuals can make change for animals.” It has some awesome podcasts on it and a bunch of great stories and lots of other information. Of particular relevance to shopaholic vegan professionals, one of the four major categories covered by Our Hen House is titled "Money Squawks": "Along with brainstorming ideas for for-profit opportunities that can make positive change for animals, this section will highlight business ventures and products that are already changing the way the world works." Check it all out here.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Classiques Entier Herringbone Pants

2010-01-05T08:00:00.002-05:00

Perhaps best for the upcoming spring, these unlined "dynamic herringbone" pants feature a wide, contoured waistband and cuffed trousers. The pants have a slight flare below the knee to create a boot-cut silhouette. I especially enjoy the row of three buttons at either hip. The pants come in the pictured color. Pair them with a dark sweater set or button-down shirt to create a classic business-casual look. They are made from polyester, rayon, and spandex. $168; find them here via Nordstrom.

Vegan On The Weekend: The Limited Sale

2010-01-02T10:12:00.009-05:00

Last weekend I went to the mall the day after Christmas. Not the best idea ever, but it did lead me (and my shopping buddy) to The Limited. The Limited was, and still is, having a rather good sale on a variety of its clothing: legwear is 40% off (see available legwear here); pants are buy one get one 50% off; jewelry is buy two get one free; and a bunch of turtlenecks and other work-appropriate sweaters are reduced, drastically in some instances. The Limited is good for vegan fashion: many of the suits are made from cotton, polyester, and rayon blends, as are many of their sweaters. Here are some sale items of potential interest:

Forenza Shaker Cowl sweater: perhaps more for the weekend, or casual Fridays, this chunky sweater is made from 100% acrylic. It comes in the pictured "dark teal" and nine other colors, including the black that I purchased. I've worn the sweater a couple times -- it is very warm and comfortable. Great for cold weather. Originally $59.50, it is on sale for $14.99.

Printed Button Cowl top: continuing with the cowl neck, this top is perfect for putting underneath a full suit, perhaps black or a dark grey. The animal print is not too over-the-top, especially under a suit jacket, and will add a bit of flare to your outfit. The top is made from polyester and spandex. Originally $39.50, it is on sale for $14.99.

Ultra Pleated shirt: another top to put under your suit jacket to add a bit of modern flair to a plain suit. I like The Limited's description: "A crisp woven shirt need not be dull. Ours has oodles of pleats on the stand collar and neckline, giving it a polished look that works with or without a jacket." The shirt is made from cotton and spandex. It comes in the pictured "dark ivy green" (here) and "black and white stripe" (here). Originally $49.50, it is on sale for $19.99.

Basic Pencil Skirt: though billed as "basic," I'm not sure how basic this skirt really is: it has "waves of sheen" woven in, "creating hypnotic, undulating lines." However, it seems to hit perfectly at the knees, which is great for the office. The skirt is made from polyester and comes in the pictured black, which , conveniently, doesn't show the undulating, hypnotic lines. Originally $69.50, it is on sale for $39.99.

Vegan Purchase: Trousers From Talbots

2010-01-01T10:11:00.010-05:00

On sale! A few days ago I shopped Talbots' after-Christmas sale and purchased a couple pairs (two different colors -- black and brown) of the same vegan (polyester, rayon, and spandex blend) bootcut trousers. They are great for more dressy business casual, and heavy enough that their lack of lining isn't that much of a concern in the winter. Originally $79, I got them for $37.49 each. I tried to find them online, but only came up with the below vegan sale items from Talbots, each very professional (and vegan) on its own:

Bi-stretch twill seamed pant: these are made from the same polyester, rayon, and spandex blend as the pants I purchased. However, I think they have a slightly higher waist and the leg-opening is much straighter. They come in the pictured "cool taupe" and 7 other colors. Originally $79, they are on sale for $26.24. Find all the colors and a variety of fits and lengths (regular, petite, woman, long) here.

Cable-knit turtleneck sweater: if you like the limited (light green, red, an orange-red, and the pictured pink) that Talbots has left, this turtleneck sweater might be a rather inexpensive way to complement a full dark suit. Made entirely from cotton, it is vegan. Originally $59, on sale for $33.74. Find the sweater in a variety of fits here.

Jewel-neck cardigan : made from a blend of cotton, nylon, and spandex, this cardigan would look nice over a collared shirt paired with slacks, or with a matching cami (find some on sale here). It is available in four rather neutral colors, including the pictured "pine cone." Originally $59, on sale for $29.99. Find it here in misses and petite sizes. And for a similar cardigan, but with a cable-knit and three-quarter length sleeves, see here.

Designer Vegan Deal: Charmone Shoes

2009-12-28T08:00:00.005-05:00

I've been very MIA the past month -- and may be for a while longer as to regular posting. But I wanted to highlight the Greenloop's massive close-out sale on Charmone pumps and boots from last season (though still perfectly acceptable style-wise for 2010, in my opinion). The Greenloop came to my attention when a couple of my friends sent me an awesome gift certificate. I spent a portion of the gift certificate already, and just used the rest to get the right pictured "marco-polo" pumps in the moss color. As with all Charmone shoes, they are vegan. Originally $229, they are on close-out for $49. They also come in a slate (grey) version. Find the moss color here and the slate color here.

The Greenloop also is offering Charmone's "darjeeling" booties for $49 (originally $269). They come in the pictured black and a green. They have a 3.75" heel (same as the above pumps) and are made from a vegan micro-fiber "suede" that give them a velvety look and feel. Find the black here and the green here. Also check out Charmone's "dragonwell" tall boots -- originally $299, on sale for $59 -- here.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Classiques Entier Jacket and Black Pants

2009-11-30T08:00:00.003-05:00

Not exactly a fully matching suit, but still, I like the look of Classiques Entier's "Chevron" jacket (pictured left) paired with Classiques Entier's "Luxe Twill" pants (pictured right). Both are available via Nordstrom (and both are relatively new to Nordstrom). The jacket is made from cotton and acrylic, and comes in the pictured "black multi." The pants are made from polyester, viscose, and spandex, and come in the pictured, but different, "black multi." I like the slight shine of the pants, although the fact that they are unlined combined with the fact that it is getting colder, makes me like them a little less. Perhaps the twill of the fabric makes up for the lack of lining?

Depending on the weather, I would pair the jacket and pants with a lower-cut white or black sweater (maybe even a cami), or a black turtleneck. The jacket is $268; find it here. The pants are $168; find them here.

Black Friday

2009-11-27T10:47:00.004-05:00

I am not going out today. Well, perhaps for more strings of lights for the Christmas decorations. But no major shopping. Though if I was, I would be sure to stop by Nordstrom to check out this Caslon cardigan. Including the pictured "military green" it comes in six colors. I like the oversize fold-over collar and hidden zipper. A good mix of dressy and casual; perfect to store in the office for chillier days. Made from cotton, nylon, and spandex. $58 at Nordstrom; find it here in "regular" and "petite" sizes, and here in "plus" sizes.

Happy (Vegan) Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T10:52:00.001-05:00

Friday's Vegan Accessory: "Tofurkey and Gravy" Soda Gift Pack

2009-11-20T09:00:00.004-05:00

In the spirit of not harming turkeys and other animals this Thanksgiving and holiday season, Jones soda has created a limited edition "tofurkey and gravy" flavored soda. You can purchase the soda as part of the "Tofurkey and Gravy Soda" gift pack, which includes 3 bottles of tofurkey soda, 3 bottles of miscellaneous flavored Jones "Zilch" (zero calorie) soda, and 1 tofurkey metal lunch box. The complete gift pack is pictured. Each gift pack is $11.99 plus shipping and handling. And, with each case of tofurkey soda sold, Jones will donate $1 to PAWS, people helping animals. Order a gift pack for a friend (or yourself) here, and enjoy some tofurkey-and-gravy-flavored soda this Thanksgiving instead of real turkey and animal-based gravy!

New Compilation of Vegan and Vegetarian Blogs

2009-11-19T22:17:00.007-05:00

Ashley M. Jones of Pharmacy Technician Certification -- a website dedicated to providing resources to students contemplating or currently completing pharmacy technician certification from online schools and the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries in general -- has compiled a list of the top 75 blogs for vegetarians and vegans. The Professional Vegan is among them! And some of my favorite blogs made the list too -- SuperVegan, Vegan Soapbox, and Vegan Guinea Pig to name a few. Check out the entire list here.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Gap Sale and Men's Clothing

2009-11-19T10:40:00.010-05:00

I have a bit of free time today and Gap is holding an online sale -- 25% of entire online purchase of regularly priced items; enter code GIFT123 at checkout -- so I thought I would post some vegan items Gap is offering for men. Depending on work environment, some might not be office appropriate, but they would be good for the weekend!

First, the standard cotton crewneck sweater (pictured left in the "indigo blue"). Made entirely from cotton. Great to put over a collared shirt for a more casual, yet still professional look, and great to wear alone on the weekends for a very casual look. Originally $39.50, now $25. Not sure if that means it qualifies for the 25% off special. Regardless, it already is more than 25% off. Find it here in the blue and seven other colors.

Second, a moleskin blazer (pictured right). This blazer definitely is work-appropriate. Customer reviews say it is great for fall and winter. Wear it over a collared shirt to complete a dressy business-casual look. Made from cotton. It comes only in the pictured brown. $98; find it here.

Third, striped shirts (pictured left in the blue "bank stripe"). Perfect to pair with a full suit or with pants and a nice (vegan!) belt for a more casual look. Made from cotton. Gap is offering striped shirts in a variety of colors: the pictured shirt (here); it also comes in "malbec and white stripe" and "blue hydrangea and white stripe" (both here); and a darker blue stripe (here). All the shirts are $44.50.

And, finally, for the upcoming cold days and night, a sherpa-lined parka (pictured right). A twill exterior combined with a sherpa-lining all the way to the knees is sure to keep you warm. Made entirely from cotton, so you also can feel warm about not harming any animals! Available only in the pictured "chino bark." $128; find it here.

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Bag: Matt & Nat Laptop Carrier

2009-11-18T10:03:00.002-05:00

Perfect for both men and women. As a woman, I opt to shove my laptop (in a padded case, of course), into a large purse, but for those women who carry laptop bags, and for men, Matt & Nat's "Archive" laptop carrier (in a professional black color) is a great way to tote around your computer and accessories. It comes with a detachable shoulder strap. Inside it is lined with light grey faux suede made from recycled bottles. And inside you will find room for your cell phone, second cell phone, and some pens. Comes with a protective laptop sleeves. And, of course, it is vegan! $245; find it here.

Tuesday's Work Appropriate Clothing Item: Turtlenecks from The Limited

2009-11-17T10:00:00.006-05:00

When I was out shopping recently, I stopped in The Limited. I haven't been there for years. They have a bunch of vegan suits, though I wasn't all that impressed with the length of the suit jackets. Apparently The Limited thinks short waisted is in, but that won't fly in my office. However, The Limited did have some great turtlenecks. At $44.50 or $49, depending on style, I think they are a bit pricey. But they would look fabulous under a suit jacket or paired with nice trousers during the colder months.

First, the most professional is the "shirred shoulder turtleneck" (pictured right in the sky blue). It features ribbed cuffs and hem, and slight sheering at the shoulders. Made from rayon and nylon. In addition to the blue, it comes in four other colors, including the office-standard brown and black. $44.50; find it here.

Second, still on the professional side is the "rib detail turtleneck" (pictured left in the garnet red). It features similar ribbed trim on the cuffs and hem, though a bit finer, and a wide-ribbed trim around the shoulders and turtleneck. Made from rayon and nylon also. In addition to the garnet red, it comes in four other colors, including a lovely deep purple, and, of course, black. $44.50; find it here.

Finally, on the less professional side, better for more casual days, are the "striped turtleneck" and "tiny stripe turtleneck." The tiny striped turtleneck is pictured right in the green. The striped turtleneck features wider stripes and comes in a garnet/grey combo and a black/grey combo. Both are made from rayon and nylon. And both are $49.50; find the striped turtleneck here and the tiny stripe turtleneck here.

Vegan Treat to Start the Week: Annie's Bunny Cereal

2009-11-16T11:30:00.004-05:00

I polished off a box of Annie's Cocoa and Vanilla Bunnies Cereal last night. Very yummy. Great for breakfast or as a snack or a midnight treat. I've tried it with plain soy milk, vanilla soy milk, and just as a munchy -- all very satisfying. Annie's makes five bunny cereal varieties. All are vegan except for the Honey Bunnies.

Find them all here. I got mine two for five dollars at Whole Foods a few weeks ago. Having polished off the Cocoa and Vanilla, it's onto the Fruity Bunnies.

Monday's Vegan Suit: New York & Co. Pinstripe Suit

2009-11-16T09:23:00.004-05:00

New from New York & Co. This deep charcoal suit with off-white tiny pinstripes features a two-button completely lined jacket and matching wide-legged, low-rise pants with a slightly extended-tab waistband that closes with two buttons. I love waistbands with button closures; much better than tab closures of any sort in my opinion.

The suit is made from polyester, rayon, and spandex. The jacket is $69.95 and the pants are $46.95. NY&Co. is running several potentially applicable promotions: select tops and pants, including these items, buy one get one 50% off. So, with the promotion, the entire suit is $93.43. Then possibly use promo code 1650 to get $25 off any purchase of $75, bringing the suit to $68.43.

Find the jacket in regular and tall sizes here. Find the pants in petite, regular, and tall sizes here.

Vegan On The Weekend: Jimmy Choo for H&M

2009-11-14T11:34:00.003-05:00

Today marks the launch of Jimmy Choo's collection for H&M. The collection consists of women's shoes, bag, clothes, and accessories, and a smaller men's collection. I'm not sure whether all (or any) of the item are vegan (most of the bags and shoes seem to be made from leather). H&M has set up a really interactive website for the collection, including a homepage introduction that warns that there may be lines today and apprises visitors of the bracelet policy they are instituting. Either this collection is going to be a really, really big deal, or H&M has a big head. I might go to my local H&M later and check on the progress. Until then, you can interact with the website here. Be warned, it has annoying music.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: Adopt A Turkey For Thanksgiving

2009-11-13T10:53:00.002-05:00

Every year Farm Sanctuary, my favorite sanctuary, runs its Adopt-A-Turkey Project, which "seeks to end the misery of commercially-raised turkeys by offering a compassionate alternative for Thanksgiving." For $25, you can sponsor a turkey residing at either of Farm Sanctuary's locations (CA and NY). The money goes towards feeding the turkeys and otherwise running the sanctuaries, as well as Farm Sanctuary's annual "Celebration for the Turkeys." My co-workers and I sponsored a turkey last year and the adoption certificate we received still hangs in the break-room. This year, my roommates and I are planning to sponsor Bubbles, who resides at the New York Shelter and whose motto is "friends don't let friends eat turkey at Thanksgiving!" Perfect for my roommates and me.

See all the sponsor-able turkeys here. If you are feeling really generous, sponsor the entire flock for $150. Or make a compassionate Thanksgiving donation to all of Farm Sanctuary's animals here.

Vegan Article of Interest: "Going Vegetarian for Thanksgiving"

2009-11-12T11:40:00.004-05:00

Find this titled article from yesterday's New York Times here. Not quite a vegan article, as some of the dish alternatives offered by the author involve dairy products (and likely eggs), but interesting nonetheless. Good job New York Times on promoting the reduction of turkey abuse! The picture was so adorable I had to post it too. (Media credit to Brian Snyder/Reuters.)

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Striped Banker Shirt

2009-11-12T11:09:00.004-05:00

I've always loved banker shirts on women. Something about the white collar and cuffs contrasted with a light blue pleases my eye. And they're great to wear under a suit jacket or alone with a nice pair of trousers. Pair the shirt with a jeans for a dressier weekend look if required at your office. Banana Republic's current banker shirt features subtle stripes on a light blue background and a pocket accented with a button (pictured). The shirt is made from 100% cotton. $60; find it here.

Wednesday's Vegan Shoes: Men's Slip-On Work Shoes

2009-11-11T09:37:00.005-05:00

Per a reader's request (yay, readers!), today's vegan shoes are the Jenson shoe from Vegetarian Shoes. I'm not quite sure what the etiquette is regarding men wearing slip-on versus lace-up dress shoes at the office, but if slip-on works at your office, these shoes will add a bit of dress to a casual outfit, or, in contrast, a bit of casual to a dress outfit. As with all Vegetarian Shoes' shoes, they are vegan. In addition to the pictured black, they come in a deep brown. £59.95 ($99.90); find the black here and the brown here.

"The Animal In You"

2009-11-10T12:48:00.004-05:00

I usually bypass personality tests, but this one was so cute that I had to take it, and as it places your personality alongside animal characteristics, necessarily linking emotions with animals (along with the usual behavioral characteristics), which I think very important to the advancement of veganism, I thought I would post. The test is titled "The Animal In You." You can take it here.

I'm either a wild dog, otter, or bat. I assume that most people who take the test receive a result of one animal; whenever I take personality tests, which partially is why I shy away from taking them, I end up with multiple results.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Black Winter Coat

2009-11-10T09:48:00.004-05:00

Now that Halloween has passed and Thanksgiving is approaching, it's time to think about the dreaded winter coat. Unfortunately, most of the good ones (i.e. warm ones) incorporate wool and down/goose feathers. I have a few of these coats from my pre-vegan days. They are still in great condition, so I will continue wearing them. But if I was in the market for a new fancy coat to go over a dress or a chunky sweater and pant outfit, I would be drawn to Nature Vs. Future's asymmetrical winter coat (pictured in the available black). It hits right at that knee, and, as the name suggests, features asymmetrical buttons for a bit of flare. Made from a hemp and cotton blend -- and made in Brooklyn (NY)! Kaight, a cute NYC boutique featuring eco-friendly clothing and accessories, where I found the coat, says it is "extremely warm." $425; find it here.

Vegan Treat to Start the Week

2009-11-09T10:34:00.006-05:00

My roommate suggested that I start a weekly post featuring a good vegan snack. "Not one that is horribly hard and time consuming to make, something that can be purchased at the local grocery store or co-op," she said. I assume that means my baking over the weekend won't qualify: I made vegan coffee chip muffins and vegan cornmeal drop biscuits. I found both recipes in Isa Chandra Moskowitz's Vegan Brunch: Homestyle Recipes Worth Waking Up For. And they are both delicious.

But, per my roommate's request, here is something a bit easier to make (i.e. buy), but still full of vegan goodness: goraw's Pumpkin Super Chips. Keeping with the roommate theme of this post, my roommate and I picked these chips up a few days ago. They make for a lovely raw snack; the agave nectar gives them a bit of sweetness. Check out all of goraw's products here.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Kenneth Cole Blazer

2009-11-09T10:16:00.006-05:00

Not exactly a full suit, but this Kenneth Cole blazer is on sale during Nordstrom's half-yearly sale. I'm not all that into these oversized blazer jackets with ties at the waist, but I've seen them on some (admittedly taller) women, and they've looked good. As this blazer has elbow-length sleeves, perhaps pair it with a black (or dark) turtleneck and black trousers for a more business casual (also dark and mysterious) look. The blazer is made from polyester, rayon, and spandex. It comes in the pictured "dark heather grey." Originally $129, on sale for $85.90 (33% off). Find it here.

If you are looking for matching pants, Nordstrom has the blazer featured with Kenneth Cole's black "Amanda" pants. Made from polyester, rayon, and spandex. $69; find them here. (And with the pants, that makes a full suit!) And, for completeness, check out this Kenneth Cole "scrunch" turtleneck: made from cotton and spandex, comes in a variety of colors (including the pictured "rich black"), $44; find it here.

Three Wolf / Virgnia Woolf

2009-11-08T13:00:00.004-05:00

I want this:

Melissa McEwan, over at Shakesville, dreamed it up, based off the strangely internet-successful Three Wolf Moon t-shirt. Get it? I like this one so much better, possibly because Virginia Woolf is my favorite author (ever and for always). Unfortunately, it is not for sale, unless someone gets permission from the original t-shirt designer, the Woolf estate, etc., etc. If it ever does go on sale, I will absolutely buy one.

Vegan on the Weekend: Trip to Lush

2009-11-08T09:30:00.008-05:00

The bathroom in my new (gorgeous) apartment features this:

Obviously, I had to go to Lush to get some bath bombs to try out the tub (and the bath bombs, which I haven't used before because I always have been scared of sitting in the tubs in my previous apartments, even once scrubbed). I got 2 -- the geo phyzz ($7.15), which is composed of sea salts that dissolve slowly in the tub and soften the skin; and the avobath ($5.80), which I have heard turns tub water a lovely avocado green color. As you may have guessed, I used the geo phyzz last night and am saving the avobath for later. Of course, both are vegan.

While at Lush, I browsed their new holiday collection. At 47 days away, as I commented to my salesperson, it is way too early to be thinking about Christmas, etc. She assured me that Lush will be having a black friday sale complete with a DJ, and I assured her I will be there to get my free face something (I forget exactly what) with purchase of a holiday gift set. Until then, my favorite of Lush's vegan holiday items are:

Let Them Eat Cake lip balm (pictured right). A vegan lip balm with the tastes of orange and lemons, currants and sultanas, vanilla and sherry. Clearly top of the list. $6.95.

Satsumo Santa bath bomb (pictured left). Get cosy in the bath with the Santa man? I find this a bit odd, but it features a refreshing citrus fruit blend with manadarin oil, bergamot oil and orange blossom absolute. Sounds yummy to me. $5.95.

Best Wishes gift set (pictured below). Features four holiday bath bombs, all vegan: Satsumo Santa, of course, Mr. Butterball, filled with bits of cocoa butter, So White, and L'il Lush Pud. $19.95 -- the perfect price for a holiday gift.

The Professional Vegan Relocates

2009-11-07T10:27:00.005-05:00

Not within the inter-webs . . . physically! This is why I've been absent for the past almost month. In that time, I finished my first job out of law school, packed up all my stuff, bopped around the east coast for a couple weeks visiting friends, and then moved across the country to a location to remain undisclosed, but, never fear, still great for vegan shopping. My new job starts in a couple weeks. I'm not sure what my schedule will be, and how conducive it will be to posting every morning as usual, but I will try to post as often as I can. On the days that I do post, I will follow the schedule. Thus, if I post on a Tuesday, I will post a vegan-friendly work-appropriate clothing item. If I post on a Friday, I will post a vegan-friendly accessory. I just might not have a chance to post every day. So, please don't abandon me . . . have patience as I figure out my new life with a new job in a new (physical and mental) state.

During my travels, I picked up a few vegan items. My favorite of the acquisitions are two black turtlenecks from Ann Taylor Loft. First, my favorite favorite is the button-detail turtleneck (pictured right in the crushed berry). The sweater features four matching buttons at the cuffs and four matching buttons down either side. And the turtle of the turtleneck turns down perfectly -- not too chunky as can happen with many chunky turtleneck sweaters. Made from 100% cotton. In addition to crushed berry, it comes in five other colors, including, of course, my choice of black. Originally $49.50, Ann Taylor Loft has it on sale for $29.50. Find it here.

Second is a simple "turtleneck tee" made from jersey (cotton and modal). In addition to the pictured black (left), it comes in five other solid colors and in a black and grey or grey and tan striped pattern. The solid turtlenecks are $24.50; the striped turtleneck is $29.50. Find the solid colors here; find the striped patterns here.

Monday's Vegan Suit: T Tahari Suit

2009-10-12T13:23:00.006-04:00

Yet another suit via Nordstrom. I just noticed this suit on the website, though in browsing through a couple Nordstrom stores last week, I noted that Elie Tahari now is designing a line exclusively for Nordstrom (as I gather). This T Tahari suit is comprised of a jacket and matching pants, both in the pictured black. The jacket has three buttons, my favorite number of buttons for a jacket, and the pants have a slight wide leg to add to the classic look of the suit.

The suit is made from polyester, viscose, rayon, and elastane. The jacket is a reasonable $98; find it here. The pants are an also reasonable $78; find them here.

To complement the suit, T Tahari is offering a classic white blouse accented with flattering front seams to add definition. The blouse is made from cotton and nylon; $58; find it here.

Vacation!

2009-10-05T08:32:00.002-04:00

The Professional Vegan is on vacation . . . for a whole week . . . will return next Monday.

Vegan Purchase: Coat and Sweatshirt

2009-09-29T10:00:00.005-04:00

In place of Tuesday's work-appropriate clothing item and Wednesday's vegan shoes or bag, as I am out of town for a couple days, check out these two items I recently bought at Ann Taylor Loft, which seems to have emerged from a lull of three or four years.

First, from Ann Taylor Loft's new "Lounge" collection, I purchased the "Rib Trim Cowl Neck" top in the black (it is pictured in the pewter melange). It is made from cotton and is very, very soft and comfortable. Though it technically is "lounge" wear, this item is as nice or nicer than many tops, sweatshirts, and sweaters: I would feel comfortable wearing it with a pair of nice jeans and black flats to the office on the weekend. In addition to the pewter melange and black, it comes in a lovely "pebble melange grey." The top is $49.50 (though I had a coupon from a previous purchase that effectively took 50% the purchase price); find it here.

Second, since I am desperate need of vegan work-appropriate winter coats, which are often impossible to find when you actually really need one, I also purchased the "Cotton Long Belted Coat" in the pictured "deep lake blue," which is the only color it comes in. Although the coat is made from cotton and lined with polyester, it is surprising substantial and heavy. In fact, I think it will be appropriate for weather above about 30 degrees absent snow. The coat is $168; find it here.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Semantiks Check Suit on Sale

2009-09-28T08:04:00.004-04:00

I seem to gravitate towards Nordstrom suits, especially Semantiks. As such, I had told myself I would blog a suit from a different store this week. However, that was until I read that Nordstrom has Semantiks' "Travel Size" check suit on sale. The jacket features a removable fabric flower accenting one shoulder, ruched patch pockets, and a rounded hem. I think I would remove the fabric flower, though I'm sure some will think that is the suit's best feature. The jacket pairs with trousers with the same hounds tooth check made in Semantiks' classic trouser cut.

The suit is made from polyester, rayon and spandex. The jacket is on sale for $98.90 if you purchase in regular sizes and $87.90 if you purchase in petite sizes; find it here in regular sizes and here in petite sizes. The pants are on sale for $57.90 if you purchase in regular sizes and $51.90 if you purchase in petite sizes; find them here in regular sizes and here in petite sizes.

Sleep Lairs and a Cave Bookcase

2009-09-25T11:10:00.003-04:00

On Wednesday (Sept 23), the Wall Street Journal featured on the front page of its personal journal section an article titled, "Pimp My Bed: The Male Sleep Lair." Though I guess designers are targeting these "sleep lairs" to men (for an example, see below picture taken from article), I expect they would be equally useful to and enjoyable by women, professional and otherwise. Though I find it a bit off-putting that the WSJ deemed these contraptions "male," and thereby seemingly only (or appropriately only) for men, I think the actual products are very interesting and wanted to post.
Somewhat similar, and on today's subject of bookcases, and somewhat akin to the "sleep lair," check out sakura adachi's CAVE bookshelf (pictured below). I can't find a distributor of this contraption online and thus don't have a price, but, regardless, I think the idea is fabulous. The description says it all: "A bookcase CAVE provides a private reading space within its form. As a seat height is just above the floor, CAVE gives a feeling of hiding from others standing around it. Books can be stored on both sides. Therefore, CAVE can also functions as a partition of a room."
Interestingly, online pictures of CAVE show women and children within it. Apparently women and children are thought to need tiny spaces to hide in and thereby be able to disappear from scary other people in the world, while apparently men need an entire lair set-up that includes a champagne cooler and widescreen television. I like both products; not sure about the marketing of them.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: Large Bookshelves

2009-09-25T08:23:00.009-04:00

Building off of the last Friday vegan accessory I posted (over two weeks ago) about wall-mounted bookshelves, here are some "floor-mounted" bookshelves. I have stacks and stacks of books. Finding shelf space for them is often a problem. I selected the following bookshelves because each features many separated units perfect for visually categorizing books, each may be used as a room divider, and each is large.

First, and most economical, is Ikea's Expedit bookshelf (pictured left in the walnut finish). My friend has this bookshelf in black and currently is using it as a room divider. Ikea's website claims that it must be attached to the wall at some point, but my friend says that it is sturdy even on carpet. The bookshelf is deep enough so that my friend can set it up with books on both sides of it such that there are two rows of books in each cubby, which, obviously, enhances its desirability as a room divider. The bookshelf comes in black, white, and a light tan wood color in addition to the walnut. The pictured version is $199; find it here. Ikea also makes the bookshelf in smaller versions, such as this slightly smaller version ($159) and this much smaller version ($89.99). As with most Ikea products, the Expedit collection pairs with other storage items, such as bins and drawers for the individual cubbies, and attachable desk units.

Second, on the less economical side, is Generate's Quad bookshelf (pictured right). This bookshelf also can function as a room divider, although the areas where there is "interior" might not look as nice on the other side. I think the orientation of the cubbies is this bookshelf's best feature. It comes in the pictured white with lime interior, black with lime interior, black with white interior, white with black interior, ash brown with white interior, and walnut with interior. The pictured version is $999; find it here. The bookshelf is also available in two other configurations which are both an extra $750.

Third, continuing on the less economical side, is Smart Furniture's customizable bookshelves. I have pictured (left) the six foot wide staircase bookshelf. Smart Furniture allows customers to mix and match bookshelf parts to create the perfect storage unit for your space. The pictured staircase bookshelf is $530; it comes in the pictured black, cherry, espresso, maple, pearwood, and white; find it here.

I also like Smart Furniture's five foot wide pyramid bookshelf (pictured right), which, if you have the space, I think would look great beside a larger bookshelf used as a room divider, perhaps positioned at a bit of an angle. It would also look great in the corner of a room set a bit out from the wall, again on an angle as to the wall. It comes in the above colors which will allow easy matching with other furniture. The pyramid bookshelf is $249; find it here.

Finally, on the least economical side, is Brave Space's Stagger bookshelf (pictured left). Obviously, the best feature of this bookshelf is the asymmetrical staggered shelving. It also is great as a room divider. Based on the dimensions, I think that, like the Ikea bookshelf, this bookshelf is deep enough to double stack books so that a row of books can face out on either side if the bookshelf is used as a room divider. Also, the bookshelf is made from bamboo; very cool. It is a completely unaffordable $3,975; find it here.

Vegan Boots

2009-09-24T08:00:00.005-04:00

Fall has arrived and with fall comes boots. I love boots, so I'm sure I'll be posting many over the coming months, but to start the fall off, here are a few vegan boots currently available through Vegan Chic, purveyors of vegan shoes, vegan boots, and vegan bags.

My favorite of their current offerings is Neuaura's "Kaveri" ankle boot (pictured left in the grey). The boot has a slight 1/2" heel, making it perfect for walking, hardware at the upper ankle, and a bit of a rounded toe for extra comfort. The boot comes in the grey and a soft black. The grey comes with plaid insulated lining, and the black has the same soft insulated lining. Made from vegan-friendly pleather. $124.99; find them here.

For a taller boot with a higher heel, I like Neuaura's "Thames" dress boot. This boot comes in the pictured dark brown and black. It has a 3" heel and is made from the same vegan-friendly pleather as the ankle boot. It also has the same insulated lining, making it perfect for colder fall and winter months. $175; find them here.

Finally, for something a bit more trendy and less expensive, check out Vegan Chic's "Comfort Vegan Slouch Boot." The boots come in the left pictured black. They have a 2" heel and lots of straps. Like the above two, the boots have an insulated lining to combat colder weather. They are made from vegan-friendly pleather. $44.99; find them here. Also, if you aren't into a heel on your slouch boots, check out these of about the same price that have a flat sole.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Piped Blazer

2009-09-24T07:52:00.004-04:00

I've seen this piped blazer in Ann Taylor Loft a few times and have been drawn to it every time. It has a one-button front closure, ruching at the shoulders, four buttons at the sleeves, and a long row of knife pleats at the back. The only issue with it I see if that it might be slightly short. As such, I would pair it with black trousers and perhaps a button-down shirt.

The blazer is made from polyester, rayon, and spandex. It comes in regular and petite. $98; find it here.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Y-Neck Cotton Blouse

2009-09-22T08:21:00.002-04:00

As I was late posting Monday's vegan suit, Tuesday's work-appropriate clothing item is a piece directly related to the suit -- namely, the shirt the model is wearing underneath it in the below picture. Sandra Ingrish's y-neck stretch cotton "blouse," as Nordstrom's website reads, has a tonal button-front closure in addition to the interesting y-neck that I think would be conducive to placing the collar inside or outside the jacket collar. I especially enjoy the bust darting to create a sleeker look.

The shirt is made from cotton and spandex, and only comes in the pictured white. It is $58; find it here.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Semantiks Line Drive Suit

2009-09-22T08:00:00.002-04:00

I apologize for the lateness of this post . . . after more than a week, it seems lazy to say I am still getting back up to speed, but apparently I am. As usual, this week's vegan suit is available via Nordstrom and is made by Semantiks. The jacket has classic pinstripes, a notched collar, and a curved hem to create a very business professional look; and the pleating at the back hem of the jacket give the jacket a bit of a feminine edge. I especially like the three-buttons down the front of the jacket. The jacket pairs with matching pinstriped pants.

Both pieces are made from polyester, viscose, rayon and spandex, and both come in the black pinstripe color only. The jacket is $98.90; find it here. The pants are on sale for $43.90 (50% off); find them here (there are a few sizes left).

Vegan Purchase: Shirts From Banana Republic

2009-09-18T08:03:00.003-04:00

I very recently purchased Banana Republic's fitted non-iron shirt in white and the pictured "sail cloth," which I think of as grey. I have requirements for my collared shirts: they must be non-iron; if they don't have super fancy adornments on the sleeves (such as ruffles), they must have the equivalent of barrel cuffs; and they must be long enough to stay in my pants. If possible, I also like the buttons down the front to be concealed. Banana Republic's new non-iron shirt fit my requirements, and my body, perfectly -- so I purchased two of them.

The shirts are made from cotton with a bit of lycra to achieve their non-iron feature. In addition to the grey and white, the shirt also comes in navy blue (on sale), pink, and a bright(ish) green. They are $59 each. Banana Republic was running a sale the last few days -- 40% off full price items if you purchased with your Banana Republic credit card -- so I got each for $35.40. Find the shirt here.

Limited Edition Vegan Coat With Sale Profits Going To Farm Sanctuary

2009-09-17T10:12:00.006-04:00

I'm still on a bit of a break from the daily blogging (busy week on the job after returning from a short vacation, honestly) . . . I intend to return next week . . . but, to tide you over, check out Vaute Couture's limited run “Vaute” coat.

Some pertinent info from the designer: "The alluring pea/dress coat — inspired by the winning illustration chosen by 8,000 voters from the Vaute Couture community, and interpreted into a feminine hourglass silhouette with oversized asymmetrical collar, puffed sleeves and inverted pleated skirt — is fully lined in a windproof 100 percent recycled zero waste satin ripstop, and is wind, water and snow resistant. The product of eight months of fabric research, it is constructed of a brand new technologically advanced fabric from the Polartec Wind Pro Series that is luxuriously soft and designed to retain heat while staying slim and flattering."

Vaute Couture is producing a variety of colors (Black, Cobalt Blue, Gray, and Ivory, as well as a Honeycomb Recycled Black version) and in sizes XS-XL. 25 coats of each color are being made. In line with the limited nature of the run and the couture label of the designer, each coat is $562. Of interest, all net profits of the sale go to Farm Sanctuary. I love Farm Sanctuary! Find the coat here.

A Vegan Blazer!

2009-09-15T13:39:00.003-04:00

I think I may need another week off from blogging to re-boot . . . but I will be back eventually. In the meantime, check out this vegan blazer via Banana Republic, which was pointed out to me by a friend. Made from cotton and polyurethane. Perfect to pair with trousers and a collared shirt for a look somewhere between business casual and business formal. The blazer comes in the pictured black. $132; find it here.

Update

2009-09-11T09:58:00.001-04:00

The Professional Vegan just got back from a brief(ish) vacation . . . and, although I am back, I am taking a couple more days off from blogging . . . but I will be back on Monday with a vegan suit! Thanks for reading!!

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Calvin Klein Sheath Dress

2009-09-03T08:17:00.003-04:00

Via Nordstrom and on sale! I really enjoy the short-ish sleeves with the ties and the boat-ish neck. The dress comes in the pictured charcoal. It is made from polyester, rayon, and spandex. Originally $118, Nordstrom has it on sale for $69.90 (40% off). Find it here.

Also from Calvin Klein and also on sale, but slightly more casual is a deep navy pintuck jersey dress with three-quarter sleeves (originally $118, on sale for $69.90 -- here), and a roll-neck ponte knit dress in black and deep purple available in regular and petite sizes (originally $118, also on sale for $69.90 -- here in black and here in purple). In addition, check out the Nordstrom website for more work-appropriate and vegan dresses from Calvin Klein on sale: there are a bunch others!

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Bag: Men's Wallet

2009-09-02T09:05:00.004-04:00

Not quite a bag, but a bag-like accessory. I haven't blogged something for men in awhile, so I thought I would return to a basic accessory: the black wallet. This tri-fold wallet is available via Alternative Outfitters (one of my favorite vegan online stores) and is made by The Vegan Collection. The wallet features 4 card slots, 2 interior slip pockets, a clear ID window, and two large bill pockets. It is made from faux leather. It is available in the pictured black and a dark brown. $24; find the black wallet here and the brown wallet here.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Tory Burch Cardigan

2009-09-01T08:05:00.002-04:00

I found this Tory Burch cardigan via Neiman Marcus' online sale. The v-neck, combined with the goldtone buttons down the front and on the button-flap pockets, makes this cardigan a bit of a cross between a jacket and a basic sweater. I would wear it over a dress or with slacks and a cami or higher-neck shell underneath. The cardigan comes in the pictured deep green and a lighter "tuscan yellow" that, strangely, is made from wool. According to Neiman Marcus, the deep green cardigan is made from cotton. Originally $250, Neiman Marcus has it on sale for $150. Find the deep green cardigan here.

Also, if you are looking for a basic cotton cardigan, Neiman Marcus has its "exclusively ours" cotton cardigan on sale -- originally $115, now $58. The cardigan comes in white ("purity"), a light sea green ("cascade"), a light yellow ("maize"), a light purple ("forget me not"), black, watermelon, a deep blue ("lapiz"), and red ("spitfire"). Find it here.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Anne Klein New York Skirt Suit

2009-08-31T08:58:00.003-04:00

Two-piece onyx skirt suit via Anne Klein. I especially enjoy the double breasted jacket decorated with notches at the collar and pockets. The side tabs on the jacket add a bit of extra flare. Pair the suit with a black cami or perhaps a black or maroon sweater with a higher neckline. The suit is made from polyester and viscose. Originally $320, the suit is on sale for $199.99.

Find the suit via Anne Klein's website here.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: Wall-Mounted Bookshelves

2009-08-28T08:15:00.008-04:00

My book collection is a bit out of control -- in stacks on the floor, etc. -- and the walls of my apartment are rather bare, so I have been thinking about how to remedy both situations at once. The best solution I have found so far is the bookworm shelf (pictured on wall with chair underneath). Truthfully, my friend who is obsessed with the MOMA catalogue and store found it; I simply appropriated the idea. The bookworm is a flexible bookshelf that can be constructed in various curvy shapes to decorate your walls. Approximately 20 pounds can be stored between each of the seven bookend supports. Made from batch-dyed fire-retardant PVC. The bookworm shelf is $425; find it here.

A more economical option, but very similar, is the "Lovely Rita" wall shelf (pictured right with two side by side of wall). As noted by Smart Furniture, the Rita wall shelf "can exist as a single wall shelf or can be fitted side-by-side with a series of modules to form an arrangement of curvy shelves snaking across your wall." The shelf is available in the pictured black, bright red, a deep blue, and white. Unfortunately, the website doesn't say how many pounds of books the shelf can hold. Each shelf is $285; find it here.

A much, much more economical option is the conceal bookshelf (pictured left as though on wall), also found via the MOMA store. This metal shelf mounts on the wall and then attaches to the bottom flap of one book (I think it must be a hard-back book). Each shelf accommodates up to fifteen pounds (about three law school textbooks or ten regular books) and can be stacked up to sixteen inches. If you have certain favorite prolific authors, I think it would be interesting to stack their books in different towers all over the walls. Each shelf is $15 at MOMA. Alternatively, each shelf is $11 at Smart Furniture; find the same shelf for less here.

Finally, something a bit similar, is the "Flybrary Bookshelf" (pictured right as though on wall). This metal mounted shelf hangs your books on metal strips to create the surface of the shelf. I think for maximum effect, all your hung books should be hard-back. Also, I'm not sure if I like the idea of sticking a piece of metal through all my books; though, it might be nice to combine the Flybrary shelf with the Conceal shelf to create contrast as to the orientation of the books magically floating on your wall. Each shelf holds up to 20 pounds. The Flybrary bookshelf is $30; find it here via Smart Furniture.

Vegan Sale and Vegan Purchase: Edun Live

2009-08-27T10:00:00.003-04:00

Edun Live, the companion site of Edun, is holding a sale now through August 31: 50% off all blank t-shirts (including long-sleeve . . . perfect for the upcoming fall and winter seasons). Edun Live makes t-shirts that support sustainable economic development: they employ people in Africa who might otherwise be unemployed, meaning the shirts are made in Africa by Africans. The shirts are high-quality: if you can get away with wearing a nice cotton t-shirt underneath work suits, these are perfect.

I purchased the organic t-shirt for women in deep purple (pictured) and super maroon. Each originally were $25, and I got each for $12 on sale. Thinking of the impending colder weather, I also purchased the long-sleeve crew-neck tee (for women) in classic navy (also pictured). It originally was $28, and I got it for $14.

Find the organic t-shirt here (available in many more colors), the long-sleeve tee here (available also in forest green), and all the blank t-shirts for women and men here.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Cut Colors Cardigan

2009-08-27T08:13:00.003-04:00

This cardigan is via Anthropologie. Pair it with solid trousers: black, brown, navy blue. Depending on your office, put a button-down shirt or nice t-shirt underneath, and add some colored pumps to give your final outfit a bit of a pop. The multi-colored diamonds decorating the cardigan also will add some color to your outfit. The back of the cardigan has one line of larger diamonds at the bottom, creating a more subdued back. The cardigan is made from cotton. $148 (I would wait for a sale); find it here.

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Bag: Lacoste Classic Collection

2009-08-26T09:15:00.003-04:00

Macy's is offering Lacoste's "classic every day" collection of shoppers, bags, and hobos on sale, including the left pictured medium shopper. The collection is made from polyester with PVC (vegan!). The pictured shopper comes in candy floss (light pink), sea blue, sunflower (bright yellow, and white. Originally $150, the bag is on sale for $104.99 and qualifies for free shipping. Find the medium shopper here.

Also included in the collection and on sale are: (1) classic every day hobo -- originally $115, on sale for $79.99 -- here; (2) classic every day small shopper -- originally $114, on sale for $78.99 -- here; and (3) classic every day small vertical shoulder bag -- originally $88, on sale for $55.99 -- here.

Designer Vegan Deal: Vera Bradley

2009-08-25T11:49:00.004-04:00

Quick heads up. A limited selection of Vera Bradley bags and accessories are on sale now for drastically reduced prices at RueLaLa.

If you need an invitation to access the site, email me at professionalvegan@gmail.com.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Bell Sleeve Dress

2009-08-25T11:41:00.002-04:00

I don't actually own a bell sleeve dress, mainly for two reasons: (1) I don't tend to wear dresses, though I think I might wear one with bell sleeves; and (2) every time I try on a bell sleeve dress, it doesn't look right on me. Regardless, I am still drawn to bell sleeve dresses and if they look good on you, I think they are very work-appropriate as long as they aren't too short. The pictured "Muse Bell Sleeve Ponte Knit Shift" dress is a recent addition to Nordstrom's website. It comes in the pictured eggplant and is made from rayon, polyester, and spandex. Though the dress hits a bit high above the knee on the model, I think it would be fine for most people. I especially enjoy the black contrasting curves on the bell sleeves. The dress is $148; find it here.

Vegan Purchase: Jeans Via Ann Taylor Loft

2009-08-24T10:30:00.004-04:00

In the past, I haven't purchased jeans from Ann Taylor Loft, nor have I thought to. Though I usually buy designer brand jeans because they fit my lack of hips better and tend to last longer (i.e. not solely because they are designer), I have stayed away from jeans from the places I buy suits and other work clothing because their waistlines are usually way, way, way too high. But when I went to Ann Taylor Loft this weekend in search of the suit mentioned in my previous post (which was a futile search, unfortunately), I noticed that the Loft was offering $20 off every pair of its jeans and that it had introduced a new "Marisa" fit, which supposedly sat low, low, low on the waist, presumed you didn't develop much in the way of hips, and came in a "trouser" cut that naturally allowed for a slightly higher waist anyhow.

Lured by my lack of jeans, the fashionable and functional "trouser" cut, the deep dark wash that could turn "trouser" jeans into casual-Friday appropriate attire in many places, the buttons on the back pockets (I'm a sucker for buttons on the back pockets of my jeans -- see picture), and the $20 off, I tried them on. Remarkably (and unexpectedly), they fit very well! And they came in petite, with a 30" inseam, meaning I didn't have to get them hemmed. So I purchased them.

The jeans are made from 99% cotton and 1% spandex, which gives them a bit of stretch. When I tried them on, I thought I was in-between sizes. Considering the spandex, I bought the tighter size. It was a good choice: after wearing them for 15 minutes, the spandex loosened and they fit perfectly. The jeans are $69.50; with the $20, I got them for $49.50. Find the jeans here.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Ann Taylor Loft City Suiting

2009-08-24T08:35:00.003-04:00

I have blogged previously about Ann Taylor Loft's city suiting collection. Recently the Loft added a one-button suit blazer to the collection (pictured in the melange grey), and matching pants and a skirt. The blazer (and the matching pieces) also comes in black. It pairs with two different cuts of boot leg pants ("ann" and "julie") and with a pencil skirt. The suit is made from polyester, viscose, and spandex. The blazer, "ann" version of the pants, and the skirt are available in stores. All items come in petites, although only the "ann" version of the pants is available in petites in stores.

The blazer is $128; find it here. The pants are $79.50 each; find them here and here. And the skirt is $59.50; find it here.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: Iced Coffee

2009-08-21T08:01:00.002-04:00

Another (another!) heat wave is hitting where I live. This morning, the doggie woke me up at 4:30, 5:30, and then finally 6:30 -- when I actually got up --to advise me of the hot weather situation. I know it's not actually hydrating, but I love iced coffee on hot mornings. In the future, instead of going to Starbucks and spending a small fortune every day, I think I might try a more economical version of iced coffee I recently stumbled upon at the Lamill Coffee Shop: the Hario iced coffee maker (pictured in all its contraption glory).

To make iced coffee in an instant, all you need to do is put the grounds in a filter and place the filter in the cone-shaped dripper, which rests atop a pitcher with a large ice chamber in the middle. Then pour hot water over the grounds; as it drips, the brew will cool rapidly. Iced coffee in a flash! The iced coffee maker is $30. Find it here. You'll note that Lamill Coffee Shop also stocks a variety of iced coffee maker sets that come complete with lamill coffee shop coffee and filters.

Article of Vegan Interest About Jelly Shoes

2009-08-20T10:30:00.005-04:00

On Monday (Aug 17), the New York Times ran an article by Jessica Michault titled, "The Reincarnation of the Jelly Shoe, With a Designer Flair." The article discusses the pervasiveness of jelly shoes in designers' shoe lines this summer, specifically mentioning Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, See by Chloé and Tory Burch. The comeback of jelly shoes is a blessing for vegans: finding cute and trendy footwear from mainstream designers that are vegan is practically impossible save a flip-flop or a sneaker here and there. But with the proliferation of jelly shoes, every vegan can wear designer shoes, provided the jellies are comfortable and she (or he) wants to designer-brand-herself (or himself). This summer, I have been wearing Tory Burch's jelly version of her famous Reva shoe (in navy blue), and Burberry's jelly thong sandal (in black).

I'm interested to see what designers create for the fall and winter. According to the article, it was the rise of Crocs that caused designers to launch into the jelly shoe arena. This winter, as it did last winter, Crocs will offer a variety of fleece (vegan!) lined Crocs appropriate to the colder weather (see picture). I'm not much of a fan of Crocs -- too wide for me; perhaps a few designers will create something to take the place of these Crocs.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: V-Neck Sweater

2009-08-20T08:14:00.006-04:00

From Ann Taylor Loft. A friend recently purchased this v-neck sweater with three-quarter length sleeves in the pictured deep teal and deep rose. Both look fabulous on her and are perfect for her business casual work environment: she intends to pair them with black or deep gray slacks. The sweater also would pair nicely with a full suit.

The neckline features two-layered ribbed trim, which adds a subtle flair to the sweater. However, the v-neck is a bit low and the fabric is a bit see-through; as such, I would suggest wearing a cami underneath. In addition to the two pictured colors, the sweater comes in seven other colors, including a "majestic plum" that I am very fond of. The sweater is made from 100% pima cotton.

The sweater is $39.50. My friend got 2 for $49.50 in the store: buy one, get the second for $10. Online, if you buy one, you get the second 50% off: so, 2 for $59.25. Find the sweater here.

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Bag: Nau Bags

2009-08-19T08:37:00.003-04:00

One of my best friends forwarded me an email about Nau bags that originally came to her via Thrillist. According to its website, Nau uses environmentally friendly fabrics to create functional, elegant design. Nau sells women's and men's clothing, and accessories.

My favorite of their current offerings is the new Motif Courier (pictured). Nau's description says it all: "A refined take on the classic messenger bag, the Motil Commuter shapes technical fabrics into a cleanly integrated design. Pared down and water repellent, this shoulder bag moves easily from the saddle to the office or studio, carrying comfortably all your daily gear." The messenger bag comes in the pictured caviar. It is made from woven from durable recycled polyester and comes complete with a 17" laptop sleeve. (However, the shoulder strap has recycled wool padding -- I've yet to decide whether recycled animal products are or are not vegan . . . I guess technically they aren't, but, then again, the exact item wasn't made by using an animal -- thoughts??) The bag is $225; find it here.

Tuesday's Vegan Clothing Item: Military-Inspired Jacket

2009-08-18T08:37:00.002-04:00

This "Bailey 44 Double Breasted Stretch Knit Jacket" is available via Nordstrom. I think your office needs to be on the edgy side of the "conservative" vs. "liberal" dressing spectrum for you to pull this off at work. But, otherwise, it would be great on the weekend. I love the epaulets at the shoulders and the piping. The jacket comes in the pictured charcoal grey. It is made from rayon, nylon, and spandex. A whopping $350 (perhaps waiting for a sale is in order, especially if you think this piece would be frowned upon in your office); find it here.

Vegan Deal: Blue Avocado Summer Blowout Sale

2009-08-17T09:30:00.003-04:00

Blue Avocado, purveyor of very functional reusable bags that scrunch up into a little egg that is super easy to carry in your purse, is holding their summer blowout sale: 40% off all purchases of $29.99 and above. My favorite Blue Avocado items are the gro-pac collection full kit, which replaces 16 grocery bags and folds up neatly into one bag (pictured), and the insulated chil bag, perfect for carrying items that need to be kept cold. Visit Blue Avocado and enter gooodkarma40 at checkout for your 40% off; sale ends August 31.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Jones New York Mini Ticking Stripe Suit

2009-08-17T08:07:00.003-04:00

This Jones New York suit is a two-piece complete suit: the jacket and pants come together, meaning you have to buy them both in the same size. Only about 50% of the time do both pieces of such suits fit me; as such, I prefer mix-and-match suits. However, complete suits such as this one usually are less expensive in the end. This suit comes in the pictured "bark multi," which has a "subtle stripe to add some depth and interest," according to the Jones New York website. Both the pants and the jacket are fully lined. The suit is made from 92% polyester and 8% rayon. It is on sale for $159.99; find it here. Also, Jones New York is offering free shipping on all orders over $100; check out the website for more details.

Designer Vegan Deal: Urban Decay Sale

2009-08-14T09:30:00.000-04:00

Urban Decay, purveyor of a huge line of vegan cosmetics, is hosting its Friends & Family sale online now through August 30th. My friend who alerted me to the sale "highly recommends the 24/7 eye liner pencils, the brushes (amazing), eye shadow primer potion, and the eye shadows (the less glittery ones), especially the deluxe shadows." I enjoy Urban Decay's de-slick mattifying powder, perfect for nights out when oil and shine pervade. Find the mattifying powder here ($29).

The code for the event is FNFF1; it'll give you 30% off your whole order until 8/30.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: Kalevala Moon Goddess Earrings

2009-08-14T08:13:00.002-04:00

I've been coveting these earrings for awhile now. They dangle (in multiple places!), feature an intricate design, and are not too large -- perfect! The Kalevala Moon Goddess Earrings are part of a collection available at Finn Style (yes, they are made in Finland). In addition the pictured small bronze earrings, the collection includes the same earrings in the same size in silver, larger bronze earrings of the same design, and a matching necklace in bronze and silver. The pictured earrings are $90; find them here.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Elodie Lily Cardigan

2009-08-13T08:42:00.004-04:00

Via Anthropologie. This long (29 inches) Charlotte Tarantola cardigan features elegant purple and gold lilies on a light tan background. The flowers continue over the shoulders and fall symmetrically down the back. I would pair the cardigan with black or brown slacks and pumps; also, obviously, some type of cami or other shirt is necessary underneath.

The cardigan is made from 100% cotton and comes in the pictured purple. It is an Anthropologie-standard priced $128; find it here.

Gilt Fuse Launches Today

2009-08-12T10:08:00.002-04:00

Gilt Groupe is launching its new, more tailored online designer sample sale website -- Gilt Fuse -- today. Gilt Fuse will offer only women's clothing and will have lower price points than Gilt. The launch is aimed at existing members of Gilt (Gilt Fuse claims that only members of Gilt Groupe can access Gilt Fuse until its wider launch in the fall). If you want to join Gilt, and accordingly gain access to Gilt Fuse, send me an email at professionalvegan@gmail.com. Today's launch sales are: Generra, Kova & T, and Modern Amusement.

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Shoes: Pointed Toe Pumps

2009-08-12T08:09:00.002-04:00

I found these pointed toe pump with a 1" heel via DSW. The heel is what drew me to them; it's very difficult to find vegan shoes with a low heel. The shoes come in the pictured purple and in four other color combinations: navy with lighter blue, black on black, dark brown with yellow, and light brown with dark brown. My favorites are the pictured purple and the light brown / dark brown combo. The shoes are made from synthetic materials. They are $24.95 (compare at price is $40); find them here.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Chain Blazer

2009-08-11T08:27:00.003-04:00

This blazer with a built-in multi-strand necklace boasting dangling charms intrigues me. The necklace is suspended from tiny fabric loops at the inside collar, and, thankfully, is removable. I likely would remove it. Absent the necklace, I really like the blazer, especially its long and lean structure and three-button front closure that make it nicely pair-able with trousers and a sweater. The jacket comes in the pictured black and is made from cotton and spandex. Fully lined too! The jacket is $398; find it here via Nordstrom.

Vegan Purchase: SE Boutique Ballet Flats

2009-08-10T15:51:00.003-04:00

I wear ballet flats like sneakers: with jeans and a t-shirt on the weekend to walk around town. I recently purchased these SE Boutique "Celeste" ballet flats via DSW to replace an ailing pair (which weren't vegan -- I view it as a great wardrobe upgrade). They are incredibly comfortable, flexible, and stylish. Most importantly, despite what the DSW website says, they are vegan. More accurately, I purchased them in the pictured black; the inside label clearly states they are comprised entirely of man-made materials; so, at the very least, the black version is vegan. They were $59.95 (the compare at price was $95); find them here.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Ruched Sleeve Suit

2009-08-10T08:34:00.004-04:00

From The Limited. This suit features a longer-length jacket with three-quarter ruched sleeves with a vent on the back of each sleeve (see pictures of front and back). I like the length of the jacket combined with the sleeves: gives the jackets a traditional feel with a bit of flare. The jacket pairs with bootcut pants or a structured pencil skirt (which is lined). The suit is made from polyester, rayon, and spandex. It comes in the pictured navy.

The jacket is $158; find it here. The pants are $69.50; find them here. The skirt is $59.50; find it here. The Limited is running a relevant promotion: $25 off 2nd pant or skirt. Accordingly, the entire suit (jacket, pants, and skirt) would be $261.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: Small Wooden Bear

2009-08-07T08:54:00.003-04:00

Ursa the grizzly bear truly is a non-functional accessory, perfect for displaying on a bookshelf or corner of a side table or perhaps even giving to a child as the toy she is meant to be. The bear is made from sustainably harvested beech wood and has elastic band hinges so that it is easily poseable. The bear stands 13.5 x 6.5 x 5.75. $98; find it here via Daytrip Society.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: "Freckled Weave" Jacket

2009-08-06T11:42:00.003-04:00

Via Nordstrom. This Classiques Entier three-quarter length sleeve jacket is perfect to pair with black trousers and a black sweater as we transition from summer to fall. It has a two-button front closure and matching three-button detail on the sleeves. It comes in the pictured "pink multi" and is made from polyester and viscose/rayon (vegan!). I particularly like the decoration on the pockets. The jacket is $268; find it here.

Vegan(ish) Purchase: Makeup and Kiehl's!

2009-08-05T08:46:00.006-04:00

I haven't updated my swiftly dwindling stock of makeup and skincare products for months and months and months, so when I landed at the King of Prussia mall on Sunday, I went a bit crazy and purchased a mini-stockpile. Here are the highlights, all of which I think are vegan, but I'm never really sure with makeup and skincare products unless its clearly marked one way or the other (such as Kiehl's stylist haircare line that includes silk -- eek -- that was my favorite pre-vegan!). As for the companies I purchase from, I have no idea what their policies regarding use of animals for testing are (either on their completed products or as to their suppliers). Please don't pounce on my choice of companies or products. Transitioning a life to eating vegan, dressing vegan, and using only vegan products is complicated and takes time; for me, the products that land in my bathroom or makeup case seem to be the biggest challenge. Regardless, here's some of what I got:

To begin, I replenished my supply of Laura Mercier's foundation primer. I use the original, created in 1995, to "prime" the skin before application of foundation and other layers. It is $30; available here.

While I was replenishing my supply of primer, I noticed, and fell in love with, Laura Mercier's shimmer bloc. I purchased it in the peach mosaic and intend to wear it over foundation to add a bit of shimmer to an otherwise matte face. The shimmer bloc is $38; here.

For my eyes, I've been craving a purple-hued shimmery eye-shadow. Naturally, I went to MAC for that and ended up purchasing the mineralize eye shadow duo in odd couple (pictured), a combination of purple with gold mixed with lavender and bronze veining. The eye shadow goes on sheer and leaves a soft shimmer. The eye shadow duo is $19.50; find it here. To apply the eye shadow, I also purchased a tapered blending brush ($28; here).

Finally, I bought a bag-load from Kiehl's, including intensive treatment for dry and callused areas, which is the best I have found for swiftly taking care of ultra-dry areas ($22.50 for a tube; here).

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Shoes: Dress Shoes For Men

2009-08-05T08:04:00.002-04:00

Via Vegan Chic. Vegan Chic recently added to their line of vegan shoes for men and now carries a variety of work-appropriate and weekend-appropriate shoes online, including a new (and expansive) line from Simple. Of their work-appropriate offerings, my favorite is the classic vegan dress shoe with a square-tip toe (pictured in black). Of course, it's made with "pleather." It is $55.95; find it here.

Vegan Purchase: Nicole Farhi Trousers

2009-08-04T10:30:00.003-04:00

Nicole Farhi is one of my favorite -- perhaps even favorite -- designers. So when I learned that DIANI, a boutique based out of Santa Barbara, California, carries some of her items, I immediately added their online store to my favorite websites. And then when DIANI had an online sale on some Nicole Farhi items, I splurged and purchased the Charlie Chaplin trouser (pictured). I love the relaxed fit, which is perfect for more casual days at work. Pair the trousers with a blouse or button-down shirt and a jacket (the matching jacket is also on sale, but only available in size 10) for a more formal look, or with a sweater for less formal look. The pants are deep navy blue with subtle pinstripes. They are made from cotton and lycra -- yes, vegan! The price is a bit steep: originally $285, I got them on sale at 50% off -- $142. Though my Nicole Farhi pieces last forever; sometimes it is work paying a bit extra for classic, versatile pieces -- or so I tell myself to validate my purchase.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: "Deon" Dress

2009-08-04T08:34:00.003-04:00

Via Dillard's. This technically sleeveless dress hits below the knee (on everyone except really tall models) and offers a high neckline, making it perfect for more business-formal offices. Pair it with a cardigan or jacket if you need to cover your arms a bit more. It is available in the pictured espresso "sharkskin" fabric made from polyester and rayon. The dress is $119; find it here.

The dress is part of Alex Marie's "Orchard Hill" collection made exclusively for Dillard's. Alex Marie also makes some other work-appropriate vegan dresses for Dillard's: (1) the "Diane" dress (I would check as to whether the accompanying belt is made from faux patent leather) -- $119; (2) the "Andrie" dress (more appropriate for less formal offices) -- $99; and (3) the "Adrianna" dress (on sale, select sizes remain) -- $41.70.

Post-Weekend Vegan Round-up

2009-08-03T08:58:00.005-04:00

I've been hoarding a number of items I wanted to post. After spending a lovely weekend at the beach and shopping for cosmetics and related products, and not blogging, I thought a round-up might be in order:

(1) Have a dog? Check out Wagwear (which I found through Daily Candy deals). It has tons of (rather expensive) items -- I think all vegan -- for your doggie. My favorite is the indoor doghouse tee-pee hound lounge, pictured right, which features a removable fleece covered machine-washable sleeping bed; $208. I think Daily Candy is still running its 25% off deal on Wagwear purchases.

(2) Jewelry, jewelry, jewelry. I've been browsing a lot online lately and have come across some interesting independent designers: Diana Warner Studio (includes pieces for brides and bridesmaids!); Pineapple Seed (with its great gold vermeil collection); Alex and Ani (which uses recycled metals); and Liquid Silver (which uses melted-down computer parts to create "slightly goth," according to Ideal Bite, pieces).

(3) In honor of my trip to the beach, a couple interesting bathing suit designers. First, my friend sent me a link to Wreck n' Sew, a San Francisco based designer (also where my friend is based, coincidentally), that makes retro-inspired swimsuits for women that are designed to stay in place. Yay! Also, check out Cala Ossidiana's swimsuits. She offers a variety of one-piece suits that I adore, such as the "Knot-Back Maillot," available in the pictured black, turquoise, and navy. The suit is $295 (eeek, expensive!).

(4) Finally, check out this awesome article from NY Magazine about Lululemon, my favorite yoga clothing brand. I admit, I am a Luluhead -- big time.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Ingenuity "Pattern" Suit

2009-08-03T08:20:00.006-04:00

Relatively new to Nordstrom is the line of Ingenuity suits. I posted about the line here when I first noticed Nordstrom carrying it. Originally the suit was available in mix and match pieces of solid colors. Now the line has expanded to include "patterns" of black and white "multi" and brown and white "multi." The black and white multi colored two-button jacket is pictured left. The jackets pairs with front-closure, slightly darted pants (only available online in the brown and white multi); a skirt, available in both colors, that hits slightly below the knees (perfect for the ultra-conservative office); or a sheath dress, also available in both colors (pictured right).

The suit is made from polyester, rayon, and spandex; some of the pieces are machine washable. The jacket is $210; find it here. The pants are $136; find them here. The skirt is $96; find it here. The dress is $158; find it here.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: Cork Tie and Belt

2009-07-31T08:02:00.006-04:00

There is no way to even vaguely suggest that this cork tie and belt, as a combination, might be work appropriate. The belt, maybe, in a very "liberal" office that encourages wearing non-professional items on days when you don't meet with clients, etc. and if you are the sort of person who can pull off a cork belt. The cork tie and belt hail from Cork Design, which makes handbags, placemats, and a limited number of accessories entirely from cork, meaning they are all eco and animal friendly. And, unlike maple syrup, which some vegans consider non-vegan, the bark of a cork tree can be harvested without injury to the tree -- cork is very, very vegan!

Cork Design's website compares the feel of the tie to the texture of nubuck suede. Find the tie here; it is $50. The belt, which comes in three cork colors and lengths and has a silver nickle buckle, also has that nubuck suede texture. The belt is $40; find it here.

Cork Designs primarily makes a line of designer handbags -- obviously, completely made from cork. Based on your office environment, and your love of cork, I think carrying a cork bag or wallet might be acceptable. My favorite of their handbags is the quilted Chanel-inspired zipped bag (pictured). It's 14" long at the bottom and 6" deep. The bag is $145 and comes in five cork color varieties; find it here.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Banana Republic Non-Iron Short Sleeve Shirt

2009-07-30T08:13:00.007-04:00

Banana Republic's basic button-down shirt in a summery short-sleeve version that hits at the hip -- long enough to tuck neatly into suit pants or skirts. The shirt comes in the right pictured "summer orchid," an "imperial blue," and a classic white. Made from 100% cotton, but still incorporating the ever-popular and important non-iron technology. The shirt is $60; find it here.

Banana Republic (and Gap, Old Navy, and Athena) is holding a 30% off special -- 30% off your entire order, one time use -- 4 days (now through Sunday, August 2). If purchasing online, use code: MNNBGYY6WNXQ.

Since Banana Republic is holding a sale, I thought I'd briefly highlight a few more items:

(1) Linen/cotton embroidered blouse (pictured left): white blouse made from a blend of 2/3 linen and 1/3 cotton; I love the puffed sleeve, ruffled collar, and pleating at the bust-line. I think the blouse is work-appropriate for a casual environment, although it might be most appropriate on the weekend. The blouse is $60.

(2) Classic non-iron shirt: exactly like the short sleeve one above, but with long sleeves. Available in cerise, shark grey, ice blue, and lady slipper (my favorite). Depending on color, the shirt is $44.99 or $59.

(3) Martin skinny pant (pictured right): the skinny jean finally has made it to (semi-)work-appropriate pants. These pants are made from rayon, cotton, and elastane. They come in the pictured black and silky coal. I would pair them with a button-down shirt to make them seem a bit more work-appropriate. The pants are $90.

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Bag: Hollywood Intuition Large Satchel

2009-07-29T08:21:00.005-04:00

From Target! I've been posting a lot of expensive items lately, so I thought I'd highlight a bag more within my budget. Luckily, Hollywood Intuition recently launched a line of bags and accessories at Target, including this fabulous large satchel that would be perfect as a briefcase. The bag is 16" x 13" x 3.5" and comes in the pictured black and an orange. It is made from polyurethane and has polyester lining. The only feature about it I'm not in love with is that it closes with a magnetic clasp, not a top zipper. The satchel is $26.99; find the black here and the orange here.

Also, they aren't exactly work appropriate, but I really enjoy these matching faux-leather bracelets, pictured right.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Hackney Jacket

2009-07-28T08:29:00.003-04:00

Via Neiman Marcus' online sale -- today is the last day -- take 25% off already reduced items. Such as this Hackney jacket with a stand collar and two sets of flap front pockets accented with buttons. I would pair it with black trousers and a button-down shirt or sweater. The jacket is made from cotton, lyocell, and lycra. It comes in the pictured charcoal and is available in select sizes. Originally $505, it is on sale for $253; with the extra 25% off, it will be $190. Find it here. (The jacket pairs with same-colored trouser jeans to make a casual cotton suit; however, the trousers are only available in size 25; see same link.)

Monday's Vegan Suit: Armani Collezioni Double Pinstripe Suit

2009-07-27T07:57:00.003-04:00

It's Armani and vegan! And, yes, very expensive! I love just about everything about this suit -- the large ruffle accenting the collar of the jacket, the three-button closure of the jacket, the larger buttons of that closure, the double gross-grain to accent the waist, the straight legs of the pants, the front slash pockets of the pants. And its made from polyester and polyurethane. I would pair it with a cami or a some other non-collared shirt (to accent the ruffle collar of the jacket). The only thing I don't love is the insane price. The jacket is $1,225 and the pants are $525; it's worth dreaming about, at least. Find the suit here via Saks Fifth Avenue.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: A Vase For Your Office

2009-07-24T08:23:00.002-04:00

Staring at the dead flowers on my desk for the fourth day in a row, I was inspired to post a flower-holding item. This "petite vase" (5" wide x 8.5" high) from The MacBeth Collection comes in a wide variety of patterns. Each pattern is laid onto the pictured metal bucket with handles. And the vases are monogram-able! Perfect for a corner of your desk or a side-table in your home. The MacBeth Collection also features vases and other buckets with similar patterns in a variety of sizes and shapes if you are looking for something slightly different. The petite vase is $35; find it here.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Sameunderneath Blazer

2009-07-23T08:06:00.003-04:00

For men! Knit blazer from Sameunderneath made from 75% organic cotton and 25% polyester. Classic, fitted, two-button blazer with front flap pockets, 3 buttons at the cuffs, and internal lining in contrasting print. It comes in the pictured black. Pair it with khakis and a button-down shirt for more casual work environments. $239; find it here.

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Shoes: Wanted "Drape" Pumps

2009-07-22T08:18:00.003-04:00

Piperlime is holding a "secret sale" -- extra 20% off all sale shoes and handbags today and tomorrow (July 22 and 23) -- use code: JUST4U. These Wanted conservative pumps are on sale for $29.99 right now; with the extra 20% off, they will be $23.99. I would pair the pumps with a full, conservative black or grey suit, or with a dress to make the dress look a bit more conservatively professional. The pumps come in the pictured black and a light grey with a wooden stacked heel. The heel height is 2" Find the black pumps here, and the light grey pumps here.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Burberry Pants

2009-07-21T08:46:00.004-04:00

In its Sunday book review, the New York Times reviewed a book I now really, really want to read: Cheap: The High Cost of Discount Culture by Ellen Ruppel Shell. I admit, I shop at discount chain stores, my favorites being Target and H&M, though I try to stay away from Wal-Mart. Sometimes I find (semi-)good clothing at these stores, but the best clothing always comes from higher-end designers, so if I can front the money, I will buy select items and wear them for years and years (instead of weeks and weeks). In short, I fully agree with (at least) one of the premises of the book.

While on the subject of high-end, pricey designer clothing, I thought I'd make today's work-appropriate clothing item on the pricey, long-lasting side. These nutmeg colored Burberry cotton pants are perfect for more business casual days, and, obviously, for the weekend. Pair them with a button-down shirt or a cardigan set for work, or a polo or t-shirt for the weekend. I especially like the button-detailed pockets in the back and the widening legs. They are $275; pre-order them from Saks here.

Vegan Purchase: Gathered Neck Sweater

2009-07-20T10:30:00.003-04:00

Via Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale. I purchased this sweater in a dark purple, which doesn't seem to be available online. I also purchased it in a petite size, which is what is available online. I didn't see it in "regular" sizes in the store, but I didn't look very hard. The gathered scooped neck lands at a perfect spot so as not to be too low, but still not straddling the neck. Online, the sweater comes in the pictured "berry ice," a bright light blue, brown, and black. It's made from rayon and nylon. Originally $58, it is on sale for $38.90. Find it here.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Semantiks "Pen and Ink" Suit

2009-07-20T08:00:00.003-04:00

Via Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale. This black-and-white suit has a tweedy knit texture -- perfect for the summer-to-fall transition. The jacket, which features a softened collar and matching rounded hems, pairs with pants and a skirt. The skirt boasts contrasting piping in black, and hits perfectly at the knees. The matching trousers have the same contrast piping in black.

The suit is made from polyester, viscose, and rayon. The jacket is on sale for $98.90 (originally $148); find it here in regular sizes, and find it here in petite sizes. The skirt, which also comes in petite sizes, is on sale for $49.90 (originally $78); find it here. The pants, which also come in petite sizes, are on sale for $58.90 (originally $88); find them here.

Vegan On The Weekend: Selections From Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale

2009-07-19T16:08:00.012-04:00

Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale is one of my best friend's favorite sale event. The sale offers some good deals on fall fashion. I thought I'd point out some of the vegan items on sale.

(1) Joie "Fara" Plaid Tuxedo Shirt: plaid shirts have been appearing all over magazine covers lately. I'm not sure if this shirt's ruffles combined with the plaid is a bit too much, although I saw it in Nordstrom and it seemed to work. The shirt is made from cotton and comes in the pictured "potion" plaid; in store, it also is available in a white-black-brown-gray plaid color combo. Originally $188, it is on sale for $109.90.

(2) Classiques Entier Drape Neck Sheath Dress: a folded collar with a sophisticated bow adds a unique look to this sheath dress; the cap sleeves are a perfect combination of the current sleeve-less look with an added bit of fabric for a more conservative look. The dress is made from polyester, viscose, and spandex, and comes in the "menswear-inspired" black multi color. Originally $228, it is on sale for $149.90.

(3) Semantiks Ruffle Pocket Cardigan: this deep v-cardigan with un-obtrusive ruffling at the pockets comes in "regular" and petite sizes in a variety of colors including the pictured "paris purple." The sweater is made from rayon and nylon. Originally $68, it is on sale for $39.90.

(4) Foxcroft Fitted Shirt: classic crisp white button-down shirt in a feminine "fitted" fit with pleats and princess seams. The shirt is made from cotton, and is of the "no-iron" variety. Originally $68, it is on sale for $44.90. The Nordstrom sale also features a bunch of other Foxcroft shirts, most with patterns or texture; find them all here.

(5) Kristen Blake Iridescent Quilted Coat: I particularly like the huge pockets on this shiny quilted water-resistant coat. It comes in the pictured pewter and a bronze, and in "regular," petite, and plus sizes. The coat is made from polyester and nylon, and has polyester lining. Originally $150, it is on sale for $89.90.

(6) And, finally, something for men: Façonnable Cotton Jacket: this lightweight zip-up jacket made from cotton is perfect for weekend excursions or more casual days traveling to and from the office. It is lined with the ever-popular plaid. The sweater jacket comes in the pictured navy and a dark-ish tan. Originally $295, it is on sale for $199.90.

Vegan Purchase: Three-Quarter Sleeve Stretch Shirt

2009-07-17T14:00:00.003-04:00

Purchased on sale via J.Crew. Besides Brooks Brothers, I find the J.Crew shirts fit me best, particularly their "slim fit" cut, which realizes that I have a chest that the shirt's material should cover such that buttons are not strained in that area, but that after the chest. J.Crew currently is offering its three-quarter sleeve stretch shirt on sale in certain colors for $39.99, reduced from $58. I purchased it in a light blue that I can't find online; the "light pewter" is pictured instead. Find the shirt here.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: Bread Warmer Basket Set

2009-07-17T10:32:00.007-04:00

This weekend I am traveling to see married friends and meet their new baby. Of course, I purchased an adorable outfit for the baby (baby clothes are irresistible). But I wanted to get something for my friends that had nothing to do with the baby. Also, I decided to bake some vegan muffins for them . . . so I thought something tangentially related to the muffins, or in which the muffins could be presented, might be nice. I ended up getting a decorative bowl, in which I will place nice kitchen dishtowels and then put in the muffins -- a bit "desperate housewives," switching the traditional basket for a bowl.

However, what I really wanted to get them was a bread warmer basket set. I've heard a bit about these lately. Essentially, the set is a bamboo or wicker basket, a cloth liner, and a terra cotta warming stone. The terra cotta warming stone is placed in the oven or microwave, warmed, and then slipped into the cloth liner and put at the bottom of the basket. The loaf of bread or other bread-like products to be kept warm are placed on top of the cloth liner.

Alas, I couldn't find any readily available in-stores. But Target has a set available online (pictured left). It's 17.99 and has been receiving good reviews. Find it here. Overstock. com has a similar set, on sale for $17.49; find it here (pictured right).

Vegan Purchase: Slippers Via Target

2009-07-16T10:30:00.002-04:00

Not exactly designer, but I was browsing through Target this weekend for cleaning products to pick up dog hair, and I passed these clog slippers that look more to me like go-on-the-street shoes and had to get them. I purchased them in the pictured grey cable knit (here). Who can resist grey cable knit? Though, perhaps, that does make them more like slippers than actual shoes. The slippers also come in a deep chocolate brown cable knit (here), a brown-pink-white plaid (here), and a black-purple-white plaid (my second favorite - I'm a sucker for purple) (here). They are made from faux-suede, faux-shearling, and textile uppers and bottoms -- vegan! They are a very doable $16.99.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Nevara Pants

2009-07-16T09:23:00.004-04:00

Yes, they are super-over-the-top expensive, but I love these Leifsdottir "Nevara" pants via Anthropologie (hence, over-the-top expensive). The pants have a high-ish waist accented by side-buttons and mini-pockets, all of which I love. I also like the dark tweed fabric (the pants come in the pictured "blue" color) and semi-wide legs. Pair the pants with a simple button-down shirt and black pumps for a crisp, business look. The pants are made from viscose and polyester. And, yes, they are a whopping $278. Find them here.

Notable Vegan Items on Sale

2009-07-15T11:00:00.009-04:00

Thought I'd post a handful of (meaning three) items from two stores that are on sale and vegan:

(1) Calvin Klein Pleated Dress via Nordstrom: great for more casual offices or dress-down days. The cotton dress boasts an empire waist with a large, but not overbearing side-bow and a slightly flared skirt. Obviously the addition of a cami underneath is a must. The dress comes in the pictured black. Originally $108, it is on sale for $70.

(2) Jane Post for Saks Fifth Avenue Nylon Jacket via (amazingly) Saks Fifth Avenue: clearly a non-work-appropriate item. I really like the all-over ruffle front and the sleek sheen of this 100% nylon jacket. Interestingly, it comes with a nylon tote for storage, though I'm not sure how wrinkled the jacket would get in the tote. It's available in the pictured black. Originally $325, it is on sale for $161.90.

(3) Theory 'Valens - Crunch' Pants via Nordstrom: these pants are made from a combination of linen, rayon, and elastane, which gives them a textured, somewhat crinkled feel and look. Because of the linen, I might suggest these pants are more for casual days or the weekend. They come in the pictured "north sea," black, dark plaster, and white. Originally $245, they are on sale for $147.

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Bag: Melie Bianco Patent Bowler

2009-07-15T08:36:00.003-04:00

Made from 100% synthetic pvc materials, not actual patent leather. This huge (huge! - 17" high, 15" wide, 4" deep) comes in the pictured yellow that is quite appropriate now that the sun is shining in full force, though possibly not office-appropriate depending on your office, and a more subdued gray that goes well with lighter summer suits. The bag comes with a removable shoulder strap, which I likely would ditch as the handles have a perfect 8" drop. The bag is $95 via Piperlime, which, as always, offers free shipping and free returns. Find it here.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Custom Dress Shirts for Men

2009-07-14T08:24:00.003-04:00

Proper Cloth, which was started in 2008 in New York City, allows men to design dress shirts from Italian fabrics; the custom shirts then are produced in the United States: "Men are free to choose unique fabrics for the inside of their collars and cuffs as well as other options so that their shirts will suit them. We want to embrace the corporate cubicle world but poke some fun at it." The custom shirts are made from cotton. Proper Cloth offers a wide variety of collar and cuff options as well as fabric options. The shirts range in price from $80 - $140+.

Monday's Vegan Suit: Antonio Melani Suit

2009-07-13T08:07:00.004-04:00

Via Dillards. I don't know how I feel about how double-breasted jackets such as this one look on me, but I love the idea of such jackets, especially one with buttons set semi-close like this one. The shawl collar is a great added touch, and the black/mist herringbone wide-stripe pattern gives the suit an updated look.

The jacket pairs with a vest and wide-leg pants. The vest boasts seven closely-set buttons, small front pockets, and a hardware buckle detail on the back. In addition to the wide legs that pair nicely with the double-breasted jacket, the pants have cuffs and an extended-tab waist.

The suit is made from polyester, viscose, and elastane. The jacket is $199; find it here. The vest is $129; find it here. The pants also are $129; find them here.

Designer Vegan Deal: Melissa PVC Shoes

2009-07-10T10:21:00.003-04:00

The Brazilian shoe brand Melissa designs a line of PVC (plastic) shoes and flip-flops. Portions of that line are on sale, up to 50% off, today on ideeli, another of those designer sample sale online websites. I believe you can register for ideeli without invitation; if not, shoot me an email at professionalvegan@gmail.com and I will send you an invitation.

These shoes and flip-flops clearly are not office appropriate, but they are great for the weekend or, at least some, for the beach. The most intriguing of those on sale is the "black and white joy" shoe pictured left. Lace-up, jazz-inspired, and made of 100% non-toxic recyclable PVC material. The shoe is on sale for $49 (originally $99). Check out the sale here.

Friday's Vegan Accessory: Vegan Sunscreen!

2009-07-10T08:11:00.004-04:00

It's summer -- really, really summer, which means it's time for the beach or other sun-ray-catching activities. Never fear! There is vegan sunscreen to attend to your sun woes. Not incorporating any animal products, not tested on animals -- you can feel safe wearing these skin-protecting sunscreens:

(1) Alba Green Tea SPF 30+ Sunscreen via Alternative Outfitters (a vegan boutique) (pictured): 70% certified organic ingredients, hypo-allergenic, with green tea antioxidants and aloe vera, both of which absorb quickly, leaving a light, fresh scent.

(2) Jason Suncare: complete line of vegan sun care products, including sprays, anti-aging sunscreens, water resistant sunscreens, and lip balm.

(3) Kiss My Face sun-lotions: most of these vegan sunscreens are made with oat protein; they come in convenient spray bottles as well as tradition lotions.

Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Flare Pants from The Limited

2009-07-09T08:23:00.002-04:00

Remember The Limited and The Limited Too? Thinking about them brings back memories of shopping at the mall during middle school. The Limited Too is now called Justice, which seems very odd to me. But, The Limited is still going strong and still has its original name. For a more casual work environment, or for casual Fridays, I sometimes turn to The Limited for pant options, especially when I am looking for machine washable work pants.

Right now The Limited has all of its pants on sale -- 40% off, including its "Cassidy Triple Button Flare" pants, pictured in the grey with black pinstripes (I know, the pinstripes aren't visible in the picture). I especially like the triple button front closure and front pockets. And the back has pockets too! Made from polyester, viscose, and a bit of spandex for stretch. The pants originally were $79.50, and are on sale for $47.70 -- and come in short, regular, and long in a variety of still-available sizes. Find them here in the grey with black pinstripes, and here in "mushroom melange" and black (these two colors are on sale for $41.70). The "mushroom melange" and black pair with this jacket ($158) to make a complete suit.

Wednesday's Work-Appropriate Bag: Stella McCartney

2009-07-08T08:03:00.008-04:00

Via a wonderful comment from a reader informing me that Yoox has some Stella McCartney handbags on sale -- and, wow, Yoox has a bunch of great bags on sale. I had a hard time choosing which one to post, so I'm posting a few.

First, I greatly enjoy this white "large fabric bag" made from cotton and canvas. It's bigger than it looks -- 11" high, 16" wide, and 7" deep -- perfect for use as a fashionable summer briefcase. Originally $295, Yoox has it on sale for $149. Find it here.

Second, I am really taken by this faux shiny patent leather tote-ish handbag in the pictured beige (that would match a pair of Steve Madden vegan pumps I picked up a couple months ago). It's also made from vegan materials, of course, and is slightly smaller than the above fabric bag. My favorite feature is the zipper and logo pendant details on the front. Originally $730, Yoox has it on sale for $365. Find it here. The bag also comes in a coral: same materials, same size, same price; find it here.

Third and finally, my favorite of my favorites is this shoulder bag with white with tan contrasting that is somewhat of a combination of the above two bags. The bag is made from cotton and faux leather (even though Yoox says its "leather," as I understand, no Stella McCartney bags use real leather). Originally $590, Yoox has it on sale for $295. Find it here.