Spring is in the air. Finally, after a harsh Winter that had everyone from San Diego to Saratoga experiencing droughts, snowstorms, and a myriad of weather obstacles in-between...the tide is turning. Suddenly, the West coast got rain, the East coast is getting sun, and your favorite fashion stores are unwrapping the newest objects of desire for Spring 2014. Now, more than ever, it is easy to also support causes near and dear to your heart simply by purchasing from companies with a passion for charity. Three collections that champion animal rights and the environment are among the most interesting offerings for Spring.
FIGUE - The self styled collection of designer Stephanie Von Watzdorf is on the short list of those bohemian globe-trotting "it" girls who live between St. Tropez, West 
Figue Flying Elephant Tote - $65.00Chelsea, and Costa Careyes - depending on the time of year. 
Figue Flying Elephant iPad Case - $95.00 Figue is cool and stylish, but never pretentious. How could it not be fabulous? Stephanie is the gal that helped create the look of the Tory Burch RTW aesthetic. While Tory prefers the "Bohemian in a Bentley" image, Stephanie is more "Gorgeous in Goa". Most of the pieces are collectible and Figue has a following with a one-of-a-kindish-like passion. Anyone who knows Von Watzdorf knows her passion for animals - big and small. Her Flying Elephant Totes ($65.00) and Flying Elephant iPad Cases ($95.00) helps raise money to save and care for Elephants in Africa. Over 30% of the tote and 20% of the iPad case goes to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. The Trust cares for Elephant and Rhinos is Kenya, carrying on the legacy of David Leslie William Sheldrick - founder of the Tsavo National park in Kenya. Help support this beautiful creatures while wearing one of the chicest collections around! Figue has opened it's first BOUTIQUE in NYC -GET THERE!!
JOHN BARTLETT - This NY based fashion designer has a history of supporting animal rights. His Tiny Tim Rescue Fund helps support dogs and cats in need,
TINY TIM ADOPT NECKLACE and ensures they are cared for in no-kill shelters. Bartlett started the fund in memory of his own three legged rescue pit bull - Tiny Tim. For 2014 there is an exciting new fashion piece to raise awareness and funds for the cause. 
Bartlett has teamed up with jewelry designer to the stars Gregg Wolf to create the Tiny Tim Adopt Necklace in Sterling Silver. At $135.00, it's an affordable way to help safe man's best friend and look cool doing it.
This family owned skin care company has built a loyal following by using all natural ingredients and utilizing combined with the latest scientific breakthroughs in anti-aging and restorative properties. With fans around the world, Chantecaille has helped women choose more natural options in their beauty regimen. Philanthropy is also a constant in this eco-aware company. Each season, the family chooses an animal in danger of extinction to raise funds and awareness. For Spring 2014, the focus in on the Honey Bee. Bees have protected and helped produce all of natures finest creations for millions of years. These tiny creatures protect our ecosystem in a profound way. (Honey found in the tombs or ancient Pharaohs is still edible today!) The recent and
CHANTECAILLE - "SAVE THE BEES" PALETTE dramatic decline of bee populations around the world has scientists on every continent concerned. A portion of the profits from the sale of every Save The Bees Palette goes to the Xerces Society. This non-profit organization protects wildlife through the conservation of invertebrates and their environment. The palette has a warm collection of colors that flatter the eyes and cheeks.
To learn more about any of these worthy causes, click the highlighted links or the images. You can "pollinate" any of these causes in your own way by purchasing these items now. Help these beautiful creatures, while you also take home some beautiful pieces for yourself this Spring.
Buzz around like a busy bee now. Happy Spring!