Clutter Magnets … And, their thrifty solutions! By Barb Tobias NABBW’s Thrifting Expert Think of your home as a walk in the forest. Do you walk through an orderly, sun dappled landscape covered with fern and fauna, gazing up at towering trees with playful wildlife scampering past? Or, is your walk a study in navigation … through debris, fallen trees, broken branches and tangled undergrowth? We all want that serene, organized home that is a pleasure to walk through. However, if you are anything like me, you\’re probably suffering from an abundant collection of junk that insists... Read More

Living Life on the Cheap … A Green Case for Shopping Thrift By Barb Tobias NABBW’s Thrifting Expert Years ago, after I got over myself, and realized that where I shopped didn’t define me, I actually allowed myself to love the art of thrifting. I’ve always been a blissful shopper and I took great thrill in discovering the vast array of treasures hidden beneath the rubble of someone else’s discards. The hunt became my game. Another motivation was the simple fact that during that frugal discovery period … I was broke. Therefore, the realization that I could buy fabulous things for... Read More

Summer bags can be stylish,inexpensive, and eco-friendly… By Sherrie Mathieson NABBW’s Fashion and Style Expert Vogue.com recently announced Ms Westwood\’s creative new bag line. “When Vivienne Westwood launched the Ethical Fashion Africa Project back in January 2010, the initiative’s line — created in collaboration with the International Trade Centre — offered up three shopper bags, handmade in Nairobi out of completely recycled materials, and sold out in a flash. The project was an inspiring challenge for the environmentally conscious Westwood, as her team was forced... Read More