If there is one thing we can all agree on in our consumerist economy, it’s that we create so much waste. To be fair, it’s really not totally our fault, in my opinion. While plastic was a seemingly incredible invention at the time, now everything we buy is contained in it. Not only is it linked to causing cancer, but these mechanisms of convenience (water bottles, snack packs, etc.) are also polluting our land (landfills) and oceans. Ever heard of the great plastic garbage patch? We’re told it’s a floating mass which is a collection of plastic in the Pacific Ocean. I don’t know about you, but that doesn’t sound great to me. Point being, going more natural and sustainable, in every sense of those words, is simply the socially conscious, cleaner, healthier, and better solution. Not only for our planet but for our minds, bodies, and spirits. In honor of Earth Day, I thought I’d take you through how I got involved with some best practices. Hydrate ProperlyA very easy place to start. Your personal hydration. You can start with a reusable water bottle found at practically every boutique in Old Town. Here’s a great option from The Shoe Hive. This water bottle comes in three super cute colors, so you should probably buy all three.Be Trendy Try considering how you shop for your clothes! When I founded Curated Classix (my sustainable, upcycled, vintage boutique), I initially had a very specific objective. My years of creating custom pieces as a stylist and costume designer sparked the idea. Instead of sourcing vintage garments to inspire a fresh creation, why not create a sustainable and affordable upcycled vintage option for the trend conscious yet, sustainable fashion consumer? And thus, a brand boutique was born! What started as a niche boutique concept became a lifestyle for me. Here are some of my favorite spring pieces that add instant style!   Clean BeautyI switched to clean beauty brands like Beautycounter, Tarte, Thyrst, and more! Bellacara in Old Town carries RMS Beauty which is one of my favorite summer makeup lines for their balmy dewy finishes that are perfect for hot weather. They all kind of melt together perfectly!CompostI began composting from all the fresh pressed juicing I do. And now, our recycling bin is overflowing, and our trash is practically empty when it comes time to set the bins out. I’ve even thought about calling the city to ask for a second recycling bin. DonateStop putting items in the trash. Donate to thrift shops, churches and list for free on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. Your stuff will be gone in an hour, I swear! I find myself donating and thrifting religiously. I also shop Poshmark and eBay before big box stores! It’s fun to hunt around, and I try to help where I can. A bit of effort goes a long way to show your love to our planet!