INSPIRATION ALERT: Green New Yorkers Tristin & Tyler!

Ok, I have been wanting to write about this powerhouse duo for quite some time.  If there's anything that gives me hope for the future of the earth it's these two amazing kids (and their incredibly supportive and inspirational parents!!)

Tristin & Tyler (photo source: official Facebook page)

Tristin and Tyler are twin brothers who "go on New York City adventures in their new show Tristin and Tyler's Tales from the City! Each episode is a GREEN learning adventure for kids and parents!"  

I love the energy and vivacity with which they approach all of their eco discoveries and the passion they have for making a green lifestyle the lifestyle.  One of my favorite episodes is Umbrella Rags to Riches where they interview Catherine Charlot, fashion designer and owner of Himane, who upcycles discarded umbrellas into haute couture. 

Their infectious energy and curiosity always leaves me feeling like anything is possible.

Check out Tristin and Tyler today!  Are there inspiring NYC green stories that they haven't covered yet?  Leave your suggestions in the comments section!


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Design Idea: All Natural Sequins

Many costumes are spangled with sequins to give performers an extra oomph on stage!  A memorable recent example would be the costumes from Taylor Mac's The Walk Across America To Save Mother Earth, gloriously crafted by Machine Dazzle. (Witness the Dazzle - warning, NSFW!) 

A new costume restoration at Smallhythe Place in Kent, England, used a much different kind of sparkle:

beetle wings

The dress dates to 1888 and was worn by Ellen Terry when she played Lady Macbeth.  Described as "emerald and sea green," the dress was made with 1,000 beetle wings and was restored at a cost of £50,000.  Where did they get all these wings?  The house manager, Paul Meredith, notes: "We had collected the beetle wings that had fallen off the dress over the years so that the conservator was able to re-attach many of the originals, plus others that had been donated to us - 1,000 in total."

Apparently, no beetles were harmed in the making.  The iridescent wings are naturally shed throughout the beetle's life cycle.

Too "bugged out" by the real thing? Try these!

Have you ever used an insect or animal by-product in your costume design? Tell us in the comments section.