We are all well aware, as savvy citizens of the earth, that the 21st century obsession with throwaway fashion is a toxic and damaging habit. Those lunchtime trips to Primark for frivolous treats are racking up and the time has come to actually bite the organic-eco-fair-trade bullet. And no it does not mean wearing hemp.

Enter Goodone, a fast-expanding company based in East London which has captured the attentions of the media through its creative and charitable concept. The two fashion graduates behind the firm source local materials and fabrics, from recycling collections and local business cast-offs, and rework them into structured and innovative garments. Particularly creative is their “Snoody Muff”, an all-in-one winter warmer encompassing hood, gloves and muff. See also the “Heart Bum Skirt”, guaranteed to enhance one’s natural assets, and the retaliatory response to the Anya Hindmarch canvas bag.

Since November 2007 Goodone has worked with the HEBA Women’s Project, a charitable association providing work and community support to disadvantaged women in London’s East End, building even more on their “local and sustainable” mission statement. Goodone are also keen to spread word of their concept through lectures and talks at associated colleges and schools. Check out a collection of their pieces online, or find stock in selected boutiques in the capital.

www.goodone.co.uk

Vivia  Ferragamo, granddaughter of the legendery shoe designer Salvatore, is to launch her shoes and accessories line at Liberty this February.

With fashion firmly in her blood, London-based Vivia has successfully managed to combine the ambition and detail of her grandfather’s brand with a fresh unique perspective, creating a style which is distinctly her own.  Since her break-out collection in 2002, the FIT graduate and Emanuel Ungaro alum has built up her own lucrative label, Vivia, in Europe and Asia and her top-to-toe collection of women’s ready-to-wear includes swimwear, shoes and handbags.

While acknowledging the genuis touch of her grandfather, Vivia is keen to stress that a designer must be true to themselves and follow the creativity within.  She looks like she’s hitting the right note judging by her stylish following, which include Gwyneth Paltrow and the Ting Tings.  So if you want to see what all the fuss is about why not check out her two-tone ballet flats and the killer heels above at the Liberty launch in the New Year?

This week saw the opening of the LA D&G flagship store, attended by some of Hollywood’s finest and most fashionable, in participation with charitable cause The Art of Elysium.

It is surprising, perhaps, that the dynamic duo known for their glittering red-carpet and party-friendly creations didn’t have a solid base in Los Angeles before. They are now however firmly established on Robertson Boulevard, nestled amongst Kitson, The Ivy, and the new Chanel concept store, in an ultra-modern building covering over 6000 square feet, designed by Dordoni Architetti Studio. The launch party turnout suggests a profitable future for the Italian design house, with an abundance of stars showcasing pieces from the Spring 2009 line.

The attending stars were free to peruse and purchase throughout the evening, enticed by the fact that 15% of all sales made between December 15th and January 15th will go to The Art of Elysium. The charity, founded in 1997, encourages actors, musicians, and artists to donate their time and efforts to children battling serious medical conditions in order to run creative programs and events. Young Hollywood’s Rachel Bilson described herself as “a big supporter of the charity”, attributing the evening’s success to the “great cause, nice store”, and the holiday spirit.

The man who was raised on a French farm surrounded by ducks and geese and who has now made the Dorchester one of the most exciting and innovative places to dine has created two new exclusive menus for the festive season: The Ultimate Christmas menu and the New Year menu.

Alain Ducasse, the 15 Michelin-starred chef, once said a great hotel must deliver more than ‘starchy service or ostentatious luxury’ it must offer ‘hospitality to match the region’ and ‘top-quality cuisine’. He has done just that this Christmas as Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester is putting on a lavish feast for guests and visitors that boasts the freshest ingredients and finest wines. Furthermore his pad has just been named best new restaurant in the prestigious 2009 Zagat Guide.

If you are no wine connoisseur, don’t worry, there is a friendly head sommelier called Hugues Lepin on hand to stop you drowning in the long list that accompanies the menus. And with large windows looking out over Hyde Park and innovative interiors – one wall in the restaurant is peppered with dark green silk buttons – let your dining experience à la Planet Ducasse commence.

This year the restaurant has decided to accommodate diners with children. A seasonally decorated activity area is being constructed where kids can make crafts or be entertained by a magician. For even more extravagance book private dining room Table Lumière. With glistening 4,500 fibre-optic lights and its own Hermes china, silver and crystal wear you will be totally indulged.

Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester, Park Lane, W1K 1QA (020 7 629 8888)

Average cost The Christmas menu is £295 which includes seven courses, wine and champagne. The New Year menu is slightly pricier at £395 for the same seven courses, wine and champagne but also includes being serenaded for the evening by a pianist and singer flown over from France.

What to order? Try the seared sea scallops with an apple quince relish and mulled wine on the Christmas menu and Yule log pudding for dessert. Guzzle the New Year menu entrees such as chicken and foie gras terrine with black truffle condiment or roast Scottish lobster for main.

Tipples The 2006 Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume is suggested with the Christmas menu.  To see in the New Year try the 1999 La Grande Anne Bollinger.

Spotted Marion Cotillard came here for her birthday. Amanda Wakely, Alfie Hitchcock, Erin O’Connor and Sting’s daughter Coco Sumner.

www.thedorchester.com

Known for its eccentric prints and dresses, Tibi is launching its first swimwear range for 2009. Designer Amy Smilovic, inspired by her home Hong Kong and by her constant travels, created a range of one-pieces, bikinis and pareos to join the launch of her Asian-themed spring collection.

Smilovic’s Tibi line features quirky dresses and suits in colourful prints that are feminine yet powerful and the swimwear keeps with the playful spirit. Bold, bright and flattering, it’s beachwear at its light-hearted best. Aqua, green, turquoise and yellow all meld together in candy stripe patterns to create a striking range.

Both the beach dresses and the gold cuff accessories bring an even more rich and vibrant quality to the collection. Even in the dismal winter, it’s clear that Smilovic’s eye-catching collection is sure to be a hit.