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One would think that with the advanced technology and research, it would be easier for beauty companies to develop products that are not only cruelty free, but that are also created without the need for animal derivatives.

Fortunately, White Sands introduces a Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner duo that is Color Intelligent. And the best part? They're 100% vegan.

White Sands Hydrating Shampoo with Color Intelligence is sulfate free and contains a clear micro shield, ensuring that it will delicately cleanse your hair, without stripping your tresses of much-needed moisture.

The Hydrating Conditioner with Color Intelligence is a light weight formula that protects against damaging free radicals.

Hydration, color protection, and cruelty free--what more could you want in hair products?

Facebook officially announced their 200 millionth user (I can't believe it either!) To commemorate, they have invited over 16 influential organizations, including TOMS, to create virtual gifts that you can send to Facebook friends. TOMS adorable gifts are a shoe from their current spring collection, and a shoe with a parachute. (The latter is a reference to TOMS method of donating shoes! Cute, huh?)

Here's where you come in: all proceeds from the virtual gifts goes to TOMS non-profit organization, Friends of TOMS. And for every giver and recipient of the adorable virtual shoes will receive a $5 gift certificate redeemable at www.TOMSshoes.com.

It's like the gift that keeps on giving!

So log onto Facebook and share the love with your friends. Please???

For those of us dealing with the insufferable sludge and the tremendous cold, spring seems very far away. However, as I'm watching the calendar pages flip by, I'm realizing that spring really is just around the corner...a relief, because my closet is begging to be stocked with sundresses and pastels. (Very soon, dear Closet. Very soon.)

Fortunately, to feed my springtime optimism, I received an email from TOMS Shoes in regards to their 'perfect for sunny days' shoes. And they are darling!

As always, for every pair of TOMS you purchase, they will donate a pair to a child in need.

Do some good for others AND your feet.

There have probably been a billion posts made all over the blogosphere about TOMS Shoes, and for good reason. I remember when my former roommate first brought home a pair a couple of years back. I wasn't sure I was particularly in love with the look.

It's only now, with the redesign of TOMS and the difference I can really see that they are making in this world, that I am really beginning to fall for this shoe company.

If you don't know the deal, it's simple: for every pair you buy, TOMS Shoes will donate a pair of shoes to child in need. Every pair, every time. So, if you buy 100 pairs, that means that 100 children just got new shoes because of you. AND, the shoes are completely cruelty free!

This seasons looks are getting quite cute, and they range from $42 to $98--not incredibly unattainable. I am particularly loving the wrap boots, and as soon as I can set aside the money, I'm snagging them in red or green!

Check out this video to learn more about TOMS cause:

What are your thoughts on these shoes? Have any of you purchased a pair of TOMS?

Maybe it's because I envy her flawless look. Maybe it's because she embodies a certain elegance and grace. Or maybe it's because of this video:

Whatever the reason, I love Natalie Portman. I can't help it! I do. Her acting is impeccable, and now more than ever, so is her fashion sense.

Natalie's shoes and handbags line, Te Casan, launched earlier this year, is more than just stylish; it's also vegan. In regards to the reason for the creation of the line, she's says,

“As a vegan, it’s been challenging finding designer shoes made of alternative materials. This collection offers a great selection without compromising quality or style.”

Now some people are giving Natalie some flack because they don't believe she's really a vegan. Some vegans are calling her a hypocrite. As someone who's pretty much been meat-free for 11 years, I ask, does it matter if she's vegan or not? The point is, she created shoes that are animal-friendly...shoes that don't make vegans, or anyone else for that matter, look like they're trying to relive Woodstock. (You know what I'm talking about...)

Now, these shoes may be cute, but they certainly aren't cheap. I suppose social responsibility comes at a price. The shoes will run you at about $200 a pair!

What are your thoughts of these shoes? Do you like the style? Do you think Natalie should stick to acting? Do tell.