We’ve been taught that weight is a simple matter of calories in vs. calories out. If you take in more than you burn, you gain weight. Burn more than you consume and you lose weight. Easy right? Well, perhaps the equation is more complicated than that.

A Mother Jones article recently explored whether BPA, the chemical found in everything from aluminum can lining to receipts, can significantly contribute to obesity. More research needs to be done to determine exactly how it works but an excerpt from the article says plenty:

But the UC-Irvine study represents yet another bit of evidence that the FDA, which recently reaffirmed its approval of BPA in can linings, isn’t taking the threat of industrial chemicals in food nearly seriously enough. And it also strongly suggests that at least some of our obesity problem stems not from personal choice but rather from decisions made behind closed doors by the food and chemical industries, which have found it profitable to put this stuff in our food containers.

What do you think about the article? Do you buy BPA-free cans and containers? Will you rethink your choice now? Let us know on Facebook!

JUST arrived in stock last week, our Jau Colorblock Tunic is literally flying out the door!

Extremely lightweight organic cotton is perfect for hot summer days (like we’re experiencing here at Prancing Leopard headquarters!) You’ll love wearing this top over your bikini, with a pair of shorts or Seychelles capris, over leggings, or even skinny jeans. Wonderfully casual but with the right accessories, the Jau can be dressed up for a night out! Asymmetrical neckline is perfect for showing off your shoulders and back, while the generous cut provides a gorgeous, free-flowing silhouette.

Our yoga friends will love the adjustable drawstring hem which allows you to tie the Jau so it stays in place through your practice. It’s also just fun to play around with different lengths and looks! Really there is no wrong way to style this top.

Available now in colorblock Turquoise and Charcoal Black, in sizes XS through L. Get yours now and expect to live in this tunic all summer!

As we approach the season of perpetual air-conditioning and fans, electric bills will be rising to keep up with the increased energy usage. If you’re looking to cut down on your energy bill (and who isn’t), unplugging some of the electronics that you don’t use everyday might help. Idle gadgets and appliances use 100 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity nationwide, which costs $11 billion to consumers. From the Mother Jones article:

According to Bruce Nordman, an energy efficiency researcher at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, as a general rule of thumb, the bigger—and older—the device, the more power it sucks up while it’s off… Another tip: “When you put your hand on the adaptor, if it’s hot, it’s using energy. If it’s not hot, it’s probably not using very much energy.”

Among the electronics that use the most energy are cable boxes, computers, and tv’s. Now, they don’t recommend unplugging anything you use everyday (like the refrigerator) or that would have to reboot or risk losing your information (such as DVR’s). Energy star appliances are always a great choice for using less electric. But the extra old TV in the guest bedroom, an extra refrigerator in the garage or basement that isn’t being used, etc. can and should be unplugged.

Do you unplug your electronics when you aren’t using them? If you have, have you noticed a decrease in your energy bill? Let us know, we are curious!

Perfect to go with the Folegandros Knit-Shorts from yesterday’s post are the Hand-Knit Bikinis!

Each bikini is lovingly hand-knit by our Artisan women. Beautiful, easy to wear, and look great on the beach! These bikinis are adjustable, thanks to the ties on the neck and waist. They stay in place whether you are swimming or doing yoga on the beach! Pair these with the accompanying bikini bottoms, or the Folegandros shorts for more coverage.

Plus, use coupon code KNIT BEACHWEAR to receive 10% off any top and bottom in the beach section!

What’s your favorite kind of bathing suit? Do you love bikinis, rock a one-piece, or prefer different cuts (tankini, monokini, etc.)? Talk to us on Facebook!

Right now, many people are packing their bags for the beach this weekend as we gear up for the unofficial start to summer. One thing that’s missing: Folegandros Hand-Knit shorts!

Made by our non-profit Women Artisan Project, these shorts are perfect for a weekend getaway! Simple but attractive design is “beyond comfortable” (as one reviewer says), whether you are doing yoga, shopping or swimming. Pair them with one of our hand-knit bikinis for the ultimate swimsuit, or with a casual top for an afternoon barbeque.

What are your Memorial Day plans? Heading away for vacation or staying home? Share with us on Facebook!

From GOOD, a very interesting look at why American’s don’t recycle. In an infographic, we learn which coast of the US recycles most, what they think the benefits are, and unfortunately, that many people find the process of recycling inconvenient and time-consuming.

Among the findings, we also learn that many people still don’t know what’s recyclable, and when they are unsure, 50% will throw the item away anyway. Clearly, although we try to get the message out to recycle, recycle, recycle, no one says WHAT you should be recycling, and because of that uncertainty, people opt not to bother.

Are you surprised by any of the information in the infographic? Do you recycle or are you included in the 10% that tend to forget? How can we make things easier for all? Let’s talk about it on Facebook!

Here’s a copy of our most recent newsletter. Sign up here to be on our mailing list and stay updated about new styles, special discount offers, and environmental news from Prancing Leopard!

Prancing Leopard Organics is the ultimate in active fashion. We believe fashion should be active, holistic, fun, stylish, comfortable and long-wearing. We create high-performance organic Zeugma cotton fabrics and fashion-forward styles. We are 100% committed to organic, holistic and eco-conscious living. Forward this E-mail to a Friend

. . . .
		LIMITED EDITION | Urban Dress Montreux Elegant Style Meets Change Take part in the change to organic when you slip into our versatile Urban Wrap Dress Montreux. Begin with the elegant, flowing black dress look in front. To add some sizzle, wrap the skirt to the front or back. For the ultimate fashion statement, wear the blue, striped side in front. This reversible dress is a limited edition, so order yours before they’re gone. Welcome change into your life and relax beautifully! The Montreux is at home anywhere, whether out on the town, at the beach, or even after a workout. Slip on your shoes and go in style . . . more
. . . .
		NEW ARRIVALS | Neuchatel Hand-Knit Skirt Made-to-Order Artisan Skirt, Knit Just for You! Your enthusiasm for knits by our Women Artisan Project has inspired our brand new Neuchatel Artisan Skirt, specially made for each customer! Super comfortable organic cotton is hand-knit into a cute above-the-knee skirt that is perfect over shorts, capris or leggings. Combine red, grey, natural cotton, purple, and brown, or choose one color for a monochromatic look. Finish with the attached drawstring or use your belt! Delivery 2-3 weeks after we receive your order . . . more
. . . .
		GO GREEN | Stylish Environmentalist Styles with Staying Power Wondering how to be environmental and stay stylish at the same time? Look for styles that don’t fade with street trends. Stylish, easily combined pieces which look and feel great everywhere. Seek out items that work so great, you’ll wear them 50 times or more. Prancing Leopard clothes are meant for this! Some of our favorites: Tunic Colca for layering. Seychelles capris for workouts or staying casual. Cocoon shrugs (available now for pre-order!) for year round warmth at work, at night, or traveling . . . more
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		RETAILER SPOTLIGHT | Where to Buy Prancing Leopard Jivamukti Yoga School NYC Founded in 1984 by Sharon Gannon and David Life, the Jivamukti Yoga School focuses on the physical, ethical and spiritual components of Yoga. A favorite of many celebrities, Jivamukti operates several schools and affiliated centers based on the philosophy developed by Gannon and Life. Visit the NYC location in Union Square to buy Prancing Leopard at the beautiful boutique, as well as books, yoga gear, and body care. Don’t forget to visit the vegan cafe, where our friend and acclaimed chef Kevin composes delicious eats, too! . . . more
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Rhinau Reversible Top organic Zeugma cotton	Pasha Harem Pants organic Zeugma cotton	Corsica II Pants organic Zeugma cotton	Cremona Jacket organic Zeugma cotton	Waimea II Shorts organic Zeugma cotton

Kayapo Hoodie organic Zeugma cotton	Mentawai II Shorts organic Zeugma cotton	Seychelles Capri organic Zeugma cotton	Cape Byron Tee organic Zeugma cotton	Omora Top organic Zeugma cotton

Wakhan Pamir Capri organic Zeugma cotton	Tunic Antibes II organic Zeugma cotton	Santorini Pants organic Zeugma cotton	Cantabria II Capri organic Zeugma cotton	Geneve Pants organic Zeugma cotton

Take part in the change to organic when you slip into our versatile Urban Dress Montreux. Show off your unique sense of style in the organic Zeugma cotton jersey wrap dress!

Begin with the elegant, flowing black dress look in front and blue side with stripe in back. To add some sizzle, wrap the skirt to the front or back, tying it with the attached black drawstring.
For the ultimate fashion statement, wear the blue striped side in front.

This reversible dress is also limited edition, so order yours before they’re gone! Welcome change into your life and relax beautifully!
The Montreux is perfect and at home anywhere, whether out on the town, at the beach, or even after a workout. Throw on your shoes and go!

Uh oh, looks like our regular repertoire of models has some stiff competition!

On a recent photo shoot on the streets of New York City, Prancing Leopard was lucky enough to come across several people desperate to become Prancing Leopard models and be included in our photo shoot with Jenya.

We want to give these guys a big shout out for being there and having fun with us!
THANKS GUYS!

Now available for pre-order: The Jau Tunic!

The Jau is something you’ll want to slip into everyday, whether as a cover-up or a standalone piece. Utilize the adjustable length drawstring hemline to really expand it’s potential. Wear it longer, almost like a dress, or bunch it shorter for a sporty look during yoga.

Paired with leggings, jeans, or even a skirt, the Jau always looks fun and fresh. The chic black and turquoise color combination accents the design. An asymmetrical neckline gives you more modest coverage in fun while showing off your shoulders and back. Dressed up or dressed down, the Jau is a great piece and one we’re really excited about!

Pre-Order now for Delivery circa May 22nd