in conversation with: kristine claghorn

Yourself, in a sentence? 

I'm an Enneagram 9 and a Libra, so you can say that I like peace and balance. 



A plant, tree, flower or natural object you love to give as a gift?

After being stuck inside for months during the pandemic, I'd love to gift someone a trip to Yosemite or Sequoia National Forest to spend time in nature. I wish I could go visit and breathe in the smell of the pines!


What inspired you to start cabin?

I've been interested in shopping vintage + secondhand since I can remember. In college, I worked at a vintage boutique and that's when I got really into searching for special pieces. I learned a lot about different eras and the history of it all is so interesting to me. Vintage pieces are also made to last. 

 

What inspired you to live more sustainably?

When it comes to sustainability, a few years ago I listened to an episode of 99% Invisible called National Sword that focuses on our current recycling crisis. Most of our recycling here in the U.S. is shipped out of the country. China was taking in most of the world's plastic and other recyclables and in 2018, they decided to stop accepting it all together. It's easy to throw a plastic bottle into the recycling bin and just assume it gets taken care of. We're not taught how to recycle correctly (everything needs to be 100% clean) and we're never told how much plastic is actually recycled. 91% of all plastic that's ever been made has never been recycled, which means it's still sitting somewhere on our planet. Once I learned about this, I started going down the sustainability + climate change hole and couldn't stop, haha. 


What does sustainable, conscious living mean to you?

It means taking the time to think deeply about the choices you're making in your life. If you stop to think about who is making the clothing you're about to purchase, you'll probably decide to stay away from fast fashion. I also think that sustainability means a lot more than trying to live a zero waste lifestyle. It's important to do research and learn that it comes with a lot of privilege to be able to live that way. Caring about climate change means caring about everyone that's being affected by air pollution, water pollution, lack of access to fresh produce... and that's disproportionately communities of color. How can we get to the root of the problem and improve quality of life for everyone?


What is one of your go-to nature escape(s)?

Yosemite National Park is one of my all-time favorite places.

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Woman looking out at Yosemite while wearing scarf in her hair.

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 Advice for someone starting their sustainability journey?

You don't need to go out and buy a bunch of zero waste products to start your journey. See how you can use what you already have! I also recommend taking a break from buying new items. You'll be surprised at how much you buy impulsively. Taking a break helps you get your brain used to taking more time to decide what you'd like to purchase and why. It also gives you time to search secondhand!


Your go-to brief style?

I love a good highwaist brief. I like the snug fit and find it the most flattering on my body.