Dressing and Soaping Green

Anne-Marie: Tell us a little bit about yourself. What keeps you busy when you’re not making soap?

Lauren: My name is Lauren and I’m currently living in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  Although I’m a native Michigander, I just recently moved back after spending the last few years exploring various other states and areas including Washington, Oregon, Arkansas, and Panamá.

It’s rare that I get out of my work studio, but when I do, I can usually be found spending time with my partner, Justin, and our pup, Porthos; on a hiking trail; at a great local brewery; sitting in my backyard with a cup of coffee (and even better if there’s chocolate involved too); or just reading in a corner.  Oh and I’m also now found at the local community college taking classes in my *spare* time (this semester is Chemistry).

Anne-Marie: What inspires your recipes? Do you follow trends? Listen to your customers?

Lauren: My background is in mechanical engineering and industrial design, and my interests have always tended toward product design.  I love combining the practical, problem-solving aspects of engineering with the aesthetic, user-focused aspects of design.  These two worlds come together perfectly, allowing me to create all facets of my line – from the product ‘designs’ (recipes) to the packaging and labeling solutions.

I try to keep the focus of DressGreen products on not only effectiveness, but also user enjoyment.  And I always try to choose sustainably-sourced and organic ingredients when available.  Most every product I make is inspired by either a personal need I have had, or by a request from a friend, family member, or customer.  I like to hear (and really do listen to) feedback, and always appreciate thoughts on new products people would like to see in the line.

Anne-Marie: What’s your favorite product (that you make or sell)?

Lauren: My facial care products!  I can’t begin to describe how my skin used to freak out at most commercial products before I started the DressGreen line.  It has been such a relief to have products that not only keep my skin from reacting negatively, but actually keep it healthy.  Staples in my bathroom cabinet are the Calming & Clarifying Facial Cream, unDressed Facial soap, Toning & Clarifying Facial Serum, and Delicate Toner.


Anne-Marie: What’s your favorite fragrance?

Lauren: Hands down my Grapefruit Bergamot blend.  I’ve literally been using this same scent for my body cream for years now, and still haven’t gotten the least bit bored with it.

Anne-Marie: Oh I agree. The Grapefruit Bergamot is fabulous. I’m so glad that I ordered the Body Cream! And I am loving the Fresh Start Facial Serum. I’m even using it on my belly to maybe stave on stretch marks. Thanks again, Lauren for the fabulous products!