Many of my favorite items to wear have earned that right because of their story, their ‘specialness.’ For example, I love a dress more when I know the story behind the designer, who she is, why she started the label and what she stands for. I love a sweater more when I know the story behind the wool, why it was chosen and how it’s expected to wear. The same is true with jewelry and accessories. I love my pieces from my favorite designers because I know they were all hand-crafted with artistic influences from his or her lives.
So often the story drives the style. I am a form follows function kind of person, so for me when form follows function because of a story, even better.
This is one of the reasons why I am so drawn to ethical fashion. The people behind the products, the makers and their stories are fascinating! For example, this scarf is handmade by artists in Indonesia who are part of a co-op working together to support each other and promote fair trade. I believe the people who make our clothes and our accessories matter, and I want to mindful of them, valuing their work, honoring who they are. One way to do that is to know. Know who made your clothes and accessories. Know how they were treated. And if you can’t find out, consider buying something else.
Ten Thousand Villages is a compelling place to shop. You can read about each artisan they support. They helped pioneer the Fair Trade movement starting in the 1940’s! The non-profit supports artisans in 38 countries and their vision is that all artisans in developing countries will earn a fair wage, be treated with dignity and respect, and be able to live a life of quality.
A significant challenge for Fair Trade retailers is balancing their ethos with style. Ten Thousand Villages has been working with many of their artisans for a long time – and while some designs may not be the most cutting edge – they are seeking to continue those relationships while simultaneously adding new and modern offerings to their line up. I encourage you to watch for what’s to come and support their artisans when you see something you like.
[ Dress, Brass / scarf, c/o Ten Thousand Villages* / tights (similar, feat. Fair Trade organic cotton) / shoes, Nisolo / bag, vintage via e-bay (similar)]
*S+S readers use the code SSNS -SLT for 15% off one item at Ten Thousand Villages.
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This post was in partnership with Ten Thousand Villages, a wonderful non-profit organization. I encourage you to check them out!
I assume you hear this frequently, but you remind me SO MUCH of Jennifer Aniston. You’re like a cool Portland version of her :-)
OH my goodness! No! I’ve never heard that but I’ll take it! People used to say I looked like Jena Malone, or that girl from Napolean Dynamite who played Deb. Hehe.
Yay, it’s cool to see the white dress again – it’s super cute on you and I really like how you’ve been styling it. The 1000 Villages sounds very cool, it seems like accessories are an easy way to break into ethical buying. They usually don’t break the bank and I personally really like the look of hand made jewelry/scarves.
Oh Katie, I’ll be wearing it again this week! Haha! No rest for the 20 item challenge folks!! Yes, you make a really great point about ethical accessories!