Shop Ethically This Fall

October 2011

Sure, organic cotton has been around for the past decade, but a fashion concept called ethical clothing has only evolved in recent years. While ethical clothing can translate into a whole slew of meanings—most brands want to be known for being environmentally friendly—there are some designers demonstrating consciousness as to how their products are made. So in addition to being good for you and the planet, there are companies that show social responsibility… Farewell sweatshops. Here are a few to watch out for this fall:

People Tree

This UK-based clothing line for teens works with Fair Trade groups in 15 countries to help alleviate poverty in worldwide communities. The pieces are certified organic (using only natural dyes) and are handmade by disadvantaged people living in Bangladesh, India, and Nepal. Emma Watson, most well-known as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, started a line with People Tree. The collection, called “Love from Emma,” offers styles for both women and men. Check their site for new fall items.

Edun

Launched by Ali Hewson and her husband Bono (U2 singer), Edun is a high-end contemporary fashion brand with a mission that encourages the fashion industry to use suppliers in Africa. Most of Edun’s clothing is produced in Tunisia, Tanzania and Kenya, helping provide jobs for locals. Just recently, the company began collaborating with Made, a jewelry producer in Nairobi that will create jewelry and trim beading for their 2011 collection. Check out edun.com for the new fall line.

TOMS Shoes:

With every pair of shoes purchased, TOMS (a derivative of the word ‘tomorrow’) will give away a pair of shoes to a child in need. This One-for-One model was created in 2006 after founder Blake Mycoskie traveled to Argentina and met children without shoes to protect their feet. Inspired, Blake created TOMS and returned to Argentina later that year delivering 10,000 pairs of shoes to give away. This was just the beginning and as of September 2010 the company has now given away over 1,000,000 pairs of shoes. Other brands like Ralph Lauren and Element Skateboards have started similar One-for-One strategies. Look for Tom’s fall styles here.

American Apparel

The popular American Apparel brand—as its name suggests—uses a business model which minimizes the use of sub-contractors and offshore labor. Therefore the company’s knitting, dyeing, sewing, photography, marketing distribution and design all happen in its Los Angles facilities. In fact, the company operates the largest garment factory in the United States, at a time when most apparel production has moved offshore. Now with a new retail store in China, American Apparel sells Made in USA clothing in the largest consumer market in the world. 

Lifestyle: From work to WOW!

Lifestyle: Make a Small Room Larger

Lifestyle: Decorating Shortcuts

Lifestyle: Let the Sunshine In