Why Shopping Ethically Matters | #FairTradeMonth
OUTFIT DETAILS | Top: Elegantees Use code stillbeingmolly for 15% off | Jeans: Rag & Bone | Shoes: VEJA | Bag: Sseko Designs | Necklace: Wind Blown Jewelry | Layering Necklaces: Sela Designs Use code MOLLYSTILL10 for 10% off | Earrings: Sela Designs (use code MOLLYSTILL10 for 10% off)
How many times has someone complimented you on something you’re wearing and your immediate response is to share how cheap it was? “Oh this? It was only $8!” Friend, I am not throwing shade at all… I’ve totally done the same thing! But the thing is… someone, somewhere paid for that shirt.
Did you know that many developing nations become a part of the global economy through fashion? That’s because they have access to “cheap labor,” which simply means the people making things are not paid fairly for their work. They’re desperate for a job, so they’re willing to take any pay.
And more often than not, along with little to no pay comes harassment, abuse, violence, separation from family, and even human trafficking.
So when a shirt or a pair of jeans is really cheap, normally that means that the people making it were not paid fairly. You know how much something cost you, but do you know how much it cost the person who made it? Did they have to sacrifice everything for that job that barely pays?
BUT! There’s really good news: there are so many brands doing things the right way, paying people fair and living wages, providing access to basic human rights, and treating people with the respect and dignity they deserve. Brands like @therootcollective, @ssekodesigns, @elegantees, @tribealive, @vetta, @livefashionable, @maliadesigns , @seladesigns, @aid_through_trade, @windblownjewelry, and so many more.
Elegantees is one of my all-time favorites because they make beautiful, stylish, classic pieces that flatter a woman’s body, their price points are accessible to everyone, and they hire women who have overcome human trafficking. They’re going to FOREVER be one of my go-to brands when it comes to shopping ethically.
Sela Designs is an ethical jewelry brand that donates 100% of their profits to nonprofits and causes around the country and the world. Ashleigh is a WORLD CHANGER and she’s someone I admire so much!
This isn’t just lip service when I say that you can make a HUGE difference just by the way you shop!
And don’t forget, shopping secondhand is one of THE most ethical ways to shop – and snagging an amazing secondhand deal is something you should definitely brag about!
Name an ethical brand you love and tell me why!