handmade love for your tree - Thistle Farms

I am beyond Smitten with the way these heart-shaped ornaments are constructed...and by whom. These four delicious ornaments are created out of goodwill and creative inspiration. Adorn your tree this year, and support four worthy, exceptional enterprises. Brought to you by Becca Stevens, founder and President of the wonderful organization that is Thistle Farms.

Thistle Farms is a community of women survivors of addiction, prostitution, and trafficking in Nashville, Tennessee. "This product bears witness that love is the most powerful force for change in the world."

This is the second global holiday collection being presented by Thistle Farms. 'Love from Around the World II' includes four handmade ornaments by women survivors from Nashville, Cambodia, Peru and the Middle East. Each ornament reflects...LOVE.

•  The recycled weave ornament represents Freedom’s Promise who work with at-risk and vulnerable women in Cambodia.

•  The knitted ornament represents the Monkey Project and provides a living wage to men in Huancayo, Peru - enabling change for their entire community.

•  The wood ornament represents Hope Collective is a community dedicated that brings sustainable development to refugees in the Middle East.

•  The copper ornament represents Studios - a division of Thistle Farm's social enterprise, which creates handcrafted paper, sewing and screen printing comprising this unique product line.

Smitten and filled with holiday cheer!!

sexy, sustainable and star studded - People Tree

Catch the eye with these yummy star-studded studs. Hand pounded, 100% silver-plated brass. Gorgeous!

People Tree is recognized for its production of ethical, sustainable fashion. For more than 25 years, this pioneer company has partnered with Fair Trade producers, garment workers, artisans and farmers in the developing world to create fashion forward, eco-friendly collections.

People Tree gives customers an alternative to "fast fashion". "Fast fashion is fueled by an insatiable demand for cheap clothing and accessories. Fast fashion has a devastating impact, from sweatshops and child labor to pollution and global warming. Slow Fashion means standing up against exploitation, family separation, slum cities and pollution – all the things that make fast fashion so successful."

Fair Trade is ethical, sustainable and fashionable....and the opposite of fast fashion.

People Tree products are made by artisans who work and uphold Fair Trade standards. People Tree was the world’s first clothing company to receive the World Fair Trade Organization Fair Trade product mark in 2013.

Fair Trade makes a powerful difference. People Tree is helping to alleviate poverty in the world's most marginalized communities.

Smitten!

a sparkly, sexy...significant bangle - Eden: Fusion Leather Snap bracelet

This wrist stunner is made from twenty four hand-beaded strands affixed to two soft, sturdy leather strands. The wristlet closes with three snap buttons that adorn the leather. Stand out in this luscious piece of jewelry from Raven and Lily.

This bangle is made by women who live on the Entoto Mountain in Ethiopia, where the artisans melt down bullet casings to create the beads for their designs, "transforming what was once used for harm into beauty."

This is my third post for Raven and Lily, a company I positively love. The initial post with all appropriate accolades here.

Forever Smitten with Raven and Lily.

mocha infused liqueur - FAIR

The combination of coffee and alcohol - heaven to me! And I cannot remember the last time I had such a delectable glass of heaven then yesterday when I tried FAIR. Cafe' Liqueur. Smooth, deep, intense...a very provocative cocktail.

FAIR. is an independent spirits brand. The folks behind the company are dedicated to high quality products, source ethically and sustainably.

"Think Human Drink Fair"

The delicious bang from this perfect combination comes from slow roasting the finest organically grown, Fair Trade Certified Arabica coffee beans, then infusing the freshly ground beans directly into the liqueur base. Creating a bountifully flavored coffee based spirit.

Their coffee beans are organically grown and Fair Trade certified and  come from a co-op of more than 1,900 independent farmers in the Huatusco region of Veracruz, Mexico.

The sugar used in FAIR. Café Liqueur is also organic and Fair Trade Certified, and comes from various co-ops in countries such as Malawi and Paraguay.

FAIR. was founded in 2009 by Alexandre Koiransky. "Alexandre follows his own intuition, his love for people, his heart."

The FAIR. ideology is to treat all people, at every stage of the process, fairly.

Heavenly Smitten.

beautiful block print scarf...Hello fall! - Greenola Style

This luxurious block print scarf certainly welcomes fall with a big "hello!" Not only will neckwear keep you warm, but can pull a look together in one fell swoop...and always adds a bit of mystery. This 100% cotton scarf has such a subtle design, thin geometric lines of lavender and miniature diamonds of deep rose. Gorgeous.

This beautiful garment was made in India.

Greenola Style provides advancement opportunities to artisans in marginalized parts of the world - particularly in Bolivia and Kenya.

Respecting the cultural heritage and promoting the craftsmanship in each country, Greenola pays fair wages - Fair Trade Federation.

Greenola donates a percentage of their profits to Solidarity Bridge, an organization that trains and equips medical communities in Bolivia and Paraguay empowering them to provide high-complexity surgery and other healthcare for those living in poverty.

This partnership also helps Bolivian artisans access quality healthcare.

To donate directly to Solidarity Bridge.

Greenola Style is not affiliated with Solidarity Bridge, however they donate to help support their mission.

Smitten with Greenola Style and Solidarity Bridge!

LOVE these knickers - Naja

Naja Knickers are eco-conscious, adorably designed, and socially conscious every step of the way: our favorite kind of notable trifecta!  Every single design is more adorable, sexy and stylish than the next!

Naja is the entrepreneurial brainchild of Catalina Girald, an attorney-turned-traveler-turned-activist, and Gina Rodriguez, an award-winning-actress-and-latino-community-supporter.  Naja was created in an effort to shift the way lingerie is made and marketed so that it is empowering, not objectifying, for the “smart, courageous and sexy women of today”.  With factories that employ primarily single mothers and female heads of households, Naja pays above market wages, allows for flexible scheduling, and provides school clothes, supplies and lunches to the children of their employees.  In addition to their factories, Naja employs women in the slums of Columbia to sew garment bags in their homes through their Underwear for Hope program - 2% of all purchases go towards funding this program.  

In addition to all the socially-conscious efforts, Naja prints all their awesome knicker graphics digitally to minimize their environmental footprint.

Smitten with Girl Power!

the perfect dress - Symbology Kimono Wrap dress

Looking for a versatile, flattering, fun-but-still-elegant dress to kick off wedding season?  Look no further than the beautiful kimono wrap dress from Symbology clothing!

Symbology was founded by Marissa Heyl after a trip to India in 2006.  Her mission - in short - is to make fair trade sexy!  Symbology strives to make fair trade the norm in the fashion industry, and fuses beautiful tradition fabrics and patterns from India and the West Bank with modern, fashion-forward designs.  By partnering directly with artisans, these talented women are empowered to exercise their skills in weaving, block printing or embroidery.  These artisans are able to continue their trades and traditions while earning wages that allow their families to thrive.

Each collection centers around a motif or theme, and I love the playfulness of each unique print!  The fall/winter collection, entitled “Birds of a Feather”, features super flattering cuts in patterns that are printed by women in India using ancient hand-block printing methods. 

Fashionably Smitten! 

t-shirts for good - Kuyichi

Kuyichi’s Aiden PLP SS t-shirts are 100% organic fairtrade cotton, super soft, and look great draped over any man’s shoulders!

Kuyichi can be credited for starting the fair-trade revolution and raising environmental awareness in the fashion industry.  They were the first to introduce organic cotton and fair trade sourcing, and insist on reaching sustainability (both economic and environmental) while producing their products. They are members of the Fair Wear Foundation, and provide transparency by publicly reporting their environmental and social sustainability progress to Made-By each year. 

Since 2001 they have paved the way for so many other culturally-conscious clothing brands, and continue to be at the forefront of good practices in every single aspect of their production.  In an effort to minimize waste and maximize positive effects, Kuyichi strives to become “closed loop” in their production and sourcing.  In 2008, they partnered with the Climate Neutral Group in an effort to minimize the greenhouse gasses from their factories, offices and modes of transportation.  They hold high standards for factory conditions, provide fair wages for the individuals working, and emphasize the goal of mindful production.

Impressed and Smitten.

love blooming...josefina pouch - Mercado Global

This gorgeous pouch pops with color and texture! I love the hand-embroidered traditional pattern against the modern black leather found on the Josefina Pouch! 

Sparked by an idea when working with artisans in rural Latin America, founder Ruth DeGolia began Mercado Global while still a student at Yale.  In 2004, Mercado Global recieved a start-up grant from Echoing Green, and has exponentially grown over the last 11 years into a globally recognized company with a powerful mission: empower indigenous women to overcome poverty and become agents of change in their communities.

Mercado’s mission is two-fold.  First, it provided business education to talented female artisans so that they can grow their skills into a business.  Secondly, it connects these indigenous women to global markets to sell their products on a large scale, which in turn empowers them to support their families and provide more opportunities for their children. Over time, this model pulls entire communities out of the poverty cycle.

Mercado Global has partnered with over 400 women across Guatamala!  This hard work translates into beautiful products supporting a beautiful cause.

Totally Smitten!

recycled rubber bangles - Made With Love Project

These vivid, recycled, wrapped, rubber bangles are so well constructed and hip, they make me happy!

Made With Love bracelets are made by a Women's Cooperative in Djenne', Mali, West Africa.

In 2007 designer Mary Jane Marcasiano formed MADE WITH LOVE. MWL is a global call to action, dedicated to raising funds and awareness for NGOs aiding women and children. Through the production and sale of products that provide a fair income for women in Brazil and Africa, Made With Love is addressing the need for aid.

Made With Love works in tandem with the Cygnet Foundation, which through the proceeds realized from art-related programs, seeks to help those in need: women and children, the homeless, the hungry as well as abandoned and endangered animals. 

The women are paid a fair price for their work, so the money the bracelets provide create a means of support, and are sold to raise funds for L'Empire des Enfants.

L'Empire des Enfants is a center for homeless children from the streets of Dakar, Senegal. L'Empire grants shelter, meals, education and training programs. They also work with local organizations to return homeless children to their families.

Smitten.

a touch of cream and gold, ethical neck-lace - 31 Bits

Gracefully wrapped beads, delicately strung together to create dazzling neckwear. I couldn't love 31 Bits more!!

Perfectly named The Romantic...it is whimsical, hip and pretty. A simple strand of gold accent beads adorned by a row of marble shaped paper beads, here shown in Cream and Gold.

The Romantic is also available in: Cream, Black, Multi and Mint.

- Handmade in Uganda

- Beads are made from recycled paper

- Approximately 29" when laid flat

- Single strand

- Fastens with a button clasp

All their beads are made from recycled paper. "All accessories are handmade in Uganda with exceptional quality and sophisticated design."

More information on 31 Bits from notablySmitten.

Always and forever...Smitten. 

luscious lashes - Josie Maran Mascara

I've written about Josie Maran Cosmetics in the past...her entire line is outstanding!

The way that she has infused this exquisite oil into her cosmetics is superior to any company I know of.

Here, I introduce her highly nourishing and natural, argan oil treatment mascara. Lengthens, adds volume, lifts, and curls lashes for 24 hours.

The unique formula: 100% argan oil mixed with black iron mineral pigments, infused with the lash strengthening properties of bamboo.

The argan creates a lash-softening effect, hence it being called a treatment. Creamy, and delivered by a five-ball brush that reaches every lash.

Josie Maran Cosmetics favors fair trade practices, sustainably harvested ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.

Beautifully Smitten.

clever, pretty panties - Good and Fair

Looking for yummy, sexy, sporty, altogether covered panties? Well, look no further...the perfect knickers!

These are made of soft, 95% organic cotton and 5% Lycra...creating an ideal amount of softness and stretch. These are super-fitting, low rise with a supple elastic waistband.

Good and Fair Clothing produces its wares ethically, with a funding and supply chain dedicated to treating workers with dignity and respect.

Fair Trade Certified, Good and Fair also produces other basics such as tees, scarves and boxers for the guys!

How could we not be...Smitten!

summer joy. . .perfectly patterned shorts - Mayamiko

These snappy shorts are perfectly printed, pastel and are necessary for this cloudless, sunny summer weather!  Fashioned from traditional African cotton (known as kitenge or chitenge,) these "bloomers" are just what your wardrobe wants.

If you are looking for natty, jazzy, modern textiles and design...check out Mayamiko.

Ethically made in Malawi, Mayamiko is an exciting collection of clothing, accessories and home wares - intermixing traditional African techniques with contemporary designs.

Established by Paolo Masperi in 2013, the collections are produced at the Mayamiko Lab just outside Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi. The Lab was designed to provide skills training, education, nutrition, and promote fairer trade practices. Currently the project provides training in sewing and tailoring to local, disadvantaged women affected by the HIV pandemic.

Working diligently to help lift this part of the world out of poverty.

Paying living wages and adhering to their Ethical Promise, Mayamiko helps to keep graduates and local staff employed. They also fully fund the workshop activities and reinvest in the growth of their workshops.

P.S. They also have a very cool line called Rebirth. A fully up-cycled capsule collection, giving a whole new life to pre-loved reclaimed fabrics.

Love...Smitten.

right-sized, go-to make-up bag - All Across Africa

This is just a simply perfect gift for any pal in your life that deserves a little pick-me-up. It's bright, colorful, chic, and functional. Would make a divine gift for bridesmaids as well...filled with all their favorite beauty effects!

 ·      Approximately 5” X 4”

·      African cotton print fabric with plastic liner

·      Made in Burundi

These right-sized, go-to bags are made with pride by youth from the north of Burundi, trained to create income for their families and future. 

All Across Africa is a Benefit Corporation. A new, revolutionary class of corporation, working to create a positive impact on society and the environment without losing sight of their bottom line.

It's a healthy, sustainable business model, which does not rely solely on fundraising and donations.

Their work reaches deep into rural villages in the under-served areas of rural Africa, providing artisans with a "market bundle" that includes education, finance, materials, training and market access.

While financial aid has many benefits, All Across Africa believes providing jobs and promoting self-sufficiency, creates a true partnership between the artisans and the market.

"It allows us to offer training to create the highest quality product so that each season there is a market for their outstanding workmanship."

Smitten again!!

304 pages of goodness - Global Girlfriends

In 2003 Stacey Edgar didn't have a business plan. . .or a passport. That didn't stop her from creating a socially conscious business that has helped poor women in five continents feed their families and send their children to school.

Stacey Edgar refused to be paralyzed by the size of world poverty. With a $2,000 tax return and a profound desire to help provide economic security for women in need, Global Girlfriends was created. GG is a passionate testament to Stacey following her convictions, a template for us all to follow. Take simple actions to eliminate extreme poverty.

Global Girlfriends has grown into a multi-million dollar enterprise that specializes in handmade, fairly traded, eco-conscious apparel and accessories made by women from all over the world. 

An excellent read, a dream...and a guide.

Smitten.

paper triangle drop earrings - Global Goods Partners

These entirely chic, lightweight, geometric lovelies are made from stacked, glued, cut and sanded recycled magazine pages! Totally modern, totally original, swank, sustainable, everyday accessories.

These beautiful earrings are:

~ Made from 100% recycled magazines

~ 3/4"W x 3/4"L, hangs 3"

~ Choose from Aqua, Black, Pink, Orange and Green

Both professionals in International Development, it was part of Catherine Lieber Shimony and Joan Shifrin's job to travel to impoverished areas around the world to see what could be improved. What they began to witness over and over again, were creative, energized women producing magnifient handmade goods...yet, they lacked any access to sustainable markets in which to sell their products.

Catherine and Joan had witnessed women in marginalized communities throughout Asia, Africa, and the US being able to advance the wellness of their families when their income was stabilized. In 2005, the friends founded Global Goods Partners to create a practical pathway for women to generate income opportunities and gain access into the consumer marketplace for handmade, fair trade merchandise.

Global Goods Partners (GGP) is a nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to alleviating poverty and promoting social justice and empowers women to create sustainable change.

Once again, Smitten!

silver and gold - Raven + Lily Neha Cuffs

I have written about Raven and Lily in the past, and I don't doubt that I will continue to write about them in the future.

These delectable pieces were featured in In Style Magazine, April 2015... gorgeous Neha Cuffs made with traditional Indian wood-carving with a band of silver or gold leather in the center, adding a bit of shimmer to the natural wood. The aesthetic is modern and chic.

Dimensions: 2.25" wide, 1.5" height

Raven and Lily was brilliantly conceived by close friends Kirsten Dickerson and Sophia Lin, who both share a love of fashion and ethical design, socially conscious Raven and Lily was created as a platform to help alleviate poverty among women and is committed to offering products that are made by hand and follow fair trade standards.

These cuffs are handmade by marginalized women in Northern India.

I will continue to write about Raven and Lily...

Smitten.

home spun fair trade - Oimei

This is a truly gorgeous pillow! Made of homespun cloth, decorated with traditional Akha embroidery, created by hill tribe artisans in the North of Thailand...which would be a lovely gift for friend, or self!

After traveling to Bangkok in 2010 to study, Aimi Duong found her trip growing from four months to sixteen. She traveled through Thailand, and most of Southeast Asia, where she witnessed poverty firsthand. She met some amazing, hardworking, tenacious women...struggling to live dignified lives. Deeply inspired, Aimi decided to start her own social enterprise.

Oimei was founded in 2012 with the mission to sell fair trade pillows and home decor. Supporting rural artisans by providing them access to new markets gives them the opportunity to be self-sustainable and empowers these women to rise above poverty.

Oi Mei is Aimi's name in Chinese and means “love beauty.” The name was given to Aimi by her eldest sister who passed away in 2009.

Oi Mei was created as a lasting celebration of my sister’s life and serves as a constant reminder to embrace all the beauty around us.

Smitten with Aimi and Oimei.

kick a** socks - Conscious Step

These socks walk the walk they talk! Conscious Step helps “give an ordinary purchase an extraordinary purpose.”

Can socks change the world…why yes, they can! Conscious Step is surely going  to make a difference “one pair of socks at a time” – 50 percent of all profits go toward 3 partnering charities. Currently Conscious Step offers three exclusive sock designs, each reflective of the cause it supports:

One pair funds Action Against Hunger that provides three therapeutic food packages for malnourished children living in refugee camps in Kenya, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The second pair funds Trees for the Future, which plants 30 trees in rural Ghana and provides an education in agroforestry to women and children, giving them the ability to replenish degraded soils and generate sustainable sources of food and fuel.

The third pair funds Engineers Without Borders that sends Australian engineers to Nepal to build clean water sources in schools so that young girls can have the same education opportunities as boys.

The wonderful entrepreneurs behind Conscious Step are Dr. Hassan Ahmad and Adam Long from Sydney, and Prashant Mehta from New York City. All three, firm believers in “the more profitable you are, the greater your impact”…and “knowing that my sock drawer planted a forest in Ghana”, is more motivating than donating $5 to a charity and having no idea how it will be used or what difference it will make,” says Dr. Ahmad.

These socks are made from 200-needle count, organic, fair trade cotton and are sweat resistant. Each style is embroidered with it’s own unique distinguishable symbol…and did I say they kick a**!

Smitten with these socks.