Design on a Mission
Fashion As A Force Of Good
If industry can perpetuate cycles of oppression, it can also break them. Our goal is to create a new, human-centric model of capitalism that’s not just conscious, but also constructive—reshaping business in a way that supports economic equality, protects cultures and improves quality of life for communities everywhere in the world.
And if the last decade of globetrotting has taught us anything, it’s that style is even better when it tells a story. From ancient techniques to endangered tribes; inspiring artisans to empowering impact; all our fashion-forward finds are beautifully-made and imbued with meaning that makes them even more obsession-worthy. Every piece exceeds the standards in at least one of three key areas.
Fair Trade Practices
Our humanitarian collections benefit cause-focused programs and projects. Typically these products have financial assistance for the cause built into their business model—though they may also provide support in the form of training programs, jobs and / or other services.
THE GOALS & STANDARDS:
- Actively reversing the injustices created by a profit-driven supply chain.
- Stopping the exploitation of a poor workforce, and creating fair, honest opportunities for progress.
- Providing clean, safe, comfortable and healthy working conditions
- Investing in the quality of life of every employee through training,above-average wages, and benefits like healthcare and childcare.
- Incentivizing through output-based payments, so employees can achieve the level of work and reward that best suits their needs and ambitions.
- Building capacity in a way that’s sustainable for the local community.
- Ensuring that profits return to the community, and are not exported and /or absorbed by a small group of owners.
Handmade & Artisanal
In a commercial world, traditional crafts are being lost every day. We support small villages and indigenous communities by bringing work to local artisans—thereby helping the entire community thrive economically,and preserving their arts and skills. These pieces are usually handmade, limited-edition or one-of-a-kind and reflect a rich cultural heritage.
THE GOALS & STANDARDS:
- Support indigenous people
- Provide a better alternative to low-paying, unsafe factory work
- Protect cultural traditions
- Support local industry without disrupting way-of-life
Humanitarian & Philanthropic
Our humanitarian collections benefit cause-focused programs and projects. Typically these products have financial assistance for the cause built into their business model—though they may also provide support in the form of training programs, jobs and / or other services.
THE GOALS & STANDARDS:
- Provides direct assistance to the cause in the form of money, low-interest loans, training programs or infrastructure
- Provides opportunities and support to disadvantaged communities, with an aim towards long-term self-sufficiency.
- Supports a community outside the workplace (through education,resources, etc.)
- Aligns with a human-rights issue and / or benefits its victims
- Offers assistance or relief to a region in need
- A percentage of profits is given to a charity that benefits the community where the item is produced