For the love of all that is old, recycled or upcycled, and ethically made
There is a deep love I hold for brands that are truly “sustainable” or “ethical”- I say that in quotations because these terms are used so loosely in marketing nowadays. But what does it actually mean to qualify as a sustainable brand, or a brand that is known for its ethics- what does it take? While there are different criteria laid out by different organizations, you have to take into fact that we as humans do not NEED to continue producing most apparel anymore. We don’t need more home decor and furniture produced. There is enough to go around thanks to our capitalistic society, that in one way has ruined many peoples’ ability to even afford what they desire, but has also allowed so many creators, designers, and entrepreneurs to follow their dreams and push the bounds of what we can create as humans.
In my personal opinion (and please know I am NOT an expert, just an observer), I find that as a fashion brand, the only way to truly be sustainable is to resell or upcycle using thrifted/found/excess materials. That being said, there are still many brands that operate with sustainability in mind when producing and make a strong commitment, whether it meets my personal criteria or not. Ethical practices also play a big role in my assessment of a brand- how do they treat their people? How transparent are they? Are they committed to diversity and inclusion- truly? How do they conduct their business (if they rely on suppliers and manufacturers, how do they how them accountable) ?
In a world where we are inundated with the most trendy marketing campaigns, we are so often led astray. It’s easy to get confused, to trust the wrong brands, and to prioritize your wallet over sustainability and ethics. So I’m sharing my favorite finds that meet my personal expectations for sustainability or ethics. I can’t always afford to shop these brands, and if I’m reviewing the product that doesn’t necessarily mean I own it- I will note if I do. This is a way for me to review the brand and product offerings and share shopping options with you. I also live in Los Angeles, so many of the brands I will share are LA-based. Here are some of my favorite brands that you’ll see pop up in my posts:
Brother Vellies- Designer and founder Aurora James created the most beautiful accessories brand in 2013 by partnering with artisans in Africa that use incredible technique rooted in tradition. Now working with artisans across the globe, Brother Vellies is committed to sustainable slow production and providing opportunities for artisans. Rooted in footwear (both womens and mens), the brand has evolved into a full accessories line, along with a wonderfully curated online bodega selling home goods and more.
This brand checks all of my boxes when it comes to sustainability and ethics, and also is woman-owned. Not only that, this incredible woman also founded The Fifteen Percent Pledge (non-profit that encourages retailers to devote 15% of their shelf-space to black-owned businesses), and wrote one of my favorite autobiographical books, Wildflower: A Memoir. I recommend following all of her businesses and accounts and shopping when you can. Aurora James is a true inspiration.
Instagram shop @dream.wares- This adorable collection of vintage goods is a profile worth following. LA-based and BIPOC-owned, this page offers beautifully curated vintage home decor. My personal favorites are the kitchen wares- the glass and ceramic offerings are classic and on-trend at the same time. I’m a big fan of vintage kitchen wares. If it’s lasted this long and still looks beautiful, the quality is worth the price. This shop owner also shares artistic displays of these products that are aesthetically appealing and fun to get inspired by.
Flamingo Estate- Founded in Los Angeles, this is a brand with a unique product offering and story. The “Estate” part of the name is accurate- Flamingo Estate is actually an estate in the LA hills. The home belongs to founder, Richard Christiansen, and is the home of growth and creation for the brand. The story of how he acquired the estate is worthy of a book itself (read more here). Seven acres of lush gardens and a commitment to create products that are derived from ingredients grown on the estate and by other farmers that follow similar practices has developed a brand that not only offers home goods, bath products, and scented delights, but also offers a produce delivery box service. $60-80 for a candle may seem a bit steep, but when you factor in the time, care, and intention behind the brand it becomes a easy pill to swallow. Not to mention everything has an incredibly unique scent that transports you mentally to the Flamingo Estate (an oasis filled with luxury and comfort).
RE/DONE- Founded in Downtown Los Angeles in 2014 by Sean Barron and Jamie Mazur, Re/Done has set the tone for denim upcycling. The brand has evolved into a full collection, and is still committed to upcycling vintage items. You will find reworked Hane’s, Dr. Scholl’s, Levi’s and more, made into a luxury fashion brand that has shaped the industry in many ways. The commitment to their process in the current economy is to be prided, and because of that they are one of my favorite brands to follow and share.
Stay tuned for more brand and designer highlights. Drop me a message below if you want to chat more about anything in this post!
