When Fashion Gives Back

Well, this is going to be slightly less exciting than I anticipated as I can’t seem to create an eye-pleasing set of all the neccessary images to go forward with this post in a meaningful and engaging way. The technicalities here post are exactly as you’d think: fashion that gives back, duh. G(u)ilt-free shopping, if you will. After posting about The Gracelette a couple weeks ago, I’d received an e-mail from a reader asking if I knew of any other charitable organizations that utilize fashion to give back, this in turn sparked the idea manifesting itself now. So you see, I really do quite love your e-mails…don’t stop sending them. And back to the right now: Outside the confines of brands that have built their entire business models on the charitable efforts they run and support (cue the masterminds behind TOMS and Warby Parker,) I thought it might be nice to perhaps zone in on a couple you may or may not already know about. I’d intended to feature an entire outfit of goods–down to the arm party, up to the neck warmer–that benefit stealthy causes near and dear, far and wide, hugs and kisses…this is what I’ve ended with:

Graphic Tees: By Marc Jacobs. 100% of proceeds from the illustrated tees go to Aids for Aids, an organization founded to better the lives of those infected by HIV or Aids in developing countries. $35 a pop, I particularly like the little blue dude on a bicycle. Buy them slightly oversized, maybe slash the sleeves and tuck ‘em into your tight-ass sequined pencil skirts. It’s a win-win.
Feather Bracelet: By Kara Ackerman. Proceeds for the content of this arm party necessity will go to Making Headway Foundation Inc. A cause founded for children with brain or spinal cord tumors. Kara’s own niece designed the feather on memory of best friend, who had died the previous year from a brain tumor. $35 each.
The Feed Clutch: By Judith Leiber x FEED. A collaboration that gives back, here, here! Judith Leiber and FEED come together to create a linen evening clutch adorned by intricate beading reminiscent of a certain Dries van Awesome clutch I’m still trying to track down. Perhaps it’s time to re-assess my priorities and instead opt for the one that promises 1,000–yes thousand–school meals for children through the UN World Food Programme’s School Feeding initiative.
The Denim: By J Brand. Launched just last week, 100% of net proceeds from these denim styles will go toward City Year initiatives–to keep children in school. Everyone needs a pair of utility jeans, make it count.
The Plaid Scarf: By Thakoon. You likely know that I can get behind any garment by Thakoon, and with the inclusion of the Masai scarf–featuring the F/W runway’s hit red and blue plaid print, I may get behind a whole bunch more. $250 each. 100% of proceeds go toward aid for the drought and famine in Somalia.

Shop away.