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:

And hey, it's the thought that counts...I never suggested I was a graphic designer and in any case, poor graphics shouldn't discourage you from giving back to the greater good of mankind. Let's break this down. 

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.