A few months ago, we talked about the impact our cheap shopping habits has on our environment. On average, Americans send more than ten million tons of clothing to the dump every year, which is insane. So, with back-to-school shopping and fall fashion trends just around the corner, how can you purchase clothing without feeling guilty about the negative effects?
Well, there are quite a few clothing companies that are making a huge effort to give back to our world while still producing affordable clothes. Check out some of these inspirational brands and see if you can purchase some new trendy items and give back to a worthy cause!
FEED Projects
Founded in 2007, this brand is fighting against world hunger by creating quality bags. Every time a product is purchased from FEED, the company provides meals to children in countries where not every student has food. The bags themselves are produced in underprivileged countries like Haiti, India, and Peru. Their bags are affordable and well-made, so you'll be happy with your purchase and the donation you're making! So far, the company has donated more than 95 million meals to kids in need.
Ivory Ella
Between 2010 and 2012, 100,000 elephants were killed in Africa for the ivory. That's why Ivory Ella, a clothing brand for women, has partnered with Save the Elephants. Every time you purchase an item from Ivory Ella, a portion of the proceeds goes toward protecting wild elephants in Africa. The store carries everything from adorable sweatpants to accessories for your dorm room! It's the perfect place to go shopping before heading off to college, and you'll know that you helped an endangered animal species.
Beza Threads
Did you know that as many as 27 million people suffer under the oppression of modern slavery today? This company is helping to bring redemption and freedom to those enslaved people. If you purchase one of their scarves for around $30, you'll be helping preserve human dignity and supporting locals in Ethiopia. Each scarf is hand-made by multiple teenagers and 100 percent of the funding goes to people in need.
Twice as Warm
By making high-quality products in the USA that are sure to keep you toasty during the winter, Twice as Warm strives to benefit local shelters and organizations in need of clothing for cold weather. They sell scarves, hats, and gloves. By wearing one of their products, you'll give to someone else in need. Right now, if you sign up for the email list, you'll get 15% off your order, so go stock up on cozy items!
Makai Clothing Co.
Every year, thousands of baby turtles hatch on land along the U.S. coast and make a dangerous journey to the Atlantic Ocean. In recent years, only about 10% of young sea turtles survive due to natural and human-caused threats. As a result, U.S. sea turtles are federally listed as endangered. By shopping at Makai Clothing, you'll help protect turtles! 10 percent of all the brand's proceeds go toward sea turtle conservation. Plus, their products are really cute.
Serengetee
Established in 2012 by two men who studied abroad, this company is changing the way the world uses fabrics. When you buy from Serengetee, you'll be purchasing fabric from over 25 countries and giving back to a diverse range of important causes. Browse their impressive collection of t-shirts, hats, towels, and more! Right now, if you spend more than $15 (which is easy to do), you can benefit from free shipping!
Out of Print
Every book nerd needs to visit this site ASAP. This company makes adorable t-shirts, pins, children's clothing, bags, and more, and they're all designed to showcase your favorite literary pieces! Buy a Where the Wild Things Are onesie as a baby gift or show off your love for Agatha Christie on a shirt. Seriously, their products are too cool. Can you tell I'm a big reader? Anyway, not only does Out of Print produce fun items, but they also help fund literacy programs for communities in need.
These are just a handful of the great clothing companies out there that are trying to make a difference. Which ones do you love to support? Spread the word in the comments below, and happy shopping!