Everyone knows I love cute accessories and shoes. I discovered The Root Collective recently and I’m in love! I have a passion with anything fair-trade. What’s fair-trade you say?
“…an organized social movement that aims to help producers in developing countries to make better trading conditions and promote sustainability.” (Wikipedia)
The Root Collective launched just last week! Yes, it’s that new and that fabulous! I just had to get my hands on a pair of their ballet flats and oh my, are they ever adorable!
The Root Collective features crafted items handmade in Guatemala, Peru, and Kenya. My shoes came from Guatemala and I love the story behind them.
The fabric on these shoes is handwoven by a group of indigenous Mayan women in Guatemala. That is then transformed into these wonderful shoes, made in the slum of La Limonada, Guatemala City by former gang members and people who would be unable to find other employment. The handcrafted artistry will make these a necessity in your wardrobe.
Because these shoes are handmade and completely original, the location of the stripes may alter slightly from what is pictured here.
NOTE: Our shoes run true to size, but if you are in-between sizes, we recommend ordering down in size.
Made in GuatemalaMATERIALS: Cotton upper, leather lining, rubber outsole.
I love that The Root Collective has partnered with two non-profits to help “give back.” 10% of every purchase you make will be donated to the non-profit of your choice. Ummm, amazing! Lemonade International provides education, food, and health services to residents in Limonada, a slum in Guatemala City. Come Unity works to provide education, clean water, and self-sufficiency to communities in Africa.
I love this statement from The Root Collective owner, Bethany: ”
“What can I do?” Those people I met need access, not pity. A hand up, not a hand out. It is about coming alongside as a partner, not a savior who can solve all of their problems. They don’t need saving, they need understanding. It is about working together with them to take what they were already doing and making it more desireable to a buying market. It is about opportunity. The Root Collective is my way of being an opportunity advocate. You can be an opportunity advocate too. Your purchases not only give opportunity to the artisans of these communities, but it is also an opportunity for you to be a catalyst for change.”
I’m trying to decide which is my favorite – the jewelry, shoes, or accessories. I can’t decide. It’s all wonderful. To me, there’s nothing better than ethical fashion.
Time to start your Christmas shopping! Whether you’re buying something for yourself or need something for a friend or family member, I hope you’ll be doing some “ethical shopping” this holiday season.
The Root Collective is so generous and is offering my readers a 10% discount code on all orders placed by December 15, 2013. Use code, TUCKER10 to receive the 10% off your purchase.
Make sure you follow TRC on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
What great gifts to give and help these ministries. Thanks, Meghan.