5 Ethical Shops for Clothing & Gifts

Happy Thanksgiving Week!

Where are y’all at? Are you fiendishly planning your meal or side dish that you’re bringing to someone else’s meal? Are you just working another day or two before enjoying a relaxing few days off?

Well, I hope that your week is filled with fun and relaxation and good food, as well as some good inspiration for gift giving.

We all know that Christmas is just around the corner, so I’m trying to give you a bit of a leg up on your Christmas shopping or just general shopping for yourself with these 5 ethical (fair trade or made in the USA) shops that are just too good to pass up.

In case you’re wondering, here’s why I’m trying to shop more sustainably:

To support makers (many who need a way out of poverty) across the world
To use my money to empower others (especially women who are makers or entrepreneurs)
To fill my closet with clothes that last longer than their cheap alternatives (and cut down on waste)
To show that I care about moving away from fast fashion as a consumer

Now, on to the list!

Everlane

This one is a classic and has become one of my favorite stores for classy pieces that last.

You’ll like it if:

You’re into greys, blacks and classic solid colors (like me)
You want to start shopping sustainably slowly and not spend too much money on basics (hello, choose what you pay section)
You’re looking for both clothes and accessories (shoes, backpacks)

Things I love: they have an entire gift shop section, this cotton tank dress and their basic cotton V-neck

The Flourish Market

Photo courtesy of Coulture Magazine

I just recently discovered this shop, which happens to be based in my hometown of Raleigh, and I’m all about their mission to empower women makers and offer fun, cute and creative clothing and accessories. Never fear if you don’t live near Raleigh, they’re online shop is awesome!

You’ll like it if:

You’re looking for some fashion-forward, fun pieces
You need a gift under $30 (love their earrings and bracelets)
You’re into cute but comfy

Things I love: Gifts under $30, their long cardigans and they have great cards, too

Nellie Taft

Photo courtesy of nellietaft.com

I just discovered this super cute and cool made in the USA women’s clothing shop on the Struggle Well Project podcast, and I’m loving the fun and creative clothing options.

You’ll like it if:

You’re buying for yourself or a sister or girlfriend who likes trying something new and unique
You’re into sales (they’ve had several recently)
You think good clothing is worth the wait (all about that email me when it’s restocked option)

Things I love: just bought these amazing pants, this dress and this fun t-shirt

Inkkas

Photo courtesy of Citizen Erased Photography

A few months ago, I ran into a lady with the cutest sneakers, and I got my friend to ask her where they were from: Inkkas. This store has some super fun shoes, and they plant a tree for each one you buy!

You’ll like it if:

You’re into the fancy, cool, creative sneaker craze
You love a good sale (I got mine for like 40% off)
You’re into the TOMS model of giving back with each purchase

Things I love: these funky high tops, these leopard print sneakers(that I can only find on Amazon for some reason) and this fun backpack

Pact Clothing

Photo courtesy of Inhabitat

I had seen a few ads around for this brand, so I decided to try it out and order a few things. I was really happy with my purchase: quality, soft organic clothing.

You’ll like it if: