Nov 27, 2015

Feel Good Holiday Shopping

Feel Good Shopping Guide: Look and feel good about your shopping choices this holiday season. Features 20 retailers to shop consciously from.
Image copyright .

Image via Zady.

This year it seems like the holidays crept up on me. I can’t believe it’s already after Thanksgiving and the Black Friday sales are in full swing. I feel like Halloween was only yesterday. On the plus side, we pick out our tree this weekend! On the down side, the onslaught of retail information is being shoved down your throat 24/7.

Lately I’ve put a lot of thought into my buying habits, and where my money actually goes. I constantly find myself being pulled to products that not only make me feel good, but do good by the companies and people who work for them. There’s a fine line between being modern and stylish and being sustainable, organic, earth-friendly, or socially conscious and these companies are in my thoughts because they straddle that line so well.

I hope this “Feel Good Shopping Guide” finds you well in the midst of all of the other shopping chatter and sales and that you are able to find peace in the thought of quality over quantity. Less is always more

Acne Studios
Women & Men’s Clothing

Feel good shopping Guide, featuring Acne StudiosFeel good shopping Guide, featuring Acne Studios

Coat and dress images above via Acne Studios.

During our trip to Denmark, I discovered Acne Studios while shopping and bought my first pair of black jeans (they’re still going strong!) and a plain white tee (seen here). Since then I’ve continued to collect timeless pieces for my wardrobe (like this shirt dress!) and have come to learn about their strict code of conduct for their manufacturing process.

Aēsop 
Skin, Body, & Hair Care

Aēsop skin care, a feel good purchase from my socially conscious shopping guide

Aēsop Norway store image via Aēsop.

Founded in Australia, Aēsop’s mission has always been to provide quality products with research & development, good design, and the planet in mind. Their products are plant-based and sourced from reputable suppliers around the globe. New products are introduced as customer feedback is provided. They even have a cool A-Z San Francisco City Guide.

American Apparel
Men, Women, Kids, & Baby Clothing & Accessories

Feel good about shopping at American Apparel

Chambray button down image via American Apparel.

I remember so long ago when I first heard of American Apparel, and fell in love with their soft fabrics. I love the tri-blend tees for my kids, and love that they are made right here in California. American Apparel is committed to investing in the future of the earth, and sustainable practices and that is something to feel good about.

Ariel Gordon Jewelry
Fine Jewelry

Feel Good Shopping, featuring Ariel Gordon Jewelry

Image via Ariel Gordon

I discovered Ariel Gordan Jewelry this year and immediately fell in love with these dual birthstone rings (and a lot of other goodies as well). Made in Los Angeles, AGJ is made “to be subtle and chic, lived in and layered”. Ariel’s vision is “to create jewelry that can transition well and be a wardrobe staple” and she does absolutely just that.

Coyuchi
Women & Men’s Clothing, Home Accessories

Coyuchi home goods, for sustainable style shopping guide. Coyuchi home goods, for sustainable style shopping guide.

Farmhouse stripe collection and chunky weave throw via Coyuchi.

Although I’ve only dreamed of making purchases from Coyuchi, they’ve been on my radar for awhile now. Their mission is to be the source for sustainable home furnishings that respect our natural surroundings and enhance the lives of every one of their customers. Everything they do is inspired and respectful of nature, from sourcing to manufacturing, to final product. Plus, aren’t these knit stockings adorable?

Cuyana
Women’s Clothing

Socially responsible shopping guide, featuring Cuyana Socially responsible shopping guide, featuring Cuyana

Wool coat and wool belted vest images via Cuyana

A few years ago I bought my first silk tunic from Cuyana. It was a huge splurge for me at the time but it has become one of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe. Since then I’ve collected a few other pieces and they are all favorites in my closet. Cuyana’s mission of fewer, better really speaks to my heart and their commitment to quality craftsmanship is on point.

Elizabeth Suzann
Women’s Clothing

Elizabeth Suzann, featured in a Socially Responsible Shopping Guide Elizabeth Suzann, featured in a Socially Responsible Shopping Guide

Artist dress and clyde pant images via Elizabeth Suzann

While reading Bleubird Blog last year, I came across the Nashville-based designer Elizabeth Suzann and immediately fell in love. Her pieces are born from natural fabrics in her studio in Nashville and her passion for quality over excess is apparent from the first peek at her line. If I manage to snag any of her pieces as a holiday gift for myself I will be on cloud nine.

Emerson Fry
Women’s Clothing

Shop Emerson Fry and feel good. Part of a socially conscious shopping guide. Shop Emerson Fry and feel good. Part of a socially conscious shopping guide.

Ryan army coat and tie-up dress images copyright Emerson Fry.

It was the year 2013 when I first discovered Emerson Fry. I bought a pair of tan loafers that still live in my closet today. The quality of craftsmanship, and the aim of Emerson Fry to have minimal impact on their surroundings is something to love. Two more pairs of shoes and a couple of other pieces later, I still swoon in 2015.

Everlane
Women & Men’s Clothing

Feel good about shopping at Everlane (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!) Feel good about shopping at Everlane (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)

E1 dress and fingerless glove images via Everlane.

Based in San Francisco, Everlane is all about radical transparency. For each of the items they sell, you are able to trace them back to their conception. Each of their items is so well-thought out that they will stand the test of time in your closet. I’ve been basically living in their modern point loafers, and love the affordable luxury feel good vibes I get when I shop there.

Frēda Salvador
Women’s Shoes

Feel good about shopping at Frēda Salvador (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)

Winter 2015 looks via Frēda Salvador.

Handmade in small family-run factory in Spain, Frēda Salvador’s shoes are both dreamy and well-made, an absolute must for any well-curated closet. I stopped by the flagship store in San Francisco recently to drool over a few pairs and fell in love with a simple moto-inspired boot.

Galisfly
Women’s Jewelry

Feel good about shopping at Galisfly (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)

Images via Galisfly Shop.

In 2013 I stumbled across this Etsy shop based in Tel Aviv, Israel and purchased this set of these tiny silver stacking rings. Beautifully made from plated sterling silver, they are delicate and fitted. Locally sourced and hand crafted, designer Gal Vardi aims to produce jewelry with a killer attitude for the modern woman.

Goat Milk NYC
Baby & Kids Clothing

Feel good about shopping at Goat Milk NYC (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!) Feel good about shopping at Goat Milk NYC (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)

Striped union suit & mustard tank images via Goat Milk.

Born in Barcelona, based in Brooklyn, New York, Goat Milk NYC offers a pared down selection of beautifully crafted, classic baby and kids basics. Made of 100% organic prewashed cotton and produced with a resolute commitment to fair trade and the environment.

Heidi Merrick
Women’s Clothing, Home Accessories

Socially conscious shopping guide, featuring Heidi Merrick and others Socially conscious shopping guide, featuring Heidi Merrick and others

Gauze tunic and black maxi images via Heidi Merrick.

If anything describes Heidi Merrick better than modern California minimalism, I would be shocked. Heidi’s entire collection is produced responsibly and locally, all within walking distance of the label’s downtown studio. She believes deeply in production transparency and brand responsibility. The quality of her clothing is top-knotch, as I wear my striped drake tee weekly and it’s still in great shape. I’ve been eyeing these beautiful pajamas as a potential holiday buy.

James Perse
Women & Men’s Clothing, Home Furniture & Accessories

Feel Good Shopping Guide, featuring James Perse

Fleece overcoat image via James Perse.

On Fillmore street in San Francisco I wandered into a James Perse store. It was beautiful on the outside and everything I ever wanted in a store on the inside. The pieces feel dreamy, and the design is simple and timeless. In the feel good aspect, James Perse strives to maintain high standards of corporate integrity and ethical behavior in every aspect of business.

LemLem
Women, Men, & Kid’s Clothing, Home Accessories

Feel good about shopping at Lem Lem (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!) Feel good about shopping at Lem Lem (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)Images via LemLem.

Founded by Liya Kebede, Lem Lem is a clothing & home accessories brand that is hand made from natural cotton in Ethiopia. LemLem prides itself on it’s ability to empower local artisans to continue their craft while creating something that is modern and wearable.

Mini Rodini
Baby & Kids Clothing, Home Accessories

Sustainable style shopping guide, featuring Mini Rodini Sustainable style shopping guide, featuring Mini Rodini

Images via Mini Rodini.

I first noticed Mini Rodini in 2011 and fell in love with their clean and fun designs for children. Several years later and I’m still in love with their designs, but I also love their practice of using Certified Organic materials and maintaining a quality manufacturing process.

Moods of Norway
Women & Men’s Clothing

Feel good about shopping at Moods of Norway (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!) Feel good about shopping at Moods of Norway (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)

Nina Loen Knit & Steffen Dale Bomber Jacket images via Moods of Norway.

Happy clothes for happy people is the motto of Moods of Norway, fully embodying their ethical and socially conscious practices. Designers Simen Staalnacke and Peder Børresenand love blending their Norwegian heritage with international lifestyle in a contrast-filled and fun universe.

Nuraxi
Women’s Clothing, Baby, Home Accessories

Feel good shopping, featuring Nuraxi

Diamond blanket scarf image via Nuraxi.

I discovered Nuraxi awhile back via twitter and immediately fell in love with their clean aesthetic and love for quality goods. They partner with skilled artisans around the world to produce items from materials with meaning. My favorite poncho is from Nuraxi, and I’ve been lusting after this blanket for awhile now.

One Love Organics
Skin, Body, & Hair Care

Feel good about shopping at One Love Organics (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)

Skin savior image via One Love Organics.

One Love Organics’ award-winning skin care products are produced in micro-batches at the company’s ECOCERT® licensed manufacturing facility in St. Simons Island, Georgia.  I can’t wait to try them out.

Oeuf NYC
Baby & Kids Clothing, Toys, Furniture

Oeuf NYC featured in Feel Good Shopping Guide Oeuf NYC featured in Feel Good Shopping Guide

Perch and Mini Library images via Oeuf.

If you’re familiar with my kids, Aiden or Søren’s rooms, you’ll recognize Oeuf. Their clothing is made by artisans paid a living wage, and their furniture is crafted from FSC certified wood so it’s good for our environment as well. Their mission is simple, to be good. This means being good designers, good people, and good to the planet.

Pure Collection
Women’s Clothing & Cashmere

Feel good about shopping at Pure Collection (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!) Feel good about shopping at Pure Collection (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)

Cashmere jumper & blanket images via Pure Collection.

Pure Collection’s motto is,“The world’s finest cashmere, sensibly priced and expertly crafted into beautiful, modern styles to make you feel special and look terrific”. I don’t know that I could have said it better myself, their cozy cashmere just draws you in.

Sonnet James
Women’s Clothing & Accessories

Socially Responsible Shopping Guide, featuring Sonnet James Socially Responsible Shopping Guide, featuring Sonnet James

Black dress and striped dress images via Sonnet James

I found out about these beautiful dresses via Naomi at Love Taza and fell in love with their simple design and ‘at play’ aesthetic. The quality of the fabric is thick and beautiful, and the cut of the dresses is equally so. They are manufactured in San Francisco, California and the founder, Whitney, believes heavily in fair trade and working locally.

Tegu
Toys

Feel good about shopping at Tegu (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)

Tegu tints set image via Tegu.

Tegu makes simple magnetic blocks for kids (or anyone with an imagination, really) that aim to inspire open-ended play while maintaining a fun vibe. Tegu blocks are manufactured using sustainable hardwoods in Honduras, and every purchase helps afford kids in Honduras an education, as well as fight deforestation. These are my kids favorite toys, and it’s nice to know they are a feel good item.

Toto Knits Shop
Baby & Kids Clothing, Home Accessories

Feel good about shopping at Toto Knits (and these 24 other socially conscious stores!)

Zebra sweater image via Toto Knits.

Toto Knits was first introduced to me by Amanda of Coos and Ahhs. I’ve come to know the founder, Erin, as a friend and my boys absolutely adore their pieces. She lives in Africa and her pieces are sustainably knit one at a time by single mothers in Kenya who are paid per piece, so they can work as little or as much as they’d like and put family first.

Zady
Women & Men’s Clothing, Home Accessories

Feel good about this sustainable shopping guide, featuring Zady Feel good about this sustainable shopping guide, featuring Zady

Gray sweater and wool coat images via Zady.

I found Zady via an event I attended at Polyvore headquarters and immediately fell in love with their mission statement. “This isn’t a trend. This is the new standard.” It speaks so much to the idea of minimalism being here for good, and not just another fad. I truly believe people are waking up to making better and longer-lasting choices when it comes to their retail habits.

I hope that you’ve enjoyed this guide, and if you stuck around to the bitter end, congrats! I’ve also put together a “Feel Good Shop” where you can shop items from all of these retailers, go shop now!

Do you have any other stores or thoughts to add? I’d love to hear your input as I’m always on the lookut for brands that fall into this category.

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[…] being sustainable, organic, earth-friendly, or socially conscious(or all of these!) and I featured these companies around the holidays because they straddle that line so well. It hasn’t been a hard line for […]

[…] some time now, Cuyana has been one of my favorite shopping destinations. Long before I began this feel good shopping quest, they were one of my favorites not only for the quality of their items, but the story behind […]

[…] lifestyle, but I find myself making quite a few of my decisions based on how earth-friendly or feel good something […]

[…] of my ring. When Diamond Foundry reached out to me, I thought they would be a perfect fit for my Feel Good series. I’ve partnered with them today to share a little more about their process, and to […]

Thanks for sharing these new companies with me. I really like that blue sweater in the first photo.

xx,
Amanda || http://www.fortheloveofglitter.com

These seem like some really great companies. I hadn’t heard of many of them before!
http://www.amemoryofus.com

[…] being more charitable, giving freely, and supporting companies and products that do so as well. My feel good guide was just a start, and I know it only scratches the surface, but you have to start somewhere, […]

[…] Choose your own price sale. Not only do I love Everlane for their feel good aesthetic, but this sale is genius! The prices are tiered and explain exactly what you’re […]

I was excited to read this post until I clicked some the links that led to stores that are incredibly expensive. And I find that most things you post have links to expensive things… I like spending money on good quality clothes but hundreds of dollars for a shirt is ridiculous

Hi Lindsey, thanks for the feedback. I’m not sure which link you visited, but Everlane and American Apparel both have some wonderful quality feel good items for a decent price. Unfortunately socially conscious manufacturing processes are not the most budget-friendly to implement. One of the major reasons why poor working conditions/wages/factories are so prevalent in fast-fashion is because they’re cheap.

Perfect.

Thanks! 🙂

LOVE this post… mainly because the items are spectacular and I havent heard of most of them! Totally adding to my shopping list!
Karen | GlamKaren.com

[…] know I’ve already shared my Feel Good Shopping Guide, but I thought I’d also take a minute to share a few perfect gifts for everyone on your list […]

What a lovely post! I am trying to be more aware about the clothes that we buy every day and I find your suggestions fantastic.

Thanks, Penelope! I can’t believe how much work it took to research and sum up each place. Even when I’m already familiar with somewhere it still took time to put into words for others. It’s definitely been a shift for me over the last few years and I struggle with it constantly. It’s so hard when there is such an overload of stuff and things being thrown in your face. Best of luck with it this season! 🙂

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