17 Stylish Fair Trade Clothing Items You'll Want In Your Closet Regardless Of How Committed You Are To Shopping Ethically

Lydia Clutch, $1,895, Michael Nelson

After a trip to a trip to the Maasai Mara in Kenya, designer Michael Nelson was inspired to curate only socially conscious handmade bags and sunglasses. He is hoping to build a workshop in Kenya where artisans can work, have childcare, and a lunchroom. I would definitely save this bag for a seasonal splurge, but I love what the money would go toward. If you need more proof of its cool-factor, Nina Dobrev wore one of his clutches at the 2014 VMAs.

1964 Threads Full of Secrets White Teeshirt, $36, S hop Helpsy

In 2013, Helpsy was launched by fashion journalist Rachel Kibbe to “change the misconception” that 100 percent ethical fashion can’t have a “positive social impact” but still be “cutting edge.” The online store is filled with many hilarious, affordable graphic T-shirts, plus lingerie, accessories, and other pieces.

Mojave Melody, $75, 31 Bits

I have a very difficult time going to 31 Bits and not buying everything I see. They are the one stop shop for all your fair trade fashion jewelry needs. The artisans who curate the popular 31 Bits jewelry are enrolled in a program that provides them with a holistic education and a sustainable income. Their jewelry makes for statement pieces that look great with many outfits and are offered at a range of prices.

Vintage Checked Shirt, $48, Edun Online

EDUN is a fun fair trade shopping website that will give you a different insight into items that you may not have put under the fair trade umbrella. Founded by Ali Hewson and husband, Bono, EDUN features fair trade fashion choices for men and women as well as fair trade insoles, arch supports, knee supports — all things you’ve likely never even considered the sustainability of.

Tasha Abstract Trousers, $59, People Tree

I’m not sure why, but experience has taught me that fair trade shopping gets difficult when it comes to pants. Thankfully, this seems to be ending with trousers like these. Not only are they stylish, but they feel like you’re wearing pajamas. It’s amazing. According to their website, People Tree is recognized as a pioneer in fair trade fashion, and use sustainable materials and practices. They have many other items on their site, including dresses, skirts, jumpsuits, and tops.

Sand Dune Oxfords, $168, Shopos Born

Shoes are another very difficult part of fair trade shopping. Thankfully, Osborn has solved all of my fair trade shoe shopping blunders. They work with fair trade artisans to create practical (and trendy) shoes you can wear time and time again.

Ikat Skirt, $25, Serrv

Professional-yet-quirky skirts are hard to come by in general. Try slapping the fair trade standard on them and the search becomes a thousand times more difficult. Serrv has your office-to-happy-hour attire covered, all made with ethical practices.

Houndstooth Olive Metro Tote, $25, Orange Harp

Orange Harp is an app that will allow you to shop for fair trade accessories and clothes on your phone whenever you’re in the mood for some new pieces. The app/store has accessories, bags, clothes, cover ups, printed T-shirts, and beauty products that “don’t harm the individuals or the planet.”

Sudeva Infinity Scarf, $29, Fair Tradewinds

Spring is the best time for pretty, lightweight scarves. Fair Trade Winds, an online store that offers a plethora of fair trade gifts, clothes, and lifestyle items, has plenty for you to choose from.

Giesswein Owl Boiled Wool Slipper, $27, Fair Indigo

Um, could these be any more precious? I don’t think so. Fair Indigo specializes in organic pajamas and footwear, but they have a wide range of daytime pieces as well.

Origami Wrap, $39, Indigenous

Not only is this piece made by fair trade artisans in Peru, but it can be worn a million different ways. Well, a million may be exaggerating a bit, but you get the gist.

Stevie Hat, 45, Prana

Attending a music festival this season? Hats are a must to protect you from the sun and add the finishing touch on your perfect festival wardrobe. Make a true statement with your festival wardrobe by going all fair trade, including this Stevie Hat by prAna.

Lucy Dress, $88, Liz Alig

Would you believe me if I said this dress was made from a recycled flour sack in Ghana? Yep. The small online retailer based in Greenfield, Indiana also includes accessories, blouses, pants, and shorts.

Patagonia Men’s Arched Collegiate Logo Midweight Crew Sweatshirt, $49, Patagonia

In 2014, Patagonia began selling fair trade certified apparel, in an attempt to “improve the lives of the workers who make our products.” Their store not only became a million times more appealing in my eyes, but I love all of the new products offered, including this crew neck sweatshirt. Sure, it’s intended for men. but I don’t see why not for women as well!

Good hYOUman Give the World Tee, $38, Mushmina

Start the fair trade fashion conversation with your friends by wearing a statement T-shirt. When your friends ask you what you’re giving to the world, tell them you’re starting with researching where your clothes come from!

Sseko Sandals, $10, Sseko

With a Sseko sandal base, you can use many colors of Sseko sandal ribbons to practically make your own sandals into whatever style you would like. The ribbons are made in Uganda by university-bound young women.