Outfit Formula: Jumpin' Jumpin'

During my previous flirtations with "having a conscious while shopping", I always found some things easier than others to do. I was always spotting jewelry, bags, scarves, beach goods and the likes that were stylish and producing positive social impact. But it was much harder to find the things that are a bit more necessary AND also impact focused-- like pants. I couldn't seem to find clothing that doesn’t look like I am trying to throw my wanna be do-gooder personality directly into your now guilt ridden face. Sure that block printed caftan is 100% amazing, but the people in my office would make fun of me AND see my bloomers if I rolled into work like that.

Is it possible to make good, impact generating purchases beyond the the random peppering here and there? Or at least that is what I wondered to myself. That’s how I came up with the idea to do outfit by outfit stylings. Hypothetical of course because this a start-up blog and I have to eat. Full disclosure, I do a LOT of personal outfit planning. Not only is it the last thing (!) I think about most nights before I fall asleep (in my defense it makes my mornings run MUCH smoother), but I’m also a bit notorious for my incredibly detailed outfit by outfit packing lists. It feels like a good use of energy to take all those outfit musings and use it to figure out how to start planning a wardrobe that is doing more good than harm.

Our first outfit is based on two things I already own-- a killer jumpin’ jumpin’ suit (perfect for when Destiny’s Child tells me to leave my man at home) and a beautiful Clare V Bag. Can we take these threads to the "I’m making the world a better place" max?!

ONE: This jumpsuit is currently sold out. Sharing it with you is therefore a bit mean. But I love it so much, it felt meaner NOT to share it with you. I’m not going to lie to you and tell you that mid-day bathroom breaks are easy in this-- but I promise it is worth it. It is made of perfectly structured cotton that fits like a glove while also being incredibly flattering. Plus, the collar flips up in this perfect “I’m so cool and didn't even do this on purpose” way. UNIFORM is made in Africa and donates a portion of their proceeds to provide school uniforms. I learned about UNIFORM after hearing their founder (Chid Liberty) speak on a panel, weaving the inspiring and heartbreaking tale of launching a start-up in Liberia right when the most recent Ebola crisis struck. I was so hooked I ordered the jumpsuit and a dress while sitting in the audience.
TWO: I love my job. If I didn’t, I’m pretty sure I would quit and move to Dallas to work for Akola. I cannot wait to share more information about their business model with you in an upcoming brand review. For now, it’s hard for me to select just ONE necklace for this outfit, but I think this is the winner for matching everything in my almost entirely all black and white wardrobe.
THREE: Have I mentioned that I struggle with transitional temperatures?? I have been wearing an old denim jacket (Shh! It’s Gap!) on repeat recently to deal with all the ups and downs. Even though I am spilling prone, I am itching to purchase a white denim jacket to add to the rotation. Not only does this one have jazzy buttons, it is also made by Dl1961, which uses half the water, dye, and energy it usually takes to make jeans. Plus, they are based right here in NYC.
FOUR: If my mother was here, she would tell you that I am impossible when it comes to buying shoes. It’s true: of all the things, I am pickiest about shoes. This new foray into consciously shopping has revealed an unfortunate truth-- shoes in the ethical category are often... how do you say this delicately.. utilitarian. I was excited when I came across this & Other Stories collaboration with Toms-- and elated when I saw these gold sandals. They look perfect to tackle the summer streets while also supporting the Toms One for One model. Plus, they satisfy even the pickiest of shoe buyers (me).
FIVE: I’m a brand loyalist. In fact, I sometimes have to force myself out of the familiar groves of fandom to discover new brands. Clare V. IS my purse brand, plan and simple. For example, this perfection of a bag which was handmade by artisans in Kenya. It makes going into work feel like a fun summer activity. Plus, the founder runs half-marathons with Christy Turlington to support Every Mother Counts. It’s almost too much awesomeness for me.