To introduce springtime and warmer weather I wanted to showcase two of my favorite playful picks. These looks can transition from spring to summer and day to night. Moreso, they are perfect examples of outfits to wear to those many special occasions that pop up during this season. This time of the year brings out all those celebrations [baby shower, afternoon wedding, work retreat, family picnic] and you'll have the most carefree outfit for that weekend. With these two ethical brands your spring wardrobe just got more playful and easy while staying thoughtful and sustainable.
My first look is my go-to print brand - Mata Traders.
Each piece is inspired by the people, markets, and colorful textiles of India and the company vows to keep the country a part of its life story. Their artisans utilizing techniques like hand embroidery, block printing, jewelry making, and screen printing making Mata Traders original prints spunky and stylish.
The featured skirt is made with the traditional block printing technique. When it comes to traditional techniques, none are as fascinating as block printing, an art form that has been practiced in India since the 12th century. Mata Traders designs are traced onto and then carved from wooden blocks, called “bunta.” When printing, large pieces of fabric are fixed to a tabletop. The carved blocks are then dipped into colorful dyes, stamped on the fabric, and the process continues for the entire sheet of fabric, forming an intricate pattern. Block prints can be simple or can involve many layers of printing for each color. A special part of block printed fabrics is their occasional small imperfections – very much a part of the handmade process.
In a time of globalization and fast-paced technology, I'm proud to support the groups of traditional fabric producers and jewelry makers via Mata Traders. Plus pairing it with our new Hiptipico Lila fringe crossbody, palmleaf sun hat and boho sandals - make the entire look ethical from head to toe!
Get my look!
Dala Circle Skirt by Mata Traders
Isla Sunhat by Hiptipico
Conscious Collection Tank by H&M
Lila Crossbody by Hiptipico
Boho Sandals by Hiptipico
Location: Egg Delivery Truck, Panajachel
Photography: Diana Alvarado
My next look is an off the shoulder dress by The People Tree. This brand represents organic, fair trade and sustainability with a slogan that reads "from farm to fashion". This off the shoulder dress is chic and comfortable made from organic cotton. Allowing me to flow and move with ease I can definitely take the look from a casual afternoon right to a cocktail party. The versatility of this dress allows me to dress it up or down!
I love how it's made and that their website informs me that it was manufactured by: Rajlakshmi. The information on their website allows me to be a conscious consumers specifying that Rajlakshmi Cotton Mills is a pioneer in organic garment manufacturing in India - seeking to combine high quality tailoring with a fair deal for farmers and workers whilst supporting local environmental and social projects.
Get my look!
Organic Cotton Dress by The People Tree
Isla Wide Brim Hat by Hiptipico
Loom Woven Belt by Hiptipico
Wedge Sandals by Free People
Location: Iglesia Central, Panajachel
Photography: Diana Alvarado
When you shop my Ethical Fashion Guide you can trust that your goods were made ethically and sustainably.
xx Alyssa
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