The fashion industry is making strides in becoming more ethically, socially and environmentally conscious. As the push to make the fashion world greener gains traction on a global scale, these local Philadelphia boutiques are helping to make shopping a more sustainable practice. Charitable and eco-friendly initiatives are a small step in the direction of positive change for the industry writ large.
Green Girl Power
Minimizing environmental impact is the name of the game at Voloshin. To increase sustainability and uphold conscious design practices, the boutique uses natural fabrics and organic materials in all its products. All their collections are produced in low batches to prevent excess inventory that could later end up in landfills. The woman-owned business partners with fellow female-focused organizations that mirror the store’s ethical values. Voloshin donates a percentage of its sales to Sai Educational Rural and Urban Development Society which focuses on female job training in fashion design. 2930 Jasper St., 267.603.8900, voloshin.us
Every Fabric Counts
Tesoro’s dedication to charity and sustainability is evident in their store offerings. Founder Brit Reed utilizes locally made vegetable tanned leather in their bags, carbon emissions are reduced and harmful chemicals are left out of the picture. As part of a new zero-waste initiative, the store now offers leather earrings that allow them to make use of even the smallest fabric scraps. Tesoro partners with local organizations that are helping to make a difference in underserved communities like “Women Ready,” which provides homeless women with sanitary products, and “The Covenant House,” which works to get children off the streets of Philadelphia. 1533 South St., 267.273.0541, tesoro.design
Ethical Everything
Moon + Arrow has ethically-sourced products for all aspects of your life, including clothing, home furnishings, jewelry and decor. Non-toxic, small-batch beauty and wellness brands such as Daughter of the Land and La Tierra Sagrada are carried in the store’s unique apothecary. The store utilizes the historic fabric row to source the majority of its fabric from local artisans. These artisans are linked to the broad, diverse urban community of Philadelphia as the store showcases their sustainable goods. 742 S. Fourth St., 215.469.1448, moonandarrow.com
Feel Good Purchases
What is the meaning behind the number 2,068,975? It’s the pounds of trash that United by Blue has removed from our world’s oceans and waterways. For every product purchased, the store removes a pound of trash to help limit the repercussions of water pollution. All of United by Blue’s products are made from sustainable fabrics that aim to reduce the consumer’s carbon footprint. Peruse the vast selection of clothing and accessories with a drink or snack from the in-store coffee shop, where you can also sign up for one of their local clean-up events to help make the Philadelphia area greener. 205 Race St., 215.457.3114, unitedbyblue.com
Photography by: Courtesy of Voloshin
