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An Ethical and Sustainable Wish List

January 13, 2020 by Lauren Ho

In my pursuit of living a more low-waste lifestyle, I’ve discovered some incredible ethical and sustainable brands. But there are still a few categories that are challenging for me to shop consciously: swimsuits, bras, underwear, cleaning products, etc. and it can be hard to know where to start. 

I recently discovered an online marketplace called ourCommonplace through Instagram. Their careful curation of ethical and sustainable goods has been so helpful for discovering new brands that I’ve never heard of. You can shop by your values, whether that means purchasing from a business that is woman-owned, sustainable, toxic-free, ethical, made in the USA and/or cruelty-free. 

Note: this isn’t a sponsored post. I’m just a fan of ourCommonplace’s vision and love that they’re making ethical and sustainable goods more accessible to more people. But if you do decide to purchase any items, you can use my referral link here and I’ll earn a small commission (which would be awesome because that would officially mark the first time I make any sort of money through this blog). You can also use my coupon code (HERSTATEOFMIND) for 10% off your purchase. Thanks in advance for your consideration! 

Without further ado, here are my top picks from ourCommonplace and the items I’m putting at the top of my wish list: 

CLOTHING

Taiyo Luna Dress in Full Moon - $325

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This dress is such a stunner. Made of a recycled cotton rib knit material, the Luna Dress is a classic piece that will stand the test of time. Taiyo manufactures all its garments with the environment in mind. They use TSURI knitting machines that move in a slow ticking motion to produce old fashioned, high quality stitches, literally weaving air into the fabric. This traditional method has been slowly developed over 100+ years.

337 Brand Sherman Tank - $50 

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This classic tank is a great foundational piece for any wardrobe. It’s made out of recycled materials and features a relaxed fit and drop armholes.

37 Brand Sage Sweatpant - $59

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Sweatpants that look good enough to wear out in public? Sign me up, please. These mid-rise sweatpants are made of upcycled materials and feature a relaxed fit and an elastic waistband.

Taiyo Carnelian Wrap - $125

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This wrap is made of 100% virgin wool and basically doubles as a blanket. It would be the perfect companion for a long flight. What makes this piece extra special is that it’s two-toned - one side is slightly more yellow/orange and brushed and the other side has a reddish hue. The edges are finished with a grosgrain trim that is made from wood pulp, a naturally occurring cellulose based raw material.

 

SHOES

Nisolo Lana Ankle Boot - $182

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I’m a big fan of Nisolo and I actually already own these Lana Ankle Boots in black. I had been looking for a true flat boot that would be easy to wear while trekking around the city and these fit the bill exactly. The quality is exceptional and I can’t wait to see how they feel after I’ve broken them in completely and they’ve molded to my feet.

Salt + Umber Lilianna Mule - $90

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Winter may not be the appropriate season for these shoes, but they sure would be a great summer staple. These mules are made of 100% handwoven leather, locally sourced and milled at Salt + Umber's LWG Gold rated sustainable tannery.

Nisolo Emma d’Orsay Oxford - $188

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These Oxfords bring me back to the days I studied abroad in Lyon, France. They’re the type of shoe I can imagine myself wearing while strolling around le centre-ville on a Sunday morning, searching for a good croissant. I love the open side slits and the brandy color is just divine.

Nisolo Paloma Open Toe Mule - $198

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These Paloma Mules would be such a versatile piece in any wardrobe. I can imagine wearing them with a crisp, white cotton shirt and a pair of jeans for Sunday brunch or pairing them with one of my Reformation dresses for a summer wedding.

JEWELRY

Anywhere, Anywhere Gold Plated Medallion - $72

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This gold-plated, two-sided medallion is meant to symbolize travel. The hand drawn design signifies joy in the present moment. Consider this your good luck charm wherever your adventures take you.

Nisolo Link Earrings - $28

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These dainty, intertwining hoops would add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Perfect for work as well as a night out. They’re handmade using upcycled brass by independent artisans in Kenya.

Nisolo Sunset Earrings - $32

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These earrings are a great way to jazz up any minimalist outfit. They’re handmade using upcycled brass by independent artisans in Kenya.

August Sage Starburst Moonstone Ring - $48

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Composed of sterling silver with 18k gold overlay and a moonstone, this is the perfect statement ring that would also seamlessly complement any type of outfit. I love the unique art deco–inspired sunburst design and the fact that this piece was handcrafted by female artisan jewelers in India employing generations-old techniques.   

HOME

August Sage Rayas Baby Alpaca Handwoven Throw Blanket - $295 

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The Rayas throw is made with 100% natural baby alpaca ethically sourced from the mountain ranges of Peru and made in a fair-trade environment. These gorgeous blankets are handwoven using a traditional hand loom and take about three days to complete. I’d love to drape one of these at the foot of my bed for extra warmth and coziness.

August Sage Terracotta Waffle Bath and Hand Towels - $35

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Not gonna lie, the terracotta color is what initially drew me to these towels, but in addition to being aesthetically pleasing, these 100% cotton bath and hand towels are also super functional. Loomed of knit cotton, these waffle-weave towels are finished and stonewashed in Portugal. They are lightweight, quick to dry and resistant to shrinkage. 

August Sage Hand-Thrown Thumb Cup - $35

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Made in Corrales, New Mexico, this hand-thrown ceramic cup is truly unique. It’s designed with an indentation for your thumb, making it a pleasure to hold and sip your OJ in the morning or a cocktail in the evening. Each piece takes about three weeks to complete.

August Sage Cosmic Mug - $15

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The details in these mugs are stunning and one-of-a-kind. Any of these mugs would make a perfect gift for a tea- or coffee-loving friend. Each durable piece is made through a traditional enamel process and hand dipped by fair-trade artisans in Amatitlan, Guatemala.

January 13, 2020 /Lauren Ho
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