I’m a big believer in the saying “practice what you preach.” Lately it has me thinking about where and how I choose to spend my money.
A few months ago I stumbled across the company Raven + Lily and was immediately taken by both their mission and well as their beautiful jewelry. In addition to jewelry, they also offer women’s clothing, bags, and home goods. Raven + Lily’s mission is to empower women through skill development and design. They employ over 1,500 women in more than 8 countries and their employees receive fair trade wages and are given access to health care and education.
CEO Kirsten Dickerson was quoted in the Baylor Magazine saying “I think the most effective way to alleviate cycles of poverty is through the education of children as well as the empowerment of women through skills training and sustainable income opportunities.” All I can say to that is YES. This is a company I wish I was smart enough and cool enough to have created. Since that’s not the case, I’ll just have to satisfy myself with wearing their jewelry!
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Kirsten posing with a few of her craftswomen
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I particularly love that Raven + Lily is B Corp certified. Cause marketing is a growing trend. So many companies know that “giving back” is a great selling point for the millennial generation. However much like the difference between “natural” and “organic,” there’s a whole spectrum of companies that fall into the socially responsible category. B Corp status provides third party validation that Raven + Lily is committed to not only talking the talk, but walking the walk.
Their jewelry is modern and generally minimalist, but incorporates traditional artisan crafts and techniques. I’m a particular fan of their Kenya Collection, which features a lot of bold brass jewelry. I’ve shared a few of my favorite pieces below. You can learn more about their work in Kenya and shop the entire Kenya Collection here.
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Isn’t that last piece, the Dani Statement necklace, just gorgeous! I love that these days it’s pretty easy to find socially responsible brands committed to sustainable sourcing and making a positive impact on the communities in which they work. The Ethical Fashion Forum is a great resource for finding brands that fit this mold.
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What do you look for in a beauty or fashion brand? Mil and I are both suckers for beautiful packaging.
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XOXO,
Jules
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Photos sources: Raven + Lily
SOUTH BY NORTHWEST 