Ethical brands we’re loving this week. Edited by The Good Trade staff. 

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MINNA

I recently stumbled upon the textile brand MINNA on instagram and immediately fell in love with their products and story. The NY based brand strives to bridge the gap between ethically made goods and contemporary design. Employing a cottage industry approach, MINNA partners with master weavers and artisan collectives in Mexico and Guatemala. Their products are produced using traditional craft techniques which helps ensure both craft preservation and job creation. MINNA’s designs are informed and inspired by the Bauhaus, Feminist art, traditional craft, and vintage textiles.

Simply Gum

Who knew the ingredient “gum base” in conventional chewing gum is really just a code word for plastic and 80 + synthetic ingredients? Simply Gum uses all natural ingredients without ANY synthetics.This gum is not only better for your body, it’s also biodegradable and better for the planet.Oh and it’s DELICIOUS.

Solo Hope

SoloHope began after extended time spent in Honduras with a desire to see women overcome poverty. The homegoods and jewelry line began with just 3 artisans and has grown to impact many. Their products are handcrafted from with “barro” (clay) harvested from the mountaintops of Honduras and intricately woven pine straw + thread.

Stitch & Loom

Two friends from Portland began partnering with indigenous weavers in the foothills of Mexico to create beautifully handmade rugs for the modern home. Stitch & Loom emphasizes a direct trade model, where they meet each weaver personally and each weaver sets the price for their rugs. Stitch & Loom’s beautiful textiles support the craft indigenous Zapotec people and like heirlooms, their rugs are meant to remain in the family for many generations.

One Happy Leaf

I recently learned of One Happy Leaf,  a modern, refined + down to earth jewelry line that gives back to the environment, people and animals. All jewelry pieces are made from Forest Stewardship Council certified bamboo and a portion of One Happy Leaf profits are given to organizations that rescue and care for abused animals. Their packaging is made from recycled paper collected in the beautiful developing island of Bali in Indonesia. The small business employs the local women from the surrounding villages to provide them with employment and a safe place to work.

Photo By Eden Fleur