The Andean Collection

Even though I am a total sucker for Anthropologie's whimsical styling, I've been hesitant to shop there, considering they provide very little public information on their labor practices.

That said, I had a $20 gift card to blow this weekend, so I made a trip to Anthro’s downtown store and b-lined it to the sale rack. What I found there was this lovely fair trade belt from The Andean Collection.

The mission of the Andean Collection is similar to that of most fair trade companies: empower impoverished communities by giving local, talented artisans access to the global market. I'm glad to see that the buyers at Anthro are making efforts to participate in fair trade practices. Even if it's only a belt here and a necklace there, it's certainly a start.

Coincidentally, I’m an adherent of the “put a belt on it” philosophy—it’s an easy way to add a waist to an otherwise frumpy blouse, tunic, or dress. I know some ladies can rock the oversized-blouse look, but I usually end up looking like I’m wearing a muu muu. Not good. So I will continue to add to my collection of belts, and am glad to be able to do so fair trade style.