Here are some clothing, website and music recommendations to hopefully brighten-up your week:

People Tree

People Tree describes itself as one of the pioneering fair trade fashion brands. Their mission is to create sustainable clothing and help communities in their supply chain, rather than hurt them. The People Tree website has a wealth of information about their process, their people and their impact! Their work is done with integrity but I would still encourage them to push for even more sustainable practices as they grow. I recently ordered a couple of pieces from them and am very pleased with the products. Check out all they have to offer! 

Know the Origin

I recently had the pleasure of helping this start-up company for a day. The brand is officially launching their first line and website on November 23. Know the Origin is a small company which works with transparent manufacturers in India. As I was doing inventory, I got the chance to check out some of the products early and I will definitely be buying some of their cozy basics in a week!

Blackhorse Lane Ateliers

Through a class I am currently taking at LCF I was able to tour the Blackhorse Lane Ateliers workshop. Denim garments, as the lovely owner Han pointed out, have not gone out of style since their popularity in the 1950's. Denim has become a classic fabric but also can be extremely harmful to the environment. From the farming of cotton, to the washing of a pair of jeans at home, the impact can be huge if we are not careful. Luckily, Blackhorse Lane Ateliers works hard to make high-quality products and do their research on the effects of them. Learn more here!

TakePart

For content on social, environmental and cultural issues check out TakePart. They also have a section called 'Take Action' where you can sign petitions, donate and send letters directly to the people who need to be held accountable. 

Upworthy

Their slogan is 'Because we're all part of the same story." Content is focused on uplifting the reader but that doesn't mean that important stories aren't being told! Go to their website to see for yourself.

Passion Playlist

Something for everyone - serious, goofy and emotional:

1. Within by Daft Punk
2. Walking On Broken Glass by Annie Lennox
3. Meant to Live by Switchfoot
4. Heart-Shaped Box by Nirvana
5. I'm Afraid of Americans by David Bowie (and Trent Reznor)
6. We the People.... by A Tribe Called Quest
7. Can't Get Enough of Myself (feat. B.C) by Santigold
8. Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson
9. Come Together by The Beatles
10. Keep Ya Head Up by Tupac