As a feminist, shopping can be a real challenge. Some companies have manufacturing processes that exploit women and the environment, and it can be hard to find designs that reflect your values. However, there are tons of designers making great stuff if you know where to look. Here, we have gathered a non-exhaustive list of brands that are locally owned, ethical, female-friendly and also make amazing accessories. Win win!
1. I’m Fine Grave Enamel Pin by Girlypop, $12.00
Having a bad day but not willing to give up fashion because of it? Good! Girlypop has a pin for every mood and even takes enquires for custom pins. These two women in New York having been creating enamels, art prints, paintings and hair bow ties since 2006. If you’re looking to jazz up your day-to-day outfit, Girlypop’s Etsy shop is the place to stop.
2. Consent is Key Hat by believe me, $30.00
Tired of normalizing sexual violence? So are Catie and Hana, the founders of believe me. This apparel company aims to bring awareness to sexual violence and use their clothing to start a dialogue. The main focus of this company is to stop sexual violence, so a part of the proceeds from every purchase goes to either The New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assult or Project Consent depending on the item you purchase. So make a difference, start a conversation and wear a cute hat.
3. Inspiration Cuff by Curated Gift Shop, $28.00
Let everyone know how you feel, what inspires you or your favorite quote by wearing it on your wrist. These unique bracelets by The Curated Gift Shop on Etsy are made out of brass in an array of plating colors: ox silver, silver, rose gold, yellow gold, and brass. These seemingly simplistic bracelets come with fun and sometimes vulgar sayings engraved on them. If you are looking for a fun way to style these bracelets, check out @thecuratedgiftshop on Instagram.
4. Recycled Vintage Textile Backpack by Bobo Global, $65.00
Every girl needs a good bag and the brighter and more colorful it is, the more fun it is. Alexa and Eddie are entrepreneurs who have a passion for creating products that are good for the Earth but also benefit the creators and their cultures, all while spreading positive energy. This bag and all the products from Bobo Global are created by and support indigenous artists around the world. This statement bag, along with their other pieces, are essentials for your wardrobe.
5. 100% New Yorker Pin by Nitelyfe, $12.00
Pins, pins and more pins. These accessories are a fun way to express yourself and Nitelyfe Pins knows it. Their pins are all about staying up to date with pop culture. On their website you will be able to find pins relating to comics, anime, and New York culture. All their pins are made from a high quality metal and will be the finishing piece to any outfit.
6. Maxima Punk Earing by Carolyn Keys, $150
If punk is your style, these earings are for you. Carolyn has been designing jewelry from a young age and creates jewelry to last. Carolyn Keys jewelry is crafted out of sterling silver or solid brass (your choice) and inspired by geometrical shapes. Carolyn has created her own unique, clean, balanced design of jewelry that can be part of your wardrobe for years to come.
7. Signature Sterling Pendants by Rebel Nell, $200
When buying from Rebel Nell, you won’t just recieve a beautiful and unique piece of jewelry but you will also be contributing to the employment and education of disadvantaged women in Detroit. Rebel Nell was started for the sole purpose of empowering women, with a goal of helping these women find their own careers and become independent. To achieve this goal, the company does not just hire women but also provide financial literacy and business education, with a focus on life wellness so the women can eventually live independent lives. Along with being a place of empowerment for women, Rebel Nell also respects the enviornment by only using local recycled materials to create their beautiful and unique jewelry.
8. Feeling Myself Tote by Geneva Diva, $20
Liza Farrell knows how to make a lady feel pretty and powerful. Liza creates her designs in Brooklyn, NY, but you can check out her fun t-shirts, hats, totes and more for a great deal on the Geneva Diva NYC website. All of her designs are meant to make you feel empowered while looking super cute. If you are looking for inspiration on how to style these pieces definitely check out @genevadiva on Instagram.
9. Big Ring by Potter’s Jewelry, $35.00
Yoshimi Tanaka creates truly unique pieces of jewelry combining both ceramics and glass to create a special piece for every buyer. What makes these pieces even more special is the inspiration behind Yoshimi’s designs. Born in Japan and living in New York, with a start in ceramics while in Spain, each item of jewelry is a combination of these differing cultures. If you are looking for a special ring or pendant to call your own check out Potter’s Jewlery on Etsy.
10. Handwoven Scarf by Taleo Handmade, $28.00
Since every piece of clothing and accessory can’t express your true feminist feelings, you can also wear something that is feminist in nature. Taleo Handmade does this. All of their products are naturally dyed, and handwoven by women in Laos, Thailand and Vietnam. When you purchase a scarf, pillow, or pouch you will be directly supporting ethnic minority women, and that’s a pretty feminist accessory.
11. Tree of Life Earrings by In My Image Productions, $35
Karen Christie is the queen of fun and fancy earrings. Karen is the creator of In My Image Productions, and alone creates the designs and handmakes every pair of earrings all while being a mother and grandmother. If her earrings seem to big for you, no problem, you can ask for a smaller size. You can also ask for specific color combinations, making your pair of In My Image Productions earrings special just for you.
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