UNIVERSAL, GLOBAL CHIC
If someone asks you to picture fashion created in part by craftsmen in developing nations, it’s unlikely that you come up with anything approximating the above looks. ‘Fashion with a conscience’ – fashion with social/environmental benefits- easily enters earth mother and ethnic print territory, alienating a large part of its potential market. The alternative? Meet Maiyet.
Founded by a South African human rights lawyer with the help of heavyweight industry veterans (and what appears to be some serious financial backing – supermodel Daria Werbowy is in their current campaign), Maiyet fairly sources materials and finishes from craftsmen in Colombia, South Africa, Kenya, Indonesia, and India. In an age when ‘luxury’ is mass-produced in China on the same assembly lines as just about everything else*, this seems to give the luxury customer the quality and uniqueness they should be paying for without the carnage down the socio-economic ladder.
For now, the line is carried exclusively by Barneys so if the only shopping harm you’re interested in inflicting is on your wallet, check out their online offerings here. The ‘Ceres’ small messenger camera bag (left) is especially lovely if you’re in the market for a versatile investment piece ($1850 at Barneys).
* Pick up Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster by Dana Thomas of this is a topic that interests you.
Runway images via Style.com. Images below of Maiyet production via Maiyet.
