Hi Friends!!! I told you on Tuesday to mark them calendars because today is going to be a banner day! Well, let me welcome you to the semi-annual Fashionista Events, All Fashion, Only Fashion Giveaway Event. This is the largest fashion giveaway event on the internet, 115+ blogs offering over $20,000 in prizes Hosted by Still Blonde after all these Years and Modly Chic, with co-host K Squared Glamour.
The Grand Prize for the Event is a $1200 (retail) Louis Vuitton Red epi speedy 25 via Bella Bag (bella bag price $795) WORLDWIDE!. For every giveaway in the FALL Fashionista Event that an entrant enters, they gain one entry toward the Louis Vuitton Bag. So be sure to look at many giveaways that tickle your fancy :).
Click to enter for the GRAND PRIZE
For my giveaway I decided to take this opportunity with you my dear friends and to you my new friends to ask 2 questions that mean a lot to me and my beautiful sponsors.
The one mandatory entry for this giveaway is to ANSWER the following 2 questions in the comments:
What is your biggest obstacle to shopping more ethically?
And how can it be solved?
By answering this question you will be entered to win ALL of the below from these great ethical shops! This prize is valued over $300!!!!
Let me tell you all about it!!! ONE WINNER WILL WIN….
The super chic contemporary ethical fashion boutique that is Future:Standard is giving the winner $75 to shop their boutique! No stranger to made-to-travel, Future:Standard has carefully curated inventory that is modern and fresh…I just love them :), you can see my previous post on Future:Standard here.
The winner will also receive the Almora Jacket from MarketPlace India. Another good friend of made-to-travel, MarketPlace India has super pretty unique goods made in fair trade cooperatives in India. You can see my previous post on them here.
BuyGreen.com is really an endless store with everything from the chicness you see above to solar powered flashlights and toys for the kiddies. They go the extra mile by evaluating the whole life of their products- that means: source material-manufacturing and disposal. The winner will receive one $50 gift card to BuyGreen.com.
The winner will also receive 4 Mrs. Birdie Travel Bags by Lusso Bags. I am a lover of compartmentalized packing and these travel bags made by an eco-friendly, fair trade cooperative in India by Lusso are exactly the kind of travel items I live for!
The winner will receive their choice of one of the above necklaces from Musana Jewelry. Musana is working to empower women in Uganda by giving them independence and self-respect through their meaningful employment making and designing jewelry at Musana.
Winner will receive a $25 Gift Certificate to GreenHeart Shop. This ethical boutique is full of charm, GreenHeart Shop is Chicago’s premier eco fair trade non-profit shop, carrying beautiful things made by artisans around the world. This is another shop that has a huge variety items…everything from fashion to kiddies to home decor, GreenHeart Shop has it.
The winner will receive $25 gift certificate to Compassion Couture. Compassion Couture is a super hip 100% cruelty free & eco-friendly boutique. I personally really like their urban sensibility and they have just a ton of things for fall!
I hope you are all excited by this sparkling prize package! ONE WINNER will win all of these gems :). All you have to do to enter is answer these 2 questions:
What is your biggest obstacle to shopping more ethically?
And how can it be solved?
If your obstacle is cost…then what is your budget? If it’s style…then what is your style? Me and all my sponsors really want to become better at helping you become a conscious consumer and these questions are at the core of what we do and are meaningful to us! So thank YOU for your input.
Now for the entering business!!!
To enter this giveaway total value at $319 all you have to do is to leave a comment below answering the 2 questions.
Bonus entries: 1) Tweet the about the giveaway; 2) visit one of my beautiful sponsors and leave a comment on an item you fancy!
Giveaway ENDS: Wednesday, October 17th at 11:59pm
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thank you to Future:Standard, MarketPlace India, BuyGreen.com, Lusso Bags, Musana Jewelry, GreenHeart Shop and Compassion Couture for participating in this event I am ecstatic to have you. Here is the list of all the blogs participating in this event! Good LUCK!
Disclaimers: Still Blonde after all these YEARS , Modly Chic, K Squared Glamour, Fall Fashionista Events or the Fall Fashionista Events bloggers are not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes.
My biggest obstacle to being a conscious consumer is convenience. Unfortunately our world has become a huge mega-mart for consumers. From Walmart, to Target, and countless other chain stores that offer cute, cheap, products that are easy and convenient to get.
Nowadays finding a great Mom and Pop shop, or fair trade merchandise takes more work. Unless you search for them, hear about them from word-of-mouth or great Blogs like Made to Travel, alot of these stores are overlooked. Personally, I go out of my way to find them and support ETHICAL fashion and consumerism. I wish more people joined the cause.
I’m really inlove with the beautiful ALMORA JACKET from Marketplace India. http://www.marketplaceindia.com/product/Almora_Jacket_43A-04/2
I also love the TULSI TUNIC http://www.marketplaceindia.com/product/Tulsi_Tunic_43C-13/16
I think convenience can be an issue but if you take small steps you can make a big difference in the long run
I think the mona satchels are lovely
My biggest obstacle is where to start, and when you’re out shopping you just don’t know the details of a brand. A phone app would be a huge help-Ihave the Cruelty Free app for health/beauty & make up and that helps me find brands and products that are safe for animals and the environment. something like that for clothing and accessories would be great.
I LOVE the Rachel Eco Shoe by Colorful Grass at the BuyGreen site.
defiantly convience and prices there just to little to get when your on a budget
mona satchels are awesome!!
My biggest challenge is finding ethical equivalents for stores that I currently love. I would love to see posts that compare ethical options equivalent to more popular not as ethical stores (e.g. an ethical shopping equivalent to J. Crew, Gap, etc…).
Hi Christine!! So good to hear from you! I will definitely take this into consideration for future posts. You’re totally right having a go to alternative for mainstays like the Gap and J. Crew would be super useful.
Thanks for your input and as always big hugs to you-thanks for reading!
And I love the Reveal Taylor satchel from Compassion Couture :)!
paying too much for something….i always check online and look for coupons before shopping
I love future strand rectangular hoop earrings
I love the Kris Nations Chevron Marquis Hoops from Future.Standard, and really love that all their jewelry is made from recycled metals.
My problem is impulse buying and just flat out “wanting it now” and not caring about the product origin. Shame on me and I need to slow down and take the time to plan out my purchases and the retailer I purchase from.
thanks for being so honest beth!!! being impulsive was truly my biggest obstacle as well. i did a post on ethical shopping 101 and gave some tips i hope you find helpful to getting over this challenge: http://www.made-to-travel.com/2012/10/08/fall-into-good-habits-ethical-shopping-101/
really really appreciate your feedback!
its gotta be cost. i need to manage finacnes and keep tabs on the prices of certain things im interested in buying.
Love this ginger sands necklace from Musana;
http://musanajewelry.org/necklaces/MB010.jpg
Made-To-Travel is a wonderful place to online shop ethical jewelry, accessories, and knick-knacks to feel good about! It is more difficult to shop for clothes online however, since I really do like to try them on first before I buy. I wish I knew more shop locations in New England so I could go in person.
The biggest obstacle is cost. I often find eco friendly choices sometimes can be more expensive. I think it can be solved by shopping around for better prices and by realizing that the long term cost is higher on the non-eco friendly choices!
sandysaveseveryday AT gmail DOT com
Getting sucked into “good deals”, I have to really think if we need it or not.
My biggest obstacle is cost unfortunately. However, it is worth it to save up for important purchases rather than put my money towards companies I don’t believe in.
Being able to buy AND afford items made locally and in the US One way to solve it is to make sure to have a good job, because unfortunately now a days it’s so hard to afford to pay more.
My obstacle is cost. I need to be more aware of what companies I am supporting
the biggest obstacle is availability. The stores in my small town don’t carry a large variety.
Belinda Revercomb recently posted..Fall Fashionista Give away ends 10/17
OMG – I want that jacket! its amazing.
My biggest obstacle is not enough information. There are always product that talk about being ‘natural’ or organic but then you do more research and find out it’s not true. The labels are too lose so you really need to do your homework. That’s why I like your blog so I can discover new brands 🙂
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<3 <3<3 you're a gem. thanks kimberlee! and it's true a lot of products have misleading marketing tactics to make you think it's an ethical or natural product, so happy you are discovering brands you that pique your interest here :).
What is your biggest obstacle to being a conscious consumer? Honestly, I never thought about it until I stumbled on to your blog. So, i guess its ignorance.
And how can it be solved? Education & Knowledge
My biggest obstacle is not giving in and buying everything I see that is cute.
I love the Almora jacket!
My biggest issue is usually cost, and availability. I could solve the cost issue by winning this giveaway 😉
I think my biggest problem is that I bargin shop and only buy if it is on sale. You could fix the problem by limiting markup.
My biggest obstacle is budget. I am currently a college student and therefore I am obviously broke. I had a job back at home so I had paychecks to shop with and now I am without any income. :/ I wish I had the money to just go out and splurge every now and then like I used to be able to do.
From the Compassion Couture I love Mink – Rhino Wedge – Beige/Wood
My biggest obstacle is green-washing! I always see products that *seem* green and ethical but aren’t. The iPhone app that has helped me the most is PETA’s Be Nice to Bunnies, which allows me to look up whether cosmetics and hygiene products are tested on animals while I’m in the store browsing. Another helper are some of the ethical websites that send emails regarding new products straight to my inbox so I can shop knowing all of the information.
Greenheart’s Pretty in Pleats dress is adorable
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The biggest obstacle is that products that are considered eco friendly cost two or three times as much as products that aren’t. You’d think a product made of recycled materials could be somewhat affordable for the average person….
My favorite has got to be the almora coat! I need it so bad for the cool weather this winter!
it is hard to find places to shop that are cheap, i think maybe looking online to compare prices and to find a place to order from that is affordable may be a solution
The biggest obstacle is paying a lot of money and not having an item hold up. I try to always read reviews before purchasing.
My biggest obstacle as a consumer would have to be finding products that do what they promise for a fair price.
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This is a GREAT Question! My greatest obstacle besides cost (which everyone is saying so I will do my #2) is the reliabilty of information that is out there. Especially in the food industry. Companies claim to have humane or organic practices when in fact they are NOT.
I think a solution to this would be requirements of the food industry (For Pets too! ) to label everything!
I agree!!! Thanks for you input Amy! I wish there were labels on everything!
Love this green heart belt! Would look great over lots of my fall dresses!
http://www.greenheartshop.org/fair-trade-clothing-and-accessories/fair-trade-seasonal-accessories/belts/fair-trade-leaf-green-wide-inspiration-belt.html
My problem is the price! All I can really do for that is save, coupon or seek deals
I like this dress from future standard: http://www.shopfuturestandard.com/product.php?prodID=307
I have a hard time buying ethically with clothing. I find most ethical clothing to be far out of my price range or not close to my size (XL) or style. To remedy that I shop consignment and second-hand. Close to ethical – not wasting or filling the dump.
Hi Amy,
This is a fantastic point. Thank you so much for the honest input, Amy. I do feel that ethical clothing tend to sway on the slim size, I often size up to get the fit I want.
I’m glad you shop second hand, so do I and I believe that is more than close that IS ethical shopping. There’s not just one way to be a conscious consumer there are so many methods to shop ethically and you are definitely doing your part by keeping clothing out of the dump! That’s great :).
Money is the biggest issue. Fairly made items can be pricey. We need to break the idea of consumerism in the west!
The price often makes me think twice… I’m on a budget! I guess buying fewer things that are more versatile could be a way to go.
I am an impulse buyer, I need to stop and think and do more research.
I love the Almora Jacket.
My biggest obstacle is cost.
My biggest obstacle is cost. I believe much of the pricing is fair. I do feel that many of the businesses offer prices that are comparable to a like item that is not ethical. However that being said, , I am a single parent that works for a not-for-profit so my cash flow is roughly $30,000 a year. There is rarely the opportunity to buy something new yet alone in the price range of ethical consumerism. I do try to buy from resale/secondhand shops to try to at least be a conscientious consumer. The way to solve the issue would be for me to be able to find some money to finish my bachelors degree and hopefully…as a result…be able to get a better job. I think many fair trade/ethical businesses do a great job of making sure they have a presence on the web and offering sales when they can like regular businesses. I don’t think convenience is an issue since one can find almost anything on the web. Plus, many of the ethical and green businesses do a great job of providing links or information to other businesses with their same mission to provide consumers with a option to do the right thing when they can. I’ve been a fan of GreenHeart and Mata Traders for a long time. I just can’t afford anything. 🙁
My biggest obstacle is not being familiar enough with brands and where/how they are made. I love finding companies that “give back” in some way. I do more shopping online now and that does make it easier to research a company before making a purchase. It’s a lot harder when I’m at the mall and I find something I like and I’m not familiar with the brand. I kind of like it when there’s a little write-up about the brand on the tag highlighting where it’s made and anything that highlights that company. I think it would help if more companies actually had commercials explaining their company instead of making a quick/glitzy ad.
From buygreen.com, I like the Carol Berry Console; that’s really nice.
The biggest obstacle, for me, in shopping green is definitely cost. I also think availability and quality are issues I have seen. Maybe as people get more familiar with sustainable products they will become more popular and lower the cost point. Sadly, just because something is green, it doesn’t always have lasting quality either. Online reviews help with this though!
I like the Jameli Tunic at India Marketplace.
Money is my biggest obstacle. Once my oldest is in kindergarten, I plan on getting a job.
I do like to try things on, so I think that is my biggest barrier.
Awareness for fair trade through movements like Half the Sky and of course, social media and supporting small businesses that carry fair trade products will help.
The biggest obstacle for me is cost and availability. I don’t think I need to elaborate on price because it’s pretty self-exlanatory. However, in terms of accessibility, a lot of these ethical items and shops aren’t as ubiquitous as places like Forever 21.
To remedy my first point, I often shop at thrift stores (and I like the idea of recycling/reusing). As for the second, I, along with many others, need to be a little more informed and proactive. It seems like some word is getting out there, but not enough. I think it will hit the mainstream eventually.
p.s. Your previous post on how to shop ethically was awesome! Very helpful guide!
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Jillian! Thanks so much for the thoughtfulness in your answer. I agree ethical shops do not have the same presence as the fast fashion retailers, and that really makes the onus on us to seek ways to shop according to our ethics so I think your thought on being proactive is right on. Until it is mainstream it will be really up to us to shop the way we think is best.
And THNANK YOU TIMES a MILLION for your p.s!! I rewrote that bad boy so many times, so it means a lot to me that you thought it was helpful!
i never look for savings.. i really need to start cutting coupons
at musana jewelry i like the dusk skies necklace
love the dusk skies necklace
http://musanajewelry.org/necklaces/MB024.jpg
My biggest obstacle is cost, I’d love budget friendly ideas that are fashionable and fit my style without breaking my budget. Would love to see more Lookbooks for green products!
I love the Manhattan Jacket from Future Standard!
My biggest challenge is availability near me. I live in a place where it’s hard to find these types of companies, and I hate having to buy online because it’s not the same as seeing it in purchase and knowing if it’s worth paying for.
The biggest obstacle I find is affordability. I could always budget better, but if there was an online outlet for ethical products, that might help bring the prices down.
My biggest obstacle is price, since I’m a grad student on a budget. My solution is to save my money for statement pieces and pieces that work well in many combinations and will last a long time. While I may have a smaller wardrobe it’s one I love and will be useful for a long time.
My biggest obstacle is that sustainable products are not widely available and, when they are, they tend to be more expensive.
It can be solved if companies are able to reduce costs and if consumers choose to purchase from those companies instead of less sustainable companies.
Kayley F. recently posted..The Next Big Thing
I love the yoda boots on Compassion Couture!
My favorite bag from Compassion Couture is the Cornelia Guest – Mixed Weave Remi.
Kayley F. recently posted..The Next Big Thing
Availability and price are two large obstacles — I combat with doing more online shopping and doing TONS of research beforehand. It is still exciting to shop – shopping creates a such a high 🙂
My biggest obstacle is probably location… in the Pocono Mountains there really are not a lot of eco-friendly shops nearby. So with that I take such shopping online in hopes of finding goods that are sustainable as well as cost effective. It is and has always been easier and cheaper to shop for brands that are not ethical but by putting forth the effort for such and bringing awareness to our community to do the same this CAN change over time!
Thx for amazing giveaway and good luck to all! 🙂
Diana
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I find it hard to find vegan alternatives. I would love some kind of sharing network where we can trade gently used clothes, especially for kids (I have 5) because they are expensive and they grow out of them so quickly. I just cant afford to have an all vegan wardrobe for us all, but would love to!
I love the Colorful Grass shoes. I am going to buy some of the cheaper ones available. Winning this giveaway would definitely help me as a single mom of 5 get started making my whole life vegan! Thank you for offering this giveaway! Bless you! and Congrats to whomever wins!
My biggest obstacle is money. I am a single parent of five children and have to budget purchases. I will go with out until I can afford to purchase a wanted item. It will be solved when the children are grown and the availabilty of economical items.
going to the store without my coupons … plan ahead ;.)
Karen Foster recently posted..2012 Fall Fashionista Giveaway Event- Oct 11-17 #FashionistaEVENTS
this is a toughie question. I try to buy with a conscience but it’s usually SUPER expensive. I start with local veggies and fruit. I haven’t quite ventured out to clothing but I do look at labels and avoid china (even though my parents are chinese) I try to avoid Walmart but it’s difficult due to the pricing.
imnotarunner@gmail.com
time and being tired is an obstacle
My biggest obstacle to shopping cruelty free is not knowing what is cruelty free besides the obvious leather/fur types of things as well as some of the online cruelty free stores can be a bit pricey for my budget that is very limited. My style is pretty basic but I would love to be a bit edgy but not sure I can pull it off or really know how to do it!!
My biggest obstacle is not knowing where to look to buy ethical clothing. A site like Compassion Couture is a great solution. Now that it is all here in one place I think I will be able to shop cruelty free more regularly. 🙂
My biggest obstacles are cost and personal style. I am a grad student but am pretty picky in terms of my personal style (minimalist but like pieces with quality fabrics and interesting details) and like things to fit well–which can be hard because I am pretty petite.
Just wanted to comment again because I forgot to add the solution to the obstacles I mentioned..I think possible solutions would include finding ethical companies that produce pretty good quality products without much markup, finding those kinds of products on sale, and winning this giveaway 🙂 Some of the stores mentioned on this blog seems like they carry some items that are my style.
I love the crescent top by EcoSkin sold at Future Standard! The lilac and darker blue colors look beautiful together, and the fabric looks so soft.
Over packaging!! No lables that let you know.
Shark Bite Tee
My biggest obstacle is being a good example to my kids. It’s difficult at times to say no to my kids at places like the grocery store when they see fun things that they want. It’s important to teach them smart spending and smart budgeting so they can hopefully avoid many of the pitfalls we are dealing with nowdays!
I would really love to get the Women’s Severn shoes from Buygreen.com
Cost is biggest obstacle, and that I hate to spend money. Even if I need it I wont buy it. Solved by making sure it is a need not a want.
Leah Baird recently posted..Sassy Girl Costume Giveaway
I visited Future Standard, and like their Sunrise Pant
Leah Baird recently posted..Sassy Girl Costume Giveaway
I think the biggest problems in shopping more ethically is advertising and availability, sometimes I find it hard to find the brands I would like to purchase in the normal department stores. Price and style are also problems as they are generally pricier and at times simpler in silhouette or style
From Future Standard I really love the infinity scarf made from organic cotton and hemp
my biggest obstacle is cost for sure. living paycheck to paycheck doesn’t leave much room to buy ethically all the time. i do make an effort when i can. there are some amazing shops in downtown seattle that are focused on providing great items that are ethically produced.
eco-friendly products can be really expensive!
love the sharon dress from future standard.
love the thackery dress at future:standard
I think the biggest obstacle is to just be mindful of what you’re buying – it takes training to really look at what the container is made of, what resources were used, how will this purchase impact the environment, etc.
From BuyGreen – love the Botanical & Beeswax Candles
I end up taking too many plastic bags. I try to reuse them the best I can, but there’s a lot.
I like the Matt & Nat-Minka-Grey crossbody bag at Compassion Couture.
My biggest obstacle is money. Buying ethically usually is a little more costly, and for awhile now we have just not had the extra money to do so. I feel though that if we can slowly phase it in then eventually it will work out.
Thanks for the chance to win!!!
~Ola
Ola Jaggers recently posted..Reel Cash Critters Review
my biggest obstacle now is cost…i question myself more before i buy anything.
loving the moonlight sparkle necklace from musana-beautiful!
My biggest challenge is cost. Finding eco options for clothing, beauty and food that fit my budget is challenging. A solution would be to shop local more often and pick my battles-certain things get priority because there is only so much money to go around.
these boots are beautiful from compassion couture
http://www.compassioncoutureshop.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=59&category_id=13&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=77
My biggest obstacle is selfishness…it’s embarrassing to admit, but true…often I don’t NEED what I buy…but I buy out of WANT. 🙁
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I really like the Deluxe Hemp Backpack from Buy Green!
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To be honest. I’ve been a consumer for soooo long I don’t believe I have any obstacles.
I love the Ginger Sands necklace at Musana Jewelry
I think the biggest obstacle is meshing the trend with ethical items- what I want may be something specific and how do I know if there is an ethical alternative out there? I am guilty of not always taking the time to the do the research, but then again that is why I love your site so much. I think bigger brands need to get on board with ethical products- there has to be a way for the entire industry to be on board, right?
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Hi pretty lady! Thank you for being so honest…I believe it! There has to be a way and I really do think that when more people are taking the time to shop more consciously brands will follow suit. But as sad as this may sound, I think the onus is on us to show the market that we as consumers value ethics, especially fast fashion retailers are all about bottom dollar so they probably won’t take the time to be thoughtful unless we show them that is what we want to buy.
LOVE YOU lady.
Prob. the prices, I am on a tight budget and many ethical/ organic clothing companies are higher priced
large batik scarf
For me, it’s both access and cost. It’s challenging to find ethically produced clothing, and you can drive 5 mintues any direct to find clothing that was made in ways I don’t feel comfortable enough. The Internet is a GREAT solution!
My biggest obstacle is cost, especially with kids clothes. I hate paying more for things I know they will outgrow quickly, so I tend not to buy the more expensive, more ethically made clothes. I think the only answer for me is I need to learn to stop being so cheap, and buy the kids less stuff.
Green Heart’s Spanish Global Babies Book/Bebes del Mundo would be a wonderful baby shower gift for all my friends who are having kids!
My biggest problems are finding the time to do the research, and the money involved.
I like the Ocean Sands from Musana jewelry
I think buying things on the spot would be the biggest issue, I hate having to seek things out and “work” to buy the right thing.
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It can be solved by planning ahead and buying before I am in desperate need of the item.
Sarah recently posted..Fill in the blank Friday
I love the Charcoal tote and Mrs. Bird collection from Lusso Bags
Sarah recently posted..Fill in the blank Friday
Ethical and Eco Friendly products often cost up to double the alternative options. perhaps more co-ops in the manufacturing range would help?
My biggest obstacle is money. If green and ethical items were within my budget, I would, of course, purchase those items.
Companies not providing enough information about their products. They can either provide more info, or I don’t buy from them.
The biggest obstacle is finding whether the product being advertised as ‘green’ is really indeed green. It’s easy to claim you are eco-friendly, but many can’t prove it. It could be solved by having that information on the tag.
I love the Sonja Clutch Designer Bags from BuyGreen.com
My biggest obstacle is my husband, he likes to control how and what I buy.
I like the Manhattan Storage Bench
my biggest obstacle is my 4 kids…I don’t have the time to leisurely shop…I guess it can be solved when they move out
I like the everyday tote from Lusso Bags
Not a Perfect Mom recently posted..It’s a MegaBloks Princess Party!
My biggest obstacle is price. I love the idea of buying eco-friendly clothing but they do cost quite a bit more and aren’t as available.
Love the Oversized Color Blocked V-Neck Sweater from Future:Standard!
my problem is not always enough money and not sure how to solve it.
I love the Kris Nations Chevron Marquis Hoops from Future.Standard,
What is your biggest obstacle to being a conscious consumer?
My biggest obstacle is lack of information. Clothes tags don’t tell you where and how clothes are made, only the materials. Although clothes tags list the materials made, it is impossible to know about everything that created that item of clothing, such as processing methods, working conditions, fair trade, etc.
And how can it be solved?
It can be solved by clothes manufacturers and designers providing more information on their websites or some other way so manufacturing processes, trade, conditions, materials, etc., can be public knowledge, and for consumers, including me, to do their part in researching and asking for this important information.
the violet bella maxi dress from future: standard is gorgeous, I love it! 🙂
not knowing how the products are made is a big issue. shopping at places that support eco friendly brands.
My biggest obstacle is the lack of transparency. A product may be touted as ethical or sustainable but what does that actually mean? I want to know more about the production process of what I buy and I want to be assured that actual standards are met.
I checked out Musana jewelry. So many lovely pieces, but my favorite has to be the Be Inspired collection.
I like the hemp tank bag from buygreen.com
I think my biggest obstacle is being poor. It’s hard to buy green products when they often cost more than environmentally unfriendly ones, which are also much easier to find most of the time. The solution would be for me to get a better job.
I love the Matt & Nat Santogold purse from Compassion Couture.
the price is a concern and i just wait for it to go on sale
Knowing if you are reading the truth about a product or company in their own literature/advertisements.
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The biggest obstacle, is when shopping online, being able to see the quality just from the description.
I would love the Almora Jacket from MarketPlace India.
getting caught up in all the so called good deals
I think my biggest obstacle is cost. Sometimes, even second-hand clothing can be expensive! Also, I think it’s sometimes just easier to go to the mall, or what have you, than to take the time to look for local products.
Really, the only way to solve this is to make better choices – classic, quality pieces that will last a while will cost more than a bunch of cheap junk you wear for one season.
acartwrightmorell at gmail dot com
My biggest obstacle to shopping more ethically is style. I’m kind of an edgy dresser, and while all the ethical things I find are nice, they just don’t fit me. I’d love to support ethical companies, but if I’m uncomfortable in something I just won’t wear it… which totally defeats the purpose of ethical shopping if it just molders away in a drawer… sigh.
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I like the Lusso Mrs Bird Bags– perfect for shoes!
Alex recently posted..Clarins Beauty Flash Balm Review
My biggest obstacle is budget and convenience. I live within 15 minutes of NYC which is a fab metropolis of people, culture, fashion, and so on. However, most of the shops and boutiques its known for don’t have many options. From expensive department stores to small end stores, prices and selection are limited. So the few options, I do find are expensive and not always realistic on my budget. The lower priced stores like Forever 21 and H&M don’t help eco-friendly fashion, either. More often than not, it’s easier and faster to get an item on sale and rationalize it’s “worth” than to take in other eco-friendly options. On a personal note, this is something I’m trying to work towards more and more. Being eco-friendly is important to me and considering my day job (English teacher), I am a role model to my students whether I’m aware or not, and they’re influenced by my choices, too. I want to show my students that they can make better choices and impact the world at large.
I think this can be solved on a micro and macro scale. Obviously, there needs to be better access and options for eco-friendly goods. This is also a fantastic ways for small business to appeal to different types of consumers. But, if there isn’t a change in the individual (the consumer, the artisan, designer, etc), it won’t happen on a bigger scale either. With blogs, communities, forums, and hopefully phone/tablet applications for eco-friendly shopping and living, it’s more of a reality. I think it’s entirely possible. :}
Stephanie recently posted..Photo Diary // NYFWHere’s some loose change from NYFW….
I love the open shoulder shirt from Future Standard!
Stephanie recently posted..Photo Diary // NYFWHere’s some loose change from NYFW….
My problem is buying things impulsively without doing the research first!
I think the biggest obstacle is awareness. There are so many ways you can be more conscious about what you buy but knowing what matters is the first step. I try to buy local and handmade when possible.
The Jhoti knit dress from Marketplace looks like I’d wear it every single day!
I think my biggest obstacle would be availability. If I could find more fair trade and ethically responsible products at the stores I like to shop at it would be easier to make a decision to purchase the right product.
I love the Mrs. Bird bags over at Lusso Bags!
My biggest obstacle to shopping ethically is finding locally sourced, fair trade, quality products at an affordable price. I am lucky because I live in the Bay Area and my best solution is to shop at consignment stores, ebay and etsy. when shopping online, I always search for sellers who are within 150 miles from where I live. When I buy something new, I make sure that it is from an ethical source, which is sometimes hard to find out! Fair trade and ethical labeling is a must for our future as eco-fashionistas!
Angela S recently posted..Hong Kong Sabah 1 073
I fancy the EcoSkin Manhattan Jacket at shopfuturestandard.com!
Angela S recently posted..Hong Kong Sabah 1 073
Definitely the convenience of things. I have 4 kids and sometimes more convenient things win out.
My biggest obstacle is knowledge. I think the solution is more research of my part and also a continued effort to educate consumers on a larger scale. Thanks for the chance to win!
mrsmchappell at gmail dot com
At buygreen.com I love the Ceramic Sterling Hoop Earrings.
mrsmchappell at gmail dot com
My biggest obstacle is convenient availability. There are so few places to go out and find something right now.
I would say my biggest obstacle is cost, sometimes being consumer conscience means spending a bit more. My husband and I just bought our first house and I am a stay at home mom so it is tough to find what we can spend more money on and where we need to cut costs. I could solve this by choosing more wisely where we spend our money!
I love the Future Standard Manhattan Jacket, it is so cute!
Truthfully it’s having more needs than ever lately. Not sure there’s an easy solution to that problem. I just bought a house!
If I look, I’ll want to buy. Solution: stop looking…LOL
Love the Ceramic Sterling Hoop Earrings at buygreen.com
CinnyBBS recently posted..#Petco tricks and treats for #Halloween
I’m trying to shop more online because there is a whole other world out there that a lot of people don’t know about..every day I stumble upon a great vendor that I would’ve missed out on going through a chain store. I think it’s an obstacle because some people don’t even see a reason to ‘online shop’!!! I’m trying to spread the word to my friends slowly.
I really did the cosmetic bags from lusso bags!!! so cute!!
Mine is my budget(not joking-) solved by earning more!
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compssion couture the eliza brown boot
Marie Howard recently posted..Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 – A Review
I just don’t have the time. UGH. The solution is to ask friends an associates their advice and better time management
Time and money are the biggest obstacles for me as a mom of a toddler you do get much time.
Denise Taylor-Dennis recently posted..Giveaway – VeggieTales US Only
I like the Neuaura – Saige Riding Boot – Brown Compassion Couture Shop
Denise Taylor-Dennis recently posted..Giveaway – VeggieTales US Only
my biggest problem is a lack of information/reliability. i’d love to shop more ethically, but i don’t know enough about the products, nor are the return/exchange policies always as transparent/easy as i’d like them to be.
My biggest obstacle is my budget and convenience
My biggest obstacle is time! I don’t always have the time to research products, find one that fits my needs, and wait for it to be delivered/go to the particular shop. I find myself at my corner grocery store more often than I’d like to admit, buying products that I shouldn’t!
I love this bowl from GreenHeart! http://www.greenheartshop.org/fair-trade-eco-kitchen-by-greenheart/sobremesa-fair-trade-tabletop/14-inch-almond-wood-bowl.html
Mine is impulse buying I could fix this with a list! 🙂
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My biggest obstacle is the fact that I am a stay at home mom (with three kids and only a high school education, daycare would eat up my entire paycheck) and my husband works at Walmart, which means that is the only place we can afford to shop. I actually rarely buy clothes new. most of my cloths shopping is done at goodwill and yard sales. I guess the way to solve the problem is for Hubby to get a better paying job (working on it) and for me to further my education so I can get a real job. I will probably seek employment at a daycare where I worked before I had kids, once the baby is old enough to attend there
I really really want the H-Racer and Solar Hydrogen Station from Buy green. I can not possibly afford it, but My dad would LOVE it. he had been using hydrogen as a booster in his cars. I don’t know all about how it works, but with a jar of water tucked away he made hydrogen and sent it in with the air and fuel into the engine and it makes the car run more efficiently. He bought an electric pickup truck used but has not been able to find the batteries he needs to power it. I know this is just a toy, but it would be right up his ally and I know he would love it. If I had the extra money laying around I would get it for him for Christmas in a heartbeat.
My biggest problem is information. If I find the perfect dress it would be great if there was an app where I could type in the brand name and find out just how green they are.
Shaiha recently posted..Beautiful Things
I really like the Kilarny Tunic Hoodie from BuyGreen.com.
Shaiha recently posted..Beautiful Things
Price for sure-when you are on a budget it seems harder. I still try, but I know I could be doing a lot better!
My biggest problem is cost. So often, ethically-made products cost more. I’m on a tight budget, so it’s hard for me to pay more than I would if I were buying a product that is not made ethically. However, careful budgeting and only buying what I need, even at a higher cost, helps to solve that.
<3 the hemp carrybag @ buygreen.
My bigggest problems is pricing. With me being on a tight budget it is hard at times.
asha marie pena recently posted..Fall Fashionista Event :: Soho Coach Handbag $163 Giveaway WW
I like the Lucknow kurtan
asha marie pena recently posted..Fall Fashionista Event :: Soho Coach Handbag $163 Giveaway WW
I think one of the biggest obstacles with shopping ethically is the lack of information readily available to shoppers. In many cases, people who are of limited finances like myself tend to buy things quickly when they’re on sale. In such cases, the immediate focus is to work with a budget. Where the items come from usually isn’t even considered, and if it is it is after the purchase has been made. Since actually having gone to a factory and witnessing the conditions some of the workers suffer, I do try my best to be concious of what I buy. Still, in the hustle and bustle of life it is all too easy to forget to ask the right questions.
My problem is not having the money to buy clothes and food for my family.
Stephanie recently posted..Free Holiday Labels
Darling wrap from Future Standard
Stephanie recently posted..Free Holiday Labels
I’m on a budget. But I love to check out what others are wearing! I try to get what I can on the clearance rack, or wait for super good deals and coupons! That way I can get my fashion fix, and stay on budget!
coriwestphal at msn dot com
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My biggest obstacle is money. I would also say that a lack of advertising is a problem-consujmer knowledge/convenience. We are all bombarded with ads from major companies, but few from eco-friendly companies, especially in the fashion world.
sometimes when i like something i just buy it and do not price shop
truthfully i love the Almora jacket
Well, while I think its awesome to shop ethically, I guess I actually do a lot of it by buying a lot at Thrift stores, but price is a big issue otherwise, and I like styles that are not always ethically conscious, and a lot of the time I just don’t think about it. Not really sure how I could do better, or even if I want to do even better. Lol!
I would love to have the Miessence toothpaste and mouthwash from BuyGreen.com
My biggest obstacle is simple economics. Often the globally and ecologically conscious items are pricier than their counterparts and I don’t have the means to buy them.
wolverina401 at gmail dot com
And how can it be solved? Hmm…not sure about that one. I am sure that one can find competively priced and conscious good, but I’m not sure where. Thoughts?
Cost, I am on a tight budget right now and shop off clearance racks. Usually eco and ethic friendly garments are not in stores I frequent and are typically more expensive. Another problem is that I think shopping ethically is not in the forefront of my mind when I shop.
Rectangle tee from Future Standard
I think the biggest obstacle is consumerism culture…it’s so hard to not be tempted by a 50% off sale at a mainstream store that would allow me to buy both jeans and a jacket, for example, for the price of just one or the other from an ethical brand. It’s understandable that ethical fashion is more expensive, and I feel that the prices are fair. The problem, to be blunt, is greed and poor planning. If I could learn to plan my purchases more effectively so that I could buy fewer items and build a wardrobe around less (because lets be honest, much of it only gets worn once anyway), then I could certainly afford to shop more ethically rather than be tempted by the sales. I’d have more room in my closet, too 🙂 Maybe sites could offer more guidance on wardrobe building and point you to products that match your style/go together to make mix and match outfits so that fewer purchases are necessary to build outfits for the week?
Hi Jenna! I just wanted to say thank so much for you honesty…I completely agree with you, I think the main problem is cultural. We’re so used to easy that putting a little more work into things seems a bit daunting. Planning and stopping to think for a moment goes a long way here and that really helped me when I first started out being a conscious consumer. If you want to share your style with me I’d be more than happy to accommodate in trying to build a wardrobe that is to your taste and also ethical…or what is the number one item on your wanted list right now? I will totally try to find it in your price range and aesthetic.
Thanks so much for your thoughtfulness and your input!
I have a tendency to just buy something b.c I like it and realize later it does not match anything I have to go with it. To fix this I need to Plan ahead when buying.
http://www.shopfuturestandard.com/product.php?prodID=408
Love this skirt from Future Standard!
I find that I tend to research big things, but small things or cheap things I just impulse buy.
My biggest obstacle would have to be money. Our income hovers at the poverty level so there isn’t any extra wiggle room.
I forgot to give a solution. 😉 On a personal level, the solution for cost would be for the economy to grow and be healthy so our family income would go up. On a more global scale the solution is for the USA to change the trade laws that don’t allow for truly free trade in the world. Also, we need to use our foreign aid system to pressure other nations to secure property rights and other policy changes that allow entrepreneurs and small businesses to grow and flourish in other places. Sweatshops and slavery has a harder time flourishing when everyone has equality under the law. I like the poverty cure organization and the work it does to educate people on these issues.
Price point of sustainable items can be tough to manage
I think the paper bead necklaces at Musana are cool. I also like that they are made in Uganda. My sister spent a year teaching in Uganda so our family has a bit of an emotional connection with that nation. 🙂
My biggest obstacle is trusting the information I’m given, the best way around that is doing my own research and listening to trusted family and friends.
My biggest obstacle to bing a conscious shopper is finding products made in the USA
What to do about it, read the labels and resarch the company.
Envelope Hemp Shoulder Bag is my favorite
I love the Etanesh Stripes Scarf Charcoal Lime from Green heart
That I am not conscious. I just buy anything. I need to red labels more
My biggest obstacle is the higher cost of sustainable products. I can solve this by thinking about the actual cost of buying non-sustainable products, not the money, but the toll on the environment.
Christy Ann recently posted..My HUGE Makeup Prize!
I love the Bella Maxi Dress from Future Standard.
Christy Ann recently posted..My HUGE Makeup Prize!
My biggest obstacle to being a conscious consumer is as someone else stated…money. We are a one income family and shopping is usually for necessities… My solution is to try and win some things in contests and I have actually won 3 different times…so I always have hope.
I like the crescent top by ecoskin from future standard
I really can’t afford it. I’d like to buy items more consciously … maybe when I get a better-paid job :/.
Miki.
I love Future Standard’s Manhattan Jacket.
Miki.
Miki Melina Iannetta recently posted..Some might say
its the cost for me i try to shop when theres sales
My biggest obstacle to being a more conscious consumer is information. I seem to shop at a few stores that I am used to. I really haven’t paid much attention to where and how the items were made. I need to be more aware and also to start shopping online (since we don’t have a large variety of shops here) for eco friendly and fair trade items.
i love the gwyn dress from future standard
I like the Matt & Nat Santogold Cognac purse from Compassion Couture.
Money is the obstacle and the solution – I am heading back to school~ LOL
I think price and it shouldn’t be. Sometimes I just don’t stop to consider all the factores like i should.. I just look at the look and the price and go for it. I should really stop and consider what I am purchasing and consider the issues!
Still Blonde after all these YEARS recently posted..Kellogg’s Start Simple Start Right Cereal Review
http://www.compassioncoutureshop.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=242&category_id=13&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=77
Still Blonde after all these YEARS recently posted..Kellogg’s Start Simple Start Right Cereal Review
My biggest obstacle is cost-I am a single mother with 3 kids and it costs a lot to take care of them even mostly going to discount stores.
Cost is my main obstacle. Right now with no job I can’t buy much of anything.
Regina Trobee recently posted..Customer Newsletter
I love the Chico line of bags. I would love to add to my collection.
Regina Trobee recently posted..Customer Newsletter
generally, it’s prices. That can only be solved by me getting more of it
I like aqua sunrise from Musana
Melanie B recently posted..Wordless Wednesday-Om Nom Nom
Cost for some parts and knowledge for the other
Biggest challenge is being educated and start by reading people who know and can help with the learning.
and to conclude my last answer is that i would need a friend or someone to tell me how to be more concious of these things and money.
this is the item i like the most NEUAURA – MULBERRY – BLACK
Love the Moonlight Sparkle!
I’m afraid to buy something if it’s not on sale. I need to learn to let go & buy something nice for myself.
Hemp Shoulder Wallet at BuyGreen.com
the biggest obstictle is definatley finaces only being in part time employment at the moment,,and the only solution i have found is to cut down as much as possible,,even walking to the stores instead of driving and using coupons
Almora Jacket – Black, Natural is my favorite,,i need a new jacket
Convenient access (some days you just want to pop in and try on) and price are sometimes an issue for shopping ethically for items such as clothing and shoes.
This sounds so shallow, but I wish more of the eco & socially conscious brands actually made more awesome and cute stuff! It’s come a long way, especially in the last 5 years or so, but there is still this (somewhat valid) stigma about eco-conscious clothes being hippy-wear or dowdy. Even for someone like me, who tries to stay on top of these things sometimes has trouble finding cute stuff that is made in a sustainable way and is also affordable. I’ve found way more stuff that fits both categories within the handmade community, but for it to really take over the world it’s going to have to be big brands embracing it.
I get too excited and want it real bad!
My best solution is to buy only on sale.
I love this top from Future Standard http://www.shopfuturestandard.com/product.php?prodID=356
I think the biggest obstacle is using organic recyclable materials. This can be helped by making consumers aware of what they are purchasing.
I love all the cute travel accessories from Lusso Bags
http://www.lussobags.com/womens-shoe-and-travel-bags.php
Waiting patiently for something I want to be the price I want.
I need to remember to bring my reusable bags with me and to solve this I could bring them out to the car after unloading the groceries.
Dana / danabeeman(at)gmail(dot)com
for sure the cost of things. we need to make the eco friendly products more accessible to the consumer.
Money is probably my biggest issue. My hubby is currently unemployed and awaiting disability. It’s tough right now, but I do what I can when I can
I visisted FUture standard and love the Darling Wrap in mauve
i like the Moonlight Sparkle!
I think the biggest obstacle is lack of education and the way to solve it would be to have a special tag made up industry wide that designates and environmentally or socially friendly company. Sort of like Made in the USA or the cotton tag.
i like the ZIPPER BAG from Lusso Bags
The biggest problem is being unaware. Keep spreading the word!
amanda r recently posted..Amazon deal: Glow Laces
love the musana necklaces
amanda r recently posted..Amazon deal: Glow Laces
I love the Love Is Mighty – Koel flats from Compassionate Couture.
Dana / danabeeman(at)gmail(dot)com
My biggest obstacle is planning. I almost never take enough time to plan out my shopping trips so I can save as much as I want. I need to start planning my shopping trips earlier so that I can save more.
The biggest obstacle is cost!
My biggest obstacle is avoiding impulse buys. I can solve that problem by making lists and sticking to them.
I love the Szabo Dress from Future Standard.
Rebekah recently posted..InStyle Inspiration
My biggest obstacle is probably a lack of knowledge. I like to shop locally and I’m not sure where to find ethical fashion at reasonable prices.
I love the Pris Tee @Future Standard.
my biggest obstacle is time. It takes time to do the research to find fair trade/ethical brands
Teresha recently posted..Don’t Forget to Enter the Fall Fashionista Giveaways!
I fancy the Hovey Lee – Calla II Earrings at Compassion Couture.
Teresha recently posted..Don’t Forget to Enter the Fall Fashionista Giveaways!
i think the biggest obstacle for me is price.. buying ethical items isn’t always the cheapest option around. I’ve been trying to solve this by starting out small (usually start with substituting a few items with more ethical options and growing this list) and trying to budget around the increase in cost.
My biggest obstacle is availability, I could buy more online if there were more discounts and free shipping codes.
I think money and budgeting is my biggest issue. So often we struggle to decide if we want quality or quantity in our lives and there are some things that just need to be more than better. But an easy way to fix that would be to buy less of none essential items (like a gorgeous bag) and buy those things from a company that does more their clients and ecosystems. It’s a splurge either way, so why not take the first step of being aware by being frivolous.
I <3 <3 <3 the Scrappy Bibs!
The biggest challenge is being surrounded by cheap fashionable readily available unethical clothing- it takes more time and more money to shop ethically.
Always look for the lowest prices before making purchases.
My biggest issue in trying to be a conscious consumer is pricing. I want to feed my family healthy and organic foods, but often I just can’t afford it. I understand paying a little bit extra for the extra processing, but I can’t justify a few extra bucks per item. I always buy locally grown when available from our Farmers Markets or produce stands.
Perhaps if everyone boycotted the unhealthy hormone-ridden products, it would cause the prices to fall for the healthier items.
I like the Neuaura – Arctic – Black Boots at Compassion Couture.
mona satchels i like
the reveal taylor satchel
Eco friendly products are so expensive we have started a garden to compensate.
My biggest obstacle is time. I should make myself find the time to cut coupons and find deals
The Dialog Xanadu clutch that’s in the photo from Compassion Couture is super cute!
Cost and where do you get said item and a great cost and that is sustainable. I have seen things that are actually cute but cost a fortune. I AM willing to pay some for an item but not $108 for a top.
Navy Andalucia Organic Cotton Dress! from Green Heart
Eco-friendly products are more expensive and when you are on a budget it is hard to stay on track.
My biggest obstacle is probably sheer laziness.
I just simply don’t even know where to start. I guess I need to read more, to educate myself and make better choices!
The term has changed over time and is different to many companies as well but overall for the biggest challenge for me is convenience. It is easier to get all my shopping done in one big chain store. I need to be more aware of what I need…stick to my list and if I can do that then I will be able to shop more ethically.
Definitely cost, if I think it’s too much i look around elsewhere or go on the internet to see if it’s cheaper
sibabe64 at ptd dot net
Almora Jacket – Black, Natural from the MarketPlace
sibabe64 at ptd dot net
My biggest problem while shopping is what I can buy that is healthy for my toddler to eat and he will actually eat it. I’m still trying to solve this problem.
I like the blue bird totes from lusso bags
My biggest obstacle is probably price and availability. Purchasing more socially conscious products generally cost more than my budget allows and are often not available locally.
My biggest obstical is probably shopping hungry since that is usually the only shoppingn I do lol. I should probably go to the store not hunger.
I love the cluthes
impulse buying is my biggest problem. I know and try to talk to my self when I shop.
I really like the moonlight sparkle necklace from musana-beautiful!
My biggest obstacle to being a conscious consumer is time. It takes a huge amount of time to search the web for ethical merchants. To solve this, I’d like to see a portal that will take you to only ethical merchants.
My biggest obstacle is knowledge, knowing what is ethical and what isn’t. I guess the way to find out is research or shop places that advertise it’s ethical. Thanks for a great giveaway!
Trish F recently posted..ShopBop Giveaway Event – $100 Gift Card! {Ended}
At Compassion Couture I like the Matt & Nat – Elise – Purple wallet.
I love the Cresent top on Future Standard. Thanks!
Trish F recently posted..ShopBop Giveaway Event – $100 Gift Card! {Ended}
I love the Almora jacket!
My biggest concern is “Am i paying too much” for any product that i buy.
Amazing dear, it’s like Christmas holiday over here. For me, I don’t have many obstacles to shop ethically. But, perhaps at times convenience, price point and design preference plays a part. When I do shop ethically it’s generally from quality brands that I know I can’t get the item elsewhere, since i am a particular shopper, I always know what I’m seeking … most of the time. An easy solution is merely awareness … shopping ethically when I can without breaking the bank, but also knowing that for myself and others, just like changing eating habits or becoming vegetarian it may not happen overnight. I do find it easier though to shop ethically in various locations, so locale may also be a factor for some folks who don’t shop online. /M
Hi Mad!!! It’s true it’s just about getting into the habit of thinking and being more conscious and those things take time :). Love ya!
My biggest obstacle is also cost. A lot of things these days (especially fashion related items) are wayyyy over priced. I could solve the problem by looking for better deals.
My problem is knowledge. I tend to shop at the same few stores… It is only recently that I have ventured into more “responsible” shopping via the internet. The information is out there, i just have to make more of an effort to find it sometimes.
My biggest obstacle is being able to afford it. The only way to surmount that is to get my loans paid off, and that won’t happen soon.
I love the Carolina Blue Portfolio Clutch at compassion couture.
Future:standard pluma necklace. I love “feathers”.
I love the Sunset Glow Dangles from Musana Jewelry
Jessica B recently posted..What You Should Watch Tonight: Machine Gun Preacher
Probably time and I solve it with shopping online
Lena – @elenka29 recently posted..Get Fit with the Body Bar Flex – Review
Aqua Sunrise by Musana
Lena – @elenka29 recently posted..Get Fit with the Body Bar Flex – Review
My biggest obstacle is being able to afford it!
Emily recently posted..Fall Fashionista Event
My biggest obstacle is staying within my budget. I try to make a list of my “must haves”, and then buy them one at a time when I have extra money.
Stacie recently posted..Wordless Wednesday – The Loss of Soccer Star
I like these earrings: http://www.buygreen.com/designrectangleearrings.aspx
Stacie recently posted..Wordless Wednesday – The Loss of Soccer Star
It is hard to find that information and it can be much more expensive.
Christine M Tubbytelly recently posted..Little Handyman #WW
When is something really a good deal or am I just paying for brand instead of quality.
See how long it lasts!
Safari print necklace
Biggest obstacle for me is actually minimizing my purchases. I sometimes tend to spend money I don’t have.. I need to pay closer attention to WHAT I’m buying and determine if it’s actually needed or not.
Love the Dolce thick woven dress at Greenheart
I want to buy green but its very expensive. I could try to make my own products at home.
I love the Musana Jewlery Simba Sands necklace
The impact that “disposable fashion” has on the enviornment. I try to shop vintage/second hand for alot of things.
Iris recently posted..Reminder: Fashion Week Swag Giveaway!
Well…these are two great questions. My answer to the biggest obstacle I face when shopping ethically is simply not knowing where to go. With so many different brands and not knowing them well enough or not having enough knowledge of each that are out there, it poses a problem for me. How will I solve this? I will visit made-to-travel.com for advice, valued research, and images Jamillah posts to help me become more aware of what’s out there:-)
Okay, from my fave shop you have posted here, Compassion Couture (cute name), I lurve the Kailia-Sincerity-Ruby boots…and they’re on clearance, woo hoo!
Great post!
I like the Hovey Lee – Linney Necklace – Black from Compassionate Couture
Like others, the expense of buying ethically can be a real challenge. But, having more online options for purchasing without the middle man is making it a little easier.
Laura O in AK recently posted..You Don’t Know Me by Susan May Warren
It is the expense sometimes, of buying consciously. I try to figure out what i can buy cheaply and save some of the money towards a few good purchases.
The biggest dilemma with being a conscious consumer is the price of everything nowadays! My solution has been to shop clearances and avoid paying retail prices.
My favorite shop in this giveaway is marketplace india and I’d love the nisha bag- brown with pom pom
I am a compulsive impulse shopper. My best way to beat it is to not leave the house and always be work. Does wonders. LOL
I like the Bella Maxi dress at Future:Standard.
I think I’m a pretty conscious shopper. Lots of time and resources would make it a lot easier!
Pretty, Polished, Perfect. recently posted..How To: Necklaces + A Triple P Giveaway
My biggest obstacle is that I live in a small town and it’s hard for these kind of shops to compete with the local Wal-Mart and I solve this by doing a lot of shopping online.
My biggest obstacle is money and it can be solved by winning the lottery. 😉
I like the Escondido Necklace at Future Standard
The biggest challenge I face with ethical fashion is finding a variety of (good looking/not dowdy) plus-size options. Despite being a committed vegetarian and taking good care of myself, I’m just a big girl & I’m not ashamed of it! 🙂 However, I am forced to buy a lot of “fast fashion” – brands that manufacture in China or Bangladesh under not-so-awesome conditions. It’s a huge disappoint for me to be forced to buy items that do not reflect my core values.
How to solve it? I feel it’s simple: expand the size options for eco-fashion. I’m willing to put my money where my mouth is, but I’m not “Stella McCartney” wealthy… YET.
not buying products I know might come from sweatshops. this is a hard one to solve since globalization and out sourcing are the norms…what we need to do as a society is put pressure on businesses and govt to ensure that sweatshops will not exist —– Paul T/Pauline T aka Paul Tran ….. emscout9 at Hotmail dot com
I like the Stretch Modal Tank Dress …..http://www.shopfuturestandard.com/product.php?prodID=307
– – Pau l T/Pauline T aka Paul Tran….. emscout9 at Hotmail dot com
I’ve been very conscious of “fashion waste” lately, and have been trying to thrift and DIY as much as possible, which helps lessen the amount of waste I produce. I also try to make sure I donate my clothes when I’m done with them, instead of just throwing them away. Things that may not be donateable, I try to use for DIYs or will even use them as rags. I feel like it’s a lot better in the long run to do this… plus it’s cheaper!
Suburban Style Challenge recently posted..I Walked 5K for Breast Cancer!
I love those bags–great for packing shoes for traveling–but I think I really like the Cri de Coeur Scarlet Bootie in Black from Compassion Couture best. I’ve been looking for a neatly shaped bootie for quite some time, and that one is perfect!
My problem is finding clothes that are fashionable that are not just for size 2 women but for size 22 women also!
problem solved.. having more variety for plus size women
Darling Wrap from future standard
I live in the sticks, I think doing more shopping online may help.
Love the country star earrings.
http://musanajewelry.org/earrings/MS033.jpg
The two big hurdles for me are convenience/availability and price. There are websites and brands out there online were you can shop ethically, but it is actually uncommon for me to buy clothing online – because it’s so hard to know what you’re getting without seeing it and trying it on in person. Everything can look good on a model in a photo shoot. However, larger brands can often also be found in stores, and once I’m familiar with a brand I may be more comfortable ordering things sight unseen. I’m not sure how to solve this other than getting a larger retail presence for ethically sourced goods.
It’s also true that ethically sourced items are more expensive – and while I probably can afford it at least some of the time, it’s hard to allocate that extra money to something when it doesn’t HAVE to be done, even though I may know that it’s better for the people who made the item. This one is, of course, easier to overcome the closer the price is to other items of comparable quality (the quality is important – if it’s ethically made AND higher quality than the less expensive stuff I’m happy to spend the money on it).
My biggest obstacle is cost, especially with kids clothes because they grow up fast
The Dog NeckTie Collar at BuyGreen.com is pretty adorable.
i love Matt & Nat – Minka – Grey – Crossbody bag from Compassion Couture
Money-have to save if I really want it.
I love the Almora Jacket.
time. Hopefully as my kids get older and I graduate it will get better.
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My favorite is Shop Future standard and I really like the Escondido Necklace
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I try to figure out if the waste from what I am purchasing will end up in landfills….so I try to buy stuff that can be reused or recycled.
My biggest obstacle is a style rut. My priority #1 is comfort and convenience and this sometimes limits my options. The solution would be to be more open to trying different fabrics, shoe styles, and accessories.
I love the handmade aprons and sandwich taxi sandwich bags from Greenheart!
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I love the Jaya Kaftan – Raspberry, jade from Marketplace India. I wear these all the time at home.
Biggest challenge is money! Sometimes I have to buy the least expensive option regardless of it’s non eco friendly status. Not sure how I can change that! But I do buy eco friendly whenever it’s not too much more in price.
My biggest challenge is time and money. Time is never enough for me to find the deals. And Money – always scared to buy anything expensive.
I like the LARGE COSMETIC BAG from LUSSO bags
The local stores that offer the spectacular and enticing sales do not care much for providing information helping us to make ethical purchasing. There is little continuity in tag info that would help us.
Walmart bought up organic dairy product producers to control the source and provide at the best price products that their customers were requesting. If we asked and continued to ask for ethical products, do you think they would find a way to provide these products? We are overrun with Walmarts and Mom and Pop stores are the ones getting rare.
We are all sensitive to the cost savings of purchasing from such as Walmart. If we could bend those stores to consciously providing products that are clearly marked – everyone would win. The mom and pop stores would become boutique items sold in greater quantities which would allow the prices to drop.
I feel like I’ve entered a new phase…so buying clothes is a new adventure @53. The kids are grown and it’s my time to buy clothes. Where do I start.
I really do love the Almora Jacket!!!!
My problem is always pants. I am always making sure they arent too tight. I am working very hard to change that with working out and my trainer. wooo hooo
In the TV show Grimm just this week, she fixed a chicken recipe using a tagine – I’d love to have a Tunisian Ceramic Pistachio Cookable Tagine from Green Heart
Mine is style. My daughters always helped me and now they are living on their own. I have no idea where to start.
I try to buy local and support small businesses. There are a lot of US craftspeople that can use our support, too.
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Honestly? I love fashion… but I hate shopping! lol Unless I have LOTS of money to spend.. which is practically never. lol
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I like the Crescent Top from Future Standard!!
Tree recently posted..Feeling Funky
Biggest issue would have to be cost. The only way that I can solve it is to save by not buying as much and by buying consignment/resale shops.
I have no fashion sense and I have no idea what to buy!
The Carolina Blue Portfolio Clutch from Compassion Couture!
I think my biggest obstacle is price… I do shop as consciously as I can, as far as food items go…organic and as little packaging as possible, etc… BUT, when it comes to other products, I usually can’t justify the price, especially when at times it can be triple what I would have paid. I tend to be pickier about my purchasing and try to really determine how much of a need it really is…and factoring the origins of a product usually helps sway me 🙂
The Hemp backpack from Buy Green.. too sharp!
What is your biggest obstacle to being a conscious consumer?
My time is limited.
And how can it be solved?
I read blogs to help me become more conscious.
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I think the throw-away culture is the hardest part to overcome. It is so easy to toss something when it is a little worn instead of finding a way to re-use or re-purpose the item. – Katy
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My biggest issue is buying products that are manufactured in countries where they have been likely made in sweatshops…but it sure is hard to find products that are guaranteed sweat-free, and that are affordable, and that are your style. It takes a major effort and a whole changed mindset. Trying.
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My biggest obstacle is being at the right place at the right time.
My biggest problem is finances. It’s hard to find affordable prices made by companies with high moral standings.
The hardest obstacle for me to shop ethically is to keep calm and treat others as I would like to be treated. Along with this obstacle it is also difficult to know where our items are being bought from now and this also bothers me as a consumer.
These obstacles can be overcome with more yoga, starbucks, and patience. The second obstacle would need help from our stores to help consumers understand products descriptions.
The accessories with GreenHeart are gorgous and I really like their earrings.
pricing… everything that is organic or natural seems so much more expensive… I would love to see prices go down, or at least have a sale at times… also not much plus sized clothing and goodies out there for people like me.
the lusso bags everyday tote is nice!
Not even bothering to check to see if there’s coupons or discounts available. I can solve it by actually opening up my Sunday paper, or going online to see if there are coupons!
I’m so challenged to know when I’m seeing a good deal on fashionable items. Too many choices!
I guess to solve that issue, I need to just select a few trusted sources and stick with them.
I really like the colorblock rope necklace!
From GreenHeart… 😉
finding brands that are affordable!
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My biggest obstacle would be my finances at the moment. I can solve this by taking the time to research and find good prices, they are out there.
My biggest obstacle is not spending too much… I surf the web and newspaper for coupons as much as I can… I also ask my self a series of questions before purchasing something!
I love Neuaura – Saige Riding Boot – Brown from Compassion Couture