YEVU Clothing, Ethically Made in Ghana

Combining tradition, color and contemporary design to help create opportunities

When Anna Robertson was volunteering in Ghana’s Accra, she heard the word “yevu” a lot—and now, the local Ewe term for “white woman” is the name of her brand. Founded in 2013, YEVU was born of Robertson’s fascination with the traditional wax print fabrics found in the capital city she once called home. Though bold, colorful, lively patterns are the label’s design focus, it’s as …

Etkie Jewelry: Investing in Women

Empowering Native American women and preserving tradition through accessory design

by Madison Kahn Buying a piece of jewelry is rarely a philanthropic endeavor, but Etkie is changing that. The new social enterprise partners with Native American women artisans in New Mexico to sell beautiful beaded bracelets at fair prices. In doing so, Etkie hopes to empower the underserved community though the attainment of financial independence. Born and raised in rural New Mexico, Etkie founder Sydney …

Cool Hunting Video: Shinola Leather Factory

Continuing their quest to revive American manufacturing, the Detroit brand brings their leather work in-house

During a trip to Detroit’s Shinola headquarters, we got a first-hand look at its recently opened leather factory and design studio—another step in their continued quest to revive American manufacturing. The brand has commenced operations with the making of leather watch straps, right next door to where the popular watches are themselves constructed. This clever move for Shinola will help streamline their manufacturing across products, …