Like most Americans are apparently doing, I am doing what I can to save more. I appreciate that whether this economy goes up or goes down, it can’t hurt to have a little more saved in the bank for a rainy day or a great opportunity.
Just this past Sunday, I spent more than I care to spend on clothes. Why? Because lately I’ve been thinking a lot about sweatshop labor and it creeps me out that style comes at the price of someone else’s sanity and well being. So I finally found a place called Parts + Labor off of South Congress that is essentially a marketplace for local independent designers to sell their purses, clothing, and jewelry. I bought clothes that were made with recycled fabric by a line called CurryBeth. I paid a bit more than I normally would, but I know that what I’m wearing is unique and actually empowers someone rather than exploits them. I feel good putting these clothes on. Even if I had to sell them, I’d get much more than I would for the latest forgettable Gap dress.
Here’s the coolest part. I needed another dress I bought altered. The people at Parts + Labor called the gal who made it and she’s going to fix it herself. Craftsmanship. Love it.
Consuming goods made by well intending people who are happy feels good. Watching shows made by people who enjoy what they are doing instead of worry about ratings all day is gratifying. I wonder to what extent this economy will make all the people who are getting laid off decide that they want to fix this bottom line-obsessed culture to create rocking stores like Parts + Labor.
P.S. When I write posts like this, people accuse me of getting paid by the people I’m writing about. That weirds me out a bit. This is not the case and if it were, I’d always disclose it. Cheers.
