When it comes to fashion, I’m torn. On one hand, I enjoy a good bargain, and frequently find myself in inexpensive stores, trying to find one-of-a-kind pieces at discount prices. On the other hand, I work in the green industry and I know that choosing inexpensive garments, made overseas, is not the most eco-conscious or socially responsible choice. So what is a girl to do? How do I merry my passion for the environment and social responsibility with my bank account? Luckily there is a solution out there, where unique fashion accessories and social action collide, providing conscious consumers a choice, and the opportunity to look super chic without breaking the bank. That solution is Annie O. Boutique.

Based in Boulder, CO, Annie O. Boutique designs and sources beautifully hand crafted women’s accessories, working directly with female artisan cooperatives around the world. The company creates stunning handbags, embroidered belts, scarves and other accessories using local materials, blending ancient techniques and contemporary design. What is amazing about Annie O., is that through the company’s work with female artisan cooperatives, many women that live in impoverishment and are often victims of domestic violence are provided an opportunity to showcase their artistic skills, make a living and have an improved quality of life. If you ask me, that is an amazing impact, created by one woman (Annie O.) with a passion for design and vision of a better world.

Not only are Annie O. accessories socially conscious, they are uniquely hand-crafted and intricately made.  I guarantee that you will not find as unique pieces as Annie O.’s belts, handbags, scarves and other accessories in your local shopping mall. I personally had the opportunity to wear one of Annie O.’s hand-made belts and use one of her handbags , and I have to say, never before have I received so many compliments!

The Annie O. belt I have worn many times now, is a powder blue, delicately embroidered with vibrant images of floral and detailed bird designs. Hand woven, the belt is made using wool thread and is complimented with a sustainably sourced horn buckle. This belt is not only beautiful, but is extremely versatile and can be worn over long shirts, with jeans, skirts and dresses. I love to wear it with a simple dress, adding a flair of color, or with an oversized shirt and jeans. No matter how I wear it, my outfit is always improved and I leave the house feeling confident and cool. 

The Yuli Clutch is the Annie O. Bag that I have been using on an almost daily basis. A black bag, it is embroidered with vibrant and colorful floral and bird images, and is so bright that you hardly notice the dark background behind the artwork. It’s the perfect size for keys, a small wallet, cell phone and lip gloss – a woman’s necessary items. The bag is as versatile as the belt, dressing up any formal ensemble, or pairing perfectly with any everyday outfit. The best part? Knowing that I am supporting women in need around the world by using, and promoting, this beautiful handbag and amazing company.

What I’ve learned through the discovery of Annie O. Boutique and wearing Annie’s beautiful and socially conscious accessories, is that when it comes to fashion, you don’t have to choose. Before, I was always looking for a bargain, not really thinking about the social impact of the way I was spending my fashion dollars. While I can’t promise that I will never again seek out a deal, I will definitely be more conscious about what I’m buying, where it came from, and how my purchase is helping to make the world a better place. Thanks to Annie O. Boutique, I know that there is fashion out there that I can feel good about, and that by purchasing it I am helping to create positive social change, one handbag at a time.