Scottish e-tailer Firefly Accessories is showing its social conscience with the addition of new fair trade accessories.
Firefly Accessories’ fair trade goodies are handcrafted from artisans in Cambodia. These workers, who are members of the World Fair Trade Organization, create silk handbags, toiletry purses, jewelry rolls and scarves. The World Fair Trade Organization ensures its members work in suitable conditions and receive adequate compensation for their efforts.
I’m sure fashion fans will enjoy the vibrant colors and affordable prices of these handcrafted fair trade goodies. But personally, it raises questions for me about the origins of the rest of Firefly Accessories’ items. Since 2010 the company has been bringing fashion fans unique accessories from Cambodia and Vietnam. However not every item is certified as fair trade.
We can’t be sure that the other items are made by artisans working in substandard conditions, but we can’t be sure that they’re not. Personally I’d like to see Firefly Accessories do a complete overhaul and ensure every product it sells is fair trade certified. Otherwise this fair trade line simply seems like tokenism. Until then though, fashion lovers can show their support for the new line and only indulge in the fair trade products.
How important are fair trade practices to your fashion choices?
