About 15 years ago, we learned the hard way that Angora made overseas was not just any old rabbit hunted for fur.  Videos online haunted us of terrible images of cruelty towards animals.  

As years went on, we decided we could not track the sourcing of  true fur and faux fur, so for a while we didn't purchase either.  Then we were taught how to identify faux fur. Since then we started carrying faux fur again, recognizing that we were doing our part as retailers to be considerate to the worlds animals.  

A few years ago we were approached by an outerwear line that used real fur.  We turned it down, even though we understood that some communities around the world slaughter for the purpose of food, and they use all parts of the animals so it does not die in vain. 

Shortly after that, Vegan jackets emerged as a popular alternative.  Though a good alternative to leather, they also were not meant to last long term.  The result (even after a few years of use) would be disposal into a landfill.  

So why do we like leather? (to be clear, we like one select line we have now been working with for two years called Mauritius - www.mauritiusleather.com)

For a few reasons; 

1) It has staying power, and can literally be worn for generations.  My mother, and mother-in-law have both passed one down to me from the 70's.  

2) It is made with animal bi-products from the consumption industry. Which means that instead of throwing away the hide of a cow after it is slaughtered for food, it is used to clothe us. 

3) It is made with vegetable dye.  Why is this a good thing?  Primarily because chemicals are not put back into our grounds and water systems around the world.  

With all this said, we are still learning.  We like to work with companies that do good things, and create innovative approaches to an otherwise non-innovative production cycle.

If there are brands you think we should investigate that are innovative, and society friendly, please send us a message.  We would love to hear from you.