Those following on the American-made bandwagon know my commitment to this idea.
A year or so ago, Diane Sawyer reported that if every American spent a mere $64 on domestically produced items, the results would be an astonishing $200,000 jobs! It would also start the engine to creating a demand for America to become innovative again.
This holiday season it weighs even more heavily, on the heels of completing a documentary I had been working on for the past three years titled "Make it in America: Empowering Global Fashion." The focus of the film is to bring awareness to the consumer about the importance of Made in America, by examining what manufacturing once was, the decline and the re-invigoration.
We had a successful preview during NYFW this past September, which the fabulous Nina Garcia of Project Runway hosted. The film will be released January 6th. With voices including Martha Stewart, and designers and brand owners from J Brand, Nanette Lepore, Theory and more. It will be a great watch for the socially responsible fashionista. More to come on that at a later date.
My point in sharing this today is simply to encourage shoppers, during the busiest time of the year, to shop local. It can be challenging, especially for those looking for chic gifts. Many made in USA brands come across as hokey, so I am always on the hunt for those that exude artisinal qualities, luxe details or made by hand elements.
Here is a list of brands I think are making great products for kids, women and men. I encourage you to consider them as you continue your hunt for the perfect gift! Here are a few of my favorite things...
All things fashion!
1. Sven Clogs: Slip on comfort with out loosing the fashion sensibility. I have the high heeled clog in wild mushroom and I just purchased the low heeled metallic silver as a Christmas gift for my daughter. I have already reached my $64 commitment, but I have no plans of shopping there.
2. Last year I gifted my husband a limited edition Shinola watch. Made in Detroit, this brand is killing it with job creation, bringing life back to a city that was hit hard.
3. Theory: Not everything is made here, so you must look at your labels, but you can find great basics here that are well made and have sophisticated, yet simple design elements.
4. J Brand: My go to jean brand... they are by far the most flattering for my body type and available for men and women. My second made in America purchase will be from them.
Other brands to consider AG and Koral. There are a lot of jean brands that are Made in USA, with California still producing high volume jean production. Again, check the labels.
5. Fun Jewels for a girl who has everything... Jill Golden. For more delicate pieces, Jennifer Fisher.
For the foodie, beer aficionado and wine enthusiast!
1. For the Gourmand, St James Cheese company has a lovely cheese assortment. I particularly love the their Greek kiss which is a grape leave wrapped goat cheese from Mississippi.
2. Lager, Ale and more... Victory Brewing Company. They also make ice cream and cheddar spreads.
3. The perfect hosting gift... Salted Caramel Macaroons by Payard Patisserie... French macaroons, made here.
4. Wine lover's try Johnson Family Cabernet. A great cab at a great price.
For the kiddos!
1. Lincoln Logs... Stave off technology for just a bit.
2. American apparel for baseball tees, leggings and twirling ice skating dresses(my daughter has a plethora of colors!)
3. Hours of doodling galore... Crayola crayons and art supplies
4. Surf Sweets and Tru Sweets candy. They are gluten free, gmo free and contain no artificial colors or flavor... a great stocking stuffer treat!
All my suggestions are authentic and not marketing induced. I have tried and own most. The couple suggestions that I have not tried are products that have piqued my interest and/or have been added to my own wishlist.
Happy Holidays!