You probably know about fair trade coffee. I never thought about other products though;
Beleza has.
Beleza is a fair trade jewelry and accessory boutique with a wide assortment of beautiful baubles.
Many of
Beleza's products come from Brazil, but you can also find items from Madagascar and Uganda. As a fair trade boutique, the sale of the items supports the artisans and gives them a fair wage to live off of and encourages sustainability. Plus, the prices are affordable because
Beleza conducts business directly with the artisan, cutting out the middlemen.
The small store is packed with unique earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, small purses, hair accessories, textiles such as blankets and pashimas, and artwork. As I looked at each artisan's section in the store, I found necklace after ring after bracelet that I wanted.
The
Zulugrass line is produced by Kenyan women that learned the craft during an especially hard drought. The necklaces are made from Czech crystal beads that shine in a multitude of colors. You can layer multicolored strands, stay monochromatic or even double over the long strands. The bright colors will brighten up any outfit this summer.
You probably recycle paper, but you will be very impressed by what Ugandans in refugee camps have created with
recycled paper. They have created interesting, colorful unique jewelry and small handbags all made from recycled paper beads. What is even more impressive is the time that it must take to make each bead and then each piece of jewelry, as no dye or coloring is used. The colors come from the paper and the artisans must match up the colors as they naturally occur.
Paper Beaded Bracelets from Uganda, Beleza
Looking for a statement piece of jewelry? The semi-precious stone jewelry made in Brazil will give you just that. Creative necklaces and chunky cuffs will give you the tribal look that is so popular this spring. Besides having beautiful stones, you will have superior metal work. Wear one this necklace, below, and you will be sure to get second looks.
Semi-Precious Stone Necklace from Brazil, Beleza
The horn and gold grass bracelets are my favorites. The horn cuffs are so interesting and will really make you think about all the uses an animal serves to the people of Madagascar where this jewelry is made. The strands of gold grass in the bangles will momentarily confuse you. Can grass really make these bangles and earrings? Yes, and they are lightweight and amazing.
Horn Cuffs from Madagascar, Beleza
Crocheted steel. Sounds interesting? Well, it is and it is also beautiful. The artisans crochet stainless steel and suture wire into designs and use the same wire to make beaded jewelry. This is jewelry from truly found objects in the wire used. This jewelry is so creative and imaginative that you must own a piece.
Beleza is great for a unique gift that will be remembered for years to come, and, of course, spicing up your own jewelry collection with pieces that are sure to get comments and compliments. Plus, you can feel good about spending your money at a fair trade boutique: fashion and helping all at once!
Email Beleza for more information, or click here for address.
For wardrobe & image consulting visit
TheStylista Website.
