On the Business of American Made Goods

Have you noticed that there has been a new push to buy American made fashion?  It's a slow movement, but it's definitely gaining traction, with websites and blogs popping up to keep us posted on the latest developments and the hippest shops.  I've seen a rise in American bags, accessories, leather goods and American heritage brand boots, shoes and blue jeans.  

There are plenty of viewpoints about the merits of domestic vs. international production, and I'm not looking to get into that debate.  What I want to focus on is the intent of our consumption.  In general, I think that this Americana movement is a great sign that people are looking to support their local and national economy through thoughtful consumption.  Because really, thinking about our impact on the world and those around is is at the center of our morality. 

The thing is, everything of value has a cost and when we pay less for an item, someone else pays more. Poor working conditions, unfair pay, even slave labor are going on RIGHT NOW to bring American consumers cheap and expendable goods. 

 

It’s my opinion that American companies who use imported materials only go half way.  If you pride yourself on your American purchases, do your homework and find out where the materials are sourced as well. It’s a long chain of events and you deserve to know what you're really paying for.