Today’s Wardrobe Wednesday is a special one, because I get to highlight a few great brands I’ve been really admiring over the last year! You all know that I’m passionate about style, local business AND giving-back. Well, this little roundup is a great combination of them all! I’m sharing three fabulous Richmond-made jewelry companies, and two globally-impacting purse/bag companies. And seriously, what lady in your life (or maybe even your own Christmas list!) wouldn’t want to include a piece or two of fabulous jewelry or a really awesome statement bag that gives directly back to those in need of jobs around the world? So, without further ado….here’s the lineup!

01. MarigoldAndMars is a local lady who makes adorable embroidery designs of all kinds, but these charming necklaces are so fun and unique! It was all I could do not to buy one for myself when I saw them at a holiday market last weekend. I think they’d make an amazing gift, or perfect stocking stuffer! It would be such a fabulous statement piece to add to so many different outfits.

02. I’ve been admiring Humble Hilo’s incredible bags for a while, now. They feature gorgeous Guatemalan textiles and have an incredible mission statement. Not only would I LOVE using one of these bags, but with each purchase you get to choose a global project of nutrition, microfinance or literacy to help fund. I just love mixing fashion with philanthropy and they are doing it beautifully!

03. Garnett Jewelry is another local company that I really love, especially their bracelets. They are simple but elegant, and look great individually or stacked together. They have lots of beautiful necklaces and earrings, too.

04. I’ve posted about SutiSana before, but they’re another company that makes some fun purses/clutches and makes an impact across the world by employing women with dignified work. I have one of their clutches and it’s beautiful, well-made, and I love knowing that by purchasing it I was helping a woman get work who desperately needs it.

05. Rare Bird jewelry is also a Richmond company and if you love simple, geometric designs for earrings and necklaces, this is your place to go! So many understated and beautiful pieces.

As you finish (or begin!) your Christmas shopping for the fashion-lovers in your life, I hope you will look into these fabulous companies and shops. (And by the way, none of them have asked me to plug them or anything….I just legitimately love spreading the joy when I come across products and businesses I think are worthy of support!)

So here’s to shopping small businesses and supporting fashion with a purpose!