Vegetarian / Animal Free: products that have been made without the use of leather or animal tissue products. Examples are shoes or bags made from “vegetal leather” using Amazonian rubber instead of animal skins.

Community based: products that have been made in and are directly benefiting small communities, like villages or neighborhoods.

Craft / Artisan: products that have been crafted using artisan skills such as embroidery, which preserve the perpetuation of ancestral traditions.

Custom-made or Tailor-made: also called demi-couture or made-to-order. This is a way of encouraging quality and “slow fashion” over mass-produced disposable fashion.

Fair Trade: promotes social equity, environmental protection and economic security through trade and awareness campaigns. Fair trade seeks means and opportunities to improve the conditions of life and work of producers, especially small scale disadvantaged producers.

Organic: natural fibers that have been grown without any pesticides and other toxic materials, preserving the health of humans and the environment. The process of organic growth can be certified by various organizations.

Recycled: through the process of recycling, new garments can be constructed from the cloth of old garments.

Vintage/Second-Hand: Vintage is a generic term for new or second hand garments created in the period from the 1920’s to 1975. However, the term is often used more generally for second-hand clothes in good condition.

For a more in-depth look at these concepts, check out our Education and Glossary sections!