Hand-Picked Peach: The Root Collective Espe Boots

I have to share with you all one of my favorite Christmas presents!  My husband got me a pair of The Root Collective Espe Boots!  These are AMAZING!!!

The first reason is because of the look.  I mean, how cute are they?  Each pair is made with real leather and fabric hand-woven by a cooperative of women. Plus, since they're black and brown, I can wear them with just about anything in my wardrobe.  I had been in need of a bootie that was flat and not heeled to run errands in.  I'm not doing the grocery run in heeled boots, so that basically left me with just my Keds or Hunter Boots for these colder temps.  I feel like such a stylish mom when I wear these Espe Boots!

The second reason that these boots are amazing is because, while I get to look cute, my purchase helps change lives.  All shoes are handmade by Otto and a group of men in his small shop.  Otto uses the opportunity to minister to these men, some of whom are convicts with few job prospects beyond going back to gang life, and to help them support their families with safe and noble employment.

We're all used to the prices of fast fashion where working conditions are unsafe and workers are underpaid.  But when we take a stand and buy items that are handcrafted by artisans that make dignity a priority, we use our dollars for good.  We vote for safety, for dignity, and kindness.

Adding these boots to your own capsule wardrobe may not feel like you're changing the world, but as I've mentioned before, if we all make an effort to purchase from ethical sources even half the time, think of the message that would send to the fashion industry.  Think of what we could do if we all decided to buy less and buy better!

Head over to The Root Collective and watch some of their videos to find out more about their mission.

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