Black Friday Cyber Monday Shopping That Gives Back

Happy Thanksgiving! My inbox and internet feeds have been overflowing with Black Friday sales and Cyber Monday deals. As much as I like to shop, I just can't summon the energy. Thanksgiving is a holiday that celebrates what we are thankful in our lives. It honors a historical occasion where contradictory groups put aside their differences to enjoy a meal together. Where are the retailers that pay tribute to that?

Surprise surprise! There actually are retailers that are giving back this holiday instead of exploiting employees and making margins. I'm happy to highlight them this holiday.

Everlane clothing factory

Everlane is a buzzy startup hoping to revolutionize fashion retailing. They produce luxurious basics with a focus on the factories that make them. Rather than promoting Black Friday sales, they are working towards the Black Friday Fund. The leadership takes profits made from Black Friday and channels it into programs to improve the lives of their workers. This year, it will be for wellness and health care.

Are you looking to add to your family this Thanksgiving? Zappos, a beloved footwear and fashion e-commerce site is sponsoring free pet adoptions all across the country as their Black Friday special. They are paying the adoption fees at recognized shelters to get homes for lonely dogs and cats everywhere. You can locate the one nearest you at the Zappos Free Pet Adoption page.

Designer Mara Hoffman (top photo) will indeed have stylish bargains of up to 70% off. Of those sales 5% of the proceeds will benefit the Art Start organization. Lifestyle brand L'Occitane is breaking the holiday gift sets for the season. If you do pick up a few, the company will donate $10 from every set to help Dress for Success. 



Stylish sustainable accessories brand Cuyana is staying true to their mission. They are encouraging fans to donate gently used clothing to their store in on behalf of the H.E.A.R.T organization in lieu of a Black Friday sale. Those that DO clean out their closets for those in need will be rewarded with great discounts.

So there you have it. Why spend Black Friday getting trampled in long lines? How about Thanksgiving holiday shopping that gives back instead? These brands make it easy. Now it's up to YOU to shop for good.

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Fashion Design Opportunities for Fall

The Design Exchange in Canada (that is currently hosting the Louboutin exhibit I posted about earlier) is holding an emerging designer competition for multiple product categories.  Your entry needs to be in their office before September 30, 2013.  More information and entry package here.


Big online retailer Zappos is bringing their e-commerce power to the indie designer.  They don't have a specific competition but want to hear about the best up-and-coming designers that they should know.  Learn about their current line-up or write to them about yourself or your favorite here.

Lexus is hosting a competition to find the most innovative product and fashion designers.  Prizes include trips to Europe, mentorship, fame, etc.  Learn more and enter by October 15, 2013 here.

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