Carry Change. Carry Della.
A friend told me about this brand and I think it’s amazing and I hope you do, too.
It’s called Della. And they empower women through fashion. Della is a fashion line based in Los Angeles that is driven by the awareness for the need for a global market that produces socially-responsible, quality products. This isn’t charity. This is responsibility.
Their philosophy is based on the saying, "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." And that is exactly what Della does. They recognize that direct charity creates dependence rather than independence. Instead, they empower women in Ghana by giving them jobs, education and skills training to help them create a lasting, better way of life.
I love the tribal print and bright colors that each product incorporates. I especially love the stylish and school-friendly laptop cases that the make and the patterned headbands. Those headbands are very Nicole Richie-esque and a perfect accessory for Coachella coming up in April.
Each product is handmade by one of the 30 seamstresses using authentic West African textiles. An average of 400 of these goods are produced each week.
They are mothers, sisters, daughters and friends ranging from the ages of 19-43. Over half of them have never traveled outside of their small region of Volta and even less have received an education higher than the 8th grade.
By buying one of Della’s products, you help give these women:
· social security benefits · national healthcare benefits · weekly literacy classes · management mentorship · team leadership skills · computer skill training · maternity leave
and so much more.
In the words of my friend, Whitney: The emergence and success of TOMs proved that consumerism is not an inherently bad thing; it can significantly improve the lives of many if used in a good and innovative manner. Della began to build upon that model and focus on another need- the lack of opportunity for talented women. Instead of creating a non-profit and depending on charity, Della invested in the talent and minds of women in Ghana. The result is a for-profit company based in Ghana that is sustainable, successful and incredibly empowering. The brand signifies that fashion isn’t simply aesthetics, money and notoriety. The interest and love for clothing extends beyond how one looks. It’s a universal, tangible and creative means of expression. Women in Ghana have style. They have an interest in textiles. Fashion doesn’t simply exist only on runways or catalog. it doesn’t have boundaries.
What I love even more about Della is the products they didn't include in their lookbook! Currently they are creating private label collaborations and are currently sold in Nordstrom, Free People and Apple Stores. Their products have even been see in Foam Magazine and People Magazine! Right now they are in the works with a big name brand that is TOP SECRET- but I'm definitely on the look out for now.
Check out more Della LA here!
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