Amma’s Umma. Shopping Ethically for a Cause.

August 15, 2018

We’re such consumers in America. In a way, we’re kind of trained that way from the day we’re born, right? And I’m not saying I’m exempt. I love to buy things! I love getting a new dress or a new pair of shoes. But there have been several moments in my life that have made me stop to think about what I’m consuming and how it got to me (like literally who made it, how it was shipped, etc). In college, I learned a lot about slave labor in other countries…countries that have small children put to work doing things you and I wouldn’t dream of doing! I’ve steered clear of certain brands, because I know that they never put a stop to those practices. And again, I’m not perfect. If I see something I like enough, chances are I’ll buy it without thinking.

BUT, when I find a shop that already has all the ethical practices put into place, and I don’t even have to think about what I’m buying because I know they already did the thinking for me, I could literally buy the whole store. I’m not even joking. Another side to America consumerism is our want to be a part of something bigger than ourselves, right? We’d love every purchase to be like Toms shoes. Buying and giving at the same time while also knowing your shoes were made ethically.

Amma’s Umma is just that. Amma’s Umma. It means a mother’s kiss. Simple, sweet, and nothing like it. It’s a great online (soon to be brick and mortar) boutique whose mission is to give back while also giving you great pieces that are ethical fashion. They have something for everyone you know. It started as a way for Chelsea and her husband to fund their own adoption, and grew to start helping others who also want to adopt. They’ve already been able to donate almost $15,000 towards other adoptions! How amazing is that?!

And the pieces that are in the boutique aren’t frumpy or weird. Everything that’s in her boutique, I promise you’ll want to wear. I have a hard time narrowing down my choices when I start to put it all in my cart! The girls are both in her Guatemala dresses. Hallen kept squealing with excitement over her new green dress and how she matched all the leaves and flowers outside. And I’m wearing the navy Evelyn dress below. And these dresses are non-maternity, so they really are perfect for every body type!

Hallen likes to show off the baby in her belly like I do these days!

Here, I’m wearing the Dusty Blush Magnolia High Low

Amma’s Umma also has you covered in the accessories department. My purse, necklace, and earrings are all from there too!

Remember, each piece purchased helps families start navigating their finances towards adoption. And some of them in the boutique are from companies who also do certain outreaches, so your purchase goes to not one, but maybe two or three amazing causes. Finding companies and brands who have found ways to help my dollar stretch is huge to me. If paying $5 or even $20 more means someone may eat, find an escape from sex trafficking, or reach a goal of adopting their baby they’ve prayed years for, I’ll front that cost. I don’t need them to ever know my face or name. It’s not about recognition, right? It’s simply about helping.

We only have each other in this lifetime. It’s not about fame or importance. It’s simply about love and compassion. So, find a few of your favorite pieces at Amma’s Umma. Tell your mom or your hubby or your friend; make your birthday or Christmas list; know that you truly are making a difference.

I’ve put together a few of my favorite pieces below:

Clothing

Vintage Huipil Leather Weekender (a splurge worth saving up for! Next on my list!)

September Long Sleeve (fall is RIGHT around the corner. Love this look)

Pearl Striped Dress (if this were in a small, I’d buy it right now. Low stock alert! )

Claire Chevron Dress

Marci Summer Midi Mumu Dress (anything I can tie a knot in, I’ll take please!)

Cathedral Cardigan

Chambray Chevron Dress (again..no more smalls wahhhh. If you’re a large, grab this now!!)

Chiffon Grace Extender (the COOLEST piece ever. Perfect for under those long sweaters with boots. Need this now!)

Jewelry

Lune Necklace (if you watch This Is Us…doesn’t it make you want it?!)