.jpg){kind=tracking}
While, PETA's sexy, star studded "I'd Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur" campaign is a vital one---in my own life, I can't think of anyone who wears, condones, or even covets fur. Yet, most people I know --myself included-- wear leather. I've never felt completely comfortable with the fact I wear leather. I never worn fur and have been a vegetarian since the age of 14. Sustainability, however, is about compromise and I’ve never felt comfortable with the prospect of forgoing such an essential staple of my regular wardrobe. As fur is becoming increasingly obscure --humane society experts have even informed me that new surveys show most Americans do not care for fur and vegetarianism is certainly on the rise-- leather continues to be ubiquitously worn, purchased and sold.
Denver's, Ahimsa Footwear, however, challenges the necessity of the leather compromise. The abundance of well designed synthetic leather options now available are astounding ---not to mention appealing--- and make a compelling argument for leather no longer being necessary.
Lisa Young, owner and founder of Ahimsa, came from a medical, rather than a business background. After settling in Denver, she decided to open a store that would fill that gap. Her shop now provides a cozy, yet convivial floor space with as many vegan options as the floorspace can physically accommodate. In addition to the regular, loyal, local customers, the website and low shipping rates are now attracting legion of European customers, as well.
Despite the sites convenience, large selection and low shipping rates, however, if you’re living in Denver, I highly recommend you take advantage of the opportunity to visit the store in person. It's on major public transportation and bike routes and parking is readily available.
In addition to the variety of eco-friendly acessories --bamboo socks, hemp belts and bags made from recycled tires, to name a few--- shelf space is also devoted to a small library of green lifestyle, health and vegetarian recipe books. Local vendors are sought out and given priority and a lovingly maintained community bulletin board posts relevant events and resources. Finally, the bright yellow walls and slanted wood rafters create a warm, cheerful and inviting. If, like me, you're never been all that crazy about the prospect of wearing leather and always hoped to eventually wean yourself off of the wretched stuff, this fantastic collection of eclectic, well designed and affordable footwear, might well do the trick.
If you wondering what the deal is with organic denim, check out Sustinable Style Series, part 2: Aoki organic denim
If you liked this story and want to read more about the challenges of making humane choices regarding animal products, check out Choosing cruelty free chicken eggs in a state that does not regulate by the same writer.
The writer's story, With buyer bids on eBay down, declutter your closet with the help of local resale shops is a good resource for learning out more about local cost effective and eco-friendly retail options.
To read the author's review of an excellent eco-friendly accessory that is available online or at Whole Foods retailers, check out One Feed 100 reusable shopping bag will get 100 hungry mouths fed.
Comments