The beauty and craftsmanship of an artisan good is unparalleled  (and not even comparable to mass production). And supporting artisan skill is almost like a form of activism–a way of making your slow-fashion beliefs heard (in style, of course). With fall just around the corner, this roundup of artisan scarves are made by traditional weavers and sold through some of the industry’s most groundbreaking companies. A difference you can see—and wear—below are 7 artisan scarves that preserve tradition and elevate unique style. 

1. Artisanal Scarf by Organic by John Patrick

As a member of the CFDA (the Council for Fashion Designers of America), John Patrick is helping to guide mainstream fashion’s perception of sustainable clothing. Often his label creates tried and true, well-made basics from eco textiles like cupro, organic cotton or viscose—simple clothing from the finest materials produced domestically. This beautiful handwoven ikat cotton scarf is a bit of a step away from John Patrick’s usual color palette but the mixture of yellow and blue within the traditional artisan pattern couldn’t be more perfect.

Organic by John Patrick, $142

2. Tropical Blush Scarf by Choolips

Trading fairly and producing locally, Choolips minimizes their impact by creating scarves that are locally sourced and stitched in Ghana from 100% cotton, and then handprinted using the Batik tradition from AZO-free dyes. Bringing back “the luxuries of ancient textiles traditions & high quality craftsmanship,” according to their site, “Choolips seamlessly blends culture with the backbone of sustainability.”

Choolips, $93

 3. Trigo Shawl by VOZ

Just looking at this scarf you can feel the warmth and skill that went into it’s creation. So it’s no surprise this trigo shawl was made in collaboration with Mapuche weavers in Southern Chile. Voz, translating to voice in Spanish, is a certified B Corporation company, meaning it’s a certified sustainable company (like what fairtrade is to coffee). Their motto is “change through beauty.”

VOZ , $195

4. I Love People Tree Scarf by People Tree

Produced ethically in Bangladesh, this scarf was handwoven using recycled yarn. People Tree was the first company ever to receive GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification, and the first to integrate an organic cotton supply chain from farm to final product.  It’s is extremely encouraging to see a label bring slow fashion, hope and change to a region which is often a victim of fast fashion production.

People Tree, $16.50

5. Bengal Blue by Indigo Handloom 

For Indigo Handloom it all began when founder Smita Paul went on a freelance writing assignment to India to learn about the silk industry. Continually intrigued by the region, in 2003 she created the label. Using century-old weaving practices and out to support the weavers themselves, the label is a perfect example of fusing artisan skill and modern style. Each artisan scarf is equally beautiful; we love their Bengal Blue scarf (pictured above).

Indigo Handloom, $127.50

6. Plaid Scarf by Kaaru 

Kaaru means artisan in Bengali, and is another amazing label produced ethically by rural artisans in Bangladesh.  Made with 100% organic cotton and hand woven, we love this scarf’s cool colors and casual attitude.  Wear it any season, it’s a unique piece to accessorize with.

Kaaru, $25

7. Pom pom Scarf by Ace & Jig

Certainly one of my favorite labels, Ace & Jig fuses cool styles with a focus on unique textiles.  This scarf is custom woven in India with 100% cotton. Lightweight and extremely soft, the color palette is a cool addition to keep you warm in any outfit.

Ace & Jig, $55

Want more On Trend? See also:

On Trend: The Sustainable White Summer Dress 7 Ways

On Trend: 7 Sustainable (Not Sneaky) Sneakers

On Trend: 9 Powerful Statement Necklaces

Photos courtesy of the designers

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