We are all aware of plastic pollution and trying our hardest to reduce our plastic use - from small steps such as using a reusable coffee cup and canvas tote shopping bags when popping to the shops. So it was really nice to discover Aspiga, an ethical artisan brand trying to do their bit for the environment. I recently went along to a lovely breakfast event where I got to meet the owner, Lucy and hear all about the story behind the brand and the wonderful things they have been doing to create a fashion brand with the environment and charity (they support a Kenyan orphanage and Santana’s Womens Group) at the heart of what they do. This is a brand dedicated to the care of their suppliers, customers, employees and the planet - doing things the right way! You can have a further read here if you want to hear more about how hard they are working to be as sustainable as possible.
Lucy is on a mission to raise awareness and clean up Malindi beach in Kenya so with a ‘World Environment Day’ on the 5th June initiative, Aspiga pledge to remove a basket of plastic for every pair of Kenyan sandals sold during May, June and July 2019.
“Unfortunately, Malindi beach adjacent the beautiful Marine Park is
sometimes covered in plastic, I was so upset when I saw it for myself last
January. Even though Kenya has banned plastic bags, there is still a huge
amount of plastic bottles, flip flops, fishing nets and the like washed up on
the beach. I am passionate about the environment and marine life and I wanted to
help raise awareness of this issue. My hero David Attenborough has done
a wonderful job bringing it to the attention of everyone, but there is still a lot
to be done.” Aspiga founder Lucy Macnamara
Above: Wearing Louise Midi Sundress £60, Naisha Soft Sole Sandals £58, Bekka Beaded Clutch £110 & Anklet £8 all by Aspiga
These stunning handmade leather beaded Kenyan sandals were the first product Aspiga launched and they have worked closely with the local community ever since. Each pair takes over 3 hours to be hand beaded and I love the fact they support local artisans keeping their craft alive whilst helping to maintain their livelihood. The beads are glass, not plastic and remember for every pair of Kenyan sandals sold they will be clearing a basket full of plastic off the beach!
Above: Leopard Wrap Frill Skirt £60, Naisha Soft Sole Sandals £58 & Anklet £8 all by Aspiga
Here are my top picks, perfect for holiday and beyond! Click the images to shop and support this great initiative this summer. Sandals start from £55.
Lucy has a real passion for travel and the brand specialises in colourful resort wear - such as boho style kaftans, floaty beach dresses, embroidered and beaded accessories and shoes. I love the free spirited, traveller feel to the collections - the pieces are timeless and ageless, something for everyone! These are a few of my favourite styles, click the images to shop.
Good luck with your mission to clean up Malindi Beach Aspiga!
*please note this post contains some gifted items from Aspiga