Canadians Cultivating Creativity, Eh!

Where to shop if you like supporting maple leaf brands with a mission.

DIVE IN TO SEA SAVING SWIMWEAR

The Saltwater Collective

Helping to save the oceans one swim suit at a time. This Toronto based brand is drawing attention to the water we dip our toes in. In an effort to preserve our oceans through their swimwear, they’ve teamed up with Oceana; donating a portion of their proceeds from every sale. Since 2001, Oceana has been the largest advocacy organization focused solely on ocean conservation. The condition of our oceans is vastly taken for granted; it is assumed that pollution only impacts a small percentage of lady blue, where in fact it’s quite the opposite. Only about 4% of our oceans remain untouched by man. It’s amazing to see a small company so dedicated to a noble cause. In addition to their pun-tastic one-piece swim suits, Saltwater Collective also sells men and women’s graphic tees, hats and all natural soaps. All product manufacturing is done locally in Toronto to minimize the company’s carbon footprint.

Slip in to one of their suits the next time you decide to take a plunge in some salt water.

THOUGHTFUL FASHION: TWO BIRDS, ONE COMPANY

Two Birds Apparel

From organic materials to bike couriering, Two Birds Apparel has a mindful approach to all aspects of their company. The fashionable and comfortable clothing offered by Two Birds is made from organic bamboo/cotton blends and is manufactured just outside Toronto. 1% of profits are donated to the David Suzuki Foundation. An organization well-recognized for their involvement in environment preservation. Their stylish sunglasses are made from only salvaged, recycled or FSC certified wood and for every pair sold, Trees of the Future will plant a tree. Cool shades creating more cool shade!

Another unique aspect of this apparel brand, is their use of bike couriers. Two Birds uses Turnaround Couriers, a courier company that recruits at-risk youth for all their deliveries and office staff, thus giving youth the opportunity to gain job experience and meet financial needs.

It’s clear to see how much thought goes in to every company decision, and they seem to have found a unique solution to every problem.

PLANTS TO PANTS: NATURAL FIBRE FABRICS

Miik

It’s all about the fibres with this sustainable-concious Canadian brand. Their apparel business in British Columbia is built on the belief that clothes should be made to last. Too much waste is created through the discarding of garments. That’s why the creators of Miik thoughtfully selected bamboo, flax and beach wood pulp to make the fibres for their clothing. When made into fabric, these plant materials do not fade, stretch or pill the way other natural fibres do, meaning your garment will continue to look new, wash after wash. Miik offers a wide variety of casual, playful dresses, structured jackets, flowy cardigans, trousers and leggings. Bamboo, in addition to being a highly sustainable crop, has an incredibly soft texture.

You’ll be so comfortable in Miik clothing, you’ll never want to take it off let alone throw it away.

MOO-VE OVER: ETHICAL LEATHER SHOES

La Canadienne

If you’re willing to spend the extra money on a good pair of leather boots or pumps, then La Canadienne is the brand for you. Based in Montreal, La Canadienne uses leather that is a by-product of the food industry, meaning cattle are not being killed for their hide. Dyes used in the tanning process are all natural; never harsh chemicals, thus reducing pollution and maintaining a safer working environment for production workers. Styles range from pirate boots to classic stilettos, and everything in between. In addition to shoes, they also carry handbags and small accessories. Footwear quality is essential and with La Canadienne no detail is overlooked. Each shoe is carefully inspected by trained professionals before being hand-packaged in boxes made from recycled materials.

Your toes and peace of mind will both be happy with these stylish shoes.