I admit, I am a bit biased. Sseko Designs might be my favorite brand, although I’m sure I will say that about others later this month. I started with Sseko because I support their mission and I use their products daily. Even if you’re not sold on the idea of ethical shopping because of cost, the quality of these products and their story will win you over in a heart beat.
Brand: Sseko (say-ko) Designs
Country of Origin: Uganda & Ethiopia
How they give back: They are an ethical fashion brand that hires high potential women in Uganda to make sandals to enable them to earn money through dignified employment that will go directly towards their college educations and ensure they will continue pursuing their dreams. To date, they’ve enabled 60 women to continue on to university. And currently employ 50 women in Uganda from all walks of life. They believe that every woman has a dream. And when she is given the opportunity to pursue those dreams, we are collectively walking towards a brighter and more just and beautiful world.
In addition to [Sseko Designs] work in Uganda, they design and source ethically made products from East Africa. And believe that good business can be an incredibly powerful force for positive social change. Sseko products are all made in Africa and create jobs, empower artisans and help end the cycle of poverty by building healthy communities and economies. (borrowed from, HERE)
Products: Women’s Shoes; d’orsay, ballet, and loafer flats, oxfords, booties, and ribbon sandals, Jewelry; the Brave bracelet & necklace, scarves, Leather goods; bags, wallets, pouches
What to love about this brand: They specifically hire young women post high school graduation and give them a meaningful job to help them afford University. A college savings plan is a fairly western idea, and not economically possible for most. Their Kampala workshop is 100% managed by Ugandans these are veteran full time women who are designers, mothers and support their families. Get to know some of the girls on their site, HERE
Why I love Sseko Designs: I first heard about Sseko through Stitch Fix and quickly became obsessed. I received the honey brown crossbody bag in my Fix, it’s the softest leather and the perfect sized small bag for me. Then in June, I ordered a pair of their ribbon sandals off of Poshmark, just days before 10 ways 10 days started. I wore my sandals everyday and learned a lot of new ties, thanks to their daily periscope videos. In July they had their big sale, I had been coveting one of their bucket totes for a while and when they came up for sale, I knew I just had to treat myself to one…its been my go-to bag ever since. I became connected with one of the Sseko Fellows on Instagram and I hosted a small Sseko party on Facebook a few months ago, we didn’t sell a ton of products but we were able to share why Sseko’s model is important especially to the girls that make these products!
What is on my wishlist:
From the top right: Drawstring satchel bag// Black & Gold Clutch Set// Gold Toe D’Orsay Flats// Voyager Bag// Wanderlust Shawl
Where to find them online:
Stylishly Shelby 
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