Raven + Lily: Empowering women through design

Best buddies Kirsten Dickerson & Sophia Lin are the brain power behind Raven + Lily, which is a socially responsible ethically natured brand dedicated to empowering women worldwide through design partnerships and sustainable economic opportunities. Both ladies are extremely passionate about fashion and ethical design, and so Raven + Lily was the perfect platform to channel both of those passions and change the lives of women in the process. Sometimes, fashion does find a heart.

Current collections are lovingly made by the hands of artisans all over the globe from North India to Cambodia to Ethiopia. All of the jewellery and accessories are contemporary and organic in design, eco-friendly, and reflect the unique beauty and culture of the amazing woman who made it. And each item arrives with a special gift tag attached that tells you the journey of just how that purchase has ended up in your hands, and who is responsible for putting it there.

The Ethiopia Collection is comprised of statement necklaces, earrings and bracelets crafted with handmade beads + charms from melted bullet casings and vintage silver coins. This collection empowers HIV-positive women in Ethiopia.

The India Collection features gorgeous recycled cotton papers, hand-carved wood journals, metallic leather jewellery and hand-milled natural soaps. This collection empowers marginalized women in Northern India.

The Cambodia Collection includes eco-friendly bags and t-shirts made with hand-loomed, natural-dyed, and remnant materials. These hand-printed pieces are made with love by HIV positive and formerly trafficked women in Cambodia.

But Raven +Lily don’t just create sustainable economic opportunities for marginalised women, oh no – they are firmly dedicated to returning proceeds to their partner communities to fund education, healthcare, and micro-loans. So when you purchase any of these fantabulous pieces from R+L, you are making yourself a part of breaking that poverty cycle, and transforming the lives of women and their families.

I always try to remember to tell myself that there are 3 important things in life. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. And the third is to be kind. That’s all you need to remember.