January 05, 2012
Courtesy Stella McCartney.
High-minded meets high fashion in Stella McCartney’s new snake-inspired designs. Her new python-print tote bag and flat sandal are handmade by Kenyan women from recycled African-tent canvases. The items support the Ethical Fashion Programme (a joint venture between the World Trade Organization and the United Nations), which connects international fashion houses and distributors with disadvantaged African communities to develop a sustainable livelihood for thousands of women living in extreme poverty. It’s not lifelong-vegetarian Stella McCartney’s first foray into charity work—her past projects have included MeatFree Monday and the PPR Foundation for Women’s Dignity and Rights—but it’s certainly newsworthy. As for the rest of us, a look that’s both fashionable and virtuous? Yes, please. Large tote bag $330; flat sandal $300; available at Stella McCartney stores; stellamccartney.com.
April 05, 2012
Courtesy Inspirato
Inspirato, the online company that connects travelers with luxury vacation properties, has just launched a new division that will help people make charitable giving a part of their travel plans. The new site, inspiredgiving.com, asks travelers to make a $2,000 donation to any charity in the company’s list of partners—which includes The Lance Armstrong Foundation, Step Up Women’s Network, Malaria No More and dozens of other organizations. The site then grants them access to Inspirato’s portfolio of multimillion-dollar vacation rentals at members-only prices. Choices include a four-bedroom Tuscan villa surrounded by olive groves, which comes with a private chef and sommelier; or a lodge in Aspen with a gourmet kitchen, ski-in/ski-out access and a private hot tub. All properties come with an on-site destination concierge, who can handle everything from pre-stocking the fridge to booking a tee time. It’s vacation-meets-virtue for the digital age. inspiredgiving.com
