Let's Talk Handmade

In a world dominated by mass production and fast fashion, the significance of ethically made goods cannot be overstated. At Moon+Arrow, we believe every purchase is an opportunity to support a more sustainable and compassionate world. But what does it mean to buy ethically, and why should it matter to us all?

Ethically made goods are created with deep respect for the people who craft them, the environment, and the communities they come from. This means ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable practices that minimize harm to our planet. When you choose ethically made goods, you’re not just buying a product—you’re supporting a philosophy that values people over profits and quality over quantity.
One surprising fact people overlook is that all clothing, from the cheapest fast-fashion items to the slow-fashion brands, is handmade. The push to produce clothing quickly and cheaply in fast fashion often leads to poor working conditions and unfair wages, like really unfair.

Earth.org states, “In Bangladesh, workers are paid about 33 cents per hour, while the average wage in sweatshops in India is barely 58 cents.” Working conditions are poor, unhygienic, and unsafe because many sweatshops are located in nations with weak labor laws and little government control; as a result, workers can not advocate for themselves without losing their jobs.

Many of these businesses (Uniqlo, GAP, Shein, H&M, etc.) thrive on the backs of the underprivileged, with a heartbreaking focus on children. A survey of mills in India revealed that 60% of the workers were under 18 when they began. These children, trapped in the cycle of poverty, are especially vulnerable to being forced into grueling work in sweatshops.

Fast fashion not only mistreats its workers but also has a harmful environmental impact. In the United States, about 11.3 million tons of textile waste, making up 85% of all textiles, are discarded into landfills yearly. This amounts to roughly 81.5 pounds (37 kilograms) per person annually and approximately 2,150 pieces per second nationwide. The excessive consumption in the fast fashion sector leads to significant issues for humanity and the planet, affecting us all.

We invite you to explore the world of ethical shopping with us at Moon+Arrow. Discover our collection of thoughtfully selected goods, each designed to bring beauty, integrity, and a sense of connection into your life. Let’s make a difference, one mindful purchase at a time.

What can you do?

🌍 Vote for the Planet: Your voice matters—use it to support candidates and policies that champion climate action and environmental protection. Stay informed, get involved, and make your vote count for the Earth.

🌱 Reduce Your Impact: Every choice counts. Opt for renewable energy, conserve resources, and embrace sustainable habits like carpooling, recycling, and composting. Together, we can lighten our footprint on the planet.

💚 Support Earth’s Guardians: Stand with organizations like Earth.Org and their partners who are dedicated to protecting our environment. Your support helps amplify their efforts in education, conservation, and holding those in power accountable.

🌿 Live Sustainably: Small changes, big impact. Choose reusable over single-use, embrace eco-friendly products, consider a plant-based diet, and seek out sustainable fashion. Every mindful decision helps build a greener future.

📣 Spread the Word: The climate crisis needs all of us. Share your knowledge, engage in conversations, and inspire others to join the movement for a sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference.

✊ Stand with Climate Activists: Show your support for those leading the charge in climate action. Whether by attending peaceful protests, joining online campaigns, or simply raising awareness, your involvement strengthens the call for climate justice.