Sunday, March 8, 2009

Do-Ni Gift of Love - Bella e Dolce Scarpa

One of my most commonly spoken words while traveling in Italy (besides vino and gelato) was scarpa which means "shoes." You probably could have predicted that given the number of times gorgeous shoes are mentioned on this blog. But honestly, these bella e dolce scarpa keep walking into my life. And what's even more fabulous is that their existence truly benefits our world and not just our outfits. Do-Ni which means "gifts" is the inspired passion of two vegetarian shoe designers Nancy Dong and Carlotta Fiorini who have created a beautiful collection of stylish, vegan and ecological shoes. The first collection of Do-Ni Nobilia ballerinas (US$150-175, currently on sale!) are made from leather-free materials from Italy, water-based and animal-free glues and pre-consumer recycled components. The medallion is hand made by traditional artisans in India and the ribbon is fair trade from France.

In accordance with Do-Ni Gift of Love's mission - to empower those who do not have a voice - Do-Ni donates 100% of retail profits to participating non-profit organizations like Best Friends Animal Society which helps place dogs and cats considered "unadoptable" in new homes or Medicines Global which inspires adventure travelers to give back to the places they visit by delivering basic first aid supplies to medical centers and remote community run health posts. Currently Do-Ni has six participating non-profit organizations which you can choose to receive the retail profits from your purchase through their online store.

According to the founders, they "are focused on solving the issues facing the world today, while offering excellent alternative to traditional leather shoes to the growing conscious consumers.... By selecting conscientiously what you buy, you are voting with your wallet, supporting businesses that foster sustainable production cycles while exercis[ing] social responsibility." What's not to love about their mission, socially responsible business model and these sweet ballerina flats? Favoloso e filantropico!

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