A Peek Inside Safia’s Suitcase | Fair Trade Fashion to Wear in Rio

Today Safia Minney, CEO and Founder, is flying to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to attend Global Fair Trade Week. People Tree will be presenting a Fair Trade fashion show at the conference, which brings together Fair Trade leaders and organizations from across the world.

Before Safia left, we asked for a peek inside her suitcase.

As the head of a fashion brand that partners with Fair Trade artisans and farmers and is based in both London and Tokyo, Safia is an expert in packing for international travel. So what will Safia be wearing for the Global Fair Trade Week in Rio?

A Monochrome Capsule Wardrobe that goes from Here to There…

 

I will wear a soft, organic cotton jersey dress for the plane flight. I love the bold stripes on the Olivia Dress – stripes are a key trend for the summer. When I arrive, I’ll add the Sophia Tuxedo Jacket for a smart, business-ready look. The blazer also works with the Billie Top and Skinny Trousers for a tailored look – perfect for behind the scenes prep for our fashion show! I will wear the gorgeous monochrome flower print Leni Trouser with the vintage-inspired Gillian Top for dinner in Rio.

 

Pretty Details that Make a Difference…

Nothing makes a capsule wardrobe work harder than beautiful accessories and jewellery! In packing for Rio, I was inspired by the diversity of People Tree’s Fair Trade artisan groups. I am packing accessories, earrings and bracelets from all over the world! The Recycled Sari Bag, Clutch  and Cream Stripe Scarf are made in Bangladesh.  The Inca Earring and Heart Bracelet are made by Fair Trade artisans in Kenya. The Blue Beaded Hoop Earrings and Red Sari Earrings are made by hand in India by a Fair Trade group that works to end child labour.

And a Suitcase Full of Dresses!

In preparing for Rio, I was also inspired by the vibrant colour and culture of Brazil – plus a few days in the sun. What better to pack than a suitcase full of colourful dresses?

Although it’s hard to pick – People Tree makes a beautiful range of dresses in organic and hand woven cotton – I had to settle on five. Here are my picks for Rio:

• The Emeline Summer Flower Dress has a bold floral print in shades of red and navy.
• The Philippa Blossom Sun Dress has a lovely soft grey floral print with pops of coral.
• The Lily Sweetheart Yoke Dress in a vibrant, cobalt blue hand woven cotton.
• The Alison Dress is hand block printed by Fair Trade artisans.
• The Red Heart Dress because Fair Trade Fashion is about caring for people and the environment!

Thanks Safia for giving us a peek inside your suitcase!

Be sure to come back to The Thread this week as we’ll be posting daily updates from Rio! And before you go, tell us what People Tree you would pack for a trip to Brazil.