Of Rags is a fashion cooperative that fuses the fashionable looks of New York women with the artistic patterns popular with women in Ghana, Africa.
When you buy an article of clothing from Of Rag, you're not only purchasing unique and edgy fashion, you're also supporting the employment women in Ghana, which allows them to support their families and provide them with food, healthcare and education. The line includes women and mens apparel as well as shoes.
"The essence of Of Rags is wealth creation and empowerment from within the community by providing jobs and opportunities," their website says. "We strive for every member of our team to take ownership over our individual roles and the founding values of the organization in order to truly make a lasting impact."
The social business was started in 2009 by American social entrepreneur J. Branson and Ghanian designer RAAM. At time of posting, the Of Rag artisans have already produced over 982 pieces of clothing, have been paid $6,560 in wages, and $7,500 has been reinvested.
Contact Information
Of Rags website
Of Rags on Twitter
Of Rags on Facebook
Edgy Fashion Co-Ops
Fair Trade 'Of Rags' Combines NYC Style with Ghanaian Fashion
Trend Themes
1. Fair Trade Fashion - There is an opportunity for more fashion cooperatives that support local artisans in developing countries.
2. International Collaborations - There is an opportunity for more international collaborations that bring together different fashion styles and cultures.
3. Social Entrepreneurship - There is an opportunity for more social businesses that prioritize the well-being and empowerment of their employees.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry can benefit from incorporating fair trade practices and international collaborations to create unique and ethical fashion.
2. International Development - The international development industry can support the creation of more fashion cooperatives in developing countries to provide employment and economic opportunities for local artisans.
3. Social Enterprise - The social enterprise industry can continue to promote and support businesses like Of Rags that prioritize social impact and empowerment of employees.