theAndeanProject from John Murillo on Vimeo.
“The idea behind our line is to bring you great fashion forward designs, while creating a greener planet, and providing a path out of poverty for artisans using fair trade principles. In addition to being paid fair wages, our artisans share in the profits of the company as partial owners of The Andean Collection.”
When I received an email about the Andean Collection, I was immediately enthralled by the beautiful colors and materials. I love the bold, offbeat style of collection, as well as the variety of styles. These are pieces you can easily mix and match to create a real statement – or wear alone for an equally bold look.
Normally, I don’t wear bracelets, but I’m really into the styles above. Mostly, I’m an earring gal – and look at these babies! The prices are great, too; nothing pictured is more than $24. Each style is also available in a wide range of colors, so you’re not limited to one shade the way you might be in a store (and even many online retailers). For example, the pair of earrings on the far right above are stocked in 11 shades – ELEVEN!
I’m not a huge necklace person, either, but I think that’s the department in which the Andean Collection really shines. Just look at the amazing creations above! They range from $34 to $78, which makes them much less expensive than the ones I’ve been seeing in the stores lately. Statement necklaces are all the range, and these make a statement of class, eco-consciousness and quality.
The people at the Andean Collection generously sent me a piece from the collection to check out. I received the fabulous Acai Rope Necklace, which retails for $39.
“Resembles a long strand of pearls in shape and size and is another of our extremely versatile items. The pictures below show the many different ways this necklace can be worn. For an dramatic look, wear 2 necklaces together, both double wrapped.”
It’s available in Natural, Tomato, Turquoise, Electric Purple, Titanium, Terra Green, and Wine. I think the one I received is Electric Purple, although mine’s not quite as bright as the one on the site.
The piece itself is really neat – it has a lot more personality than a necklace with regular beads that are completely uniform and perfect. The acai “beads” are different shapes and slightly different sizes, and their imperfections give the necklace a strong allure.
I’ve worn mine out several times and am starting to feel like I might be a “necklace person” after all! I wear it doubled for two chains, or tied in a knot. Both looks are very appealing and add to the variety of the necklace.
I highly recommend checking out the Andean Collection for yourself. If you’re not ready to buy (or don’t have the cash on hand yet!), there are several ways to “stay in touch.” You can check out their blog, fan them on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter. My recommendation is subscribing to their newsletter – do so by scrolling down under the photo on their homepage.