Cruelty Free Friday: Cow Jones Industrials Boutique

Lavuk Squid top made of 100% percent organic cotton

I am excited to announce that every Friday Ecco*Eco will feature cruelty-free fashion and news stories as a way to explore the progress made in ethical fashion and our ongoing compassion for the animal kingdom. I am not a devout vegan, but quite a few of my dearest friends are, and as part of my research on 'fashioning self and the environment', I feel that it is critical to highlight this vital component of the ethical fashion dialogue.

First up in this regular feature is Cow Jones Industrials Boutique in Chatham, New York. Thoughtfully curated by owner and devoted animal rights activist, Donna Oakes, this smart vegan outpost is a must visit for anyone traveling through the beautiful Hudson Valley. I was lucky enough to visit Donna this past Monday, and I have highlighted some of my favorite finds and designers, available at the shop as well as online.

Mohop low thong sandal in ebony

Popomomo Gertude pant / ethically made in California

Popomomo Lebedev dress / ethically made in California

A Perfume Organic fragrances sitting pretty at Cow Jones

Feral Childe Abalone Dress in Lapis and Sage

PET:cell cellulose bangle

GG2G Gyoza clutch in black made from salvaged restaurant seating 

Vaute Couture 'Widen The Circle' tee modeled by Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart

My favorite purchase during my visit was Vaute Couture's 'Widen the Circle' tee, already a huge hit at this week's yoga class. You can follow stories and promotions posted by Cow Jones Industrials on their Facebook page. Do not miss their current fundraising collaboration with Liz Marshall for her upcoming documentary, The Ghosts In Our Machine.

Weekend Visit with Cow Jones Industrials

Vegan and fair trade offerings at Cow Jones Industrials in Chatham

OlsenHaus shoes, Sarah Donegan hessian tote, and Offhand Designs

I had a lovely visit yesterday with Donna Oakes at her vegan boutique, Cow Jones Industrials in Chatham, NY. It was a magical day to visit this beautifully-curated space as the autumn leaves were kicking up on the country backroads and the fall foliage was beginning to reach its colorful and vibrant peak.

Donna Oakes at Cow Jones Industrials

You might recall my interview with Donna Oakes in August's Mindful Retailing Beyond Urban Zones: Part 1 for Goodlifer. As we all know, the Internet is a great way to connect with like-minded individuals, but honestly, there is no substitute for spending time with someone as knowledgeable and community-oriented as Donna. 

I also was lucky enough to be able to try on some stunning new designs by NaturevsFuture, Popomomo, Cri de Coeur, OlsenHaus, Vaute Couture, GG2G, Matt & Nate, The Andean Collection, Wired jewelry, to name a few.

Vaute Couture critter-friendly tank tees

The Andean Collection's tagua bracelets with Wired jewelry

Popomomo Quartz cape made from hemp and recycled poly-denim

My coveted find from yesterday's visit? This super chic and versatile 'Quartz Cape' from Popomomo - perfect for upcoming travel to Europe. Donna was sporting it in the shop as well, and it is the perfect year round layering piece for both rural and urban jaunts.

Cow Jones Industrials will be participating as a fashion sponsor in this weekend's Vegan Fashion Show at the Vegetarian Expo in Albany, NY. Word is that October 2 has become official Vegan Fashion Day on both US coasts, with events being held in both NY State and San Francisco.

Do not miss visiting Cow Jones the next time you follow the Hudson River north. It is well worth the visit and a great way to add to your fashion-with-a-conscience wardrobe in the most relaxing of settings.

(above photos, with the exception of Popomomo, by Abigail Doan)