Issue link: http://denverseminary.uberflip.com/i/805155
The name Arrowroot comes from E.A.'s long- standing affection for vintage clothes. It is wrapped up in the idea of the old inspiring the new; "root" looks to the past, and "arrow" represents moving fashion forward. "We do anywhere from two to four lines a year with nine to twelve dresses in a themed 'look book' for the season. Generally, we make spring and fall production trips to Honduras, but at this point, I can just send the patterns and the material and know they are going to do a great job." ETHICAL PRODUCTION One significant thing that sets Arrowroot apart is their production philosophy: "We believe good clothing isn't just aesthetically on point, but uplifts the people who made it—physically, emotionally, and financially." Arrowroot's commitment to ethical production isn't just in the sewing of the clothes, but extends all the way to those who grow the cotton. The fashion industry is known throughout the world for unethical treatment of workers and harmful effects on the environment, but E.A. found organizations that share her commitment to lifting people up and protecting the environment in the process. "To ensure that each of our dresses is ethically produced, 100-percent of our production happens through partnerships with amazing organizations who are committed to providing fair wages and safe jobs for women who need them." She found growers who produce organic cotton and taught the women of Mi Esperanza how to hand dye the materials and use stencils with fabric paint to create the patterns for her clothing. This results in unique fashion with a clear conscience. She knows that every person in the chain of production has been protected, uplifted, and valued in the process. The blogging community is abuzz with E.A.'s designs. Arrowroot is growing rapidly, consistently shipping product with each new season. While all sorts of buyers find their way to her at shoparrowroot.com, her primary buyers tend to be Millennials who see the dresses as an irresistible combination of fashion made with compassion. NEW IDEAS Still in its infancy at just over two years old, Arrowroot has birthed its first offshoot. "We launched a line of breastfeeding dresses that are going so well we had to launch a second website: latchdressco.com." Latch is exploding in its popularity and positive response from consumers. 18 SPRING 2017 TAKE IT FROM HERE Caitlin Ahlenius Caitlin Ahlenius