Where I can purchase shoes and other clothing items?

[chris]

I just got this via email and thought I'd post it here for everyone to comment on.

Thanks

Chris

[caity]

In San Frnacisco, there's Otsu - http://www.veganmart.com/ and another good one is Moo Shoes http://www.mooshoes.com/ out of New York.

These two are stores with great reputations for customer service. Others are Vegan Essentials (they're speedy and I have some great quality products from them, including shoes) - www.veganessentials.com

I'm really into buying from vegan sources (owned and operated by vegans, not big corporations). Otherwise, if I'm shopping at some random clothing or shoe store, I just take careful looks at their labels. It might be more expensive (might!) at the stores I've listed, but at least you know for sure that there isn't any fur or leather hidden somewhere in the lining.

Have fun shopping!

~Caity

[kmeldrum]

Pangea is also a good source of vegan products - shoes, food, etc. You can find them via the link, www.veganstore.com/.
Karen

[tammy]

Another alternative from the great ideas that Caity and Karen provided is to check out your favorite non-profit, sometimes they sell cruelty-free clothing.. Or, if you purchase something by clicking a link from their website, they will get a commission from the retailer.

It can also be helpful to ask the current companies that you shop with what items in their product line are vegan. Companies will make vegan products when there is a demand for it. So, inquiring shows them there is a demand. In the long run, as 'mainstream' companies see vegan product sales grow more popular, they will produce more, which will eventually make them easier and more affordable to find. This is supply and demand market forces at work...

Nowadays, there are lots of vegan clothing options available for casual and professional attire. If you are looking at regular clothing stores, you will have to read some labels, but it can be done. Or, you might find it easier to purchase from stores and companies that have already done the research that the products they are selling are vegan.

On an aside, I saw the greatest t-shirt yesterday when I was at the KFC demo in San Francisco. It said something like

"Go Vegan and no one will get hurt"

Good luck with your shopping!