For the Love of Fashion

© Katherine McPherson / MiamiFashionblog.com

At Metta boutique in Coconut Grove, you can practice two gratifying activities simultaneously: shopping and philanthropy. Metta, which translates to “loving kindess” in the Indian language Pali, definitely lives up to its name. The store, carries only brands that are socially and environmentally responsible.

“I wanted to use my time in Metta to do what I love and do something positive at the same time... Metta is all about spreading love, peace, values and positive awareness as well as social consciousness," says owner Jessica de Linares.

© Katherine McPherson / MiamiFashionblog.com“Most of the brands we work with either do some type of charity, promote a good cause, spread positive messages, support fair trade and labor, give jobs to people in need and so on, and we also donate a percentage of the proceedings of Metta to a charity of choice... we believe in a lifestyle where you can be good to yourself while sharing with others."

And Metta does not make you sacrifice style for charity. From hand-beaded tunics and skirts from India, to flowy maxi and mini dresses from Gypsy 05 and colorful dresses from Calypso, you’re guaranteed to look chic and feel good.

At Metta you’ll find brands like FEED, which makes everything from canvas bags to teddy bears, and donates a percentage of every purchase to combat world huger. Aspiga’s woven, metallic silver and gold flats are not only chic, but hand-made in Africa, creating much-needed jobs in local communities. Much like Thread For Thought, which provides jobs in Kenya for workers who make the line’s soft and comfortable t-shirts that are also 100% organic and recyclable.

Hollywood favorite Sir Alistair Rai, produces their whole collection of accessories, dresses, caftans and clutches in India, and designer Kiran Rai personally visits each facility to make sure that workers are being treated fairy and being paid a living wage. Coveted by celebs like Drew Barrymore and Angelina Jolie, Sir Alistair Rai’s cute peace sign clutches are a perfect addition to any outfit.               

© Katherine McPherson / MiamiFashionblog.comMetta also carries children’s brands like Dwell Studio, Aden and Anais and Zebi Kids. (The location used to be the popular children’s store Hippo.) The back of the store is stocked with goodies from chic diaper bags (we wouldn’t be above carrying one as a functional daytime purse) to cute backpacks, clothing and even furniture. At Metta, you can keep your kid styling, while teaching them the valuable lesson of giving back to those in need.

If you’re a fan of one-of-a-kind pieces and handmade goods, Metta is the place for you. Handmade shoes by Castaner, embellished belts from R U Swanky, and funky necklaces and earrings by Namaste, made from orange rinds and colored from flower petals, will ensure a unique look.

There is a very zen vibe about Metta-the space is cozy and warm, the merchandize is beautiful and organic, and you feel like you are doing good just by stepping foot inside the store. The mantra Love is not something you look for…love is something you become is lovingly painted on the wall, reinforcing the important principal behind the boutique.

Although Metta has high standards for the lines they carry, if a brand doesn’t provide a service or donation to a specific cause, Metta will donate a percentage of the sale to a charity. In fact, Metta donates a percentage of all their sales to a selected charity. Shopping for a cause, what could be better than that?