Last Christmas, I told you about my friend Rachel from college, who was working on a project about micro-lending and micro-financing. So it felt rather serendipitous when I got an email a few weeks ago from the generous folks at Novica.com.
Novica is a website entirely devoted to microfinancing. Not sure what that means? It's basically extending small loans (usually in 3rd world countries, but not always) to people or small businesses in hopes of spurring entrepreneurship. Novica--which partners with the equally-amazing folks at National Geographic--goes a step further by bringing these goods to the mass market. There are really some incredible wares out there; obviously, these people--poverty or not--have a heck of a lot more creativity and talent than I ever will!
I was able to pick three items from Novica's amazing online catalog; they truly have everything you could need. From kitchen goods to linens to art and pottery, they have it all. Of course, they also have clothes and jewelry, and being a fashion-deprived preggo these days, I decided to search for items I could wear even with my expanding waistline.
The first item I picked was the gorgeous "Summer Song" cotton blouse. Made in India by Vijay Singh (not the professional golfer, as my husband thought), I picked it because of its empire waist and flowy design. I did NOT read the description carefully, however, and failed to realize it also featured sequins and hand-done beading. That was a special treat, and makes this top perfect for church or a dinner out. And at 15 weeks pregnant, the "medium" size is more than generous. I think I'll be able to wear this through at least my second trimester: SUCCESS!!
"Summer Song" Cotton Blouse: $47.99
Next, I picked another top I thought would fit me through most of my pregnancy. The "Sugar Chic" Cotton Blouse is fabulous on two fronts: first, it has generous bell sleeves, which are ideal for my pregnant-and-haven't-been-to-the-gym-in-weeks arms (aka, they hide the flab!). Second, the empire waist once again serves as a camouflage for my growing baby bump! This item is made in Thailand by Jariya Kakaew."Sugar Chic" Cotton Blouse: $29.95
Also made in Thailand, the "Flowing Jade" Wood Cuff Bracelets are one-size fits all... that had me a little concerned when I placed the order, but you know what? Apparently, one-size includes my preggo wrists! This pair of bracelets (I think this is a great value: two bracelets??? I was only expecting one!) is a deep green color, but you can really only see the shade up close. From far away, I've found the bracelets have a "chameleon-like" quality that allows them to adjust with whatever outfit I'm wearing, kind of like a much-trendier version of the 1970's mood ring."Flowing Jade" Wood Cuff Bracelets (2): $22.99
With the Christmas season around the corner, I'll definitely be returning to Novica for everyone on my shopping list. Whether you're searching for fair trade corporate gifts for your husband's boss, green gifts for your cloth-diapering friends, or unique gifts for anyone else, Novica will have it all... plus, you'll know you're supporting individuals overseas with your purchase! Oh, and one more thing... all your purchases from Novica come exquisitely wrapped--without extra charge--making it true one-stop shopping for the season!
Disclaimer: I received the above purchases from Novica.com for free of charge for the purpose of this review. The total price of the items received was $100.93 plus tax. The opinions expressed in this review are my own, and were in no way biased by the sponsor company.
ooh I adore Novica! Great for Christmas gift shopping and a fun distraction from work :) I've been a fan for quite some time. Good choice for review!
I had never heard of Novica, but am enamored of the items you chose-esp. the white shirt and the bracelets!