10 companies that give back so you can feel extra good when you shop
Whether you’re in the market for a fresh pair of sunnies or some new skivvies, these are the most stylish companies that give back with charitable efforts.
10 companies that give back so you can feel extra good when you shop
Whether you’re in the market for a fresh pair of sunnies or some new skivvies, these are the most stylish companies that give back with charitable efforts.
It used to be that the fashion industry existed in a completely different realm, offering little in terms of solutions to pressing societal issues. But now, thanks to an influx of social- and eco-conscious companies that have baked giving back right into the business model, every dollar you spend goes a little further to combat problems like homelessness, unemployment, and hunger.
Whether you’re in the market for slick sunglasses, new skivvies, or a fresh pair of kicks, these are the brands that are stylish, cool, and charitable, too.
Warby Parker spreads the gift of sight all over the globe with their one-for-one program. For every pair of glasses sold, the company give a pair to someone in need through brand partners and nonprofit organizations such as VisionSpring. To date, Warby Parker has distributed over 5 million pairs of glasses, which have helped children see better in school and adults increase their productivity, income, and quality of life. Oh, and did we mention they have an at-home try on program? Lazy online shoppers rejoice.
The aptly named Feed is a lifestyle label that provides food for school children in 63 countries around the world, including the United States. They’ve supplied over 107 million meals and counting thanks to sales of their functional bags, accessories, and home goods imbued with their signature utilitarian vibe. One of the coolest things about shopping their site is that each product page tells you exactly how many school meals your purchase will provide. Treat yourself to a new handbag to contribute to the cause. Or, you can host a Feed Supper of your own with friends and family and request donations for Feeding America.
DIFF Charitable Eyewear
Based in California, DIFF stocks a variety of stylish designer glasses (prescription, sun, and blue light) without the retail markup. The eyewear label has donated over 1 million pairs of reading glasses. They also help provide income for female artisans in Uganda and Honduras who create beautiful sunglass cases through DIFF’s Pouch Program. They also give back locally, too, via beach clean ups and by mentoring inner-city kids and donating supplies to them and their families.
The Giving Keys is an inspiring socially responsible brand to shop for a few reasons. The jewelry is made with keys (hence the name) stamped with an empowering word such as “enough,” “fearless,” “dream,” and “inspire.” Customers are encouraged to pay it forward and gift the piece of jewelry to someone who needs the message. And every purchase helps create jobs for people transitioning out of homelessness.
Proving that eco-friendly clothes don’t have to be boring, tentree sell casual pieces for both men and women made out of sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and hemp. Even the smallest of details, like the coconut shell buttons and cork trim zipper pulls, are made out of natural materials. As the brand’s name suggests, they plant 10 trees for every product purchased. They’re tree count so far is up to 20 million in over 10 countries and they show no signs of slowing down. The company’s goal? Plant 1 billion trees by 2030.
Naja Lingerie is all about empowering women with their cute bras and undies that don’t sacrifice luxury (hello, Peruvian cotton). Digital printing technologies allow them to reduce water waste. What makes the brand special though is that they give back to the women that work there. The staff consists of mostly single moms and women who are the primary breadwinners of their homes. Job perks include above average wages, healthcare, and flexibility to help them balance work and mom duties. Plus, Naja also provides their employee’s kids with books, school supplies, uniforms and school meals. The brand’s Underwear for Hope program also creates jobs for women in Columbia.
Thinx disrupted the menstrual hygiene industry with its period-friendly panties, but the brand does a lot more than just help you control your flow. They partnered with nonprofit Period to launch the United for Access campaign that demands students in the U.S. be provided with free period products. They work with schools, after-school programs, and nonprofits to help educate young people about puberty and menstrual hygiene. And, they donate menstrual products to those in need.
Founded by Blake Mycoskie in 2006, Toms was for sure at the forefront of the give back movement in the fashion industry. They’re known for their one-for-one ethos which has provided over 60 million pairs of shoes to children in over 70 countries, but they’re not just about shoes. Their one-for-one program also extends to eyewear helping provide prescription glasses and eye care to people in 13 countries around the world. As if that wasn’t enough, Toms coffee also helps provide clean water in developing countries, and each bag purchase ensures a safe delivery for an expecting mama in need.
If you’re the type of person who loves meaning behind their jewelry and all things woo woo, Satya is definitely one to look into. The brand’s pieces are made with semi-precious stones and infused with sacred symbols—think zodiac sign necklaces and rose quartz malas. A percentage of sales are donated to their own Satya Foundation, which has raised over $1 million for children’s charities including Bent on Learning, a nonprofit organization that teaches yoga to kids in New York City public schools, and Ashram’s for Autism which helps people with autism thrive through mindfulness and yoga practices.
Pura Vida, which translates to “pure life” or “simple life” in Spanish, was founded by two friends after a trip to Costa Rica. Inspired by the county’s laid-back lifestyle, the duo created a brand around the vibrant string bracelets made by local artisans. The company provides full-time jobs to artisans in Costa Rica, El Salvador, India, and other countries. And, through the company’s Charity Collection, they’ve donated almost $1.7 million to different charities.
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When you either live in a really cold place, or are vacationing in a really cold place, the best women’s winter coats for extreme cold are essential. There’s cold places and then there’s really cold places. I, for one, live in a really cold place. Lake Placid, New York is a small tourist town tucked away in upstate New York. Not, like, the Castkills upstate. Like, Canadian border upstate. Come winter, temps regularly hit below freezing. The icy, snowy weather mixed with the access to mountains (hello, skiing!) have landed it not one, but two winter Olympic games. Simply put, the place is freakin’ cold and having the right cold winter gear is pretty much mandatory.
Living in what is effectively the tundra, I have learned to dress for such volatile weather. And while things like snow boots and fleece-lined leggings are very much needed, the one essential I recommend for keeping out the chill is a winter coat for the extreme cold. It’s a non-negotiable. And not just any old winter coat but the right winter coat—these are the pieces that keep you warm when the temps hit the negatives or keep you dry when a snow squall blows through during your casual evening stroll.
If you’re gearing up for a long, chilly winter and are in the market for a new coat, you’ve come to the right place. Take it from someone who lives in a cold place—these are the best women’s winter coats for the extreme cold.
Shop the best women’s winter coats for extreme cold
Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 6 | Materials: Recycled polyester shell, recycled down fill
This is my go-to parka that I’ll toss on for running errands, walking the dog, weekend getaways—just about anything. It comes down to your knees, which, IMO, is perfect parka length. As for the specs: It’s filled with a recycled 600-fill down that’s warm without being stuffy or chunky, so you can layer in comfort. It also has a water-repellent finish on the recycled polyester exterior, which helps keep snowy moisture at bay. If you’re looking for a solid overall pick, this is a solid bet.
Columbia’s Suttle Mountain Long Insulated Jacket has a heat-reflective lining and a synthetic down lining. For light snow, rain, and wind, this toasty coat is a no-brainer. Plus, it’s feature-friendly, with extras like a sherpa-lined hood (to keep your ears snug) and a 2-way zipper that can allow for better mobility.
Sizes: XXS-M | Colors: 2 | Materials: Down insulation, recycled nylon lining, polyester and cotton outer
This water-resistant Canada Goose parka may be pricey, but is loaded with features to keep you warm. It has a 625-fill-power down insulation, a removable extended hood trim, and snap closures on the cuffs and the back to lock in heat. It has interior and exterior pockets, as well as handy backpack straps inside that let you carry your jacket hands-free.
Sizes: XXS-XL (with petite, regular, and plus options) | Colors: 5 | Materials: Recycled polyester shell, DownTek insulation
You can’t beat L.L.Bean for affordable, high-quality winter coats. The Mountain Classic Down Parka is filled with 650-fill DownTek down insulation (which is coated to stay dry and prevent clumping) and is rated for temps down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The recycled shell repels moisture and stops the wind chill, too, without clumping the down or getting it wet. It also has a detachable hood. For under $200, this jacket is a winner.
This jacket has a snuggly fill, thigh-length design, and added fur-trim parka. It’s crafted to be totally sealed against cold temps and has a thick layer of insulation for protection and warmth, plus a double enclosure and windproof ribbed cuffs to keep the chill out. It’s also waterproof.
This jacket, nicknamed “the Amazon coat,” has been the star of many an Instagram feed. It’s affordable, stylish, and warm. It has a fleece-lined hood, side zippers to let you wear it looser, and so many roomy pockets (six) that you’ll almost never need to carry a bag again. Better yet, it comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes. You can also find styles with a fur-lined hood if that’s your jam.
If you do live in a place where temps frequent below zero, I would recommend investing in an Woolrich jacket. The brand is beloved for all things cold-weather, and while expensive, its products are worth it. The Aurora is a full-length parka with an insulated hood, made to withstand temperatures down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit. It has a water-resistant nylon exterior, too.
Pros:
Withstands temperatures down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit
This jacket has everything you want out of a resort or backcountry jacket—lightweight, yet reliable insulation that doesn’t compromise movement, an exterior that actually stops moisture in its tracks, a helmet-compatible hood, underarm vents, pockets for hands-free storage, and more.
Waterproof and breathable, the Stio Environ jacket is made with recycled fabric that will keep you dry and warm on the mountain. It has a removable hood, underarm vents, pockets inside and out, and a snow skirt for those long days on the slopes or tubing hills. Plus, Stio is Carbon Neutral Certified, making this one of the more sustainable picks on our list.
Sizes: XXS-3XL (with standard and plus options) | Colors: 6 | Materials: Recycled nylon outer, 700-fill goose down insulation
Throw it back to the ’90s (or 1996, to be exact), which is when the original version of this puffer was introduced. This version still has that retro look, but with modern touches. It’s made of recycled fabrics, and has 700-fill down, a water-repellent exterior, and a stowable hood. The jacket also packs itself into the right hand pocket, which is super handy for travel.
Sizes: XXS-3XL (with regular and tall options) | Colors: 1 | Materials: Recycled nylon, 3M Thinsulate down alternative insulation
Not everyone likes the Jet Puff fluffernutter look of a down jacket. That’s okay—you can get something slim that still stays warm, like this parka from Athleta. Instead of down, it’s filled with a lightweight alternative to traditional feather fluff. The exterior is made of recycled, water-repellent nylon, leaving you with a featherlight coat that is quietly cozy—without overdoing it.
This award-winning jacket is built for the slopes but can be worn just well off them, too. It’s made with three sturdy layers of waterproof protection that keep you dry and warm (but never sweaty or sticky). Just note, It’s technically a shell which means it’s made for layering and keeping your clothes dry from wind, rain, and snow (aka, layer up).
Like its name suggests, the Ghost Whisperer Hoody from Mountain Hardwear packs down in a pinch, so you’ll forget anything’s there. It’s perfect for indoor and outdoor adventures alike. Still, this coat packs a lot of heat: with 800-fill RDS-certified goose down insulation and an elastic draw-cord hem, you’ll have no problem fending off the cold winter air.
Pros:
Super lightweight and easy to stow
Recycled, water-resistant nylon ripstop shell
Cons:
Only standard sizes available (no plus or petites)
The outside of this jacket is a weather-resistant material that sloughs off rain, sleet, and snow. But the inside features a wool insulator designed to keep you snug as a bug whether you’re running up a mountain or down the road. It’s airy and durable, built to stay to warm stride after stride.
Noize is a one-stop shop for all things cruelty free, eco-friendly, and sustainably-made. This mid-length heavyweight parka does a darn good job keeping the cold out when the temps drop. In true Noize fashion, there’s no bird feathers or animal fur—everything is vegan, so you can look good and feel good, too.
Cotopaxi is a certified B Corp, which means ethical sustainability is built into all of their products. This jacket is not only warm, water-resistant, and lightweight, but it’s also made with responsibly-sourced down. It has elastic binding at the hood and cuffs to keep heat inside, and it comes in a ton of colorful patterns. One percent of company revenues also goes to the Cotopaxi Foundation to help alleviate poverty.
Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colors: 3 | Materials: Organic cotton and recycled nylon lining, recycled down
This long puffer is versatile and casual enough to pair of jeans or joggers, so you’ll want to wear it all season long. It has a drawstring hood and drawstring waist, and oversized front pockets for convenience. Bonus: It’s also made of recycled fabric and filled with recycled down insulation.
Pros:
Casual design makes this pick easier to dress up (or down)
Sizes: 0-14 | Colors: 2 | Materials: Polyester (recycled and new), 600-fill goose down insulation
This puffer has a cinchable waist so you can pull it in tight, or leave extra room to layer underneath. The 600-fill goose down insulation will help keep your torso toasty, while the recycled polyester exterior helps keep wind and water at bay. Plus, it has a removable hood and it comes in classic colors so you’re sure to find something to match your wardrobe.
A classic wool coat is a closet essential. This one from Quince is made with Italian wool to wrap you in cozy warmth. It’s lined, has a standing collar, and inconspicuous side pockets for a sleek, stylish look.
When it comes to insulated winter coats, you’ll want to take stock of the “fill power,” which indicates how warm the jacket will be. If you’re hoping to stay toasty with a down or down-alternative jacket, look for insulation that’s 600-fill or higher. Additionally, think about how you’ll be using your coat: if you’re looking to stay warm while skiing or snowboarding, prioritize water-resistant or waterproof materials.
How much coverage do you need?
Coverage is a matter of personal preference (and your personal style), but keeping your legs and bum warm with a long puffer coat can be extremely helpful when the temperature plummets. Still, there are plenty of warm waist-length jackets on this list if a longer fit isn’t for you.
What features are important to you in a winter coat?
The coats on our list have a variety of added bells and whistles. Whether you’re looking for a winter coat with deep pockets, a removable hood, interior shoulder straps, or built-in hand cuffs, you’ll find a coat with your desired features on this list. Just note that they sometimes come at a higher price (as with the Canada Goose pick, above).
What’s your budget?
As our list proves, you can certainly find a quality winter coat at a wide variety of prices. There are plenty of lower-priced coats on our list (as far as winter coats go, that is), but some of the more reputable brands above come with a higher price tag—they also may be more durable and even help out with repairs (as with Patagonia) down the line.
Frequently asked questions about winter coats for extreme cold
What coats are as warm as Canada Goose?
Canada Goose coats are revered for being some of the warmest jackets around, thanks to their higher fill count. Still, there are a handful of other coats on our list that have the same 600-and-up fill count, if not higher. Look for brands that offer 600- to 800-fill warmth and wind-resistant outers for maximum toastiness. The North Face, Mountain Hardwear, and Cotopaxi coats we reviewed all meet that criteria.
What is a warm winter coat that is not bulky?
Puffer coats tend to be on the bulky side (all that insulation has to go somewhere!), but you can find plenty of warm jackets that keep a low profile. As mentioned above, the Athleta Whisper Featherless Parka and the Quince Italian Wool Cocoon Coat both offer a slimmer profile without compromising too much in the warmth department.
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