Same Sky at Saks Chicago: An Ethical Shopping Event

Saks Fifth Avenue held an event worth remembering on Thursday, November 1st. Not only was the shopping event fun, but it was also for a good cause. The Ethical Shopping Event was a cocktail reception held to show off the Fall/Winter 2012 Jewelry Collection of Same Sky, and was also an opportunity for customers to shop for handcrafted jewelry where 100% of net proceeds go to Same Sky, a trade-not-aid initiative to help support African women who live with HIV/AIDS. While the cocktail reception in the Jewelry on One section of Saks was held Thursday night, Saks hosted the event all day Thursday and Friday the 2nd. The collection, which is created by African women who are taught how to create beautiful hand crocheted necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and cufflinks, allows the women to sell on a global marketplace platform. The trunk show dazzled everyone with gorgeous glass beads, sparkly numbers, and stylish but classy items that were worth taking home.
Janelle Schroeder and friends shop Same Sky at Saks in Chicago
Janelle Schroeder wearing a stack of Same Sky bracelets

Everyone had a wonderful time picking out jewelry along with testing out each piece by wearing it around and swapping pieces with one another. Along with the typical jewelry display, there were what looked to be tree roots that showcased every glittery and glass bead bracelet. With all the red, gold, and spark on display, it was easy to get excited for Christmas, especially for those who were beginning their shopping early with Same Sky.

Miss Illinois USA Ashley Hooks, Pat Harris and Francine LeFrak
The event was presented by Same Sky founder, Francine LeFrak, and Miss Illinois USA Ashley Hooks, with co-hosts who include Pat Harris, Catharine Hamilton, Janelle Schroeder, and Susan Bogart. All attended the cocktail reception in order to show off the collection, along with doing a little shopping themselves.
Francine LeFrak and Marlene Atelier

The latest jewelry collection shown by Same Sky includes the signature hand-blown glass beaded bracelets and necklaces, priced between $160 to $400, prosperity seed bead bracelets from $60 to $95, fabric wrap bracelets priced $30 to $40, hope necklaces at $395, unity bracelets for $145, and cufflinks at $100, there is something fitting for everyone, no matter a person’s style.

Same Sky has been seen on many celebrities from Meryl Streep to Jessica Alba. The brand, which began in 2009, started with 4 artisans and has grown to employ over 75 artisans in Rwanda and Zambia. To see Same Sky’s products or learn more about the brand, visit their website here. –  Lindsay Grundy Photos: Same Sky

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