I think TOMS are super comfortable and you support a great cause when you purchase a pair! I love the idea of customizing a pair with a nautical design! Here are some of my favorite custom painted TOMS:
Recently found those You're Flagged TOMS and have been dreaming of them ever since-- I'm such a fan of that print and TOMS in general, so I think I need them!!
I've read a few different articles on it, but I think this one summarizes it best while giving links to further reading: http://matadornetwork.com/change/7-worst-international-aid-ideas/ (TOMs is #2). Basically, my issue with it is that from what I understand based on the requests of actors on the ground in the areas the TOMs are being donated, shoes aren't what is needed. It plays back in to the idea that we are donating based on our interests rather than theirs. The best analogy I can think of would be suggesting your parents get your sibling something you want as a birthday present (not saying that is what it is, but actually doing it) because you know they won't use it. You get to feel good about giving someone a present, but you're the one who benefits from it.
That is very interesting, Julia! I had never thought about it that way. It definitely makes sense-I am sure clean water, food, and shelter are more needed!
CUTE! I love the ones that you ordered, can't wait to see how they come out!
ReplyDeleteAll of these are super adorable, I can't decide which pair I love most!! Cannot wait to see your custom pair :)
ReplyDeleteRecently found those You're Flagged TOMS and have been dreaming of them ever since-- I'm such a fan of that print and TOMS in general, so I think I need them!!
ReplyDeleteSo cute! I had no idea you could get them customized!
ReplyDeleteLove my Tom's, had no idea you could customized them!!! Thanks for posting this.
ReplyDeleteI think these are so cute, but they're so expensive! Maybe I'll try to paint them myself one day, haha.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to see the ones you got! I love these all so much. :)
ReplyDeleteThey're really cute, but the idea behind TOMs is pretty sketchy (sorry, international development/relations and politics junkie!).
ReplyDeleteoooh is there something I don't know? It sounds like a good idea but I know companies do not always tell the truth!
DeleteI've read a few different articles on it, but I think this one summarizes it best while giving links to further reading: http://matadornetwork.com/change/7-worst-international-aid-ideas/ (TOMs is #2). Basically, my issue with it is that from what I understand based on the requests of actors on the ground in the areas the TOMs are being donated, shoes aren't what is needed. It plays back in to the idea that we are donating based on our interests rather than theirs. The best analogy I can think of would be suggesting your parents get your sibling something you want as a birthday present (not saying that is what it is, but actually doing it) because you know they won't use it. You get to feel good about giving someone a present, but you're the one who benefits from it.
DeleteThat is very interesting, Julia! I had never thought about it that way. It definitely makes sense-I am sure clean water, food, and shelter are more needed!
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