When Leigh Ann Barnes first started designing her high end bags, clutches, and wallets for specialty stores in 2010, she came to the realization that her final products were creating too much waste. Barnes then thought to herself, “If my small company is creating this much waste, aren’t others?” She wanted to produce a product that would make use of the discarded leather from her other products, and help women right here in the United States-specifically women who have been victims of domestic violence.
And thus, V.I.P Unlimited Bands was formed. Barnes began to create leather headbands and hair ties crafted from the remnants of lamb skin, snake skin, embossed leather, and hand-painted leather. The small leather ponytail cuff carries a big message: "The bands are assembled by some very important people (hence the name of the brand, VIP). These special women are all survivors of domestic violence, and manufacture the products in Los Angeles, CA and Athens, GA. These bands are manufactured while the women reside in the shelters, giving them a safe and healing environment to work in." Barnes trains the women, and they are paid per band, meaning nearly 85 percent of production costs benefit them. “This is helping women create their own American dream,” says Barnes.
Here are a few statistics on domestic violence:
- One in four women will experience domestic violence during her life time.
- Domestic violence is the third leading cause of homelessness.
- More than three million children witness domestic violence in their homes every year.
So in my opinion, what Barnes is doing is pretty awesome. She is giving these women a chance to rebuild their lives, but they’re the ones doing it. The V.I.P Unlimited Pact (Violence Intervention Pact) states: “When you purchase and wear this band, you are our ambassador. You are part of the solution to help end the cycle of abuse by giving women an opportunity to earn a living while renewing their strengths and dreams."
V.I.P bands were recently the official headband sponsor of Cochella, and are currently being sold in boutiques across the United States. You can purchase bands online at www.vipunlimitedbands.com, where one style of leather ponytail cuffs, and two types of headbands (thick or thin) are offered. Ponytail cuffs are $18, and headbands are $40. With high quality leather goods that are cute and affordable, V.I.P Unlimited Bands is an incredible brand definitely worth supporting.
Make sure to follow V.I.P Unlimited Bands on social media!
Instagram: @vipunlimited_bands
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/VIP-Unlimited-Bands...
