One of my favorite winter hat companies, Ambler, recently announced the launch of a new hat and tote collection for Spring/Summer 2013. Continuing with a production model that supports women in the developing world, Ambler will also bring half of the new season production back to their home country of Canada.
The new lightweight summer style caps from Canmore based Ambler are made from a combination of hemp, organic cotton jersey, organic cotton twill, and premium cotton fabrics. Using bold color combinations, the brimmed style hats feature contrast stitching and snap or elastic backs for versatility and comfort.
When originally turning overseas for knit hat production, Ambler looked to create a livelihood that supports and empowers women in the developing world. For their current Himalayan knit hat collection, Ambler employs different groups of home knitters located in small communities throughout the Kathmandu region and provides them with knitting needles, yarn, and continued skill development.
The knit hats and headbands of the new collection continues to be made in Nepal, while the caps are all designed and made in Canada. The new product line of tote bags are all handmade in Liberia by a women's fair trade co-op.
The spring and summer collection of brightly colored totes are put together using a combination of lightweight cotton canvas and the vibrant colors and patterns of Liberia's traditional Lapa fabric. All the reversible bags reflect the colors and culture of the country where they have been made.
The new Ambler collection of men's, women's, and children's caps, totes, knit hats and headbands will be available starting Spring 2013.