Experience truly one-of-a-kind sustainable fashion with our incredible Mary Jean Upcycled Denim Jackets - each a unique masterpiece transformed with vibrant traditional Kitenge fabrics by skilled East African artisans! Named for our founder's beloved Aunt Mary Jean, these upcycled jean jackets celebrate individuality, sustainability, and the magic of making everyone feel special.
The Mary Jean Story: Our "Mary Jean" jackets are lovingly named for our founder's beloved aunt Mary Jean - full of vibrancy, love, and fun, she was happiest making each person in her life feel like her "favorite!" That was her magic: making everyone feel one-of-a-kind. Just like these extraordinary jackets.
The Transformation Process: Each sustainable fashion piece begins its journey as a gently donated denim jacket from generous supporters across the US. These pre-loved jackets are carefully sanitized, repaired, and shipped to our talented tailoring team in Tanzania, where the real magic happens:
• Hand-selected Kitenge fabrics - 100% cotton, locally made traditional African textiles
• Custom tailoring - Collars and cuffs lined with distinctive patterns
• Unique back panels - Each jacket features a completely different design
• Quality restoration - Every jacket is expertly repaired and refreshed
• Artisan craftsmanship - All work done by hand using traditional techniques
Why Each Jacket is Truly Unique: No two Mary Jean jackets are alike! The combination of different donated denim styles, various Kitenge fabric patterns, and individual artisan touches means your jacket will be completely one-of-a-kind sustainable fashion - just like Aunt Mary Jean made everyone feel special.
How to Get Your Mary Jean Jacket:
Step 1: Contact Us Email us at info@footforwardfund.org with:
- Your preferred size (see sizing guide below)
- Your preferred Kitenge pattern style (the fabric swatches in our media gallery show the available patterns at this time)
- Your phone number for photo updates
Step 2: We'll Show You Options We'll text you photos of available jackets in your size and preferred style. Since we're actively selling through markets and social media, availability changes frequently. We're, of course, happy to do a virtual appointment (just ask in your message to us).
Step 3: We'll Invoice When Available If you love one of the jackets we show you, we'll send an invoice for $95 with free shipping. No payment until you've seen and approved your specific jacket!
Virtual Styling Appointments Available: Want a more personalized experience? Schedule a virtual styling appointment where we can show you multiple options via video call and discuss customization possibilities. Email us to arrange your consultation!
Current Kitenge Fabric Patterns: [Reference your image gallery of available patterns]
Donate a Jacket, Get a Bracelet: Have a gently worn denim jacket to donate? We'd love it! Ship it to us and receive:
• Tax receipt (typically $40 value)
• Free handmade bracelet as our thank you gift
• The satisfaction of giving new life to your pre-loved jacket
The Impact Behind Your Purchase: When you choose a Mary Jean Upcycled Jacket, you're supporting multiple causes:
• Sustainable fashion - Giving new life to donated denim
• Fair wage employment - Supporting skilled tailors in Tanzania
• Girls' education - 100% of net proceeds support our UhuruPads program
• Environmental impact - Reducing textile waste through upcycling
Perfect For:
- Sustainable fashion enthusiasts
- Those who love one-of-a-kind pieces
- Supporting artisan craftsmanship
- Making a statement about environmental responsibility
- Gift giving with meaningful impact
- Anyone who appreciates traditional African textiles
Care Instructions:
- Machine wash cold, gentle cycle
- Air dry to preserve Kitenge fabric colors
- Iron on low heat if needed
- Treat as the unique art piece it is!