Kelly Fielding at Au Courant. Via the Kelly Fielding Instagram page.

Kelly Fielding at Au Courant. Via the Kelly Fielding Instagram page.

Au Courant: Social Change By Boutique

Kelly Fielding took an extended break from Los Angeles' fashion rat race to go backpacking in South America and work in a women’s shelter in India. At the women’s shelter, clothes were made for export and Kelly had an Eureka moment. She could work on changing the fashion business and help people, if she sold clothes from places like the shelter and artisan co-ops around the developing world.

For Kelly, the best place to start something new was bricks-and-mortar shop. “Purchases can make a change - and create awareness,” she said. She held a soft opening for the 1,335 square-foot boutique Au Courant in June, which is located at 5665 Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles’ Larchmont Village neighborhood. A grand opening party is scheduled for July 19.

The boutique offers fair trade and eco-minded clothes from more than 30 brands such as Della from the West African nation of Ghana, Mercado Global, which supports Guatemalan artisans and Misa Los Angeles. Also available MadeWorn, which makes vintage inspired rock tees and footwear from Jenni Kayne. Retail price points range from $200 to $400 for the boutique’s dresses.

“It’s a higher price point,” she said. “But everyone was paid a fair wage.”