Rita Mehta

Shopping, to me, has always been an adventure. I fixate on the smallest details, have been known to search all over for the perfect pair of jeans, and consider my favorite shops to be a home away from home. When I finished school, I was amazed that a career in product development and sourcing was even a possibility – I could get paid to shop?!

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I soon learned working in corporate retail involved a bit more than just shopping. Frequent trips overseas with a major global retailer gave me a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of manufacturing and lead to an increased focus on quality and responsible, sustainable production. Over time, I became frustrated at the lack of production right here in this country. As I became more conscious of the issue, I changed my personal habits and began to purchase domestically whenever possible.

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Though I easily found great Made in America clothing for my husband, fashion-forward options for our home and my wardrobe eluded me. What’s more, many of the designers and stores I encountered wanted to source in the U.S. but didn’t know where to begin, or needed help building sustainable growth strategies. Everywhere I looked I saw a chance to apply my expertise — and to align my work with my own beliefs.

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So I’ve founded The American Edit. It’s a place to celebrate the brands that manufacture in the United States, educate consumers who are trying to find more responsible options, and, yes, to do some shopping along the way!