When you walk into Carla Shaw Sustainable Fashion on Union Street in Newton Centre, it quickly becomes clear that every piece of jewelry has a story to tell. But unlike most accessories, these stories are deeply rooted in the natural world.
Founder Carla Wahnon isn’t just curating a jewelry line, she’s sharing a piece of Brazil. Each necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings begins with a real leaf, flower, or seed that is sustainably harvested, dried, and preserved in 18k gold or a silver-rhodium mix. “Nature is already beautiful,” Carla says, “Our job is just to preserve it.”
Sustainability is not a side feature of the business—it’s the foundation. Originally from Brazil and now living in Cambridge, Carla was inspired by the environmental richness of her home country and the urgency of protecting it. “Nature is central to Brazilian culture,” she explains, “I want to be an ambassador for that beauty, especially as deforestation continues to threaten it.”
Each piece is handcrafted by certified artisans in Brazil using responsibly sourced plant materials. By working directly with these artists, Carla helps sustain local economies and traditional crafts, creating a business model that centers around both environmental and social responsibility.
Every item includes a card detailing the plant’s origin, significance, and how it was harvested, offering wearers a direct connection to the natural elements and practices behind each design. This attention to detail encourages reflection on how fashion choices can align with ecological values.
Carla’s journey to opening a storefront in Newton has been shaped by experimentation and community connection. After launching online in 2021, she sold at local markets and shared retail spaces before moving into her own shop this past March. She says Newton’s vibrant and inclusive community, its strong support for sustainability, and its focus on small businesses made it an ideal location. “Newton values sustainability,” she says.
Carla continues to find ways to evolve. In addition to growing her jewelry line (which began with 14 pieces and now includes more than 50), Carla has also introduced clutches and a small selection of timeless clothing essentials made with the same thoughtful care. An upcoming jewelry collection—created in partnership with another Brazilian artist—will be available exclusively in-store later this year. And if fashion isn’t your only interest, Carla also co-manages a healthy Brazilian snack company with her sister called Banana Samba.
For those seeking to make more intentional choices, Carla’s work offers a reminder: what we choose to wear can reflect what we care about.
Carla Shaw Sustainable Fashion is located at 79 Union Street in Newton Centre. Learn more at www.carlashawsustainablefashion.com or on Instagram @Carlashawfashion.
Kenyon Taylor is a graduate student at North Carolina State University focusing on climate change and a MassCEC supported intern at Green Newton.
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