If you know me, you know I have a serious scarf addiction. Scarves are an essential part of my outfits in fall and winter month. Recently, while scouting for new scarves and brands, I came across Smiles by JEM.

Smiles by JEM was founded by two friends, Megan Elizabeth Varela and Janelle Elizabeth Sisting, who wanted  to share their passion for people, culture and travel with the rest of the world.

The brand mission is focused on delivering superior handcrafted scarves and giving back to the communities that produce the Smiles by JEM products. 10 percent of Smiles by JEM proceeds go to help develop and sustain local programs of the SOS Children’s Villages in Thailand. By wearing Smiles by JEM scarves, buyers help support a child’s development in a positive, nurturing environment.

From the Smiles by JEM website:

Thailand and all over the world there is a growing number of children who need help. 7 out of 100 Thai children do not have parents to care for them. The SOS Children’s Villages in Thailand houses 600 children in their 5 villages throughout the country. Unlike other orphanages, they encourage a family environment by maintaining stability with caregivers and the home environment, and support them well into young adult hood, even through college.

The brand launched in mid April and offers 150 colors at this time. As you can see from images, the colors are dynamic and when you feel the textures, you will melt. “Our best-selling collection is the Cloud Collection. They are so soft – people rave about them”, said Megan. “Later this year, Janelle and I will start designing scarves with their producers. We are excited about this.”

These scarves are not currently available in the Dallas area but are available for purchase online on the Smiles by JEM website.

Scoop: A little birdie told me that you may be seeing these scarves in Dallas very soon. Stay tuned for details.