Why Sustainability
Many of the problems in the textile industry developed through the disconnect between the people who make the clothes and the people who wear them. This has led to overconsumption, poor treatment of textile workers, and huge impacts on the environment.
Transparency
Our sewing area is an active part of the retail space to break down the wall between the consumer and the maker, thereby inviting curiosity and dialogue about the process of how our clothes are made and who makes them.
Connection
Through transparency of the process, and teaching our community to sew, Community encourages a renewed, balanced, and personal relationship between the consumer and their wardrobe.
Why Sustainability
Many of the problems in the textile industry developed through the disconnect between the people who make the clothes and the people who wear them. This has led to overconsumption, poor treatment of textile workers, and huge impacts on the environment.
Transparency
Our sewing area is an active part of the retail space to break down the wall between the consumer and the maker, thereby inviting curiosity and dialogue about the process of how our clothes are made and who makes them.
Connection
Through transparency of the process, and teaching our community to sew, Community encourages a renewed, balanced, and personal relationship between the consumer and their wardrobe.
We support a local makers community with a Georgia supply chain for maximum impact on the regional economy.
In addition to our own clothing line, we sell hand-picked vintage clothing, and jewelry, body products, leather goods, home decor, and Athens souvenirs by over 50 designers and makers, all based in Georgia.
“The town that spawned R.E.M. and the B-52s is still an indie-songsmith hub. And University of Georgia Bulldogs fans are as passionate as ever. But Athens’s historic downtown has rerouted some of that hipster-meets-rah-rah history into a hyperlocal entrepreneurial spirit that caters to the mature tastes of those who have moved in, come back or never left.”
Alex Crevar, NY Times
Sewing for the Dawgs
We repair the Georgia Bulldogs’ jerseys after every game.
This is our sixth season taking care of the jerseys for the Georgia Bulldogs. We also add SEC graduate patches, bowl patches, and the players’ nameplates. Recently we have been increasingly customizing the jerseys for each player to give more room for movement or add padding for protection to allow ultimate performance.
Having this small contribution to sustainability in the world of sports makes us further aware that mending and making clothing last does not just help the environment, but it changes our relationship with the garments. Rather than being a throwaway after the game, at the end of the season, the jerseys show battle scars and become a memory map of the moments that made all the difference.
Learn how to sew and alter your own clothing! We offer in-person beginners to advanced sewing classes and workshops for adults right here at COMMUNITY in downtown Athens, Georgia. Taught in a small group setting, the four to six week courses focus on clothing construction and mending.
Our Story
Community is a boutique for sustainable fashion and locally made products, opened in downtown Athens, Georgia in 2010 by German native, Sanni Baumgärtner:
I originally came to Athens for a study abroad program at UGA and was lucky to connect with the local music scene. It opened me up to new possibilities of a creative life. I played and created music for about 10 years, but ultimately decided that it wasn’t the best fit for me. Selling vintage on the side to support myself financially turned into an interest in sewing to redesign and update some of the vintage finds. With the help of a friend I started my clothing label Community Service in 2010 and that led to the dream of having my own boutique.
Our Store
Community opened in September of 2010 primarily as a vintage clothing boutique with our made-in-house clothing line and locally made goods, and soon featured sewing classes and alterations, always celebrating the unique makers and the connection with the Athens community. Our basic values and mission have not changed. Built on sustainability, community, quality, and style, Community continues to evolve, always striving to serve the environment and the Athens community.
Our Story
Community is a boutique for sustainable fashion and locally made products, opened in downtown Athens, Georgia in 2010 by German native, Sanni Baumgärtner:
I originally came to Athens for a study abroad program at UGA and was lucky to connect with the local music scene. It opened me up to new possibilities of a creative life. I played and created music for about 10 years, but ultimately decided that it wasn’t the best fit for me. Selling vintage on the side to support myself financially turned into an interest in sewing to redesign and update some of the vintage finds. With the help of a friend I started my clothing label Community Service in 2010 and that led to the dream of having my own boutique.
Our Store
Community opened in September of 2010 primarily as a vintage clothing boutique with our made-in-house clothing line and locally made goods, and soon featured sewing classes and alterations, always celebrating the unique makers and the connection with the Athens community. Our basic values and mission have not changed. Built on sustainability, community, quality, and style, Community continues to evolve, always striving to serve the environment and the Athens community.
Voted Flagpole Athens Favorite for 13 Years
“Community has been an incredible partner for our football program at the University of Georgia. We’ve trusted them for several years to handle all of our uniform needs — from jersey repairs and alterations to custom sewing work — they’ve never let us down. Their attention to detail, craftsmanship, and pride in their work are unmatched.No matter the job, big or small, they always deliver quality results on time and with great care. It’s clear they take tremendous pride in what they do, and it shows in every stitch. Simply put, Community is the best in town — we couldn’t recommend them more highly!Thanks for all that you do for us! Go Dawgs!”
“As a customer since Community opened in 2010, I love their original designs and restyled vintage pieces that reflect creative artistry and environmental responsibility at reasonable prices—all displayed in beautiful, seasonally changing arrangements. Complimentary styling sessions bring fresh ideas without pressure to be a big spender, while on-site alterations make me feel like I’m in an old-school European atelier.”
“To have a treasure like Community here in Athens is a great gift! I’ve been a customer since before I moved back to Athens in 2015.Community continues to wow me by remaining true to their mission of sustainability, local collaboration, and constructing beautiful clothing and accessories. Two extra wonderful things about Community? Each member of their team will meet you where you are, not to “sell” you. Finally, Community is very affordable. Most of my closet is full of pieces I’ve owned over these 12 years. It’s always a joy to pop in and see new additions!”
Jewelry & Accessories
Thoughtfully designed and handmade gifts by our Georgia based makers will surely bring joy and delight to your holiday festivities this year.
Home Goods
Sustainable fashion and artisan products to enjoy this favorite season with all its warm and cooler days.
Bags
Unique pieces crafted with care and quality, local and beautiful additions to your sustainable lifestyle.
