Kiester

But Kiester does not advertise the social and environmental benefits of these bracelets - she wants customers to buy the bracelets because they are fashionable.

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010

It took a mover and shaker like Kiester to put her career on the line and challenge the status quo.

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010

"I don't like factories," says Kiester, "so the girls work at home."

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010

Kiester now has three stores in Cambodia and an online store.

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010

Kiester says, "it's not about the guilt - it's just cool."

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010

Kiester told me that a disabled woman had been making these bracelets from the plastic water bottles that tourists throw away at Angkor Wat.

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010

I met with Kiester last week, at her boutique in Siem Reap, a tourist town near the Ankgor Wat complex of temples.

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010

Kiester has an ebullient personality that matches her store.

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010

However, every time I mention the word "success," Kiester finds some wood to knock on.

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010

Kiester clarifies, "I hate the word handmade, but I like to say 'hand-to-hand and heart-to-heart.'"

Julia Plevin: Madewell to Be Made Better 2010