With the Lunar New Year fast approaching, you might be in the mood for a new handbag (to carry all that laisee you’ll be giving out… or receiving)! Whether you’re treating yourself to a “new year, new me” moment or sharing the festive spirit with a dear friend, here are some of 8Shades’ favourite handbags that are both sustainable and chic.
AAKS: Two-Tone Baw Pot Dot
Handcrafted sustainably by women artisans in Ghana, this adorable mini bag is made from woven raffia and accented with tasselled leather trim. Both versatile and unique, it’s sure to become your new wardrobe staple.
Available at Aaks
Chylak: Soft Drawstring Bucket Bag in Moiré Blue
Don’t we just love that beautiful ocean blue colour? The moiré fabric in use here has been handcrafted by a family-owned business in France for more than five generations. More importantly, it’s made with 62% recycled ocean plastic!
Available at Chylak
Atomy Studios: Bag No. 5+ in Mouton
Made from vegetable-tanned leather, this half-moon shaped bag has a sleek silhouette that’s perfect for your effortless cool looks We especially love that it has a magnetic closure – so satisfying for the woman on the go!
Available at Atomy Studios
Baggu: Duck Bag in Brown Cow
Affordable, practical, and cute, this tote bag made from 16-oz recycled cotton canvas fits a 15-inch laptop. It even has an internal pocket to hold small items so you no longer have to scramble and hold up the line at your favourite neighbourhood shop or cafe.
Available at Baggu
Manu Atelier: Mini Kesme Bag in Melopen Green
Using ethically sourced and environmentally certified leather, Manu Atelier manufactures locally and promises to recycle all of its leftover fabrics. We love the box shape of this little beauty, which adds a little flavour to every outfit with its gold chain and mesmerising green.
Available at Manu Atelier
Roop: Furoshiki Bag in Brown Optical Print
Inspired by “furoshiki”, a type of traditional Japanese wrapping cloth, Roop’s bags are made using only remnant, dead stock and vintage fabrics. The brand’s signature scrunchie strap is just another reason we adore this bag.
Available at Roop
Bottletop: Bellani Mini Enamel Bag in Stone
You probably recognise this from somewhere! One of the most well-known handbags in the sustainable fashion industry, the distinct chainmail design by Bottletop is made by upcycling bottle tops in Kenya. The brand also works with the National Wildlife Federation to ensure zero deforestation during its production.
Available at Bottletop
0711 Tbilisi: Smoke Dumpling Tote Bag
With statement styles featuring traditional hand-weaving, 0711 Tbilisi’s contemporary designs are graced with unconventional natural materials such as organic glass, plywood frames, and of course, vegan leather. This colourway is one of our faves – pretty without being overbearing!
Available at 0711 Tbilisi
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