5 ethical & sustainable handbag brands to love
What makes brands like Hermès and Louis Vuitton transcend the test of time is their ability to stick to their heritage. Their brands are deeply rooted in their values and their products repeatedly embody their brands’ story. Is it still possible for sustainable and ethical brands to give their consumers the same feel? The answer is yes! We would love to share 5 ethical and sustainable handbag brands where craftsmanship is at the centre of their work and story, changing the narrative of fashion for the better.
Empowering local communities: BOTTLETOP
BOTTLETOP is a London-based luxury fashion brand that empowers local communities, skills and craftsmanship through the creation of sustainable handbags & accessories. BOTTLETOP aims to tackle environmental harm by using upcycled materials and sustainably sourced leather. The label has ateliers and training programs in Brazil, Kenya and Nepal, where their artisans handcraft their products.
Reminiscent of Paco Rabanne’s iconic 1969 chainmail bag, BOTTLETOP’s signature chainmail bag is made from recycled can ring pulls sourced in Brazil. This bag is definitely a showstopper! You can visit the BOTTLETOP zero-waste flagship store in central London on 84 regent street, W1B 5AJ. Be sure to stop by!
Ghana’s finest: A A K S
A A K S connects the rest of the world with Ghana’s ancient craftsmanship with its unique and vibrant raffia bags. The bags are hand-woven using traditional weaving techniques by weavers in Bolgatanga, a small town in the Northern Region of Ghana. A A K S aims to shed light on ethical and sustainable production practices, with the promise to never mass-produce their products. The women and men of Bolgatanga are encouraged to hone their craft as they create each and every single bag before it is sent to Kumasi for finishing. The bright colours, patterns and unique shapes of the bags are a real characteristic of the rich culture Africa is known for. If you are looking for a spring/summer bag, we totally recommend A A K S.
East London’s treasure: Paradise Row
Paradise Row’s sleek and sophisticated handbags make for the perfect gift to yourself or for your loved ones. The East London based brand draws its inspiration from the local culture to highlight and celebrate British craftsmanship. A testament to the textile manufacturing hub East London once was, 10 percent of each purchase from their Core collection goes towards supporting charities and cultural institutions.
Practical chic: Matt & Nat
Matt & Nat is short for Mat(t)trial and Nature. Founded in 1995, the Canadian brand is known for their vegan and cruelty-free leather bags and purses. Their designs are practical and timeless. You can be confident that a bag from them will be a closet staple and match even the most versatile closet. Switch from day to night with ease with practicality and chicness.
Salmon skin bags: Aitch Aitch
Aitch Aitch is a luxury handbag company for the “thoughtful, passionate and adventurous” woman. During her travels in Iceland, the founder discovered that salmon skin is a natural by-product of the fishing industry. Upon discovery, Aitch Aitch has become an early pioneer in using this material for luxury handbags. The materials bags are processed sustainably and handcrafted in London. The use of this unique and exotic material means that no one piece is the same. The possibilities are endless when it comes to sustainable fashion innovations and AITCH AITCH is proof of this!
