The Perfect Summer Bags For 2021-Ethical And Sustainable Accessories For The Modern Free Spirit.

The idea of toting a straw or rattan bag to the pool is nothing new. I am just welcoming the fact that we can hopefully get some pool time this year which would be such a nice experienced considering last summer, well we were barricaded in our homes! Our pool opens soon and my fingers are crossed.

I am here today to tell you about KAYU because I know you will just love all of their summer accessories!!!

From dressier clutches to casual totes, it seems all their bags are just perfect for summer adventuring. The only issue? Choosing just one style to add to your warm weather wardrobe is pretty much impossible.

I fell in love with the JANE RATTAN CLUTCH BAG from KAYU. Inspired by the organic shapes of the sea, the Jane straw clutch brings a bit of beachy escapism to any situation. Its gentle undulating waves mimic the look of a seashell, while a microfiber tassel and optional chain effortlessly elevate the vibe.

It is handwoven from sun-dried rattan, a climbing vine, using time-honored weaving techniques and is fully lined with an optional chain shoulder strap.

KAYU’S bags are carefully handcrafted by women cooperatives in the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, using indigenous techniques that have been passed down through the generations. They help preserve and promote their unique cultural heritage as well as provide them with a living wage.

CONSIDERED DESIGN

Sustainability, ethics, and responsibility are at the heart of everything they do and every decision they make. They seek new and alternative materials that are the most sustainable. They aim to make the highest quality, timeless pieces that can be cherished and worn year after year.

CONSIDERED MATERIALS

They source and up cycle the finest quality natural, organic materials that take into account environmentally friendly, sustainable initiatives. They look for new, pioneering sustainable materials whenever possible .

CONSIDERED PROCESS

Every step of our supply chain is considered to minimize environmental impact. They look for ways to support both environment and worker by reducing waste, energy, by ensuring fair trade practices, and cultivating long term relationships with artisans and craftspeople. Many of the factories they work with have been family owned for generations or are fair trade cooperatives, where their products are crafted by hand using time-honored techniques.

Designed to last a lifetime, the goal is to reduce consumer landfill waste. They are working to become a zero waste brand within the next 5 years.

BAGS

PHILIPPINES | CALIFORNIA

They work with women cooperatives in the Philippines who weave and embroider the bags by hand. Most of these women are mothers, and making the bags allows them to earn a living as well as look after their children.

KAYU’S monograms are embroidered by women in San Francisco. They work with new immigrants who do not speak English and as a result have difficulty finding jobs. Unfortunately this means that they are often underpaid and abused. Their initiative provides these women with practical training and an alternative source of income.

HATS

ECUADOR

Their hats are carefully handcrafted by artisans in Ecuador out of traditional toquilla straw. Each hat is made using indigenous techniques that have been passed down through the generations preserving and promoting the artist’s unique cultural heritage.

SANDALS

GREECE

Their sandals are made by a third generation family owned workshop in Athens. Each pair is meticulously crafted by hand using premium vegetable tanned leather.

I want soooo many things!!!

Linking all my faves below!!!