Sustainable bag reporting continues from Part I. There are so many great choices!
Muumuu Heaven is a shop located on the windward side of Oahu, Hawaii. The family-run business got so busy producing eco-conscious and original women’s apparel from recycled Hawaiian garments, they decided to collaborate with another designer for bags to stock.
Kauai is a neighbor island, same state of Hawaii, where Denise Tjarks structures new life also from old muumuu, aloha shirts and fabric remnants. Word is spreading so fast, it’s impossible to share an exclusive not sold. But you get the idea from these two illustrations. Above is Maia, the pretty green plant print. Below that is the reverse side, an orange small floral print. Both reversible option sides are made from vintage mu’umu’us circa 1970.
Now why would a wood bag be considered sustainably made? Well, in the case of Onlyone Products, and their accessory brand HIGGIE, patented wood veneer sheets are developed from bamboo extracts and forestry remnants that would otherwise be discarded. The parent Japanese company holds awards, one for best concept, and have been honored government grants in return. Would you believe water and UV resistant? Each wood has its own unique look and texture; therefore, no two pieces are exactly alike. As a result, every bag, briefcase and wallet is a work of art. Pictured here is a handsome natural wood unisex briefcase that can function well as a handbag.
Relan is in Minnesota where they make the Elsie handbag pictured. It’s a precious small lined purse with a tire rubber handle. The exterior is made from a piece of billboard about the size of a tennis court. The billboard’s graphic pattern and colors are preserved in interesting and attention-arresting ways, then stitched together to create an innovative, functional bag. Relan bags are designed for those who combine individual style with a sense of purpose. Companies are encouraged to reuse exhibition banners, billboards or vinyl signs. The PR program concept is for customers to place orders in advance when they see a banner they love.
The grand finale is Vulcana, who based in New Jersey, lowers landfills with style. Their accessories and bags are made from patented recycled car tires, an earth-friendly substitute for leather. Water-resistant and durable, the Hobo design has an adjustable strap, is fully-lined with inner and outer zipper pockets. This is a different look and feel from the bags made of rubber cycle tubes.
Wow, so many choices to bag it with innovative eco style!
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