Bags are turning artsy... and I think I'm here for it
Five Latin brands showcase bags as unique art objects.
As we've established in previous newsletters, I've never been a 'bag person.'
However, the more I’ve been writing and compiling these newsletters, I’ve realized that the idea of bags has been growing on me.
Mostly because I’m starting to see bags as more than just something you ‘need’ due to the lack of larger pockets in women’s clothing, and more like unique art pieces to collect.
This is often how bags are portrayed by Latin American designers, and I'm sharing some of my favorites here:
Carla Fernández
Mexico
This has already become a staple of renowned Mexican designer label Carla Fernández, who works closely to preserve traditions from various artisanal communities in Mexico. These are a series of her Tecuan Bags, inspired by a traditional dance mask.
Blobb
Mexico
The Gooey bag recently caught my attention when I saw it exhibited at Empathy Store here in Guadalajara. I am absolutely looking forward to owning one someday.
Bolsón
Mexico
I came across this brand by chance when a friend here was wearing this unique blue bag. When I asked about it, she mentioned that Mexican architect, Norberto Miranda Feldhahn, upcycles blue plastic originally used to protect bananas from staining (since, unfortunately, people tend to avoid buying freckled bananas). To prevent this plastic from becoming waste, the brand was born as a way to give it a second life. It’s also created locally in Guadalajara.
Mercedes Salazar
Colombia
The colorful brand offers some of the most delightful handbags, ranging from those made of recycled plastic to others crafted from natural raffia fiber by master artisans at Mercedes' workshop in Bogotá.
Sac de Soul
Guatemala
Bags made with raffia and others featuring a snake handle crafted from glass beads—this brand particularly caught my eye for its color clashes that work perfectly together.
Other very unique bags:
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