In my recent online adventures, I came across the NOVICA handbags site, and I was pleasantly surprised by what I found there. I’d heard of NOVICA before, I knew that they had some association with National Geographic, and that they had crafts for sale from around the world. I am a proponent of sustainable living (little known Pixie fact) and write another blog about my own experiences with it, so I am in complete agreement with NOVICA’s mission to help support global artisans. However, I mistakenly expected everything on this site to look like something from an art class project. NOVICA handbags does have its share of craftsy batik and hemp bags, but it also has some surprisingly beautiful and chic pieces.
The first one that caught my eye was the bag pictured above, the Bows handbag by Brazilian Rogerio Souza. A professional leather craftsman with 20 years of experience, he has designed a chic, uncomplicated, elegant leather bag suitable for the classiest occasions — for less than $120. At 12″ x 9″ it’s a very practical size, and smart details like the small bow and magnetic closure show the designer’s attention to detail.
The next item I found was the beaded silk Paisley evening bag. Handmade by an Indian woman named Nupur, the swirling paisley shape has been painstakingly hand-embroidered and beaded to create a unique, one-of-a-kind piece that looks much more expensive than its $70 price tag. I added this to my shopping cart instantly, even though I rarely have occasion to carry such a beautiful treasure.
Another classic shape, this leather Tea Time clutch would be equally at home at a business event, on a day trip to an art museum or having tea with the Queen. This framed style is made by Mexican designer Ricardo Hinojosa and is larger than it looks, measuring nearly 16″ x 10.” This style is also available in dark brown, but something about the golden honey color really appeals to me. At $115, this is extremely affordable elegance you can feel good about.
Lastly, I had to include this Apparition tote in my list of NOVICA favorites. This sturdy leather-and-cotton design does fall into the craftsy category, but the mix of textures and colors is quietly sweet. Brazilian husband-and-wife team Luciano and Fabiana weave their local customs and flavor into each of their designs, making this bag truly unique. It’s a large bag, about 17″ x 12″ x 5,” and it includes quality details such as a leather bottom and internal key hooks. This bag would be a great work tote, market tote, or even an overnight bag if you pack somewhat lightly. At $185 it’s a little pricier than the other bags, but still significantly less than the cost of a designer wallet or sunglasses.
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