Bra$ilian Re:cycled pull-tab "fi$h $cale" handbag$

Blogged: 24 October 2007: www.eyewashdesign.blogspot.com

This gorgeous sustainable bag collection by Escama (fish scales, in Portuguese) is produced by the craftswomen of cooperatives located in Brasilia, Brazil. Prices for their goods are set by-the-cooperative & production is in-their- control. Every bag comes with an individually signed card by the artisan. How great is this? Helping women AND looking glamorous in the process. Even Zsa Zsa would be proud. Really, a win-win.

Bags #1-2: the Socorro Shoulder Bags by Escama ($95.00) are roomy enough for a day bag & glitzy enough for a serious night out. They're hand-crocheted, consisting of over 700 re:cycled aluminum pull-tabs. Lightweight, smooth textured & it has a supple expandable weave design. STATS: H6" x L12" x W2", Strap: 21" (crochet padded for comfort); zipper closure; nylon lining, including an inside zip pocket.

Bag #3: the dainty Chica Rosa Cosmetic Clutch ($35.00) has room to fit: a mobile; keys; cosmetics & pocket cash. It's a superb little accessory that won't bog you down. Hand-crocheted, it brags of over 200 recycled aluminum pull-tabs in construction. It's small, but packs a punch. STATS: H4" x L18" x W1"; featuring zipper closure with nylon lining.

Other available styles:

the FRANCISCA (500 re:cycled tabs @ $77.00)
the TONIA clutch (350 re:cycled tabs @ $77)
the MASHA (1,600 re:cycled tabs @ $160.00)
the LUCI tote (1,500 re:cycled tabs@ $250.00)

On Escama's site, all six styles are available in five colors. There, you'll see the expanding line, including a bracelet & a belt (not yet available). It's worth a visit.

Graphic Design: Alane Golden, eyewash design, NYC: 2007