After a recent trip to Nakuru, Kenya, designer Ryan Clements was disheartened by what he saw. He found a population where more than half is HIV positive, a community filled with orphaned children, and a slum comprised of women who gather food, shelter material, clothing, and footwear directly from refuse. The situation was bleak. It was there, in the Gioto Garbage slum that Ryan Clements decided to produce his handbag line Fashion. Love, Africa.
Directly inspired by the bags the slum women were producing themselves, Clements began designing and purchasing the handwoven satchels from the women, thus supporting their craft as well as their community. The artisans gather, clean, and disinfect the materials, eventually weaving them into bright and colorful shoulder bags. The women receive a steady source of income from the line and $10 from each purchase goes back to the community via an international NGO established in Kenya. Below is my favorite bag, and note that each bag is named after the women who made it! This one's the "Leah!"
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
-
Le Labo’s New Lavande 31 Eau de Parfum Redefines Lavender Fragrance
It’s an entirely fresh take on lavender.
By Samantha Holender Published
-
The Best Hair Straighteners Add Instant Shine to Your Style
These picks are coming in hot.
By Sophia Vilensky Published
-
32 Beauty Products That Are Just So Good
Sponsor Content Created With Walmart
By Caitie Schlisserman Published
-
Found: 10 Sandals on Amazon You'll Love
Throw 'em on and go.
By Katie Attardo Published
-
The 13 Sandals Brands We Can't Get Enough Of
Your go-to list for sandals you can rely on.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
The 18 Fall Scarves No Outfit Is Complete Without
The easiest and coziest combos—just in time for sweata weatha.
By Julia Gall Published
-
Red Club X Cartier Is Offering Invaluable Support for the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
"The best way to predict the future is to create it."
By Sara Holzman Published
-
Yara Shahidi Joins Forces With Cartier Women's Initiative to Empower Entrepreneurs
"Giving back is essential to existing in the world."
By Sara Holzman Published
-
In Order to Revolutionize Fashion, Prioritize Innovation
"We must remain optimistic."
By Sara Holzman Published
-
Fashion Test Drive: Chloe's Top-Handle Penelope Bag
This eye-catching bag also does good for the planet.
By Sara Holzman Published
-
Fashion Test Drive: Isabel Marant's Oskan Moon Bag
"The key word is versatility."
By Sara Holzman Published