A peak at the environmentally-friendly accessories company that has an original twist.
As much as I love fashion, I have to admit that I have never really paid much attention to the ethical options. Although it’s important for the fashion industry to be ethically minded, any brands I’ve come across have always seemed to be slightly plain and usually stick to the earthy tones of green, brown and grey – a sweeping generalisation, I know, and one that I’ve not been proud of.
However, recently I’ve been introduced to a new brand that dispels all of the preconceived stereotypes that I once had, and so, I thought it was my duty to spread the word to the followers of Bonafide Supernova about the wonders of a small company called Weave and Stitch.

Weave and Stitch crafts environmentally friendly bags and purses. With so much competition for accessories nowadays, Weave and Stitch has managed to produce innovative designs and set itself apart from other brands. Formulated from the hands of a one woman band known as Rachael Marcus, she uses recycled paper weaved and sewn together to create one of a kind environmentally friendly bags.

Jellybean clutch bag

The most exciting aspect of Weave and Stitch is that above all else, it is a new, quirky offering to the accessories market, that is affordable and unique –something that proves to be rather difficult to find. Rachael cuts, folds and sews every bag and purse by hand, which means that not only are you getting a creative design, you are also receiving a personalised touch.
Each Weave and Stitch bag is made with a magnetic clasp and designed to be strong and water resistant. The bags have full lining inside with only the best quality paper sewn together and varnished with a clear coat spray that ensures maximum strength.

Silver stars and sparkles coin purse

The website shows a few examples of the collection but for a full breakdown of what’s on offer, visit the online store. My favourites include the Jelly Bean clutch bag, matching Silver Stars and Sparkles clutch bag and coin purse and Literature and Letters satchel.

Literature and Letters satchel

Whatever the occasion, Weave and Stitch provides a unique yet practical approach. Not only will you struggle to see these designs anywhere on the high street, they also offer custom items – so if you’re in need of a bag to match an outfit look no further.
Rachael’s light bulb moment for Weave and Stich came when she asked her friend what she would like as a birthday present; her friend replied that she’d like a “cool handbag”. Triggering an idea, Rachael spent six weeks attempting to make her first bag from paper. What started off as a weave kit and a random notion, transformed into funky and outlandish designs that appeal to fashion lovers and eco warriors alike.
With crazy colours, distinctive prints and a lot of imagination, who could now possibly say that ethical fashion is boring? Thanks to Weave and Stitch, we’ve got no excuse when it comes to combining helping the planet and making an impression in the style stakes!

Written by Stephanie Campbell Follow @stephicampbell

Images are credited to Weave and Stitch