The Surprise Sari Tote Bag
Meet the Surprise Sari Tote bag, providing economic independence for our talented artisan makers in India
PLEASE READ BEFORE ORDERING: This listing is for *ONE* randomly chosen upcycled sari tote bag, with screen printed message of empowerment (see example photos).
You will receive one bag at random in a style similar to those shown in the photos, but colours and patterns of the sari on your bag may vary. All mystery tote bags included in this listing are discounted by 30-50%.
**PLEASE INCLUDE ANY COLOUR OR PATTERN PREFERENCES IN THE NOTES WHEN YOU CHECKOUT, AND WE'LL DO OUR BEST TO ACCOMMODATE YOUR REQUEST (BUT NO GUARANTEES) :-)
These vibrant one-of-a-kind repurposed sari shopping bags are meticulously handcrafted by empowered artisan women based in Pondicherry, India. They're gorgeous, hand-printed with natural inks on both sides, one side proclaims "This bag provides economic independence for a woman in India" and the other side says Shakti.ism in bold and beautiful Hindi script. Each bag has a hanging inner side pocket made from the same sari used for the exterior of the bag. The handle for each bag is also made from the same sari - creating a beautiful reusable tote bag from repurposed sari cloth. Each set of bags is made from the off-cuts of one sari, so colours and patterns may vary depending on which piece of the sari was used. This unique sari tote bag provides economic independence for the talented Indian artisan women who make them.
Our saris are from all over India and beyond, which means we have a wide variety of patterns and traditions represented. Many were generously donated especially for this social initiative. Because every sari is unique, each product has its own story and is truly one-of-a-kind. Most saris are comprised of multiple colours and patterns intended to compliment each other when draped, which is why no two items made from the same sari are the same. Colours and patterns may vary from the photographs, depending on which part of the sari was used. Some finished items have minor imperfections, which makes them even more charming and distinctive.
By purchasing this item, you are helping to empower and provide ongoing employment income for the women who make them.
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Dimensions. approximately 34 cm length x 38 cm height with 35 cm handle drop (12 in length x 15 in height with 14 in handle drop)
Care. Gently hand wash in cold water. Hang or lay flat to air dry.
Upcycled sari fabric and organic cotton
Discover beautiful fair trade accessories and gifts from Shakti.ism, a social enterprise brand on a mission to empower and support marginalised women.
They partner with local grassroots NGOs to ensure their support is reaching people who need it most. Often these are women and girls who have experienced or are at risk of gender-based violence as well as other disadvantages.
Shakti.ism and their partners create a supportive space for the women to develop their skills as artisans and entrepreneurs. This training and support creates far-reaching ripples of change. It helps ensure the women have a sustainable livelihood for the future, breaks the cycle of poverty and preserves local traditions.
Every item in the Shakti.ism collection represents a brighter future, in the form of dignified employment, a living wage, hope and opportunities – for both the women themselves and their children.
Shop for one-of-a-kind pouches, tote bags, yoga mats and more, all of which are handmade using repurposed and recycled donated sari fabric.
