Banago // Handmade, With Love

I've rarely met a graphic patterned handbag I didn't like. I think that's what initially drew me to the Banago woven clutches I recently discovered. The bold stripes, greek key and zig zags in electric hues certainly commanded attention, though old habits die hard and if I'm being truthful with you all, it was the black designs woven into the natural background that I took notice of first. But a little research into the handbag maker produced yet another reason to fall in love with them and I most certainly did.

It's no wonder that visitors to the website are introduced to the story first. A beautifully shot video plays on the homepage, transporting you to the islands where Banago handbags are handmade by craftspeople who have mastered their art. You meet the founder, Renee Patron and instantly understand what she envisioned when she set out to bring a piece of her family's culture to the rest of the world. I immediately got the feeling that it really wasn't about the product, but rather it was the place itself and the people who mean so much to her that she wanted the world to know about. The handbags are just the vehicle. 

The cultural foundations, the ties to a place and time where people still live connected to their craft and handed down traditions, working side by side for the benefit of all, these are the real reasons to love Banago. The gorgeous patterns are just a bonus.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to take a little siesta today and visit the website for the short 4 minute video. It's lovely and a good reminder of things that matter. 

ilovebanago.com

All images from the Banago website. Island images by Ito for Banago.