We are excited to introduce our new Milia Raffia Bag Collection from The Republic of Madagascar, or the Red Island, as they call it. An exotic island country and the fourth-largest island on the planet. 

Madagascar is known for its best known for its lemurs, colorful chameleons, stunning orchids, and towering baobab trees. It is home to some of the world's most unique flora and fauna. 

A country with a population of 26 million people and over 18 tribes, Malagasy culture is influenced by the Asian-African origin of the island’s people, which has led to a unique and diverse society with complex customs.  

This collection includes artistically woven tote bags and clutches made by the Malagasy women with traditional weaving and crochet techniques, to produce stylish and functional bags for you. All bags are made from raffia palm to produce long-lasting sustainably stylish and functional bags for you.

The bag's versatility will cater to your every need - be it a trip to the shops, the city, the school run, or just a day at the beach. Each bag is unique in that it is artistically hand-woven from pieces of black and sand colour raffia palm, twisted to give geometric patterns. The tote bags like the Milia and Sonya are super stylish with ruffles around the top and plaited handles. 

Inspired by nature and patterns of primates unique to the country. We are mesmerized by nature's beauty and want to interpret it in a very classic and timeless way.

Artisans

We have partnered with a social enterprise in Madagascar that works with women artisans to help develop their skills. A lot of these women live well below the poverty line earning a dollar a day and lack any formal education. Weaving baskets and bags are a key means of providing them with a sustainable source of income.

       

Each bag takes a weaver a few days to make and is entirely handmade. Made with patience, some singing, and sharing stories!

We hope you love them as much as we do!

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