We all remember those freaky purses made from coddled cats, but Daina Levine is proving keepsake bags don't need to be creepy. Her business JennaClaire Handbag Studio takes special fabrics and transforms them into contemporary accessories.

When two women were unsure how to divide their grandmother's fur coat, they enlisted JennaClaire to create two small bags from the lining. A bride also sought the company's help to create purses for her bridal party. Fabric from the wedding dresses of her mother and grandmother were used to make these very special accessories.

But not every piece has such a touching back story. The store also offers swatches and fabric remnants, which bagistas can choose for their own one-of-a-kind purse.

"First, some people are overwhelmed," Daina Levine said. "Then, people come up with different combinations of things you might think would never work, but they do."

JennaClaire is based in Dayton, but its designs have still caught the attention of some famous stars, including Sheryl Crow and Mandy Moore.

While ready-made JennaClaire bags are available through the website, Ms Levine hopes to launch her online design store in the fall. In the meantime, Dayton locals can visit her studio at 4832 Juniper Way, The Greene Towne Center for that personalized purse.

[Source: Dayton Daily News]
[Image Source: JennaClaire]

Singer-songwriter and environmental activist Sheryl Crow has added bag designer to her already impressive résumé. Her artwork will be seen on A Better Bag, a reusable, eco-friendly shopper available through Whole Food Markets.

Sheryl's design features a sketch of a tree with the words "I love my home … planet earth" nestled in the branches. Brown dual handles are the perfect complement to this natural ivory bag.

These limited edition totes are made from 80% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. Isn't it amazing that they can create such soft fabrics from old bottles?

"I am a big believer in doing what you can, even if it's something as small as reducing the amount of plastic we each use daily that ends up in landfills, whether it is plastic bags, water bottles or product packaging," Sheryl said in a statement. "I'm so happy to be working with Whole Foods Market on this project."

But these chic shoppers aren't just good for your planet. They're also wonderful for your bank balance. The small bag costs 79c and the large is only another 20c more. Sheryl Crow's A Better Bag handbags will be available from Whole Foods Markets from October 15 until Christmas.

[Source: Whole Foods Market]

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