Earth Day might have been and gone, but that doesn’t mean bagistas have stopped searching for stylish eco-friendly accessories. Kaija is the latest green label to make a splash with its organic and environmentally-friendly tote bags and clutches.
Kaija means “able,” a word which resonates with meaning for designer Khrisna Justo. During a visit to the Philippines she saw underprivileged women making a living by crafting goods from hand-woven fibers. Seeing the potential of their skills, Khrisna decided to take the women’s talents to the world.
On her return to New York, Khrisna established Kaija to provide stable employment and new opportunities for impoverished women. She designed a collection of bags, combining natural, indigenous fibers of the Philippines with contemporary Western style. The colorful tribal stripes of this Ana purse have really caught my eye.
Kaija’s social conscience extends beyond the labor. A portion of all Kaija profits are donated to UNICEF’s programs for orphan children.
Kaija bags are available online from $65.
