Shopping website NOVICA, in conjunction with National Geographic, brings the work of independent artisans living in poor communities around the world to the masses. The site’s Handbag Boutique is an ideal place for socially minded fashionistas to find a unique accessory.
NOVICA really has bags for all occasions and personalities, from casual distressed canvas bags and quirky totes made from soda pop ring pulls to dazzling metallic evening purses. They’re imbued with a sense of place, and designed with that aesthetic that’s so different from anything we see in the Western world.
NOVICA does not charge its artisans a fee to list their works on the site. These craftsmen also remain completely independent. They can lower and raise their prices as they see fit, and can cut ties with NOVICA whenever they wish. Although goodness knows why they’d want to!
This is more than simply a charity operation though. NOVICA showcases rare and unique items that we won’t find at our local shopping mall. It’s ideal for girls who want to stand out in a crowd, the kind who’d never dream of carrying the same purse as anybody else at the party. It serves as a bridge between third-world artisans and a fashion hungry marketplace, helping craftsman make money from their wares and bagistas find that something special.
