Fashion-wise, everyone is going (or has already gone) tribal — bold beaded jewelry, vibrant prints, the occasional feather. It’s a look that’s decidedly incongruous with the local landscape (unless you happen to live in, say, Ghana), but we think give it a go, especially if it means carrying a Susu bag from The Wayuu Taya Foundation.
The foundation, created by actress and former Chanel model Patricia Velásquez, aims to “improve the lives of Latin-American indigenous communities while maintaining and respecting their traditions, culture and beliefs.” So far, so great.
The bags are designed and handwoven by the women of the Venezuelan Wayuu tribe (of which Velásquez herself is a member), each one requiring 20 days of labor to complete. The craftswomen are paid according to national standards, and once a week receive educational seminars at a community center that is supported by the foundation.
The designs are gorgeous, the craftsmanship outstanding, but most exciting is the fact that 80% of the profits go back to the people of the Wayuu community.
The Susu bags are available on the The Wayuu Taya Foundation’s website and net-a-porter.com, $120-$200.
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Hello! I love a Su Su bag which is blue and pink style on yellow background with yellow and purple design on the strap.This is
shown as a small picture on home page about middle of home page.If u have one please tell me as soon as possible,thx.
These are so gorgeous. I started bringing them to North America from Colombia.