Kayu Tote

[Shanta Plansinis]

Thistote is embroidered by women in San Francisco. We work with new immigrants who do not speak English and as a result have difficulty finding jobs. Unfortunately this means that they are often underpaid and abused. Our initiative provides these women with practical training and an alternative source of income.

The beach tote you'll wear all summer, this essential straw tote is just as ready for the beach as it is for the city. Add a beach towel and sunscreen for your next island getaway or your everyday essentials when you're back home.

The Piata Beach Tote from Kayu is made of natural seagrass and features contrasting layers of black and natural raffia fringe, creating a chic, striped look. Finished with sturdy leather handles and fabric interior lining with drawstring. The perfect tote for a day at the beach or a summer luncheon. 17" x 10" x 6"

Kayu seeks to preserve and cultivate the traditional handcraft traditions of the Southeast Asia region where founder Jamie Lin grew up. Working with women artisans in Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, Kayu creates beautiful handbags from sustainable materials using age-old techniques. Rendered entirely by hand and in limited batches, Kayu fuses longstanding heritage craftsmanship with modern design sensibility.

Functional yet stylish, the mini Cherry tote from Kayu easily holds all your on-the-go essentials. Complete with a dual cotton woven shoulder and top handle straps, this carry-all is hand-made from an all-natural straw with an interior zip pocket. Pair with dresses or your favorite seasonal separates to add a chic finish to all your spring outfits.

A beach tote you won't want to put down, our signature St. Tropez straw tote is equally at home in the city as on the coast. Toss in your beach towel and sunscreen for weekend getaways, then use it to carry all your daily essentials once you're back home.

Our bags are carefully handcrafted by women cooperatives in the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, using indigenous techniques that have been passed down through the generations. We help preserve and promote their unique cultural heritage as well as provide them with a living wage.

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