Wicker bags experienced somewhat of a comeback in recent years, and one fashion brand from the Philippines decided to use this to its advantage. Wicker Darling is producing some of the most offbeat bags you’ll ever see, mostly inspired by the animal world.
Wicker Darling was founded by Jasmine Norrie, a designer based in Melbourne, Victoria, who was longing for a figural wicker handbag she couldn’t find anywhere. She runs this brand from her hometown, but Wicker Darling’s bags are actually made by two small, family-owned companies in the Philippines.
Sustainably and fair pay come first for this slow-fashion brand, and their bags are hand-made with sustainably harvested rattan, by a group of local women using traditional techniques.
“Many of our weavers are mothers or older women who are now able to supplement their family income while working from home… We are able to provide stable, ongoing work year-round, ensuring that weavers are employed continuously even through the low season,” reads Wicker Darling’s official website.
Wicker Darling’s bags take the shape of many different animals, ranging from elephants and giraffes to cats and dogs. They’re open to experimenting with many different designs, but pink flamingos are definitely their biggest hit, and they helped put this brand on the map.
