Throughout my time in the field, I’ve seen a lot of product from Colombia but I find these handbags to be among the country’s most special and beautiful finds. For those of you looking for a new line of fresh bags for summer, take a peek! I love the use of natural colors, some more subdued and others with a bit more boldness and energy. The line really does speak for itself – it’s pure beauty, articulated in the exquisite details of construction.

With a new year on the horizon, I am delighted to share some fresh new products for 2021. I realize many of you are looking at least six months ahead, so I thought I would start out by sending some fun summer staples. Plus, it’s nice to think about the longer and warmer days ahead! I can foresee this classic hat and bag combo as being among your best sellers. They suit anyone, are made to last, and will never go out of style.

The tote bags are made of henequén, a natural fiber from Mexico, and crafted on the pedal loom. It’s a technique that was introduced during colonial times but has its origins in Egypt. This technique allows the artisan to cover a larger size than the waist loom.

Today I’d like to take you on a journey to Thailand, where I’ve recently connected with a group of artists that specializes in water hyacinth. If you’re looking to bring in a new line of basketry, storage containers, or handbags, they may be the perfect partner for you. For years, the Thai government spent tens of millions of dollars fighting this feisty weed as it clogged rivers and canals. But recently innovative entrepreneurs have found new functions for water hyacinth as an environmentally friendly fiber for their work.

This month, AOW is delighted to interview Lauren Brandstetter, the founder of Mar Y Sol, a company that works with artisan communities in Madagascar. Mar Y Sol’s focus and business ethos have made them a company that AOW admires—they have created an ethical brand that truly walks the walk. Their competitive edge is design that stays fresh each season, keeping them ahead of the natural fiber trend craze. To start, Laurel tells us a bit about herself and how she first dove into this field, and how she stays ahead of her competition while staying true to her brand and mission.