9 Affordable, Sustainable & Fair Trade Handbags
tote responsibly
In the past, I created an ethical handbag list, but this time I wanted to share something more practical and affordable for most people. I have compiled a list of bags that are priced reasonably, under $200, and made with materials and practices that are fair to those involved in their production. Most of these bags support artisans, especially women, and education. You will find a variety of styles, from crossbodies to totes, in this list, so there's something for everyone.
1. The Nenita Bag
Brand | Nena & Co.
Price | $178
This socially responsible brand creates beautiful bags that are all handmade by women and support sustainable livelihoods. Made from Tobacco Leather (known for its tan color and velvet-like touch) and dark and supple Tumbled Painthorse leather from their Mexico Collection, the Nenita can be worn as a crossbody or a shoulder bag. The colors and symbols featured in the bags are unique to Oaxacan culture.
2. Clara Crossbody Purse
Brand | Nisolo
Price | $150
This brand makes beautiful shoes, and I'm sure their handbags have the same excellent quality!
Elegant, simple, and understated, you'll want to carry the Clara Crossbody purse around town.
Natural vachetta leather is vegetable-tanned leather with a natural or unfinished surface that develops a patina over time.
3. Free to Be Kind Tote
Brand | The Tote Project
Price | $36
The Tote Project is one of my favorite ethical brands. Not only do they create the sweetest prints, but their mission is also wonderful.
The Tote Project is committed to fighting modern slavery and supporting survivors around the world.
Sewn in India by women who have journeyed out of the sex trade & into freedom, this tote is made of sturdy organic cotton & printed with water-based inks.
4. Horizontal Duck Bag
Brand | Baggu
Price | $34
This bag is on my wish list, and the price is fantastic!
The Horizontal Duck Bag is made from recycled cotton canvas and comes in many colors.
It’s the perfect bag for toting your laptop, yoga clothes, or crafting supplies.
5. Luna Bag
Brand | O My Bag
Price | $188
This is another one of my favorite bags. I'm usually not a fan of crocodile textures, but I love how it looks with this bag. The circle crossbody design includes an adjustable strap that allows you to customize Luna's length to your liking. Despite its compact size, the bag has enough room to hold your phone, purse, and other essentials. Additionally, there are interior storage pockets that help keep your items organized and separated.
6. Magda Made Guadalupe Bag
Brand | Made Trade
Price | $75
I love the natural appearance of this bag; it would complement so many outfits.
This summery shoulder bag is crafted from fique, which is a cactus fiber grown and harvested locally in Curiti, Santander.
Magda Made aims to showcase the beauty and liveliness of Colombia through their handmade products while inspiring cultural exploration and preservation.
7. Mare Convertible Belt Bag
Brand | ABLE
Price | $128
ABLE was one of the first fashion brands to publish its lowest wages as part of the Lowest Wage Challenge.
The leather used in its bags is vegetable-tanned, and artisans handcraft everything.
Perfect for staying hands-free and chic, the Mare Convertible Belt Bag is all you need to add a little edge to your look.
8. Montanas Crossbody
Brand | MZ Made
Price | $139
The Montañas, ethically-made in Mexico, fits all of your essentials, including a 13” or smaller laptop.
Features a beautiful wool tapete in a Zapotec diamond design, naturally dyed with plants in tones of grey (huizache + pomegranate), cognac (cochineal + walnut), burgundy (cochineal) and cream (undyed wool.)
9. Simma Tote
Brand | Svala
Price | $195
I have this tote, which I use almost every day.
It goes perfectly with the matching wallet purse.
My Simma Tote from Svala is highly durable - and can you believe it’s made from pineapple leaves?!
Pinatex has an interesting texture, adds much character, and is naturally water-resistant!
