IMAGE: NET-A-PORTER

NET-A-PORTER has unveiled a new range of fashion offerings under NET SUSTAIN, an initiative that highlights brands’ and their commitment to the use of sustainable materials and adherence to sustainability practices.

To be considered a part of the NET SUSTAIN initiative, a brand (and its accompanying product) will have to abide by these key attributes. The first is the use of ‘considered materials’, which takes into account the welfare of animals, people and the environment. Then, there’s ‘considered processes’, where a brand has to ensure that its product has minimal environmental impact, along with the assurance of health and safety of its workers. ‘Reducing waste’ is the third, as NET SUSTAIN lauds products that are made from recycled or reused materials. Last, but by no means least, is ‘craft and community’ and the importance behind the ‘locally made’ label. All the better if they celebrate the skilled artisans behind it and adhere to trade principles and the welfare of its invested communities.

Kayu is one that made the list, with its chic Hollie Tote that’s hand-crocheted by skilled artisans in the Philippines using locally sourced straw. Not only does the manual production process result in a lower energy consumption, the brand has also made an effort to highlight the artisans behind the intricately woven floral-patterned tote, a commendable effort that’s worthy of its NET SUSTAIN badge of honour.

Measuring 44 cm wide and 43 cm high, the bag will have sufficient space to hold several key essentials, and even makes for a stylish piece to carry alongside your summer outfits as you prepare for your beach-ready OOTD shots. Topped with a tortoiseshell resin handle, it adds a nice pop of colour against the beige straw body. Priced at USD241, the Hollie Tote is now available at NET-A-PORTER, which offers express shipping (in a day or two) to Singapore.

IMAGE: NET-A-PORTER