Outfit Formula: THAT BAG THO'

Sometimes while online shopping, I stumble across a new find that is so awe inspiring I can’t stop thinking about it. Perhaps similar in many ways to how a more well adjusted person might feel after a particularly good first date, I feel that way about prospective additions to my closet. I plan our entire future together. I imagine all the activities we will do, all the places we'll go, all the joy it would bring my heart to be with it every single day, and inevitably the heartbreak I would feel should we ever part ways.

And this week the star of my heart is this bag. Beautifully woven with the perfect amount of kitsch factor, I’m not embarrassed to admit that when visiting it at it’s online home (it's not stalking if its an inanimate object, right?), I actually can’t help myself from smiling. That’s the joy of the shopping hunt. And even better? This bag was made from start to finish Ecuador from 100% toquilla straw by traditionally trained artisans. It's also at a price point I could absolutely justify, unlike other items I frequently fall in love with. #outofmyleague

Outfit Formula (THAT BAG).jpg
  • ONE: This bag and I fell in love at first sight will perusing Accompany, a great website for a variety of artisan made, fair trade, and philanthropically minded apparel, accessories, and home goods. While they don't have the most robust collection, they feature a group of truly amazing and impactful brands.
  • TWO: Maybe I'm not so intimidated by Reformation after all... This cherry red top has a wonderful shape and is bra friendly (unlike many Reformation items.) All Reformation clothing is produced using responsible manufacturing principles, with an eye towards reducing waste and water use. 
  • THREE: There is honestly no shortage of Cuyana items that I want to share with you. This skirt is an all season perfect, versatility master. It would look great inside and outside the office and can be worn at the waist or at the hips.  
  • FOUR: Nisolo shoes are my latest "so happy I found them" obsession-- you should expect them to start popping up frequently on The Swoop. These wrap sandals are a perfect compliment to this dreamy bag and were made in an ethical factory in Peru from responsibly sourced leather. 
  • FIVE: It's always fun for me when my day job and side hustle worlds collide. I discovered Kipato Unbranded, a social enteprise based in Kenya that works directly with local artisans to provide market access, on call with a grantee partner in Uganda. These bracelets have infinite wear-ability and come in a fun range of colors.