THE MAKING OF:

VIOLETTE_FR X LIKHÂ STRAW TOTE

In collaboration with Nest

Meet the limited-edition collaboration tote rooted in craft, community, and conscious design. Created in collaboration with LIKHÂ, a Fair Trade Federation certified brand reimagining local craft for the global marketplace, and supported by Nest, a nonprofit supporting global artisans—each piece is handwoven by artisan partners in the Philippines using time-honored techniques and natural fibers. At VIOLETTE_FR, sustainability extends beyond the everyday—from packaging to production—and into the people behind each piece. Supporting artisan communities and humanitarian causes is central to that commitment. Just as we celebrate individuality in beauty, we honor it here—each tote reflecting the unique hand and spirit of its maker.

THE HANDBAG COMMUNITY

107 Total Artisans | 20 Years Avg. Industry Experience | 76 Female Artisans

Rooted in tradition and shaped by generations of craftsmanship, this close-knit community brings each piece to life through skill, care, and creativity. Using natural materials like bangkuan, raffia, and abaca, every bag is thoughtfully woven by hand—carrying with it stories of heritage and daily life.Through their work, these artisans not only create beautiful, functional pieces, but also sustain their families and strengthen their communities. Each handbag reflects a shared commitment to quality, culture, and continuity.

MEET THE ARTISANS

Behind every tote is a network of skilled artisans—each contributing their expertise to bring the piece to life. From harvesting raw materials to weaving and finishing, every step supports livelihoods across generations. Through this work, artisans are able to provide for their families, strengthen their communities, and pass these skills on to others—ensuring that traditional craft continues to thrive. Meet a few of the hands behind this collaboration:

  • ANGELINA

    Angelina learned weaving from her parents at a young age and uses those skills to support her family, educate her children, and work alongside a small community of artisans. She takes pride in creating careful, polished pieces and hopes to continue weaving from home for as long as she can.

  • NANCY

    Nancy learned how to weave by observing her aunts, who raised her and relied on handicrafts for their livelihood. She eventually turned the practice into her own source of income. She balances daily household tasks with weaving pieces she’s proud of, finding joy in their completion and continuing to learn new patterns to keep her craft evolving.

  • JESSICA

    Jessica began making tassels after stepping in for her mother, turning a way to support her family into an opportunity that also created income for neighbors she taught along the way. Balancing motherhood, household responsibilities, and precise handwork, she finds fulfillment in providing for her children through a craft she takes pride in.

  • ELDREN

    Eldren developed her sewing skills in garment factories before returning home to work on handcrafted bags, where she focuses on carefully measuring and preparing linings that meet strict quality standards. She takes pride in the precision of her work and finds fulfillment in knowing her craft becomes part of products shared beyond the Philippines.