the protector

Armenia's St. Stepanos Monastery protects its sacred spaces with an ancient gate of starry beauty. Magnificent and mysterious, the gate inspires this hand-painted chiffon scarf, made of sheer and soft silk threads. Artisan Hasmik Movsesyan crafts each detail with meticulous talent, combining blue hues in the design's captivating pattern.

Mexico's Marco Bautista crafts this bold shoulder bag to accessorize your wardrobe. The wool exterior features an intriguing Zapotec diamond design in blue and brown on a beige ground. Leather shoulder straps add texture. The interior is lined with black polyester and includes a zipper pocket. The top of the bag also zips to protect your belongings.

Leather craftswomen Paulina and Maria Jose of Mexico have created a very elegant way to store and protect your passport on or between trips. Crafted of deep olive green tooled leather, it lets the passport cover slip into a vertical opening at the right. To the left are four card slots and also a pocket for papers.

The magnificent Inca wall that once protected an entire empire is now part of a dapper creation by Briseida Huete from Peru. The artisan crafts this pullover from 100% alpaca yarns, allowing a soft sensation that completes the crew neck and long sleeves with comfort. The pattern imitates a classic wall, combining alabaster, beige, blue, red and green hues for a smart look.

This sleek black sling bag transforms discarded vinyl cords into something unexpectedly sophisticated, proving that sustainable fashion doesn't have to sacrifice style. The striking diamond motif adorning the front creates visual texture while a secure button closure protects your essentials in the single compartment within. Created by Guatemalan artisan Claudia Hernandez, this handwoven accessory combines practical functionality with environmental consciousness in a compact, versatile design.

A hero of Guatemala, Tecun Uman was one of the last rulers of the K'iche' people. Legends relate that this ancient figure defended his land from Spanish settlers with a fearless attitude, being blessed by the gods. The Women United for Artisan Development Association finds in this courageous man their main inspiration, making an area rug featuring the hero in his last battle: wearing sacred feathers and protected by his spiritual guide, a quetzal bird.

Bold hill tribe patterns command attention across this awe-inspiring cotton and natural fiber blend handle bag where every stitch tells a story of adventurous spirit and free-flowing style. Sturdy rattan reed handles provide comfortable carrying while playful tassels add movement and personality to each step you take, complemented by charming white decorative buttons that add the perfect finishing touch. The secure zippered closure protects your essentials while the fully lined interior features a zippered pocket for organization. Kunlaya Pangsiri's skilled Thai artisanship ensures this bag is the perfect accessory for days that call for a touch of bohemian flair.

Intricate geometric patterns frame a stunning floral-inspired motif on this hill tribe cotton and natural fiber bag from Thailand’s Kunlaya Pangsiri. It is trimmed with a vibrant hot pink woven band decorated with delicate floral designs, adding an unexpected pop of color that makes heads turn. The reliable rattan reed handles ensure comfortable carrying through busy days and whimsical tassels with tiny wooden beads provide the perfect finishing touch. Inside, the fully lined interior features a practical zippered pocket for organizing essentials, all protected by a secure zippered closure that keeps everything in place. This boho chic bag bridges cultures while delivering everyday functionality with unmistakable style.

This exquisite travel bag showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of Uzbek hand embroidery as well as the use of upcycled vintage suzani textiles. Designed by Kana Morii, it is adorned with vibrant yellow, white, black and dark blue motifs meticulously hand-embroidered onto a hot pink surface. The bag’s front features a prominent yellow teapot, symbolizing the renowned hospitality of the Uzbek people. On the back, a traditional triangle pattern known as the “eye amulet” takes center stage, believed to offer protection from the evil eye. Adding a touch of sophistication, a charming beaded tassel hangs from the side, transforming it into a trendy small handbag. With a fully lined interior and a secure zippered closure adorned with a zamac floral charm, this accessory keeps your beauty, makeup and travel essentials always organized.

Please expect variation in the pattern placement due to the use of upcycled fabric, making each piece a unique work of art.