Socially-Conscious and Super Cute: Kayu Bags Do It All

Photo: Kayu

Kayu checks off all the boxes we look for when deciding which brands we want to patronize. The company is based in the Bay Area. It’s woman-owned. Kayu bags are eco-friendly and ethically-made by female artisans around the world. But a bag needs to be more than a socially-conscious conversation starter; it should look good, too. That might be the standout feature of the brand: Kayu doesn’t just make woke bags, they make stop-you-in-your-tracks cute bags.

Round bags—both circles and more structured takes on the bucket bag—are all over Instagram and in fashion magazines right now, and Kayu has standout options on both fronts. For a straight up circle, there are the woven Carrie ($260) and Peyton ($280) styles, while the Colette ($165) and Lucie ($245) styles can fill your summer bucket bag void. For folks who are more into transparency, the Harper woven tote ($160) is a chic take on the fisherman net bag—and a no-brainer if you want an option that demands next to no suitcase space on vacation.

On the structured side, the Anya ($245) and Safia ($345) rattan bags are open-basket scene-stealers for folks who love the Cult Gaia vibe, but don’t want to carry the ubiquitous Cult Gaia bag. If you’re heading to a wedding, Kayu’s clutches are a no-brainer. (You don’t have to take our word for it: Meghan Markle is a fan, too.) We like the Grae ($235) for a more elevated look, the Crete ($250) for a timeless classic wicker, or the shell-shaped Jane ($250) if the novelty clutch is more your speed.

Check out more of the latest looks for Kayu below, or shop the entire line at KayuDesign.com.