That Weekend Bag

Every so often I’ll come across something that we’re selling on our site and I will just absolutely fall in love.

I might spot it in our studio… or out on a catalog shoot… or on one of our buyers’ desks. Wherever I discover it, and whatever it may be, it’s just something that speaks to me. Something that just fits. And all I want to do is get my hands on it — and then share it with all of you. There was that pyramid jewelry box… that tunic… and now… that weekend bag. Well, this weekend bag.

I often travel back and forth between Philly and New York, and I’m always trying to stuff all of my belongings into whatever bag or backpack is within arms’ reach. Usually it ends up being a bag that can’t fit everything… or isn’t sturdy enough to maintain my confidence. This issue has gone unresolved for almost two years because I’ve been waiting for that perfect bag. Not just a big bag. A beautiful big bag… and one that has my heart — just like this one. Look how gorgeous it is!

This beautiful leather creation was handmade in Guatemala. It comes from a brand named Hiptipico, which sells all 100% authentic merchandise, and reinvests profits into women’s cooperatives, family shops, and Mayan handicrafters. This is the type of bag that makes you proud to carry it around. I love that about it.

We asked Hiptipico to tell us a little bit about this special piece… here’s what they had to say:

“The artisan family that created the Maleta Weekender are strictly leather crafters, operating out of Lake Atitlán, Guatemala. This Mayan family perfected the art of leather crafting and clearly made it their specialty. The word “maleta” in Spanish means “suitcase,” which we use to describe this large weekender style. The floral etching is inspired by authentic Mayan woodcarving. The technique is traditional to the Mayan culture and passed on from generation to generation. Taking inspiration from the flora and fauna around Lake Atitlán and infusing traditional customs has made this leather bag an incredible creation.”

An incredible creation, indeed.

This gorgeous thing can fit my laptop, my beauty products, about 2 week’s worth of clothes, 4 pairs of shoes, a huge pillow, and my entire camera bag. And then some. It’s almost ludicrous how much space is inside here… but anyone who spends weekends away from home — and loves clothes — knows that size is of great importance.

Honestly, I’m so happy to have come across this bag, and I feel quite lucky that I can share its beauty with all of you. Wonder what creation I’ll fall in love with next, haha! ;)

Shop the Maleta Weekender, or have a look at our full collection of bags.

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