My New Purse

 

 

What do you think of this new purse?

My sponsor this month is Corlie of Red Buffalo Trading. She sent me this handbag from her shop. I am consistently impressed with the unique accessories sold through this online store.

Now, us ladies are often drawn to particularly pretty things. But Red Buffalo Trading doesn't merely offer pretty things. The concept behind all of the accessories they make is that they focus on using traditional art from SE Asia to create modern accessories to wear and use.

There's a special focus on incorporating vintage embroidery created by tribes in the Yunnan province of China as well as surrounding areas. As someone who embraces embroidery as a hobby myself (remember this tablecloth?) I am especially intrigued by the stories Corlie tells on her blog about the meaning behind different stitches and about the tradition of embroidery in minority people groups. The handbag I was given is one that features a panel of vintage embroidery on the flap (similar bag available for purchase here).

Corlie so obviously loves and respects the minority cultures of Southeast Asia and the beautiful artwork that they create, and through her shop she gives us the opportunity to show off a tiny bit of that artwork through a purse, or pair of earrings, or bracelet. (Seriously, you guys, just look at this bangle!)

I so appreciate that Red Buffalo Trading isn't a mass-producer of all-too-trendy things to wear. When you order from them, you know you're getting a unique item, one made with plenty of love and respect for the culture that produced it. Read Corlie's blog for the behind-the-scenes info about her life in China and the work that goes into designing and creating pieces for her shop.

Now, I've got something special for you guys today, giveaways are rare around here but Corlie is giving away a pendant made out of recycled scrap metal from bombs that were dropped on Laos in the 1970s.

As per usual rules and regulations, this giveaway is only open to residents of the U.S.A. and will be open for 1 week. I will notify the winner by email. Read the Terms and Conditions for any further rules, and have at it!

a Rafflecopter giveaway