Born in the spare room of a rented apartment when a South African farmer asked to create something from the beautiful, natural materials that were usually discarded, Rarity Handbags developed its first signature springbok bags. These initial bags were created from animal skins provided by an animal control program.
The Feather Clutch, $257 
The Holly, $82
Years later, upon opening a design studio in Cape Town, South Africa, the company aimed to grow the prominence of the South African design sector globally and increase the social and economic opportunities for the marginalized producers and suppliers.
Now reaching more than 13 countries, Rarity’s style reflects the story of South African individuality, along with the unusual mixing of natural materials to represent this eclectic mix of a diverse society. It’s “slow fashion” philosophy is achieved through artisan training, sustainable employment of artisans, use of selected natural indigenous materials and mindfulness of all production processes to support the country’s natural heritage.
Rarity believes in and practices the 10 principles of Fair Trade, which include maintaining good working conditions, staying transparent and accountable, not participating in child labor or forced labor, and more. “Fair trade is a tangible contribution to the fight against poverty, climate change and economic crisis,” Rarity explains on their site.
