2010 IHDA Finalists -> Maria Estrada: IGNES Handbags: Made in Uruguay for Most Socially Responsible Handbag
IGNES Handbags, "Luka" style, clutch, nappa and salmon skin leather, $260
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Designer Information:
| Name: | Maria Estrada |
| Brand: | IGNES Handbags |
| Year Started: | |
| Website: | www.ignesbags.com |
| Age: | 29 |
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What country are your bags manufactured?: Uruguay
Please explain how your bags are socially responsible?: The ways IGNES tries to work responsibly include: Creating job opportunities in Uruguay for its growing team of artisans, and providing them an environment where they can look forward to advancement, Utilizing leathers that are a by-product of Uruguay's meat industry, from reputable tanneries with responsible environmental practices, donating small pieces of leather left over from production to a rehabilitation center for children where the leathers are used to create hand and wrist braces, supporting local charity Hogar Retonio and a children's school
Why did you choose this country to have your bags made and what made you decided to give back?: Uruguay is where co-founders Maria & Ignacio come from. We knew our country had a lot to give in terms of the quality of the craftsmanship and uniqueness of the leathers and yet also a lot could be done to contribute to this industry and hopefully grow it by employing more people, as well as supporting local charities.
How have your bags impacted this community?: As above, sales have contributed to local charities (such as "Give a gift to a child" Christmas Appeal, where IGNES donates gifts with sales before Christmas); as well as employing local craftsmanship, donating the remaining pieces of leather to a rehabilitation centre and buying local leathers, which come from animals bred in free-range farms.
What is your design philosophy?: Creating handbags that appeal to our customers' unique style. IGNES is best known for the "Create your own handbag" concept, and through a very personalised attention and extensive feedback, we learn more about what our customers are after and think of this when designing, whilst maintaining the IGNES image and fusion of cosmopolitan style with unique South American leathers.
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