Jewelled Bags: Handcrafted, heavily embellished bags that are proudly Pinoy made

Working for Filipino retailers has made me appreciate the hard work and talent that goes into each garment, shoe, bag, or accessory. It's really different when it's Pinoy made. Lacking heavy machinery that mass-producing countries like China have, our workers have resorted to more or less creating things by hand.

At least, when it comes to homegrown, small brands. It's the same for locally produced cosmetics brands like Leyende and Venus & Mars.

Anyway, I was surfing blogs a couple of weeks back when I first read about Jewelled Bags. It's a Pinoy brand that makes these beautiful bags that are heavy with beads, semi-precious gems, glass, and other appliques. They also come in indigenous fabrics and luxe skins like snake and leather. 

Each bag is elaborate and obviously carefully made. From what I understand, there is only a limited number made for each style, so you're assured that what you have is more or less unique.

The brand has been around since 2009, but the designs are so striking that celebrities like Oprah and Paris Hilton have found them gorgeous enough to be worn. Of course, Tessa Prieto-Valdez did not miss the party because, admit it, Jewelled Bags are SO her style!

The bags are not cheap, ranging from P2,000 to P4,000 for small clutches. But considering the hours their artisans spent on it, I think that's a fair price. Would like to own one myself someday, when the right design comes along! Definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a special gift to a special someone. ;)

So, what do you think of Jewelled Bags? Chic? Too much?