Bags From Brazil features a unique selection of bags, belts and accessories...
but the story behind our company is even more unique.

Women working in the hills of Rio de Janeiro have found a unique use for the recycled items they
use to create these hand-made bags.  Can tops, zippers and unusual fasteners are assembled by
these women, who use the money they make almost exclusively to support their families.

The company's founder, Lynda Aldon, explains how she became involved with these interesting accessories:

   "A friend of mine was visiting Rio, and bought one of these bags on the beach from a local boy. 
He brought it back and gave it to me while we were sitting in an office, and when I pulled the bag out,
a woman literally ran across the room and offered to buy it from me.  I declined, but when my friend
and I started discussing the possibility of bringing more of these bags up to resell, she said,
'If you ever start a company, call me.  I want to be your first customer.'  And she gave me her number.

   "When I started wearing the bag out around L.A., it was incredible!  I have never worn anything or seen
anything prompt such a reaction!  Women and men would walk up to me and ask me where I got the bag...
People offered to buy the bag from me, wherever I was!

   "Finally, after seeing this reaction and the interest in these bags, we decided to start Bags From Brazil
and make these bags, along with the belts and bras, available to everyone in the United States who can't buy
theirs on the beaches of Rio.  I called the lady who tried to buy my first bag in the office, and she purchased
my first two bags.

   "When I wear the bag out, people always ask me about them. I've now sold dozens right off of my back. 
Men buy them for their wives and girlfriends.  Heads turn every time I wear these bags.

   "I'm pleased that the bags are selling well, especially because I know the impact we're having on these
ladies' lives in Brazil.  They now have an opportunity to offer their families and their children a better life. 
And that's one of the things that really make these bags stand out to me, personally."