Rare Black tote
Made from a beautiful antique hand-woven hemp grain sack uniquely dyed from Europe,the textile dates from the early 1900s.
- 50cm x 45cm
- no lining
- Shoulder Blackcotton strap
- washable
These fabrics originate from grain sacks that were produced over 100 years ago on European farms. Each grain sack was handwoven from hemp and decorated with a distinctive pattern of stripes and a few with hand-stitched monograms, in order to show which farm it belonged to.
(These unique family markings were used so that the farmers were able to identify their sacks filled with grain at the markets. This also made it easier to return the empty sacks back to the rightful owner after the market.)
These textiles are by nature extremely eco-friendly as they were naturally made from homegrown materials, home retted (in local lakes and ponds), and woven together by hand. The average age of these textiles is around 100 years old woven with linen, hemp, cotton or a combination of the three.
What we do at GOVOU is to reinterpret the use of these fabrics.
Our mission is to craft distinctive pieces, each carrying its own unique narrative. We meticulously handpick these linens, sourced from hand-loomed textiles aged over 100 years, acquired from Eastern European markets.
It's the unparalleled quality, enduring durability, and rare essence of these European heritage fabrics that set GOVOU pieces apart, rendering each one an exclusive and singular creation.
Think materials
Linen
An age-old and revered fabric, stands as a symbol of natural simplicity and a beacon of sustainability within the textile realm.
Derived from the flax plant, linen boasts inherent eco-friendliness. Flourishing with minimal water and pesticide usage compared to cotton, flax thrives in rain-fed conditions, embodying sustainability by drawing strength from the earth without excessive irrigation. Utilising the entire flax plant in linen production reflects our commitment to a circular economy, leaving no waste behind.
The journey of our linen, from plant to product, harmonizes tradition with modern ecological values. Undergoing minimal processing, our linen retains its biodegradable qualities while preserving the natural texture that imparts the timeless charm unique to linen.
Beyond its eco-friendly qualities, linen stands out for its remarkable durability. Strengthening with each wash and enduring for generations, linen defies the prevalent throwaway culture in today’s fast fashion industry, minimising the need for frequent replacements and reducing environmental impact.
In choosing linen its low environmental footprint and cultural significance. By incorporating this ancient, noble textile into our designs, we extend to our customers not just a product but a commitment: a commitment to lasting quality, unwavering sustainability, and enduring style.
Linen perfectly aligns with our sustainability ethos, as we create products not just for the present but with a vision for a greener future.
Hemp
Stands out in the natural fiber realm for its extraordinary strength and durability. This resilient material boasts a tensile strength that is up to three times that of cotton, making it supremely suited for everyday use and capable of withstanding the rigours of wear and tear. This durability does not come at the expense of comfort or luxury; hemp naturally softens over time, offering a texture that is both pleasant to touch and robust enough to protect your valued possessions.
Moreover, hemp is a bastion of sustainability. It enriches the soil in which it's planted, leaving it in better condition for future cultivation. Known for its low environmental impact, hemp grows rapidly and requires significantly less water and no pesticides, making it a champion of eco-friendly agriculture. The fibers are naturally resistant to mold and ultraviolet light, ensuring that the fabric maintains its integrity and appearance over time without the need for synthetic protectants.
In our quest for sustainable excellence, we've chosen vintage, raw hemp for our products. Each one of them is crafted from handwoven hemp, made using age-old methods that have been passed down through generations. This process not only gives each piece with a unique history but also ensures that the fabric's environmental footprint is minimal.
Our vintage hemp also excels in environmental stewardship, embodying the principle of 'reduce, reuse, recycle.' By repurposing existing materials, we not only reduce the demand for new resources but also honor the work of artisans who have crafted these textiles with skills honed over lifetimes.
Through the use of hemp, we create products that not only stand the test of time but also contribute positively to the test of sustainability.
Think sustainably
At the heart of our ethos lies a commitment to the principles of slow fashion, as we endeavour to transform the fashion landscape.
We breathe new life into traditional designs and overlooked materials, crafting distinct and exquisite creations. Our aim is to seamlessly blend the past with the present, cherishing history while forging a more radiant future. From our exclusive products to our limited edition collections, we uphold fairness, honesty, and transparency at every juncture, meticulously sourcing materials and crafting each collection with utmost integrity.
We believe in the transformative power of fashion to drive positive change, and our commitment is evident in every stitch, contributing to the creation of a better world, one piece at a time.
We believe in environmental and climate justice, protecting biodiversity and ecosystem balance.
Gentle Cleaning: Employ a soft, dry cloth to delicately remove any surface dirt.
Stain Removal: Seek professional assistance for stubborn stains on the vintage fabric.
Avoid Liquid Exposure: Steer clear of water, oils, perfumes, and cosmetics to thwart potential damage and discoloration.
Storage: Keep your bag in a cool, dry place, shielding it from prolonged exposure to direct light and heat. Employ the dust bag for an extra layer of protection.