We are committed to making sustainable designs that support the artisan community within Africa. 

Our handbags use leather from sheeps, that the locals consume as a part of their diet. The real snakeskin and crocodile skin used in our bags are not caught for just their skin, their meat is consumed and the skin is a by product of that process. The dyes used for the leathers are vegetable dyes that do not harm the environment. We work with artisans that have been in business for over 10 years, and with our support they have been able to expand shops, work with new shapes, provide for education for their families and more. 

The fabrics are sourced in Liberia, and the quality is excellent. Gigi has spent her life surrounded by Ankara fabric or lappa as its called in Liberia. The lappa is used in everyday life from carrying children to balancing items on one's head to be carried to being made into some fantastic designs for clothes for special occasions and other events. 

Vai Girl is committed to working with the community in Liberia and here in NYC. So remember to follow us on instagram (@vai.girl)  as we take you along on our sourcing trips twice a year and show you the collection in action.