The entirety of my time in Portugal, I was carrying my new favorite backpack. I had been eyeing a basket woven backpack from Victoria Handmade for months and knew that it was somewhere I wanted to go. Jake’s mom decided we should go right in the beginning of the trip, which was the best idea because I was able to use it the entire time!
First of all, the owners could not have been kinder. They were extremely accommodating, and visiting their shop allowed us to see their process. They explained how it took days to create a bag, not including the time spent in fields to actually get the material needed. The bag has pins on the bottom so it’s not touching the ground when you place it down, and is light enough to carry daily. I absolutely love it because I can carry it as a purse by the handle, over one shoulder, or two shoulder backpack style. We were even given wax for each bag we purchased, in order to take care of the natural wicker portion of the bag. I chose the backpack with the black leather siding and straps, but it is also available as a completely “natural” backpack.
What’s even better about this bag is that it fits so much stuff. When traveling, I want able to carry my sunglasses, sunscreen, wallet, mophie charger, tylenol, make up brushes/powder, with extra room for any pamphlets or souvenirs I purchased along the way!
Once I bought the backpack, I literally could not stop myself from purchasing this small yellow basket bag as well. This one is perfect for going out with friends or walking around town, as it’s light but also big enough for both my wallet and cell phone. I thought the color of it was so unique, and different from my more traditional basket bags of the past. It went with almost all of my outfits over the course of the trip, which made it rather difficult to choose which bag I wanted to use each day. I honestly cannot express enough how much I loved the experience of both purchasing and using both of these well made bags!
Overalls are Gap in Indigo. I’m wearing a Medium – true to size! Tee is Ralph Lauren from Marshall’s. Love Their crew necks!
Blouse is Tommy Hillfigger. This one and this one are similar! Shorts are J. Crew!
If you’re ever making a trip to the beautiful country of Portugal, it’s always going to be worth a stop at this adorable shop owned by such a friendly family. However, if you can’t make the trip, the shop ships world wide! Trust me on this: The bags are worth the money. They are durable, as well as absolutely lovely. You won’t find anything comparable here in the states, or anywhere else! Buy the bag! Nothing makes me happy the way purchasing a new bag feels!
