Pretty pouches by Toronto-born designer Aurora James
Brother Vellies’s new collection of makeup bags celebrates traditional artisans
When Aurora James launched her 15 Per Cent Pledge last year, urging retailers to fill 15 per cent of their shelves with products created by Black-owned brands, Sephora was the first big name to sign on.
Now the Toronto-born designer behind Brother Vellies, an ethical line of shoes and bags crafted in collaboration with artisans around the world, is partnering with the beauty giant to launch a limited-edition range of makeup bags.
“We could not imagine partnering with any brand but Sephora on this collaboration,” James said in a news release. “We are so proud of their efforts to bring more diversity to their shelves. This, coupled with Brother Vellies’ goal of keeping artisan design practices and techniques alive, is the type of energy that we continue to support.”
James, who was named International Designer of the Year at the 2019 Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards, has become known for her sustainabilityminded goods, sumptuous earthy palette and smile-inducing whimsy. This collaboration with Sephora bears all her esthetic trademarks — albeit with a much smaller price tag.
The Sephora Collection x Brother Vellies collaboration is available at Sephora and on sephora.ca for a limited time only.
The Doodle bag
Inspired by Brother Vellies’ Mexican-made Doodle Boots, it’s adorned with drawings recalling the story of Eve — an apple, a snake — and “created in Mexico with love,” as the brand says.
Sephora Collection x Brother Vellies doodle bag $63, sephora.ca
The traincase
On top of offering tons of storage (it could double as a purse), it features the most delightful juxtaposition of pink faux alligator and cheetah print.
Sephora Collection x Brother Vellies traincase $40, sephora.ca
The large case
This three-in-one set consists of a roomy clear case that houses two smaller pouches: a glossy, cognac-hued faux-gator number and one made of cheetahprinted canvas. A moment of appreciation for that tortoise zipper ring.
Sephora Collection x Brother Vellies large bag $50, sephora.ca