Meghan's Mirror

Chronicling the Chic, Classic and Casual Style Duchess of Sussex (the former Meghan Markle)

An Exclusive Interview with Kayu Founder Jamie Lim

Meghan Markle’s handbag collection is undeniably chic – from the biggest name brands to the uber cool brands you’ve almost never heard of, she always has some enviable arm candy wherever she goes. While she always chooses something fashionable, Meghan goes the extra step in choosing brands that are ethical with charitable philosophies.

Meghan has chosen her handbag brands carefully in the past, from Demellier London, who donates a set of vaccines for every handbag sold, to Everlane, whose entire brand is centered on ethical sourcing. Using the “Meghan Effect,” an economic phenomenon that occurs when Meghan wears a fashion piece that undoubtedly sells out, the Duchess of Sussex is using her platform to enact change in the fashion industry and around the world.


Enter Kayu, Meghan Markle’s latest handbag brand to enter Meghan’s closet. The brand describes itself as “[h]andmade with love from the finest natural materials […], blending modern Californian style with traditional crafts of South East Asia.” Kayu works with cooperatives and artisans across the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and in California to provide a living wage, a safe, comfortable working environment, and an artisanal vocation that represents their culture. Their materials are locally-sources and eco-friendly, and they use minimal machinery in their production process. Phew, that is a lot for an ethical brand’s resumé.

We chatted with Jamie Lim, Kayu’s founder, on the ethos of Kayu, Meghan Markle’s impact, and what we hope to see in the future:

Why do you feel ethical sourcing and sustainability is so important in the fashion industry today?

The fashion industry is one of the largest polluting industries in the world but it needn’t be so. From material composition to energy consumption and disposal, there are many things along the supply chain that can be done to reduce environmental and human impact. We specialize in handbags that are made from natural plant fibers that are sourced locally. All our items are handwoven curtailing the use of machinery and energy consumption. This year we are moving towards zero waste by trying to reuse all waste fiber and make them into smaller pouches or bags. As most of our materials are natural the wastage is also re-used as natural fertilizer. Fashion and sustainability need not be mutually exclusive.

How can the Duchess of Sussex use her platform to influence change in the fashion industry?

Everyone is watching Meghan closely and trying to emulate her effortless style. Simply by wearing ethical labels she can promote dialogue and get people interested in making more sustainable fashion choices.

How did it feel to see the Duchess carrying a KAYU design?

We are thrilled that the Duchess chose to carry our Anna clutch to the wedding of her friend Charlie van Straubenzee,  and to celebrate her 37th birthday. She is the embodiment of the modern woman – smart, outspoken and global.


Did you know she may be spotted with one of your pieces?

We had no clue that she would carry one of our bags!  

Meghan loves her arm candy – how would you describe her handbag style?

Meghan makes any style work. From classic, structured totes to embellished clutches – she makes everything she wears look fresh and modern.

What was your inspiration behind the Anna clutch? Is it named after someone special?

The bag was released as part of our Italian themed collection and means ‘grace’.

If you could choose another KAYU piece for Meghan to wear, what would it be and why? 

We love the way she makes clutches work for any occasion and would love to see her rock the Jen clutch.

Love Meghan’s clutch style? Here are some of her other favorite pieces:

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Comments

  1. Thanks for such an interesting post MM!!! It’s so wonderful to read about women who are working hard to make whatever change they can, all while creating something beautiful!! As someone who carries at least 2 pairs of glasses, I’m afraid that little clutches are not for me 🙁 The best I can do is carry one while I’m out running errands and will not be needing the second pair of glasses. All that being said I have been and forever will be in love with the Naeem Khan Zodiac clutch that Meghan introduced us to!! I am so captivated by this clutch, especially the handle, it’s silly I know but for some reason it just sings to me 🙂

    Reply

  2. So it’s been well over a week (I think) with no new posts… what’s up? Are you guys still updating this site?

    Reply

    • Hi Julie!
      We’re still here and still updating – it’s been a quiet month for Meghan, but we have resumed our regularly scheduled content for you!
      xo,
      A&C

      Reply

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