Veja created their brand with a view to produce stylish products that remain ecologically responsible as well as respecting the rights of trade cooperatives. They chose to look to Brazil to source ecological leather, canvas and latex working closely with artisan ateliers that offer fair pay and treatment to all their producers. They have been producing shoes since 2005, but now they have launched Project Numero Deux with a launch in London, which consists of a collection of carry goods that adopt the same ethos that has gone to make Veja one of the world's most observed brands.

The focus has always been on responsibility, and their dedication to working closely with existing workforces in Brazil is still at the height of interest. The bag that we are stocking is called the Acacia Bag, and is named after the root extract which is used to tan the biscuit coloured leather used for its shoulder strap, handles and leather zip pulls. The use of this acacia ensures that the tanning solution is completely natural and avoids any polluting tannins during the process. Impressive, yeah? Well, the lining and canvas are also made from organic cotton grown by a cooperative of producers in the Northeastern regions of Brazil, using a method that opposes and bands the use of chemicals and pesticides at any stage of the growth. Once these have been sourced, the bags are then hand-crafted in an atelier that focuses on the rights of their worker's, before being shipped to France where they are transported around the Parisian canals, to avoid excessive air transport, for retail.

Acacia satchel in navy blue at the Veja official Project Numero Deux launch at London's Darkroom
Acacia satchel in wine red at the Veja official Project Numero Deux launch at London's Darkroom

Here are a few photos from their launch:


[All photo credits to Hypebeast]