Japanese Fabric Handbags

“I found this stunning vintage obi fabric in a backstreet vintage shop in the Le Marais area of Paris. It has exquisite metallic gold and iridescent thread vintage obi fabric woven into a stunning butterfly and floral design. The intense colours just wowed me and so I named it Madam Butterfly after the amazing golden butterflies within the floral design.” This is a large shoulder bag backed with black suedette, fully lined and interlined with inside zip pocket and large vintage button fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“I was lucky enough to source this amazing vintage silk thread obi fabric directly from Japan. I loved the charming floral design with pretty maple leaves, fans and carriages. And the silver threads in the fabric enhance the gorgeous bright colours adding a subtle shimmery tone. I added a beautiful Tahitian pearl shell button which also catches the light beautifully.” This is a large shoulder bag backed with cream suedette fully lined and interlined with cream satin inside zip pocket and Tahitian pearl shell button fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“I found this truly unique fabric directly from my contact in Japan. It is a vintage obi belt boasting vibrant hues that were simply irresistible. Instantly, I knew it would make a fabulous bag. The addition of silver threads adds a subtle yet alluring shimmer to the piece, perfectly contrasting with the delicate floral decorations. I felt that this bag deserved a name that was just as special, and Pearl felt like a fitting choice. The final touch was a Tahitian pearl shell button, which added to the bag’s overall charm. It’s perfect for springtime adventures in peaceful, secluded gardens. ” This is a large shoulder bag backed with cream suedette. Fully lined and interlined with inside zip pocket and a Tahitian pearl shell fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“During one of my shopping sprees in Paris, I stumbled upon an exceptional find: Alicia, a shimmering obi fabric with iridescent woven thread forming exquisite floral motifs against a coral background. This fabric immediately captured my imagination with its eye-catching design. This is a unique statement piece and anyone who sees this bag will love it… The large Tahitian pearl shell button and soft cream suedette backing complete the bag’s look and feel, adding to its charm. It’s a bag that deserves to be showcased at the most special of occasions.” This is a large shoulder bag backed with cream suedette, fully lined and interlined with inside zip pocket and Tahitian pearl shell fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“During one of my Parisian adventures through the vintage shops tucked away in Le Marais, I came across yet another spectacular discovery. This gorgeous woven obi fabric caught my eye with its delicate floral design, woven with silk thread into a subtle shimmering pale rose gold background. It was love at first sight. The luxurious Tahitian pearl shell button completes the bag’s elegance and feel. This bag would be perfect for browsing the chic boutiques and shops of Rue Saint-Honoré on a sunny summer day.” This is a large shoulder bag backed with black suedette fully lined with inside zip pocket and large Tahitian pearl shell button. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“I am fortunate to have sourced some stunning obi belts directly from Japan, and this one is no exception. The striking gold and orange against black design exudes a definite Art Deco vibe. The vintage 1930’s bakelite button and black tassel add to the overall feeling of glamour and luxury from that era. Just picture yourself strutting down the avenues of 1930’s Paris or New York, with this beautiful bag on your shoulder.” This is a large shoulder bag backed with black suedette. Fully lined with inside zip pocket and original bakelite button fastening and optional tassel. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“Another delightful obi fabric that came directly from Japan, featuring bold and almost geometric patterns that leap out from the cream, gold, and green background. The bag exudes a fresh spring vibe, so I decided to line it with the vibrant green silk satin backing of the original obi, as it was too perfect not to include as part of the bag. This bag is perfect for a springtime outing in the sunshine!” This is a large shoulder bag backed with cream suedette, Fully lined and interlined with inside zip pocket and large Tahitian Pearl shell button fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“I created Clara, an exquisite handbag made with a stunning vintage obi fabric. The bag features a gorgeous butterfly and geometric woven design that adds to its charm. To enhance its drama, I added a black tassel and a vintage 1930s bakelite button, which make it a statement piece. When you wear this eye-grabbing bag, you can expect compliments from everyone who sees it! ” This is a a large handbag, backed with black suedette fully lined with inside zip pocket and 1930s bakelite button fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

On my first visit to the Le Marais neighbourhood of Paris, I stumbled upon a delightful array of vintage shops. Among them, I discovered a small boutique featuring a modest selection of Japanese obi belts. It was the first time I had seen these types of obi belts in Paris. One of the belts I was immediately drawn to was this vintage obi fabric boasting a stunning geometric pattern in bright orange, accented by delicate metallic golden threads. This bag exudes a timeless Parisian elegance with a subtle modern flair, epitomizing sophistication. It would be an impeccable accessory for cocktail parties in the Latin Quarter. This is a large handbag, backed with cream suedette, fully lined and interlined with inside zip pocket and large Tahitian pearl shell button fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“When I saw this stunning golden yellow satin obi fabric in a little backstreet vintage shop in Paris I knew instantly that it would make a visually striking bag. The fabric has a geometric design with woven orange mauve and pale green details. To perfectly complement the exterior, I utilized the backing of the obi as the inner lining of the bag. I would wear this bag while watching a beautiful sunset at Cafe Del Mar.” This is a large handbag, backed with black suedette, fully lined and interlined with inside zip pocket and large Tahitian pearl shell button fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“This vibrant orange silk obi fabric came from Kyoto and exemplifies the exceptional artistry inherent in these obi belts . The opulent orange silk has woven cream flower details and pretty gold leaves that give me the feeling of listening to flamenco music on a balmy summer evening.” This is a large handbag, backed with cream suedette, fully lined and interlined with inside zip pocket and Tahitian pearl shell button fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.

“It was during my first visit to the Le Marais area of Paris when I found this charming, sophisticated vintage silk obi fabric. It has that distinctly 1920s/1930s style that pervades the streets of Paris. With its stunning orange and cream flower design, soft pink and silver thread detail, it just screams “chic.” I’d love to wear this bag while wandering along the Champs-Élysées in La Belle Époque, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.” This is a large handbag, backed with cream suedette, fully lined and interlined with inside zip pocket and Tahitian pearl shell button fastening. The bag measures approximately 14 inches by 10 inches with a strap length of 27 inches.