Manos Zapotecas bags are handmade in the small Zapotec village of Teotitlán del Valle in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. The company was born out of a belief that commerce can, and should, change lives for the better. What began as a wild idea to sell Zapotec bags globally, in a village where most of the women had never even left the state, has grown into a Fair Trade fashion brand run by a team of five women in the US that supports over 50 weavers in Oaxaca.
They strive to make a positive impact on the lives and communities of the artisans, by nurturing lasting relationships and always abiding by Fair Trade principles. Designers work closely with the weavers to incorporate traditional handwoven tribal designs with modern styles, the results of which are beautiful, expertly crafted and unique bags. Each MZ bag holds an element of discovery. From the significance of the Zapotec designs, to the bold color combinations, and most importantly, the distinct story of the artisan who wove it.