I feel like describing the Zip Backpacks from San Fransisco’s Joshu+Vela as just “handmade,” doesn’t really do justice to all of the work that goes into making them. From vat-dying the canvas, to hand-cutting the leather, to casting the hardware in custom wax molds, nearly every step of the bags’ fabrication is a process unto itself. And it shows in the final product. Like it says on Joshu+Vela website, “these bags don’t fall apart over time; they come into their own.” Details include a zippered main pocket, two side pockets, adjustable brass buckled shoulder straps, and a reinforced leather bottom. There are six fabric options to choose from (one organic, one hand-dyed indigo, and four waxed), and you can also get black straps if you prefer.

Did I mention the co. makes totes too? Because they do, and they’re equally as fetching.

For price and purchase info, visit Joshu+Vela.