October 4, 2011
Fall is here, and the cooler weather means it's time to bring our warmer clothing out of storage. We've searched the world and picked out fabulous shawls, scarves and handbags and made them available at VirtuArte this season.
We've done the work of narrowing down our selection to the hottest items. Now it's up to you to update your wardrobe accordingly.
The best thing about our list is not the bold accessories that are in right now. Every item on our list (and on our website) is made in a developing country. Purchasing from VirtuArte will help contribute to the economic development and well being of an artist or artisan and to the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. Being in style doesn't really get any better.
Hobo Bag
There aren't many accessories you can take to work and take shopping on the weekends, but this Diamantina hobo bag is definitely one of them. Cut from rich brown Argentine leather, this bag is the perfect way to show that you're classy without going over the top.
About the Artist: Diamantina is the product of two friends, Luciana Gagliardi and Claudia Diamante, who used their passion for fashion to bring jobs to skilled men and women in their home country.


Batik Scarf
Scarves are a fun way to add versatility to your wardrobe. This fall, experiment with ways to wrap them around your neck or drape them over your shoulders with this handmade batik scarf from American-born, Indonesian artist Nia Fliam. The foliage resembling colors are perfect for sipping cider on cool fall evenings.
About the Artist: Nia Fliam became interested in African batik while studying at the Pratt Institute in New York City. In 1983, she let her interest lead her to Java, an Indonesian island with a rich tradition in batik.
Fabric Shoulder Bag
Artist Yvette Floro has been designing handbags and fashion accessories for more than 20 years. Add this season's '70s inspired color palette to her experience and you get a shoulder bag that will make your fall wardrobe effortlessly chic.
About the Artist: Yvette Floro has been working for Floro Enterprises since she graduated from the University of Santo Thomas (Manila) in 1984.


Flower Choker
Bold accessories and chokers are both in this season, and this piece is the best of both. This Patricia Amsellem choker is handcrafted with dark orange cerrado leave flowers. It is a great way to add style to your fall look in an unforgettable way.
About the Artist: Patricia Amsellem moved to Brasilia, Brazil in 2004. She was quickly captivated by the region's artisans and started a label of accessories made by groups of local artisans.
Hand Embroidered Wool Shawl
One of VirtuArte's newest artists, Kala Raksha is behind this hand embroidered wool shawl that's absolutely perfect for fall. This shawl is the perfect amount of warmth for cool fall evenings, and the vibrant red color is excellent for the season. Kala Raksha artisans designed this shawl with Rabari, a form of embroidery which uses chain and cretan stitches, mirrors and bandhani (tie dye) patterning.

About the Artist: Kala Raksha Trust started in 1991 as a project focused on a group of embroiderers in Sumrasar Sheikh. The trust now works with almost 1,000 artisans in seven ethnic communities. Kala Raksha means art preservation, a fitting name because the trust's goal is preserving traditional arts.
These five items are just a glimpse of what VirtuArte has to offer this season. Take some time to look around our website. We're certain that you'll find other accessories and apparel that will keep you looking great this season. And, these are purchases you won't feel bad about.
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