Last week, I had the absolute joy and privilege to visit a new dear friend and incredible impact entrepreneur, Lorna Watson of “Stelar”.
STELAR:
“We work directly with artisans in Bali to create unique, hand-woven and handcrafted accessories that have history and meaning. STELAR is re-imagining indigenous skills that have been passed down from generation to generation to create long-term positive impact and sustainable livelihoods within the communities that most rely upon them.”
A selection of products from Stelar
Not only are these products fulfilling so many criteria as an impact business they are also beautiful, luxurious and ultimately authentic. Lorna has committed herself to bringing value and awareness to the traditions of Bali’s communities. Her unquestionable love for the island, its people and its traditions is deeply moving (I had a case of Founder envy). The Brand has taken something traditional and almost forgotten and brought it to the current demands and desires of the modern world, creating an outstanding example for the Future of Fashion. The products are luxurious, easy to understand, reasonably priced and full of love. I have a few pieces, a phone carrier, a hat, a visor and a gorgeous tote that I love. I bought a Men’s Tote for my husband.
A few days later, I went out with my recently purchased famous Brand Ch**el bag. I felt quite shocked by how much this once-so-desired bag had lost its appeal to me. What was it that had changed? Was it my rapidly evolving need for newness? Could I so easily and quickly be over a very desirable bag? I had been obsessed with this bag; I had pinned it on Pinterest, hunted for it on Vestiare, watched some Youtube videos on the said bag, and I even dreamed about it. After a matter of months, it was no longer my ‘it’ or ‘trophy’ bag. I was really annoyed with myself, and I started to question my own sense of logic and commitment to impacting the future of anything (let alone fashion).
Now let’s step back to the beginning of this blog. I was moved by the Stelar creations, a deep appreciation of the journey to create every bag or basket. During my visit to the Stelar Office, I met some of the Artisans, who were clearly so proud of their work and loved being a part of this Brand. The mesmerising stories Lorna shared of the miracles happening as she developed Stelar through these communities. Stelar has a sense of kismet, fated destiny or good karma, as if the stars had aligned to make this beautiful Brand happen. Bali is a profoundly spiritual and magical place that connects with us deeply. Lorna had experienced that during her first trip. She was drawn to make this happen, let’s say, to bring this magic to life through her Business and products. This is truly extraordinary.
My Branded Luxury Bag had grown tired so quickly due to the lack of connection and absence of authenticity I felt to it. At one time, Chanel was like Stelar, created with love, passion and commitment. This bag is still a very desirable bag and well-made. What I consider for myself is the ineffable effect of Stelar’s products when compared to my Chanel bag. There is a sense of something greater than a manufactured bag. To quote Lorna: “Made in communities, not factories”. Is this magical connection something we are craving from a deep place?
In these blogs, I explore the concept of being an aware or conscious consumer. I am constantly looking at what will be the Future of Fashion.
Stelar is the epitome of the Future of Fashion that I look forward to. Authentic, respectful, conscious, ethical, beautiful and positively impacting the lives of those involved.
Great work; amazing, Lorna and everyone at Stelar.
This Brand is an example of the future of luxury. I look forward to your continued success and the inspiration you are to so many others. This is proof of creating a dream fulfilled.
Until next time, take care.
Kate Padget-Koh