Meet behno, the Luxury Handbag Label Dedicated to Diversity and Ethical Practices
The brand has been working with organizations like the National Down Syndrome Society to combat fashion norms and reduce environmental harm.
New York-based handbag label behno is a name to watch in the realm of sustainable and ethical fashion. The brand not only maintains a transparent and eco-friendly supply chain, but also promotes diversity, starting conversations on how the fashion world needs to change.
“We are setting a new standard for manufacturing for the global garment trade that revolutionizes the way garment workers and artisans are treated, viewed and employed,” the brand states. “Our aim is to become part of a global mission that inspires change, improves factory conditions, quality of life, and safety of individuals in developing countries by working with international factories that adhere to rigid compliances.”
behno is known for its positive initiatives such as the Garment Worker Project, which aims to reveal the less visible facets of fashion by crediting those behind each design. The campaign documents factory workers in photographs and films, highlighting the brand’s mission to making factory conditions safer in India. Through the project, founder Shivam Punjya has been realizing his vision of a fair manufacturing process, where workers aren’t just a part of the supply chain, but instead a close part of behno’s DNA. Additionally, the label also ensures minimal environmental impact through sourcing sustainable materials and recycling any production waste, while using energy-saving machinery in its factory.
The brand also partners with the National Down Syndrome Society. Acknowledging that the industry is experiencing a paradigm shift to include more people of color, the label stresses the fact that this widening hasn’t always included those with disabilities. Most recently, Punjya designed a capsule collection that benefits the NDSS with items like a tote dubbed the Nini inspired by his sister, who has Down syndrome.
Peep behno’s sustainably and ethically made handbags in the gallery above. Priced from $275 USD to $625 USD, the purses are available for purchase via the label’s web store.
