Parker Clay bags are luxury handbags and backpacks that focus on sustainability and ethically-made production.
Since its inception, Parker Clay has been dedicated to helping empower women through fair trade practices and community development initiatives.
The brand works with artisans in Ethiopia to create handmade leather goods, and they are also involved in a number of other projects that support women entrepreneurs and small businesses in developing countries.
In Episode 161 of the Disruptors for Good podcast, we speak with Ian Bentley, Founder & CEO of Parker Clay, on building a powerhouse ethical fashion brand and becoming one of the largest employers of women in Ethiopia.
To learn more about fair trade and ethical brands, listen to the Causeartist podcast, Disruptors for GOOD.
Parker Clay’s mission is to create beautiful products that have a positive impact on the lives of the people who make them.
Their goal is to show that fashion can be a force for good, and they are committed to making a difference in the lives of the women and communities they work with.
If you’re looking for a luxury handbag brand that is focused on sustainability and social responsibility, then Parker Clay is the perfect choice for you.
Their stunning Parker Clay bags are made with the highest quality materials and craftsmanship, and they are sure to make a lasting impression.
Parker Clay bags are the perfect combination of fashion and function.
From work to weekend, these bags will keep you organized and stylish. With a variety of colors and styles to choose from, there is a Parker Clay bag for everyone.
How it Works
Parker Clay purchases raw materials from local, sustainable ranchers.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is a market city and trading hub for the surrounding agricultural lands, much of which is dedicated to cattle ranching.
Many of these ranches are family-owned and operated, and have been for decades.
Thanks to your demand for high quality, sustainably raised, and ethically sourced leather, they can pay top dollar – encouraging these local ranches to meet that demand.
End result? World-class leather, safe and clean facilities, and ranchers receiving a fair price for their efforts. Learn more about Parker Clay leather.
The Parker Clay Impact
Parker Clay hires at-risk women, pay living wages and benefits, and provide skills training, career advancement, and financial literacy opportunities to all of their employees.
Since the formation of the brand, they have partnered with an organization called Ellilta Women at Risk (EWAR), with a goal of restoring independence to women who have been exploited through prostitution, ultimately fighting to end prostitution in Ethiopia.
They have successfully graduated over 1,000 women through their program, with over 90% of the graduates being able to remain free from prostitution.
The partnership with EWAR operates beyond the traditional charity model and extends into the skills training and job creation opportunities that are made available at our factory in Ethiopia.
Parker Clay has developed methodologies to create economic opportunity, leveraging a trade model built out of mission.
If you are looking for a quality leather bag that is stylish and sustainable, then Parker Clay is the brand for you!
Best Parker Clay Bags
Ella Mini Backpack
Each purchase of the Ella Mini Backpack provides 7 hours of employment to our team in Ethiopia.
Meet the mini leather backpack that doesn’t skimp on space! Parker Clay has crafted a light and stylish backpack purse that’s just the right size for all your adventures.
Featuring adjustable straps for the perfect fit, exterior and interior pockets to keep your accessories organized, and stylish brass hardware–this little bag is the perfect mix of personality and functionality.
Details:
- Price – $198
- Women’s mini backpack crafted from premium Ethiopian full grain leather
- Please note that since leather is a natural material, each mini backpack purse can have slight color, texture, and grain variations
- Lined Interior
- Features one exterior zip front pocket and one interior slip pockets
- Natural brass (gold color) interior zipper pocket
- “L x 4″ W x 10” H
- Approximately 2 lbs.
- Adjustable straps 25 – 30″
Desta Belt Bag
The Desta Leather Belt Bag offers individuals the chance to immerse themselves in a world of versatility and style, drawing inspiration from the vibrant spirit of Ethiopia.
Tailored to cater to both distant escapades and everyday commutes, it emerges as the ultimate embellishment for contemporary globetrotters. The reimagined hands-free bag takes center stage, showcasing a heightened sense of style, draped in classic brown or black leather enriched with exquisite brass detailing.
Adorning one’s waist throughout the day, this accessory stands as a testament to functionality and panache. Alternatively, by attaching one of the crossbody straps provided, it seamlessly transitions into a sophisticated companion for evenings out on the town.
Within the core of the Desta bag lies its main compartment, enveloped in the plush caress of goat leather, offering ample space for an array of essentials. Concealed within are interior zip pockets, poised to safeguard one’s phone and accessories in a readily accessible manner.
With its marriage of practical ingenuity and visual finesse, the Desta Leather Belt Bag beckons the modern traveler to revel in the confluence of adaptability and elegance, inviting them to script their own narrative of style and convenience.
Details:
- Price – $218
- Belt bag crafted from premium Ethiopian full-grain leather
- Can be used as Fanny pack, clutch, or add your favorite crossbody strap
- Premium natural brass (gold color) zipper closures
- Interior pocket
Abby Drawstring Backpack
Featuring an interior pocket, D-ring for keys and clips, and drawstring close, the Abby merges backpack portability with bucket bag sophistication.
Suited for urban adventures, nature exploration, and everything in between.
Details:
- Price – $248
- Crafted from premium Ethiopian full grain leather
- Unlined interior
- Two exterior front pockets
- Natural brass (gold color) interior zipper pocket
- Interior D ring for Keys
- Features two pull, double cord drawstrings
- Please note that since leather is a natural material, each product can have slight color, texture, and grain variations
- 8″ L x 4″ W x 12″ H
- Approximately 2 lbs.
- Adjustable straps are 21 – 27″
Merkato Signature Zip Tote
Each purchase of the Merkato Signature Zip Tote provides 12 hours of employment to our team in Ethiopia.
An everyday bag that pairs versatility with superior quality and style. This zip top bag goes where you go.
With soft curved handles, lined interior and zipper closure to keep your items secure, it’s not your average tote.
Details:
- Price – $278
- Women’s tote bag with zipper available in two color options: rust brown and black
- Crafted from premium Ethiopian full-grain leather
- Please note that since leather is a natural material, each tote bag can have slight color, texture, and grain variations (Rust brown color will be lighter at first and darken with use)
- Premium natural brass (gold color) zipper closure
- Lined Interior
- Two interior slip pockets
- Handles have a 10″ drop
- Fits a 15″ laptop
Parker Briefcase
The Parker Briefcase is a blend of sophistication and structure, made with premium bullhide leather for strength and structure, and Ethiopian highland sheepskin for sophistication and softness that can’t be matched.
Details:
- Price – $698
- Crafted from premium Ethiopian full grain leather
- Please note that since leather is a natural material, each product can have slight color, texture, and grain variations
- Front flap /clasp closure
- Back exterior pocket
- 2 front zipper pockets
- Interior organizational pockets for phone, chargers, pens and cards
- Adjustable crossbody strap
- Fits laptops up to 16”
- 17″ L x 5″ W x 12.5″ H
- 15.5-19.5″ Crossbody handle drop
Mari Backpack
No matter how you parent, we all need an extra hand. The Mari Backpack is a gorgeous approach to the ultimate leather backpack diaper bag, snack-carrier, and adventure co-pilot for parents new and old.
Its features include bottle holders, 6 pockets, stroller clips, and a padded laptop sleeve to transition you through stages of your child and things you do without them.
Details:
- Price – $398
- Crafted from premium Ethiopian full grain leather
- Natural brass (gold color) zipper closure with large interior padded sleeve accommodating a laptop to to 15″.
- 2 water bottle and/or baby bottle holders.
- Durable hardware in antique brass.
- 2 adjustable padded leather straps for backpack carry with hardware trim
- Stroller straps Included
- Cotton lined interior with leather trim.
- Large exterior front zip compartment.
- 16″ H x 11″ W x 5″ D
- 4 Interior 5.5″ Slip Pockets
- 1 Interior 10.5″ Slip Pocket
- 11″ x 16″ Interior Padded Laptop Sleeve
- 10″ Exterior Zipper Pocket
- Adjustable Straps 18-35″
Taytu Weekender Bag
Sleek design. Surprisingly spacious. Meet your stylish new travel companion: The Taytu Weekender Bag. This beautiful leather travel bag is designed with a roomy interior that boasts multiple pockets, a laptop sleeve, and plenty of space to pack clothes, accessories, a couple pairs of shoes for long weekend trips.
When you’re ready to go, carry it any way you like: throw the adjustable crossbody strap over your shoulder, tote by sturdy leather handles, or slide the trolly sleeve on your roller luggage. Zip pockets inside and out offer easy access to travel docs and essentials when you’re on the move.
Premium full-grain leather makes this weekend bag ultra-durable—guaranteed to be the perfect travel companion for years and years to come.
Details:
- Price – $448
- Weekender travel bag crafted from the most durable material: premium Ethiopian full-grain leather
- Lightweight removable shoulder strap, carry handles, and trolley sleeve
- Large inner compartment
- Interior pockets include three 5″ slip pockets and one 11″ zippered pocket
- 17″ interior padded laptop sleeve
- Large exterior front zip compartment
- 4″ H x 20″ W x 8″ D
- Meets airline carry on size regulations for overhead bins or under-seat storage
Miramar Backpack
This best-selling luxe leather backpack is ready for your next adventure.
If you need a bag for everyday use, the sleek and chic Miramar pulls double duty for a stylish and super-durable leather backpack you can wear over your shoulder to the office, gym, or shopping.
Adjust the shoulder straps for style and comfort, or hook the handle over your arm to carry as a tote.
What’s on your list of must-haves for a backpack?
The Miramar is among the finest leather backpacks and features a spacious interior with room to throw all your essentials in and exterior pockets for easy access to your phone and keys.
A sophisticated look that’s as versatile as this is sure to tick every box on your list.
Details:
- Price – $248
- Adjustable straps
- Premium zipper closure + natural brass (gold color) exterior zipper pocket
- Unlined interior
- Fits up to a 13″ laptop or tablet – perfect for the Presidio laptop sleeve.
- 12″ L x 3″ W x 15″ H
- 4″ handle drop
- Adjustable straps 21 – 27″
- Approximately 1.25 lbs
Bale Sling Bag
A little bit of structure, a whole lot of style – meet the Bale Sling Bag.
Named for the Bale Mountains of Ethiopia, home to stunning landscapes and rare wildlife, this sling-style, gender-neutral messenger bag is designed for everyday exploration and all-day comfort.
Based on a versatile, shoulder sling construction, the Bale can be worn as a one-strap backpack, slung across your chest, or conveniently at your side for easy access.
Handcrafted from full-grain Ethiopian leather, this unique bag features a durable, comfort-focused strap and two zippered pockets sized for your essentials.
Details:
- Price – $228
- Belt sling bag crafted from premium Ethiopian full-grain leather
- Lined interior
- Available in two natural leather colors: Black and Rust Brown
- Premium natural brass (gold color) or Matte Black zipper closures
- Features exterior back panel pockets
- Includes adjustable crossbody strap
- “7” L x 2.5″ W x 11″ H
- 30-60″ crossbody strap
Napa Handbag
The perfect handbag for the always-prepared, the Napa Handbag pairs luxe leather handles with a handy adjustable and detachable shoulder strap to work for any occasion.
Featuring a sleek, soft leather exterior, the Napa is relaxed enough to become an everyday classic, yet retains its shape to stand alone.
Store your essentials in the interior zip pocket, while the side magnet closures allow for easy access in a pinch.
Details:
- Price – $278
- Premium natural brass (gold color) zipper closure
- Interior magnet pockets
- Removable leather crossbody strap
- Lined interior
- 11″ L x 5″ W x 9″ H
- 4.5″ handle drop
- Removable strap
Sebli Crossbody Phone Bag
Good things come in small packages, and the Sebli Crossbody Bag is no exception! Simple, convenient, and perfectly sized for your essentials.
It’s handcrafted from ultra-soft goat leather and features an ultra-luxe lined interior, giving your “phone-keys-cards” trio the VIP treatment.
And with an adjustable leather strap, you can style it as a high and tight mini purse, a shoulder bag hanging at your hip, or anywhere in between.
Details:
- Price – $128
- Exterior zip pocket with premium natural brass (gold color) exterior zippered closure
- Natural brass snap closure
- High quality interior cotton lining
- Adjustable crossbody strap
- 5″ L x 8.25″ H
- 35″- 43″ crossbody strap
Atlas Backpack
This flagship Atlas Backpack was inspired by travel between the US and Ethiopia, a journey of over 9,000 miles one-way.
The Atlas is the ideal backpack that goes with you on every work venture or weekend adventure.
Created for optimal functionality, with an exterior foam-padded laptop compartment and five interior pockets to keep your life organized.
The sleek design matched with our premium full grain Ethiopian leather makes the Atlas a fundamental piece to your collection and built to last.
Details:
- Price – $448
- Separate exterior zippered and padded computer compartment (fits up to a 15″ laptop)
- Durable hardware in antique brass or matte black to make for a perfect complement to premium leather
- 2 adjustable padded leather straps for backpack carry with hardware trim
- Interior features full grain leather passport pocket, large slip pocket, and 2 smaller slip pockets (designed to carry a pocket size Moleskine sketchbook, iPad, and business cards)
- 18″H x 12″W x 6″D
- Adjustable Straps 18-35″
- Approximately 2 lbs.
Omo Overnight Bag
The Omo Overnight Bag is perfect for those looking to travel light on a quick getaway. It can be carried by its handles, or worn as a backpack for hands free adventures.
Details:
- Price – $380
- Premium natural brass (gold color) exterior zipper closure
- Exterior pockets
- Duffle with Interior cotton lining
- 19″ L x 11″ W x 11″ H
- Approximately 2.5 lbs
Nyala Foldover Clutch
Introducing the Nyala Foldover Clutch bag – an embodiment of high-fashion sophistication seamlessly intertwined with the essence of Ethiopian style. This clutch pays homage to Ethiopian culture while being driven by the strength of women and a deep affection for their heritage.
Emanating an aura of elegance, the meticulously crafted handle rings glisten, hewn from upcycled Ethiopian artillery, a material that also graces traditional Ethiopian jewelry, infusing the piece with cultural authenticity.
A true chameleon, this accessory effortlessly transitions from dawn to dusk. Nestle it under your arm for a chic clutch style or embrace the handles for a touch of small tote elegance.
Despite its compact form, the Nyala Foldover Clutch accommodates your essentials with grace – your wallet, keys, phone, and cosmetics all find a cozy home within, without encumbering you like a full-sized bag would.
It proves to be the ideal companion for a day spent exploring landmarks, indulging in afternoon wine tastings, or reveling in the jubilation of a wedding celebration.
A testament to collaboration, the Nyala Foldover Clutch emerges as a creation conceived in partnership with Mary-Louise Parker, an American actress and advocate.
This collection is born from women’s creativity, designed by women, and intended for women. With every bag, a tale is woven, and a purpose is proclaimed, making each piece a conduit for narratives that resonate.
Details:
- Price – $178
- Crafted from premium Ethiopian full grain leather
- Linen and leather lined interior
- Features two upcycled brass artillery handle rings
