The ‘Meghan Markle effect’ is well-documented: any item she wears in public sells out instantly. This phenomenon, also known to affect her sister-in-law, Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has once again proved its power with the rise of Cesta Collective, a brand specializing in ethically crafted basket bags.
Meghan Markle first carried a Cesta Collective bucket bag in May 2023 while dining with Cameron Diaz and Gwyneth Paltrow. The brand’s founders, Courtney Weinblatt-Fashano and Erin Ryder, were en route to Mexico for a photoshoot when their phones began buzzing with notifications.
“We didn’t have anything tagged at that point, so we had no idea what was happening,” Weinblatt-Fashano told Vogue. “We landed, turned our phones on, and we were just blown away.”
The influx of orders was unprecedented. The brand experienced record-breaking sales, and soon after, Meghan Markle reached out to express her gratitude.
“We had a phone call with her and connected immediately,” Weinblatt-Fashano said. “She asked if there was anything we could work on together.”
Meghan Markle, who discovered Cesta Collective online, became a staunch supporter of the brand. She even invested in the company as a minority shareholder, further solidifying her commitment to its values.
The brand’s mission resonates deeply with the Duchess. Weinblatt-Fashano and Ryder, former fashion editors who met through a mutual friend, shared a disillusionment with the industry.
“We decided that instead of both leaving this industry, we wanted to use our skills to do something we felt good about,” Ryder explained.
They found their calling in supporting handcraft, particularly basket weaving. “Basket weaving is an important skill that allows women across the globe to become economically independent,” said Weinblatt-Fashano.
The women artisans who create Cesta Collective’s bags often work from home, weaving baskets while caring for their children and livestock, benefiting their families in the process.
The brand partners with a women’s cooperative in Rwanda, providing them with fair wages and opportunities. These artisans even cultivate the sisal used for weaving and dye the materials with organic vegetables.
“Everything is custom-made to our specifications,” said Weinblatt-Fashano, adding that the bags are finished by leather artisans in Sicily.
Since starting with just five sample styles, Cesta Collective has expanded significantly with Meghan Markle’s backing.
“Her support is immeasurable. Each time she wears our bag, it raises awareness for the ethical choices we make, for the business we’re running. It’s very meaningful,” Weinblatt-Fashano said.
Ryder added: “The artisans are so thrilled that the Duchess is wearing what they’re making. It’s like, ‘Wow, we’re making something that she’s wearing!’”
“Our goal is to work with the best craftspeople across the globe,” Ryder said. “We have a big vision to grow Cesta Collective into a lifestyle brand. The potential is limitless. However, we are always prioritizing ethical production and putting the artisans first.”
Through Meghan Markle’s influence and their commitment to ethical practices, Cesta Collective is weaving a brighter future for women artisans while inspiring a more conscious approach to fashion.
