Elegant Tote Bag – Timeless Design with Pine Tree Motif, Perfect for Everyday Use

Elevate your everyday style with this graceful tote bag, featuring a pine tree (matsu) motif inspired by traditional Japanese obi patterns. In Japanese culture, the pine tree symbolizes longevity, steadfastness, and resilience—qualities drawn from its evergreen nature and enduring strength. Often associated with good fortune, endurance, and timeless beauty, this motif evokes a grounded elegance rooted in nature’s enduring presence.

Crafted with lightweight yet durable materials, this tote is ideal for carrying books, groceries, or daily essentials. Whether you're heading to work, class, or a weekend outing, this bag blends functionality with cultural richness—bringing a timeless charm to your modern routine.

Only one available.
No restocks—ships from London within 3 business days.
Tracked international shipping is available worldwide.

The Story Behind the Piece

This elegant tote bag is crafted from a vintage 1980s obi, carefully sourced from a trusted kimono dealer in Shizuoka, Japan. The fabric features a pine tree motif, representing longevity, perseverance, and enduring strength, and reflects the deep symbolism traditionally woven into Japanese textile art. Worn with formal kimono during special occasions, this obi once accompanied moments of celebration and dignity.

The fabric offers a refined texture with a gentle sheen, making the tote both visually striking and durable for everyday use. Now reimagined as a functional piece, it breathes new life into this cultural artifact—preserving tradition while serving a modern purpose.

Whether you're carrying books, essentials, or simply a piece of cultural history, this tote is more than an accessory—it's a quiet statement of elegance and meaning.

This fabric carries with it the refined spirit of Kyoto textile art.　

How to Style It

Whether paired with a minimalist dress or layered over a cosy knit, this tote bag adds a refined statement to your look. Lightweight yet structured, it transitions effortlessly from everyday errands to more formal outings, combining practicality with timeless sophistication.

Notable Features

Approx. Dimensions: 32cm (12.5") height × 30cm (11.8") width × 3cm (1.2") depth
Strap Length: 67cm (26.3") – fits comfortably over the shoulder
Exterior: Kyoto silk obi
Interior: Lined with Kyoto silk obi
Inner Pocket: Zipper closure using durable YKK metal zip (Japan)
Care: Spot clean only