Inspiration
Like any form of expression, I believe fashion can also be fun, critical, and ironic. Years ago, Demna Gvasalia, the so-called enfant terrible of fashion, presented a series of accessories under the Balenciaga label that suspiciously resembled everyday objects of the working class.
Although we can find several examples, my favorites are three: (i) a large blue leather bag priced at €1,700; (ii) leather trash bags (in various colors) for $1,790; and (iii) a skirt made of terry cloth (the classic towel fabric) priced at $925, which even sparked a bit of beef from IKEA.
I don’t know what the designer was trying to do when he created these objects, because there are countless possible interpretations. Was he making fun of his consumer? Making fun of the working class? Making fun of the entire fashion system and the marking surrounding it? I don’t know — but I find it absolutely hilarious.
What object could be redesigned following this same line of thought? For me, if there is one object that truly represents the working class, it’s the Mercadona raffia bags. They’re used to carry all sorts of things, everyone has one at home (unlike IKEA bags, which you need to live in a big city to use regularly), and they’re instantly recognizable even though they have no logos.
Design & Construction
I could have made a tote bag out of a Mercadona bag, but what fun would that be if there was barely any transformation? So I started imagining my perfect fanny pack: not too big, rounded edges, compact, with double straps (including a long adjustable one), and an exterior pocket for small objects. I wanted to follow the same layout as the original bag (identical front and back pieces, green bottom section and yellow speckled upper section).
I had to run a few tests, but the construction wasn’t too complicated. I couldn’t use pins because they would damage the raffia, but masking tape held everything in place just as well. I used a leather needle on the sewing machine and finished the seams by opening them and securing them with hot glue.
Technical Sheet
| Name | Dona al Mercat |
| Start Date | March 2025 |
| End Date | April 2025 |
| Fiber | Plastic derivative |
| Fabric | Raffia |
| Fun Level | 10/10 |
Final Thoughts
Wearing the fanny pack is absolutely delightful. It always catches people’s eyes, and often that turns into conversations with strangers. Over time, the raffia softens and begins to show signs of use. I wouldn’t rule out making another accessory from the same bag, because I love wearing it.
