As stated in their story, Sarah's Bag aims to empower the women who wear them and who create them as well. It's a Lebanese fashion house launched in 2000 and its main cause is to help women from underprivileged backgrounds, from poor rural areas or who are imprisoned. All the designs are handcrafted and inspired by Lebanese and oriental art and culture. You can find funky affordable cloth clutches and bags such as pouches shaped like a typical Lebanese juice box, or one shaped like Kaakeh, a type of Lebanese bread, or a manoushe clutch, which looks exactly like a kind of typical Lebanese breakfast. As for me, I like the ones inspired by Beirut's street signs or carrying famous slogans or posters in Arabic.
The prices for the cloth designs range from $45 for a "juice box" to $125 for a "street sign". More sophisticated designs use mother of pearl and wood -- some others are shaped like the locally popular board game Tawleh (backgammon) and can go for more than $900.
I like this spot for getting original, useful, local-inspired gifts. It's not like just giving someone an ordinary bag -- rather, it is a bag with a story and an original design with an oriental touch. I always bring them as gifts to my friends in Europe, and they love them.
You can find Sarah's bag shop located in Achrafieh or their products available in Lebanese malls such as ABC. They have an online shop delivering abroad as well.
Find your way with 179 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Barzakh Bookshop" in Beirut is the ultimate definition of a hidden gem. It's a cultural melting pot of literary rebels from around the world...
by
The "Garden of Forgiveness" in Beirut is a vast space that was properly unveiled during excavations after the Civil War. Come observe its beauty & history.
by
"Beit Beirut", or the Yellow Building, has been standing since 1924. It survived the Civil War and is now used as a center for exhibitions & events...
by
"L'Artisan du Liban" is a social movement in Beirut that's keeping local art and artisans alive. I usually buy gifts for my locals friends here...
by
"Institute Yakout" is not just another beauty salon: here it's like you're among friends. Yakout will make you coffee with a huge smile & chat with you...
by
"Mar Maroun Church" in Beirut is Lebannon's biggest Maronite church. You can see the Arab influence on the architecture. Bonus points: I was married here!
by
"George Nakhle Coiffure" in Beirut is my hairdresser of preference. I don't know what it is, but I can always trust him to prepare me for my night out!
by
Walking in Achrafieh and meeting the locals in Beirut, especially the groups of old people, has made me feel like I'm really part of a big village...
by
"The Malt Gallery" is a must-visit if you're a fan of nice alcohol. It's a kind of drink library, proudly displaying bottles from all over the world...
by
The "Sursock Museum" in Beirut and its surrounding area is one of my favorite places to while away a couple of hours. It's quiet and impressive...
by
179 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 179 Insider Tips