& Other Stories Wooden Bead Tote Bag in Natural and Black
Tote / Top Handle Pouch · & Other Stories (H&M Group), Contemporary Tier
Collection: Ready-to-Wear Accessories, Summer Collection
Style
Tote / Top Handle Pouch
Brand
& Other Stories (H&M Group), Contemporary Tier
Material
Spherical wooden beads strung on high-tensile clear monofilament (nylon cord). The construction utilizes a grid-weaving technique specific to beaded vessels.
Dimensions
Estimated 25cm (W) x 18cm (H) x 5cm (D). Top handle drop approximately 10cm.
Description
An organic and textural accessory, this & Other Stories tote elevates the classic summer basket bag through the use of polished wooden beads. Its structured, see-through silhouette offers a playful nod to vintage souvenir bags while maintaining a modern, minimalist Scandinavian edge.
Key Features
Contrasting black and natural beadwork, embossed leather interior brand tab, and rigid monofilament structural integrity.
Material & Construction
Spherical wooden beads strung on high-tensile clear monofilament (nylon cord). The construction utilizes a grid-weaving technique specific to beaded vessels.
Color & Pattern
Two-tone aesthetic featuring natural varnished wood (honey oak shade) for the body and matte black wood for the handle and trim. The pattern is a repetitive geometric bead grid.
Hardware Details
No metal hardware present; the structure relies entirely on cord tension and bead interlocking.
Interior Description
Unlined, open-work beaded interior. There is a black leather logo tab heat-stamped with '& Other Stories' attached to the inner bead wall.
Closure Type
Open top; no mechanical closure.
Strap & Handle Details
Integrated dual top handles composed of black wooden beads, forming a rigid semi-circular silhouette.
Craftsmanship Details
The beadwork is uniform with hidden knots. The leather tag is machine-stitched to the nylon cord. It is high-quality for the contemporary price point but not artisanal/luxury grade.
Authentication Indicators
The distinguishing marker is the black leather tag with the cursive '& Other Stories' heat stamp. Authentic beads are consistently sized and finished with a satin-to-matte varnish.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in China or India; mass-produced for a global contemporary retailer under H&M Group standards.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2020s); part of the 'Craft Core' and 'Vacation Wear' trend revival of the late 2010s to early 2020s.
Age Estimate
Circa 2019-2022 based on the logo script style and material popularity.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Summer Escapism' trend in fast-fashion, popularized by brands like Cult Gaia and Shrimps which brought beaded bags back into high fashion.
Condition Notes
Very Good; minimal surface scuffing on beads. One bead shows a natural grain mark often mistaken for a stain. Tension of the cord remains tight.
Value Estimate
Original Retail: $50–$85. Current Resale: $25–$45 depending on demand.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid heavy loads as monofilament can stretch. Keep away from water to prevent wood swelling. Clean with a dry microfiber cloth.
Similar Handbags
Cult Gaia 'Ark' Bag (bamboo), Staud 'Beaded bags', and various vintage 1970s beaded wood bags.
Interesting Facts
& Other Stories operates three design 'ateliers' in Paris, Stockholm, and Los Angeles, which influences their diverse accessory aesthetic.