Smateria, a chic and ethical brand

Convinced that it was possible to create something beautiful from unusable materials, two Italian women created the Smateria brand of bags and accessories in Cambodia in 2006. Hence, “L’addition”, “l’escapade” and “l’essentiel” were born — elegant, ethical and colourful bags, all made from recycled plastic bags or recycled fishing nets. Since then, Smateria has continued to grow and the products, handmade in Phnom Penh by talented Khmer craftspeople, are now distributed worldwide. The brand’s commitment has not changed. It continues to be a self-financing social enterprise that encourages young women to work and provides free childcare and pre-school education.