How the humble Rooibos tea bag is taking over Paris

Who would have thought that purses made from used Rooibos tea bags would become a fashion accessory in Paris? Gracious Dube (33), originally from Zimbabwe and now living in Cape Town, said she stumbled upon the idea while drinking a cup of Rooibos. To make the purses, she starts off by drying and ironing about 45 to 50 Rooibos tea bags. Once done, the tea bags are varnished and either glued or stitched onto silk. Some purses are also decoratively painted to add to the unique look.

The purses have a beautiful rich colour because of the Rooibos. Dube’s Rooibos purses sell for €26 at Paris decor and fashion boutique Ithemba Design Ethik.

Said Gracious, “I’d like to think that this is just the beginning of a burgeoning fashion business. I have so many ideas buzzing in my head and can’t wait to try them out. My mom and son are also very supportive and just love that my purses are making headlines in Paris.”

Adele du Toit, spokesperson for the SA Rooibos Council, said: “It’s wonderful to see how artists the world over are incorporating Rooibos tea bags, leaves and even boxes in their art. It’s also a great way to upcycle and it gives Rooibos tea bags a second life.”

See interview with Gracious Dube on Afternoon Express here.

This is how the media (in alphabetical order) reported on Gracious Dube’s Rooibos tea bag purses: