going out tops

Get up and go with K. Baka's tote bag, designed to toss over your shoulder on your way out the door. Crafted from 100% cotton in Ghana, the tote features a charming fish motif, two shoulder straps, and an open top that lets you toss in books, groceries, and other items throughout the day.

Blue handloomed cotton becomes a delightful blouse by Ritu Agnihotri. With its flattering pin tucks, three-quarter length sleeves and slits up the side, this tunic goes everywhere in style. Burgundy trim adds color to the sleeves and front. The top fastens with hidden hooks and eyes.

As is typical of genuine handloomed fabric, there are tiny slubs throughout. This occurs when a thread runs out, and the weaver extends it by twisting a new thread together with the old.

This stylish blouse is designed by Isha Jain. She selects handloomed cotton in bright lime green for the tunic. Ornate motifs exemplify the ancient Indian block print technique along with kantha, or running stitch embroidery. The top slips over the head.

As is typical of genuine handloomed fabric, there are tiny slubs throughout. This occurs when a thread runs out, and the weaver extends it by twisting a new thread together with the old.

Don't miss out; the curling tendrils of shimmering gold on Dewa Nyoman Oka's hoop earrings create a one-of-a-kind look. The Balinese artisan hand crafts the earrings from luxurious 18k gold-plated brass before polishing the surface for a seductive shine.

Mesmerize onlookers with this exquisite, gem-encrusted necklace from Alok Jain. The artisan creates a striking pendant from petite garnet ovals totaling 22 carats that fan out from a central point. A 22k gold-plated cable chain and crown settings give the necklace a touch of luxury.

This intricately detailed sterling silver band ring features a modest band with an elaborately designed top. Indonesian artisan Komang Suastra spaces two 18k gold plated shapes just far enough apart to give the appearance of eyes peering out. These adornments are surrounded by intricately beaded sterling silver patterns that bring life to the watchful eyes.

Sophisticated and durable, this tote will make the perfect shopping accessory. Ghanaian artisan Mariama Bukari handcrafts this tote out of polypropylene cord, woven in two bold blocks of color--honey gold on the bottom and black on top. The wood circular handles are both fashionable and comfortable. The tote has one roomy compartment lined in yellow nylon and secured with a magnetic snap, and can accommodate a fifteen-inch laptop.

Perched on the crown of this sese wood mask is a bird that augurs good fishing. Sefah Mohammed crafts a spectacular replica of the Krachi mask, believed to have the power to ensure a bountiful catch. It is worn by the people of Kete-Krachi in Ghana's Volta region, who live by the lake. They believe that when birds hover overhead when out on the waters it is a good sign for them. Mohammed adorns this singular mask with painted details, sandpaper and embossed aluminum.

Indian artisan Neeru Goel adds a royal touch with this beautifully regal sterling silver pendant necklace. The pendant hangs on a sterling silver cable chain and features a large, purple composite turquoise at the center with a trio of smaller faceted amethyst stones on top. The silver wiring forms fine vines around the pendant's outer rim, adding a nature motif to this regal look.

Swaying and dancing to a hypnotic tune, Kokopelli abandons himself to the rhythms of his music. His long hair blows in the breeze as he pipes a plaintive melody on his flute. J. Blas sculpts the legendary deity in elaborate detail. He first cuts metal sheets and hammers them into three-dimensional shape. Welded together, they are adorned with airy cut-out work and finished with lead-free paint.

Kokopelli dates back to pre-historic times; regarded as a deity, he is usually depicted with a humped back, playing a flute. Ancient legends suggest Kokopelli was a Toltec trader who traveled from central Mexico to the United States' southwestern deserts and mountains, where he is featured in the form of rock art dating thousands of years. Kokopelli played his flute to announce his arrival and according to Pueblo legends, he carried seeds, babies and blankets in his hump which he offered to the maidens he seduced.

To the Hopi, Kokopelli plays his flute to draw heat from the Earth and thus make the seeds grow. His name derives from Koko ("wood") and pilau ("hump"). Kokopelli is believed to be present whenever life comes forth from seed – plant or animal.