Samara, the accessory brand behind The Soular Backpack—an initiative that provides children in East Africa with a backpack outfitted with a solar panel—has been holding a fashion and wellness pop-up on West 16th since the beginning of May and it continues until the end of June. It's not to be missed.
The Soular Backpack charges a light as children walk to school every day so they can do their homework without the use of Kerosene and a portion of Samara's profits go towards supporting the initiative which also employs women in Kenya to create sustainable change.
The brand in question, Samara, creates sleek and ultra-minimal vegan leather goods using water-based polyurethane (a more environmentally version of PVC), microfiber, and fruit leathers. Even the stitching is kept to a minimum with organic folds and shapes held together with little pops of hardware. The designs are versatile and made durably to last a lifetime. Largely they're styled as carry-alls and in neutral colours so people can use them everyday.
Vancouverites can check out the bags and accessories in person at the pop-up that takes place on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. But there will also be a wellness activation on June 11 and a farmer's market on June 18 to compliment the ethos of Samara. Treats and beverages will also be on hand for people as they browse.
The pop-up was introduced as a reaction to the pandemic since the team behind Samara found themselves missing human connection and craved a way to interact with people. The previous weekends of the pop-up have included wellness elixirs, chai and coffee bars, sound baths, and happy hours. Samara has also teamed up with other brands to co-host shopping days such as Vancouver-based candle company Mala the Brand, Londre Bodywear, and beauty brand Blume.
There are only six days left for people who want to experience the unique shopping experience, so run, don't walk.
Clothing stores Vancouver: Samara Fashion + Wellness Pop-up
When: Saturdays and Sundays from June 11 to 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 689 West 16th Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
