who we are

modernest = modern+nest and the most modern.

we are two designers, living in los angeles with 2 very spoiled labrador retrievers. we love good food, good wine, good books, good art, good films and good design. above all, we care about the design, functionality and life span of items we buy and use.

we launched modernest because we were tired of carrying around shopping bags that were basically walking advertisements for big corporations. we had a mountain of bags in our car and were very diligent about using them. but the bags, while cheap (or even free), were flimsy and made in china. we wanted a well made bag with a design and production philosophy that was in line with every other aspect of our lives.

modernest tote bags are durable, unbleached cotton canvas bags with a modern aesthetic and made in america. our factory is woman-owned, sweatshop free and a member in good standing with the fair labor association.

modernest tote bags are made from domestic cotton and are cut and sewn by hand – eliminating unnecessary fabric waste. they are printed with plastisol ink (true plastisol ink is long lasting and contains no voc’s). when properly cared for (cold water wash, line dry), your modernest tote bag should last for up to 10 years!

our oceans are a precious resource. modernest is proud to support the efforts of the surfrider foundation and the 5 gyres project. please visit their websites to learn more about their tremendous efforts in protecting our oceans and in particular, fighting the devastating effects that discarded plastics are having on our seas and sea life around the world.

we hope that modernest tote bags will be a small, but stylish step in reducing plastic consumption.

and we truly thank you for your support of independent american design.