Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A quintessential piece of American upcycled design, this tote is hand-woven from genuine automotive-grade seatbelt webbing. It features the brand's signature basket-weave pattern and the iconic red 'Guaranteed Tough' hangtag that defined the brand's early identity.
Story
In 1997, Dana Harvey was restoring a 1950 Buick and decided to make his wife a matching handbag out of spare seatbelts. The design was so striking that people stopped them on the street, launching a global fashion phenomenon.
Maker / Origin
Founded by Dana and Melanie Harvey in their garage, the company became a cult favorite for its 'indestructible' bags. They are famous for their commitment to domestic manufacturing and their unique lifetime guarantee, which turned a utilitarian safety device into a luxury textile.
Condition & Value
The bag appears to be in excellent structural condition with no visible fraying to the webbing edges. The red hangtag is well-preserved, which is a major plus for collectors. Clean webbing and a functional zipper will maintain the higher end of the value range.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.