About Melissa

Melissa Simpson has worked in the leather industry for more than 20 years covering all aspects of the handbag and accessories trade ranging from samplemaking, patternmaking, benchwork and machining to gain a very high level of expertise. Prior to working, she studied Manufacture and production of Leathergoods at Cordwainers College, London from 1987 to 1989.

Melissa launched her own collection of handbags and accessories at the East London Design show in December 2002. Summer of 2003 at the East London Design Show, she won the best product award for her unique handmade structured bags combined with skillful craftsmanship. In September 2007 saw Melissa winning the ‘First time best exhibitor’ at the Royal Berkshire Show. And now regularly shows her handcrafted work through the year at prestigious design shows all over the country.

Melissa gets her ideas from everything around her, ranging from insects to architectural details, magazines to museums. Ideas form in her head which eventually translates into a 3D model prototype. At this stage, she can see clearly if any tweaking is needed. Once adjustments are made to the patterns, she makes the real thing in leather and uses the bag for a couple of months to see if anything needs to be changed before launching it to the public.

Melissa has always loved working with colour and this shows very strongly in her work, Her subtle use of colour allows the person to carry the colours without screaming colour.

Melissa designs functional stylish handbags, briefcases and accessories for everyday use, using high quality leathers and eye catching colour detail. The bags are all individually made by Melissa in her workshop bringing together form and function with an individual strong style statement.