The Missy

To understand "The Missy" in context, let’s compare its modern artisan construction to the principles of haute couture, the pinnacle of high-fashion craftsmanship traditionally associated with bespoke clothing from elite Parisian ateliers that began in Paris in the mid 1800's.

Modern Artisan Construction (The Missy)

• Materials:
  "The Missy" uses full grain vegetable-tanned leather, the highest-quality leather available, prized for its durability and natural beauty. This choice reflects a focus on premium, sustainable materials sourced from a top American tannery, Wickett and Craig in Pennsylvania, emphasizing practicality and longevity over ostentation.
• Craftsmanship:
  The purse is hand-made by local Tennessee artisans, with features like polished edges and a secure zipper showcasing meticulous attention to detail. This construction prioritizes functionality alongside aesthetics, rooted in a tradition of utilitarian leatherwork adapted for modern use. Unlike mass production, each piece is made to order, ensuring individuality. 
• Design Philosophy:
  The design is timeless yet pragmatic, with a minimalist silhouette and versatile features (e.g., adjustable strap, spacious pocket). It’s crafted for everyday wear—work, travel, or casual outings, reflecting an approach to quality that appeals to a broad audience.
• Production:
  Produced as a response to an order, one at a time by a family-run business, "The Missy" embodies modern artisan values: local sourcing, hands-on creation, and a rejection of offshore manufacturing. It’s a balance of tradition and accessibility, with a focus on durability and customer satisfaction over fleeting trends.

• Cost and Accessibility:
  While premium, the pricing reflects the materials and labor, yet remains more attainable than haute couture, targeting discerning consumers who value craftsmanship without elite exclusivity.  In simpler terms, artisan products like "The Missy" offer better performance and better price levels than "designer" brands without loss of any capability.

  
  

  Haute Couture

  Born in Paris in the mid 1800's as a way to label products made by an individual person or business, using premium materials and made for a specific client.  Modern higher end artisans are much the same.
  
  
  
  
  

  • Purpose: "The Missy" is a functional luxury, blending artisan skill with daily utility, whereas haute couture is a symbolic luxury, prioritizing artistic expression and prestige over practicality. Someone might buy "The Missy" for its lasting quality and versatility, while haute couture is sought for its status and uniqueness.

  
  

  • Craft Roots: Both share a handmade ethos, but "The Missy" draws from Tennessee’s leatherworking heritage—rugged, practical, and American—while haute couture stems from French fashion tradition, emphasizing couture as high art.

  
  

  • Individuality: "The Missy" offers customization (color choices) and natural leather variations.

  
  

  Why Choose "The Missy"?

  
  

  Someone might opt for "The Missy" over a haute couture piece for its durability, accessibility, and understated sophistication. It’s a premium leather messenger-style purse that doesn’t scream for attention but quietly exudes quality—perfect for professionals, travelers, or anyone who values craftsmanship that fits into real life. Unlike haute couture’s fleeting, event-driven appeal, "The Missy" is built to be a companion for years, supporting local artisans while delivering a product that’s both beautiful and useful.

   

The Missy:
Width = 10.5 inches, Height = 8.5 inches, Depth = 4 inches
Adjustable 54 inch cross body strap
15 inch x 2 inch top handle

We build each item to the order. This allows us to include more options without increasing cost and provides the customer with several customization options. Current lead time from order placement is 3 to 4 weeks.

Over $25, Free Shipping To All 50 USA States.

High quality leather may require periodic maintenance. As the leather may become dry or dirty in normal use. We recommend a high-quality leather balm to clean and condition. There are many available to choose from. We use and recommend Smith's Leather Balm which you can find in the accessories collection on our site. Smith's Leather Balm is natural and only made from organic cocoa butter, organic beeswax and 100% Pure Sweet Almond Oil. We do not stock but do use Feibing's saddle soap for cleaning.