Yu Mei

Name: Yu Mei
Brand: New Zealand
Availability: OutOfStock

Since 2015 : Redefining Luxury with Purposeful Design and Sustainable Craftsmanship

Founded in 2015 by Jessie Wong, a third-generation Chinese-New Zealander, Yu Mei was born out of Wong’s frustration with the lack of functional yet stylish bags that could accommodate her daily essentials, such as her laptop, lunchbox, and visual diary. In a market where many women’s handbags were designed around outdated societal expectations, Wong set out to create a bag that met the practical demands of modern life. The name “Yu Mei,” meaning “young and beautiful” in Mandarin, reflects Wong’s vision of creating functional, timeless bags that elevate everyday style.

About Yu Mei

Yu Mei is renowned for its commitment to regenerative utility, blending luxury with practicality and sustainability. The brand focuses on understated luxury, creating classic designs that simplify daily life while minimizing environmental impact. Each product is thoughtfully designed with genuine, modern needs in mind, ensuring that every piece is both highly functional and beautifully crafted.

Products

Braidy Bag

The brand’s signature Braidy Bag is a versatile tote that comfortably fits a 13” laptop, charger, and other daily essentials. Its sleek, minimalist design and spacious interior make it a best-seller among those seeking functionality and style in one.

Ch’lita Bag

This elegant mid-sized bag features a wide, box-like shape that is perfect for carrying smaller leather goods and other essentials. The Ch’lita Bag strikes the perfect balance between practicality and sophistication.

Milly Bag

The Milly Bag is a compact, mini-tote with a box-shaped base, offering ample space for essentials such as a phone, wallet, and keys, making it the ideal everyday carry for those who appreciate simplicity in design.

Materials

Yu Mei primarily uses South Island Deer Nappa, a by-product of New Zealand’s venison industry that would otherwise go to landfill. This soft yet durable leather ensures long-lasting quality, making it an eco-conscious alternative to conventional leather.

Craftsmanship

Each leather skin used in a Yu Mei bag passes through 35 sets of hands before it reaches its final state, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality, detail, and impeccable craftsmanship.

Sustainability

Yu Mei is dedicated to sustainability through initiatives like the Buyback Initiative, which extends the life of products through mending and refurbishing. The brand also hosts an annual Archive Event to reduce waste and encourage the reuse of materials.

Why Yu mei

Yu Mei operates on the principles of Regenerative Utility, focusing on creating functional, luxurious systems of carrying that are also environmentally responsible. The brand is committed to the complete lifecycle of each product, from design to end-of-life, aiming to leave a net positive impact through the use of regenerative materials, exceptional product stewardship, and efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

Brand Highlights

Community Engagement : In 2020, Yu Mei raised $51,590 for the Wellington City Mission through its innovative Bags For All campaign, demonstrating the brand’s dedication to social responsibility and community support.

Retail Presence : Yu Mei operates flagship stores in Wellington and Auckland, along with stockists across Australia, including David Jones stores.

International Expansion : As the brand continues to grow, Yu Mei is expanding its presence internationally, with products available through select online platforms and physical retailers worldwide.