Where Swiss-Quality Craftsmanship Meets Quiet Luxury.

  • Joe in the atelier
  • #design

    Joe, also known as Monsieur, initially trained in industrial and electronic product design at the renowned Samsung Arts & Design Institute in his native South Korea. He later pursued interior design studies at the British Columbia Institute of Technology in Canada.

  • #luxury

    Now a Canadian citizen, he spent several years living in the heart of Europe, just a stone's throw from the French Jura region, home to the ateliers of iconic brands like Hermès and Louis Vuitton. It was there that he decided to learn French and pursue training in luxury leather goods.

  • Handcrafted Luxury Leather Boston Bag BY MONSIEUR
  • #craftsmanship

    While living in Switzerland, he completed an apprenticeship at Sattlerei Fiona Losinger, a renowned atelier-boutique in Bern, and received advanced training at a private leather school in Seoul, South Korea. He also had the opportunity to attend Lineapelle in Milan, Italy — the world's leading international exhibition dedicated to leather.

  • #local

    Back in Canada since 2021, he has been crafting leather bags and accessories with love, passion, patience, and dedication. His vision embodies quiet luxury, where functionality meets timeless design and Swiss-quality craftsmanship.

Upcoming events

  • Portobello West Spring Market

    SATURDAY, APRIL 5 · 10am-5pm
    SUNDAY, APRIL 6 · 10am-5pm

    Yaletown Roundhouse Community & Recreation Centre, Vancouver

    $5 ADMISSION FOR ADULTS

  • Got Craft Spring Market

    SATURDAY, MAY 3 · 10am-5pm
    SUNDAY, MAY 4
    · 10am-5pm

    Croation Cultural Centre, Vancouver

    $5 ADMISSION FOR ADULTS

  • Portobello West June Summer Market

    SATURDAY, JUNE 28 · 10am-5pm

    Floral Hall at Vandusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver

    FREE ADMISSION

New From The Atelier

Preview our latest handcrafted designs below.

  • MINI POUCH BAG

    Leather: Cowhide

  • “Crafted from premium cowhide, this best-selling mini pouch bag with a microfiber fabric lining is perfect for both everyday life and festivals, carrying all your essentials with style.”

  • LAPTOP SLEEVE

    Leather: Suede

  • “Effortlessly versatile, this suede laptop sleeve features a sleek magnet closure and doubles as a luxuriously soft mousepad, blending function with quiet sophistication.”

  • AIRPODS CASE

    Leather: Salmon

  • "Stylish and multifunctional, this salmon leather AirPods case doubles as a bag charm and mini pouch, perfect for carrying lipstick, lip balm, or other small essentials, with a luxurious goatskin lining for added elegance."

  • CARDHOLDER

    Leather: Epsom

  • "Chic and practical, this Epsom leather cardholder holds 10 to 15 cards with ease, accented by a subtle touch of pink for understated elegance."

  • BOSTON BAG

    Leather: Italian Cowhide

  • “This off-white Boston Bag combines elegance and craftsmanship with hand-stitched handles, a goatskin lining, smooth double Riri zippers, an interior open pocket, a graphic-patterned fabric shoulder strap, and meticulously hand-painted edges for a striking yet refined design.”

  • TRIFOLD WALLET

    Leather: Cowhide

  • “This pink cowhide trifold wallet combines practicality and style, featuring a coin pocket and secure snap closure for everyday convenience.”

  • BRIEFCASE

    Leather: Cowhide

  • “Timelessly crafted, this cowhide briefcase boasts a luxurious cowhide lining and a secure turn lock, blending durability with classic elegance.”

  • PASSPORT WALLET & CARDHOLDER

    Leather: Cowhide

  • “Crafted from premium black cowhide leather, this passport wallet and cardholder kit features a stylish touch of metallic green, offering a sleek and functional travel accessory.”

  • BUCKET BAG

    Leather: Cowhide

  • “Crafted from soft taupe cowhide leather, this bucket bag boasts a luxurious patterned fabric lining, blending timeless elegance with a distinctive touch of artistry.”

  • HOBO BAG

    Leather: Suede

  • “Designed in rich suede, this hobo bag features a durable leather shoulder strap and a smooth microfiber lining, offering both style and functionality.”

  • CLUTCH BAG

    Leather: Lizard

  • “Made for Hand&Sew, this luxurious off-white clutch bag crafted from exquisite lizard leather features a pigskin lining and a magnet closure, perfect for elevating any evening occasion.”

  • CARD WALLET

    Leather: Horse

  • “Elegance meets durability: a chocolate brown horse leather card wallet with a secure snap closure, crafted to hold 10+ cards effortlessly.”

Crafting Your Dream Bag into Reality

Whether it's a dream bag or a personalized accessory, our custom orders are crafted by hand and come with a lifetime warranty.

  • First, Joe will reach out to discuss your vision for the perfect bag or accessory. Be sure to mention any timeframes you have in mind, especially if it’s a special gift.

    Together, you’ll choose the type of leather, lining, colors, and finishes that match your vision. Once these details are set, Joe will provide you with a personalized quote. After approval, he will begin crafting your one-of-a-kind piece.

  • The price of your custom bag or accessory depends on the complexity of the design, as well as your choice of leather and finishes.

    After discussing the details of your order, Joe will provide you with a personalized estimate.

    A deposit of 50% of the total amount is typically required to begin the handcrafting process.

  • A small leather good typically takes 2 to 3 weeks to complete. For a handmade leather bag, please allow 3 to 4 weeks.

    Please note that due to demand, there may be a waitlist, and lead times can vary depending on the complexity of the design, as well as your choice of leather and finishes.

  • "Absolutely thrilled with the work Monsieur did for my dog, Romeo! He took the time to measure Romeo, ensuring that the custom made leather harness was a perfect fit. What's more, he personalized it by adding Romeo's name on the back, which was a lovely touch. The harness isn't just practical; it looks fantastic too. The quality of the leather is top-notch, giving it a sleek and stylish appearance. I'm so grateful for the care and attention to detail. Huge thanks to Monsieur for such a wonderful job!"

    Fatimah

  • "I’ve always wanted a long wallet. I got this one from By Monsieur last year and have been using it every day ever since. The leather is nice, the quality is great, and the price is reasonable for a handcrafted wallet."

    Korea_RTS

  • "I ordered a custom leather shopper bag. Joe suggested soft, vintage-feel horse leather, and the design was finished very neatly. It’s very comfortable and easy to match with my daily life. Very satisfied 😊."

    Seokyun

Leather Craft, Perfected

Explore our portfolio of handcrafted leather pieces below. Backpacks, handbags, clutch bags, round bags, pouches, laptop sleeves—you name it, we craft it.

  • BACKPACK

    Leather: Cowhide & Suede

    “A stylish backpack crafted from luxurious cowhide leather and suede, featuring bold graphic straps, a chic patterned lining, and a zippered pocket for essentials.”

  • BACKPACK

    Leather: Suede & Cowhide

    “An elegant suede and cowhide backpack with a patterned lining, sturdy flap closure, suede straps, and an interior zippered pocket for secured storage—crafted for style and durability.”

  • BOSTON BAG

    Leather: Italian Cowhide

    “Crafted from luxurious Italian cowhide, this chic dome-shaped Boston Bag features double handles and a unique patterned lining, offering the perfect blend of elegance and practicality for any occasion.”

  • BOSTON BAG

    Leather: Horse

    “A masterful blend of elegance and functionality, this Boston Bag is crafted from luxurious horse leather, with a sumptuous cowhide lining and double zippers featuring unique lizard pulls.”

BY MONSIEUR is honored to support the Aboriginal Lawyers Forum (ALF) and its Warrior Project, which funds articling positions for Indigenous students in British Columbia.

In 2024, we proudly contributed to this cause by participating in the annual ALF Silent Auction at the Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver, with a donation totaling $575, which included the briefcase below as well as a passport wallet.

  • BRIEFCASE

    Leather: Cowhide

    “Crafted from premium cowhide, this sleek olive green briefcase combines professionalism and style, making it the perfect companion for lawyers on the go.”

  • LAPTOP SLEEVE

    Leather: Cowhide

    “Custom-made from premium black cowhide, this sleek laptop sleeve features a chic patterned fabric lining, offering a perfect blend of sophistication and protection.”

  • POCHETTE

    Leather: Cowhide

    “Crafted from luxurious dark raspberry red cowhide leather, this chic pochette bag features a cowhide lining, a magnet closure, and a removable leather shoulder strap for versatile style and functionality.”

  • CROSSBODY BAG

    Leather: Distressed Cowhide

    “Made from distressed cowhide leather, this small brown crossbody bag features two playful 'winking' magnet closures and a patterned fabric lining, perfect for journalists and reporters on the move.”

  • MINI POUCH BAG

    Leather: Cowhide

    “Crafted from premium cowhide, this best-selling mini pouch bag with a microfiber fabric lining is perfect for both everyday life and festivals like Coachella, carrying all your essentials with style.”

  • WRISTLET

    Leather: Cowhide

    “Custom-made from sleek black cowhide, this wristlet features gold-color hardware and a luxurious goatskin lining, offering a refined and functional accessory for any occasion.”

  • « Lumière des cuirs choisis. Énergie, élégance, légèreté : le design et la "patte" vont de concert. »

    Jacques-Pierre

  • "Joe did a brilliant job for our little dog Mickey for his birthday. He is so nice and patient with all of our requirements. We highly recommend him."

    Mehrnaz and Kevin

  • « J'adore mon sac BY MONSIEUR, une pièce très unique qui correspond parfaitement à mon style et à ma personnalité! »

    Coline

  • MINI ROUND BAG

    Leather: Cowhide

    “Custom-made from vibrant red cowhide, this mini round bag features a zipper closure, combining bold color and sleek design for a standout accessory on any occasion.”

  • CLUTCH BAG

    Leather: Lizard

    “Made for Hand&Sew, this luxurious brown clutch bag crafted from exquisite lizard leather features a pigskin lining and a magnet closure, perfect for elevating any evening occasion.”

Your Perfect Wallet Awaits

Discover our selection of handcrafted wallets. From sleek cardholders to versatile passport wallets, each piece is a testament to refined craftsmanship and enduring elegance.

Personalize yours with a touch of elegance—choose hot foil stamping in Gold or Silver letters, or opt for classic embossing to add your name or initials.

COMMUNITY

BY MONSIEUR is proud to be part of the Arts New West collective, a community that celebrates local craftsmanship and creativity. In 2024, we had the pleasure of participating in several local craft markets, including the New West Craft Market, the Seek Bespoke Markets in Whistler and South Granville, and the Small Shop Market in Fort Langley. We’re grateful for the incredible support from our community.

As a token of our appreciation, we are happy to offer free annual conditioning for all BY MONSIEUR leather bags to help keep them in perfect condition.

Thank you for being part of our journey and supporting handcrafted luxury.

The Leather ABC:
A Concise Guide

  • Handcrafted: Products made primarily by hand, involving processes such as cutting, assembling, and finishing. Some stitching may still be done by machine.

    Handsewn: Products stitched entirely by hand, using traditional saddle stitching techniques that provide superior strength and durability compared to machine stitching.

    Monsieur: a French honorific meaning "Mister," used as a polite title for addressing or referring to a man.

  • Tote Bag: A spacious, open-top bag with handles, ideal for carrying everyday essentials.

    Pouch: A small, simple bag used for holding small items, often without straps.

    Crossbody Bag: A hands-free bag worn across the body, perfect for convenience.

    Clutch: A small, handheld bag, typically for formal occasions or evening wear.

    Backpack: A practical, two-strap bag worn on the back, suitable for carrying heavier loads.

    Satchel: A structured bag with a top handle and often a long shoulder strap.

    Messenger Bag: A crossbody bag with a flap, often used for work or commuting.

    Duffel Bag: A cylindrical bag with a zipper, great for sports or weekend trips.

    Bucket Bag: A structured bag with a round base, typically with a drawstring closure.

    Briefcase: A formal, structured bag for carrying documents and laptops.

    Hobo Bag: A slouchy, crescent-shaped bag with a single shoulder strap.

    Boston Bag: A classic, rounded bag with a structured design and top handles, often used for short trips or as a stylish day bag.

    These variations cater to different uses and fashion preferences.

  • Bifold Wallet: A classic fold wallet with compartments for cards and cash.

    Trifold Wallet: A wallet with three folds, offering more storage space.

    Cardholder: A slim wallet for cards, ideal for minimalists.

    Money Clip: A simple, compact option for holding cash and a few cards.

    Travel Wallet: A larger wallet for travel documents, cash, and cards.

    Zipper Wallet: A wallet with a zipper closure for extra security.

    Passport Wallet: Designed specifically for holding passports, tickets, and other travel documents.

    Coin Wallet: A small wallet with compartments for coins and small items.

    Long Wallet: A sleek, elongated wallet that can hold cash, cards, and documents without folding, often favored for its elegant appearance.

    These wallet types cater to various needs, from minimalism to travel convenience.

  • Cowhide: Durable and thick, ideal for heavy-duty products like bags and shoes.

    Goatskin: Soft, lightweight, and supple, perfect for luxury accessories.

    Salmon Skin: A unique, eco-friendly leather with a distinct texture and pattern.

    Sheepskin: Soft and lightweight, offering a comfortable, flexible feel.

    Calfskin: Smooth and refined, prized for its softness and quality, used in premium goods.

    Pigskin: Known for its toughness and fine grain, often used for linings or casual leather goods.

    Deerskin: Exceptionally soft and flexible, yet durable, offering a luxurious feel for gloves, garments, and high-end accessories.

    Lizard: Exotic and elegant, featuring a distinctive scale pattern, commonly used for small leather goods and statement pieces.

    Each type offers distinct characteristics suited to different products and preferences.

  • Pebbled Grain: Features a textured, bumpy surface that adds visual interest and enhances durability.

    Sleek Grain: Smooth and polished, offering a refined, luxurious look.

    Full Grain: The highest quality, maintaining the original texture and marks of the hide.

    Top Grain: Slightly sanded for a smoother feel while still preserving strength.

    Corrected Grain: Treated to remove imperfections, resulting in a more uniform texture.

    Genuine leather: A term used in the leather industry to describe a specific quality of leather, typically ranking below higher grades like top-grain leather or full-grain leather. Despite its name, it does not necessarily indicate high quality.

    Each grain type influences the look, feel, and durability of the leather.

  • Burnishing: Polishing the edges of leather to create a smooth, finished look.

    Stitching: The process of sewing leather pieces together, often done by hand for durability and aesthetic detail.

    Beveling: Smoothing and rounding the edges of leather for a polished finish.

    Embossing: Pressing designs into leather for decorative purposes.

    Hot Foil Stamping: A technique using heat and pressure to imprint metallic or colored foil onto leather for a luxurious, custom finish.

    Skiving: Thinning leather in specific areas to make it easier to fold or sew.

    Edge Paint: A colored coating applied to leather edges for a clean, decorative look.

    Awl: A pointed tool used to create holes in leather for stitching.

    This glossary showcases the refined techniques that make leather products unique and high-quality.