All photos of Joe were taken by Dani Cruz Photography at Hand & Sew in New Westminster.
Joe, the designer and artisan behind BY MONSIEUR, began his creative journey in Seoul, studying industrial design at the Samsung Art & Design Institute. After moving to Canada, he expanded his skills at BCIT before spending several years in Europe near the French Jura—home to iconic leather ateliers.
While living in Switzerland, he apprenticed at Sattlerei Fiona Losinger in Bern, trained at a private leather school in Seoul, and attended Lineapelle in Milan. During this time, he also learned French and immersed himself in European culture.
Now based in New Westminster, he handcrafts leather bags and accessories using premium leather sourced mainly from European tanneries. He specializes in custom orders, working closely with each client to create pieces that reflect both their needs and BY MONSIEUR’s timeless, Swiss-quality design. His work is rooted in purpose, patience, and traditional techniques—offering a quiet, enduring alternative to fast luxury.
“Leathercraft, for me, is a conversation between material, hand, and the person who carries it—a dialogue that shapes every piece I create. Trained in the Swiss tradition of meticulous craftsmanship, I believe in slowing down to create objects that last—both in construction and relevance.
At BY MONSIEUR, my goal is simple: to bring quiet beauty into everyday life through leather. I strive to balance tradition with a modern spirit, creating classic, timeless designs with a subtle twist.
Leather is not merely a surface, but a language through which I try to express a refined sensibility. I favor clean shapes, subtle details, and muted tones that invite you to experience texture and form rather than demand attention.
This is my vision of luxury: measured, personal, and worn with ease.”
