Lies Mertens is a leather goods brand, founded in 2017, with a focus on timeless design and rich materials.
Crafted with care and thought through, from the materials we use to the partners we choose. Stitched together by a curiosity for the world around us. Like the beauty of organic shapes found in nature, the curves and clean lines found in architecture, the energy and passion found in the people we meet.
Each bag is designed and developed in our Antwerp based atelier
"Finding a bag that combined practical functionalities with elegance was quite a challenge. This made me start designing one myself, with a focus on long-lasting materials and an eye for detail and craftsmanship.
Not driven by the traditional and fast paced fashion industry, I wanted to create timeless pieces that focus on both form and function, being able to stand the test of time."
— Lies Mertens
Behind every bag hides the story of someone fascinating. They inspire us, they become the model and their name becomes the name of the bag. The process from idea to design is shaped by the conversations we have, connecting their functional wants and needs with a design that fits our aesthetic.
We aim for a human approach
Each bag is crafted by hand, ensuring both quality and sustainability. We work in close collaboration with artisans, persuing the finest craftsmanship. We maintain strong partnerships with two family-run production ateliers, located in Italy and Belgium/Tunisia.
"I'm always keeping the material in mind. Since founding the label, I've consistently been invested in researching durable, upcycled or innovative materials. For me, finding the right material is a crucial aspect of the design process.”
We select only European materials, handpicked for their quality, durability and authenticity. Each bag is constructed from sustainable materials, thoughtfully selected for their quality, traceability and long-lasting characteristics.
Leather
Leather is a long lasting material that has proven itself to stand the test of time. We only use leather being a by-product of the meat industry. We believe in leather as a natural material, evolving a beautiful patina over time.
The tanneries we work with are all European and reuse water, limit waste and chemicals and optimise energy use. All our tanneries are certified by Leather Working Group, a global multi-stakeholder community committed to building a sustainable future with responsible leather.
We work with the following tanneries:
- Richard Hoffmans GmbH & Co, Germany
- Vitelco, the Netherlands
- Rigato Romano, Italy
- Soft Art, Germany
Leatherlike materials
As the world aims to reduce meat production, available leather will reduce as well. This challenges us to experiment with sustainable, innovative alternatives. Materials with the same high standards we achieve, preferably starting from residual waste, just like leather.
MycaNova
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Vegea
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