Yu Mei is a New Zealand-based leather goods label with a focus on utilitarian design, made for modern people seeking a new form of understated luxury. We aim to inspire and engage forward-thinking individuals who understand refined aesthetics and high-quality products that stand the test of time.

Yu Mei began life in 2015 in Dunedin, New Zealand, when founder Jessie Wong couldn’t find a design-conscious bag that fitted everything she needed for a day. So she set about creating one. A proud third-generation Chinese New Zealander — Yu Mei is quite literally Jessie’s middle name — the label encompasses Jessie’s desire to help people streamline their lives and look good doing it. Now based in Jessie’s hometown of Wellington, Yu Mei has grown exponentially since that very first bag, with the label now available in over 44 retailers including our three flagship Yu Mei lounges in Wellington and Auckland, New Zealand.

Jessie Wong, Founder & Creative Director of Yu Mei.

Our bags are predominantly made from premium, buttery soft New Zealand-farmed deer nappa, with integrity at the core of our supply chain. Prized for its suppleness and strength, this leather is a byproduct of the venison industry that would otherwise be wasted. We’re proud to be using this homegrown regenerative material that has both a low ecological footprint and unparalleled softness.

Moving forward, we aim to continue growing Yu Mei internationally, without sacrificing the quality of our products or the responsibility of our supply chain. We are excited about the myriad opportunities to grow and translate our brand, vision and principles into high-quality product that stands the test of time.