Born into a STEM-oriented household, designer Melissa Morris quickly developed a keen eye for precision, which is at the very heart of her leather goods label, Métier.
“When I founded my brand, I knew it had to be something that really reflects my vision around what I think luxury design is. For me, design is at the forefront, and at the core is either enhancing an experience or solving a problem.” Melissa studied sculpture and business at Emory–two educational tenets that would ultimately inform her problem-solving mantra. Her designs are achieved cross-border–starting in Melissa’s London studio and then brought to life by artisanal leather workshops in Naples and Florence.
Melissa draws inspiration from her grandmother, who she describes as someone who embodied the elegance of Jackie O. and Katharine Hepburn. She has helped Melissa discover the value of comfort without compromise and continues to shape her current design philosophy with Métier. Melissa’s insistence on comfort is also reflected in her personal style. Her wardrobe, curated with pieces from brands such as The Row, Cristaseya, and Attersee, embodies the idea of dynamic dressing while seamlessly accommodating the demands of her hectic schedule.
Traveling almost every week, Melissa creates products that cater to those living life on-the-go, a consideration that was crucial to Métier’s careful inception. After spending six months sourcing the best suppliers in Italy, Melissa and her team embarked on an extensive design journey to invent Métier. For over three years, Melissa engineered and re-engineered, working to create lightweight, durable bags that would withstand decades of use. Having perfected their product, it was tested in an Italian facility that simulates 20 years of use and exposure to rain, humidity and stones to ensure Métier’s handbags were ready for even the most active of lifestyles. This commitment to product quality underscores the central tenets of the Métier design philosophy: craftsmanship, sustainability and modularity.
Refined luxury, practical functionality and uncompromising style is the Métier mantra. “Our brand is for today’s movers and shakers—those who love design and quality, but are busy! They value not having to compromise style for functionality. They are constantly on the go—all around the world—everyday from morning to night.” Her collection is designed to travel as well, offering both elegance and ease with every step. Accompanied by innovations such as modularity and hidden pockets, Métier further distinguishes itself by reimagining the concept of travel. Not just for those times away from home, but also for journeys everyday.
Melissa’s undying commitment to quality and comfort has earned the brand a cult following with celebrities such as Katie Holmes, Nicole Kidman and Kate Middleton and has elevated Métier to its station as a couture must.
