Leathergoods from Yu Mei’s new Spring 20 collection. Images by Nick Shackleton.
Yu Mei‘s stunning new Spring 20 collection drops today and is a study in red inspired by the anthurium flower. Yu Mei designer and founder Jessie Wong chose anthuriums as the flower is universally acknowledged as a symbol of long-lasting friendship and love, and as such, is often given as a gift. It’s a beautiful starting point for the gorgeous new range which reimagines chic existing styles in rich new hues.
“Through our Spring 20 collection we wanted to explore Chinese cultural meanings of the colour red: good luck, fortune, prosperity and determination. Whether gifting to others or oneself – both are important acknowledgements of gratitude. With the disruptive year we’ve had so far we wanted to use colours that serve as a reminder to live life purposefully and with passion. To appreciate the people around you by telling them so, and to be bold and unapologetic in your own decisions,” says Yu Mei Founder, Jessie Wong.
The brand have become known for their clean, chic bags that focus on functionality as well as style. This new range stays true to Yu Mei’s philosophy of balancing luxury with pragmatism, and designing for real people. What that means is bags that are versatile and have features like removable cross-body straps or in the case of the Braidy bag (one of Yu Mei’s signature styles) are able to fit a laptop and a range of life essentials.
Yu Mei’s focus on refined aesthetics and utilitarian design means the Yu Mei woman has become a broader archetype that encompasses high-flying executives, mothers and jet setters as well as the previous patron saints of the university library in whom Yu Mei first found an audience. The Yu Mei woman is modern and global. “We design for “ourselves because we are our customers,” adds Jessie Wong. “Yu Mei has always had a strong focus on design by women, for women. We are a brand for every woman.”
Images by Nick Shackleton.