Proudly Mexican Owned & Operated
Proudly a Mexican brand committed to keeping our operations rooted in Mexico. By collaborating with local producers and leather artisans, I aim to deliver products that are 100% Mexican. My goal is to create items inspired by the beauty of our country, with every component crafted by Mexican artisans.
I work closely and exclusively with Mexican artisans and suppliers to ensure every Única piece is truly 100% Mexican made. From the craftsmanship in Guadalajara to our fulfillment operations in Puerto Vallarta, keeping everything local is deeply important to me. It allows me to support talented artisans, preserve traditional craftsmanship, and create pieces that genuinely reflect the beauty, talent, and heart of Mexico.
Each bag is handcrafted by talented artisans in Jalisco with meticulous attention to detail and precision. Unlike factory made bags cut entirely by machines, every material is individually traced and cut by hand, while sewing machines are used for durable, precise stitching. Leatherwork like this is becoming a dying art, and it’s increasingly difficult to find truly skilled artisans, which is why I feel incredibly lucky to work with such a talented team. The result is a timeless and durable piece made with intention.
I’m passionate about creating products from the finest materials, which is why I exclusively use full grain cowhide leather, the highest quality leather available. Known for its durability and natural character, each piece highlights the beauty of the hide itself. After visiting several tanneries in Guadalajara, I partnered with one that specializes in full grain leather and aniline dyeing, resulting in a soft, supple finish that only gets better with time.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything I do. In a world of fast fashion and disposable products, I focus on creating durable leather pieces designed to last for years, not seasons. I exclusively use leather, a natural byproduct of the cattle industry, and continuously design smaller goods to repurpose leftover scraps so that as little material as possible goes to waste. From cotton dust bags to recycled packaging materials, every detail is approached with intention and care.
Quality Over Quantity
Única is committed to slow fashion principles, producing small, exclusive collections that emphasize quality over quantity. This approach not only reduces environmental impact by minimizing waste and overproduction but also ensures that each piece is unique and timeless. By investing in durable, well-crafted items, it challenge the disposable culture of fast fashion, offering designs that stand the test of time both in style and longevity.
Meet the designer
Hello, I’m Nicole, founder and designer of única leathers. Born to Mexican and Canadian parents, I’ve spent most of my life in Mexico, a country that has deeply shaped my creative journey and continues to inspire so much of this brand, from the colors, materials, and textures, to the authenticity and heart behind every piece. Ever since I was little, I’ve been drawn to design and creating things that feel both beautiful and functional.
What started as a hobby making leather goods nearly eight years ago slowly turned into something much bigger. In 2023, I made the decision to leave my 9–5 agency job to fully pursue my dream of becoming a designer and building Única full time. It has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life, and the support from this community continues to inspire me every day.
My goal has always been to create timeless, high quality bags designed for real everyday life, pieces that feel special, last for years, and become part of your story over time. It’s also incredibly important to me that every Única piece remains 100% Mexican made. Working closely with local artisans and suppliers allows me to stay connected to every step of the process while supporting the talent and craftsmanship that make this brand possible.
As Única grows, my promise is to continue evolving, improving materials, refining designs, and always creating with intention, care, and heart.
We Listen To You
Única is detail-obsessed; every stitch gets our full attention. And your feedback? I love and value what you have to say! That way, I can continue creating products for you with you in mind. So please reach out, whether is feedback or an idea, I'll listen!
