Trends have now changed faster than the seasons and the fashion industry has become a relentless machine, churning out collections at a breakneck pace to satisfy our insatiable appetite for the new and now.
Once a craft rooted in artistry and individuality, fashion has been swept into a whirlwind of mass production, with fast fashion giants flooding the market with cheap, disposable goods, and what was once a celebration of personal expression now feels like a race to the bottom – where things are valued for their quality or creativity, but for how quickly they can be replicated and sold.
For centuries, leather has stood as a symbol of durability and timeless elegance, carrying with it a legacy of craftsmanship that defies fleeting trends.
Today, a new generation of young artisans is reigniting this storied craft, offering a compelling challenge to the throwaway culture of planned obsolescence. In their hands, leather goods become more than mere possessions – they are sustainable statements, imbued with artistry and built to endure.
One such artisan is Muhammad Lai Jazmi bin Muhammad Silmi, the visionary behind Atelier Lài hailing from the Belait District.
With every cut, stitch, and polish, his homegrown business pays tribute to the ancient art of leather crafting, proving that in a world of disposability, there is still a place for things made to last.
I had the privilege of sitting down with Muhammad Lai Jazmi to uncover the story of his leather crafting journey – a journey sparked by his dissatisfaction with the modern standards of quality.
What began as a quiet rebellion against mediocrity has evolved into a passionate pursuit of excellence, where every creation tells a story of resilience, tradition, and a steadfast commitment to craftsmanship.
“What inspired me to start this (leather crafting business) is encouragement from my parents,” he said as he recalled a time when his father gave him some pocket money to buy a leather bag as a birthday present for his mother.
“At that time, I went to many shops and stores to find a suitable leather bag, but the price and quality did not meet my expectations. From there, I took it to heart knowing that it is possible to make a better leather bag of higher quality than the mass-produced ones.”
With determination in his heart and a vision in mind, Muhammad Lai Jazmi spent three to five years saving money and honing his skills before launching his business in 2021.
“Atelier means a workshop or studio where the magic of handcrafted leather goods comes to life, and Lài is derived from my surname,” he explained, reflecting the personal touch woven into every aspect of his brand.
Describing his craft as a meticulous but rewarding labour of love, Muhammad Lai Jazmi handcrafts each piece himself, producing a range of exquisite items, from sleek cardholders and wallets to elegant clutches and handbags.
Using traditional heritage techniques, each product becomes a testament to the artistry of leatherwork – a far cry from mass-produced alternatives.
“These techniques were skills I gradually picked up from other talented leather craftsmen I connected with online,” he shared.
At the heart of his creations is Italian Full-Grain Vegetable-Tanned Leather, ethically sourced from Pelle Italiana Conciata Al Vegetale, ensuring that every piece is as sustainable as it is timeless.
“Each of these large pieces of leather is cut into desired pieces and sections, which are then handstitched with waxed linen thread that ensures aesthetic appeal, strength and highly durable leather goods that are built to last.”
Beyond crafting each leather piece by hand, Muhammad Lai Jazmi personally packages and promotes his creations through social media, fostering a close connection with his customers. He tailors his designs with thoughtful adjustments to meet their preferences, blending practicality with a personal touch.
Drawing inspiration from local fashion sensibilities, he ensures that each bag and wallet reflects both its cultural roots and the uniquely handcrafted identity of his brand.
One signature detail he cherishes is the distinctive flair he infuses into every product, a mark of the artistry and individuality that defines his burgeoning leathercraft brand.
Adorning the front of many leather creations is the brand’s logo – two mirrored ‘L’s, representing the initial. This elegant emblem not only exudes sophistication but also serves as a proud hallmark of the brand’s identity, signifying that each piece is a uniquely Bruneian, handmade leather good crafted with care and tradition.
Beyond the embossed logo, the leather craftsman highlighted the angular stitching in his designs, a detail that not only enhances the aesthetic but also reinforces the durability of his handcrafted leather goods.
Having launched three years ago as a homegrown business, he envisions making Bruneian bespoke leather craftsmanship accessible without the exorbitant prices of luxury brands.
“True luxury lies in precision craftsmanship, longevity, and personalisation – creating a deep connection between the owner and their statement piece,” he shared. He hopes his creations inspire a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship, with every stitch telling a story.
His leather goods are designed to accompany their owners through life’s journeys, ageing gracefully and becoming more beautiful with time.
This timeless quality reflects the resurgence of leather crafting, as young artisans like Muhammad prove that tradition remains relevant in the modern age.
With its emphasis on quality, patience, and sustainability, leather crafting is not just about preserving the past – it’s about shaping a future where the art of making matters in a world increasingly driven by automation. – Daniel Lim
