Story

The MISCHA label was conceived as an expression of designer Michelle Lai’s aesthetic aspirations and childhood obsession with Asian mystique and fascination for the ancient embroidery arts. The artisan driven Vintage Couture Collection, created from Michelle’s personal collection of vintage Japanese kimono and obi, was the starting point for her debut collection of handmade clutch bags, sewn by Lai herself. 

Recognized for their nostalgic designs and use of vintage textiles, MISCHA clutch bags soon developed a cult following and are coveted in cities around the world from Italy to Japan.  Each creation is delicately sewn with love and attention, a one-of-a-kind with its own certificate of authenticity. With growing demands for her keen eye and bespoke services, she went on to run a small team of seasoned seamstresses to bring her visions to life.  While Michelle travels frequently to Japan to source vintage textiles herself, it is these journeys that brought the savvy designer’s brand to the next level.

In 2010, the brand created its own signature print, and thus the MISCHA Travel Series was born, launching at Lane Crawford stores that summer. Becoming the brand’s iconic mark, the Travel Series is designed with the globetrotter’s lifestyle in mind. The line of silk screen printed, coated canvas and leather-trimmed accessories focuses on quality travel totes and luggage. Taking inspiration from traditional Japanese hexagon motifs and bold geometric 1960’s interior designs, the original interlocking hexagon print symbolizes longevity, a sentiment held very close to the brand.