Melissa Moses blends ease, elegance in new collection

Effortless elegance meets travel-ready style — that’s the motivation behind Melissa Moses and her new bag and cover-up collections.

She told Living, “These collections are a celebration of freedom, which gives rise to a bold movement of feeling beautiful in your own skin no matter where you are.”

Every element, Moses explained, was carefully created to make wearers feel relaxed yet pulled together, with pieces that are practical yet artistic. “My goal was to create designs that are versatile and elevated, while staying true to comfort and authenticity. I want women to feel confident, comfortable and beautiful wherever life takes them,” said Moses.

The fashion designer was inspired by coastal beauty, incorporating the neutral tones of sand, sea, and earth, with pops of colour like green. These shades she deemed as timeless by nature, calming and effortlessly matching a variety of wardrobe choices.

Then there are the textures of sun-washed multicoloured fabrics, and the easy sophistication of a well-packed getaway bag. “I chose to work with light, breathable knitted cotton blends and polyester mixed fabric to ensure comfort, durability, and sustainability. Textures are very important. Each piece should feel as good as it looks, whether you’re on vacation, heading to dinner or showing up at a fashion event.”

The totes featured in her new line function as an extension of personality, making them versatile enough for work, travel, beach days, brunches, or evenings out. “Functionality is key. These tote handbags feature spacious interiors... . There is even an area specifically for laptops, as well as durable, thick handles. Practical for everyday use, they are stylish [as well],” she shared.

While the cover-ups, Moses said, “can easily be thrown on over a dress or paired with denim for a casual day out or function”, and are lightweight and diverse.

Blending functionality with artistry, Moses was deeply hands-on during the creative process. From sketches and patterns to stitching the final product, the development was a week-long one; this included sourcing materials, refining the structure and perfecting every detail.

“I started by imagining the kind of bag and cover-up a woman would truly reach for. Whether [she’s] heading to work, a function, to a hotel or a spontaneous weekend away or an award ceremony. I experimented with textures, shapes, and different tones that felt both functional, elevated and quality. [I also] paid close attention to how each piece would feel when carried, luxurious and rich,” she said, adding, “I also leaned into more sustainable, durable materials, like sturdy natural fibres, woven [and] mixed with leather, to give each bag its own character. Every detail mattered, from the stitching to the texture to how the bag moves with the body.”

Since releasing the bags in January and subsequently producing the cover-up collection in July, the response, she highlighted, has been both encouraging and heart-warming. “Customers have connected deeply with the designs. I’ve heard everything like, ‘This tote goes everywhere with me! Girl, I love the bag. It’s strong and durable. I need to get it in every colour to finally, a stylish cover-up that actually feels good to wear’,” she shared.

With plans to continue creating pieces that become staples season after season, Moses hopes to see her designs evolve into a globally recognised brand.

“I envision the pieces being loved and exported all over the world, found in boutiques, stores, resorts across continents, or even having my own store. I also see the brand expanding into new categories like sandals, while staying true to its roots in quality and style,” she shared.

Melissa Moses is on Instagram, @melissamosesdesigns.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com