The founder

Nicole Malia

My name is Nicole Malia. Front-facing: I’m the designer, founder and namesake of the Nicole Malia atelier. Behind the scenes: I’m a mom of three boys, wife to an amazing husband in active duty military and a woman with an unfaltering passion for style that is functional, sustainable and timeless by nature.

Born and raised on the beautiful island of O’ahu and now calling San Diego home, I've always had a deep love for style, dressing up, and the fascinating world of fashion. My creative spirit was reignited when I became a mother for the first time, and something wonderful happened. I taught myself the art of crafting handbags, delved into the intricacies of designing fabric, and created beautiful pieces.

After my second son arrived, I set out to design an everyday bag that was not only functional but also a fashion statement, complete with multiple sections and pockets. With my third son's arrival, the need for a versatile handbag that could effortlessly switch between kid essentials and my personal items became even more apparent. My designs grew with my kids.

Over time, my babies became kids and my bag needs shifted, which led to me creating new styles with varying sizes and functions. I started to realize that when a person has a bag that supports their lifestyle, they are more confident in the day to day. When your essentials are at your fingertips, organized and accessible, it's like carrying a silent reassurance with you. I believe that everyone deserves to have a bag that elevates their lifestyle and confidence, so my commitment to designing functional, affordable bags is unwavering!