Essex was founded in November 2011 by Mario Nieto and Glynn Connolly. Based in Los Angeles, Essex began with the idea that if we started with a well thought out design and high quality materials we could give the customer the freedom to play designer. We wanted to make bags we were proud of but we also wanted to give the customer options. We knew how frustrating it was to find a bag that was almost perfect. We started with just one bag – the Louie clutch. With a simple shape, handy pockets, and a secure zipper closure, it was the clutch Glynn had always wanted. We spent months sifting through leather samples and searching for the perfect zipper because we knew that if the pieces were not right, we (and our customers) would never be happy with the completed bag. We settled on a selection of eight Italian leathers for the outer, eight shades of 100% cotton for the lining, and eight bold colors for our custom gunmetal zipper. Now it was time for the designing to begin! We made the process as simple as possible, allowing our customers to see all the options for each component of the bag while clicking their way to a perfect Louie. With 512 possible combinations we wanted the design process to be fun, not stressful. Once the final decisions have been made, we get to work on the order in our downtown Los Angeles production space. All bags are made to order and ship within two weeks of purchase.