Still Showing Up -- The Story Behind The Collection

Today marks the launch of something deeply personal — and something new for Zelaki Leather Company.

The Still Showing Up collection is our first official designer line. Every design in this collection was created by me, as the designer and lead creative at Zelaki. These aren’t just products; they’re pieces of my process, my story, and my return to the work I love.

After having our baby at the end of 2024, I stepped away from the workshop for a while. What I thought would be a short pause turned into months of questioning — wondering if I still had the energy, the ideas, the drive to create. It wasn’t burnout exactly; it was more like standing at the edge of something I loved and feeling unsure how to step back in.

One day, I gave myself a challenge: make one new bag every day for a week. No overthinking, no second-guessing — just show up, cut the leather, trust my hands, and see what comes out of it.

By the end of that week, I had five bags. Each one named after a day of the week. They’re not just designs to me — they’re proof of momentum, of pushing through hesitation, of choosing to show up even when it’s hard.

That’s why this collection is called “Still Showing Up.”

Because sometimes creativity isn’t about waiting for inspiration — it’s about perseverance. It’s about showing up for yourself, your craft, and your dreams even when it feels messy or uncertain.

To make this collection even more special, we’re introducing limited-edition colors exclusive to this line. Every detail, every cut, every stitch, straight from the hands of the designer.

Each bag carries a piece of that story. They’re simple, functional, and timeless — designed to be lived with, moved with, and grown with. Just like this chapter of my life.

The Still Showing Up collection launches today. Five bags, five days, and one reminder: progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s just quietly showing up — one day at a time.

I hope you can feel the love and quiet confidence instilled in every piece.

With gratitude,  Aubrey