Mally Bags: A Story Woven in South African Leather

From the heart of Marion Nel, the founder of Mally Bags!

There’s something deeply special about owning something made with heart. Every stitch tells a story, and every mark carries the spirit of its maker. This Heritage Month, I’m excited to share the Mally Bags story with you. Mally is a proudly South African brand whose journey comes from the heart of the Klein Karoo to wardrobes across the world, celebrating creativity, resilience, and national pride.

Where It All Began

Our story starts on a quiet farm in the Klein Karoo back in 2009, when I found myself craving a creative outlet. Surrounded by open skies and endless plains, I always dreamed of owning a timeless, beautifully made leather bag, something elegant yet tough enough to weather everyday life.

With a few hides and an adventurous spirit, I took the plunge. My first lessons came quickly: not every hide is cut out for bags, and every imperfection, be it a tick bite or natural scar, adds its own tale. Once I had managed to make up my own bag, friends soon wanted a bag of their own, and before long, a simple project had transformed into something much more.

Born from Motherhood, Crafted for Life

My real turning point came when I was pregnant with my first child. I realised that there was a gap in the market for moms needing something functional yet beautiful. That’s how the Bambino Baby Backpack was born. This bag inspired what Mally would become: a brand focused on designing and making products that are timeless, durable, and blend into everyday life. Each product, from the now-iconic Bambino Baby Backpack to the much-loved Bumbag range, carries the Mally signature: a balance of practicality and effortless elegance. These pieces represent significant milestones in our journey and showcase the versatility and quality of local design.

Proudly South African Craftsmanship

Here at Mally, everything begins and ends at home. Each bag is designed and handcrafted in South Africa, using ethically sourced leather and created by local artisans who pour care and skill into every detail. This commitment to local craftsmanship doesn’t just keep the brand authentic; it celebrates the artistry and talent that exists in our own country.

In a world obsessed with fast fashion and fleeting trends, we at Mally are proud to stand for something more meaningful: pieces that grow better with time. Our customers are looking for quality that lasts. That’s exactly what we deliver, bags you’ll love for years, both in form and in feeling.

From the Karoo to the World

Today, Mally Bags have found homes not just across South Africa but around the globe. Each international order is a reminder that South African craftsmanship is truly world-class, proof that something created with integrity and love can resonate far beyond our borders.

Still, no matter how far Mally travels, the heart of our brand remains here. I draw inspiration daily from our landscapes, our people, and our spirit of ingenuity. As I like to say, “At the heart of it all, I’ll always stay rooted in South Africa because this is where my inspiration comes from.”

This Heritage Month, celebrate what it means to be locally made and globally loved. Choose South African craftsmanship. Choose authenticity. Choose Mally. Shop online at https://mally.co.za/ to discover our range of handcrafted bags designed for your life and your style. Find that special piece that speaks to you, and we will package and ship it directly to your door!

Check back soon for more interesting info and advice. In the meantime, remember to keep an eye on our Facebook page and Instagram profile for style inspiration & info on special offers and more.