Who We Are

L&M began in 2019 out of necessity for a work bag that integrates all the needs of professionals on the move.

We believe in empowering women by incorporating simplicity and efficiency into their everyday lives through an ethically and exceptionally made Workbag that seamlessly fits into their multidimensional day.

— Jillian & Renée, co-founders of L&M Workbag

  • The L&M Workbag is handmade from start to finish here in New York City by expert craftspeople. It is created from 40+ pattern pieces and components.

  • We believe sustainability to be three main components: ethically sourced, environmentally-conscious, and durably made. Our Workbags are made from nopal cactus leather and feature solid brass hardware.

  • Our Edition 1.0 Workbag is thoughtfully designed featuring carefully placed pockets and our Signature Shoe Keeper. While simple and sleek, our Workbags are made to hold everything a professional on the move needs.

Jillian Larson

Jillian began her career in management consulting, where she was issued her first “computer bag.” She struggled to find an alternative which led to the creation of L&M.

She has since continued her personal career in infrastructure private equity. She completed her Bachelor of Science from New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering and is currently studying for her M.B.A. at NYU Stern School of Business.

Renée Merrill

In 2018, Renée was desperately searching for a work bag that met her needs to no avail. As a studio art minor at NYU and long-time fashion enthusiast, Renée was beyond delighted to partner with Jillian in the design and creation of L&M Workbag.

Renée is an actress with work in film, television, and theater. She is a proud member of SAG/AFTRA. Additionally, Renée works behind the camera as a development associate, producer, and special effects artist.

The Workbag — Edition 1.0

We believe in empowering women by incorporating simplicity and efficiency into their everyday lives through an ethically and exceptionally made Workbag that seamlessly fits into their multidimensional day.

ETHICALLY MADE

We firmly believe in respecting people and the environment. Our Edition 1.0 Workbag is made from cactus leather, which is cruelty free, sustainable, and contains no toxic chemicals, phthalates, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Additionally, all of our Workbags are crafted in New York City by a small team of expert craftspeople.

Our Values

EXCEPTIONALLY CRAFTED

We continually aim to be the standard for a sustainable, style-forward, and durable work bag that will last you a lifetime. As busy women living in NYC, we wanted to create a bag that you can take to the gym, work, and then to social gatherings. Our Workbag includes carefully designed pockets for all of the items you need and carry with you throughout the day. We designed our Signature Shoe Keeper (perfect for your wet umbrella or a pair of flats) for those days where you are running from one appointment to the next. Our Workbag was created to make your life easier and more efficient.

SIMPLICITY IN DESIGN

Simplicity is key, especially in our chaotic and ever evolving world. The L&M Workbag is timeless. Its simple yet powerful design allows you to transition effortlessly to different parts of your day all while helping you stay organized. 

POWERFUL

At our core, we hope that our Workbags empower women and help them achieve success in whatever industry they are apart of. Fashion is powerful, and sustainable fashion is revolutionary. When you carry an L&M Workbag you become a part of a community of women that is changing the world.

Made from Cactus Leather designed and built in New York City.

Our commitment to sustainability.

By creating a bag made from cactus leather — a biobased product that is readily available, cost-comparative, and performs as well as and often better than it’s traditional counterparts — we are dedicated to ethical luxury and proud to do our part in reducing global climate change.

The USDA Certified Biobased Product label displays a product's biobased content, which is the portion of a product that comes from a renewable source, such as plant, animal, marine, or forestry feedstocks. Utilizing renewable, biobased materials displaces the need for non-renewable petroleum-based chemicals. Biobased products, through petroleum displacement, have played an increasingly important role in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that exacerbate global climate change.

Helping Women Break Down Barriers & Recreate Office Culture

STAY IN THE LOOP WITH L&M

STAY IN THE LOOP WITH L&M