Why Some of Our Prices Have Changed

Why Some of Our Prices Have Changed

At SONYA LEE, pricing has never been driven by trend cycles, investor pressure, or artificial markups. Our prices are a direct reflection of how and by whom our pieces are made.

Craft Takes the Time It Takes

As our studio has grown, we’ve gained a clearer understanding of the true labour involved in producing certain designs.

For styles like DESHA, CAMIA, HALF CAMIA, FRANCESCA, and FRANCESCA GRANDE actual production time has consistently exceeded our original estimates. Rather than forcing those hours to fit a spreadsheet, we’ve chosen to honour the reality of the work.

Our craftspeople are highly skilled, deeply experienced, and incredibly meticulous. We believe quality should never be rushed, and that asking artisans to “work faster” is not how exceptional objects are made.

Upgrading Materials, Not Cutting Corners

In several styles; DESHA, WINONA, and MICRO MAYA, we’ve made a deliberate switch from YKK Everbright zippers to Lampo zippers due to ongoing supply chain issues. Lampo is widely regarded as one of the finest zipper manufacturers in the world.

This upgrade improves longevity, smoothness of wear, and overall construction integrity.

Many large brands quietly move in the opposite direction as they scale; substituting materials, thinning leathers, or simplifying construction to protect margins. We’ve chosen to do the opposite.

As we move forward, we will be gradually transitioning all of our styles to Lampo zippers.

Fair Wages & Cost of Living

Like everything else, the cost of living continues to rise. Each year, we make small adjustments to ensure our team is compensated fairly and sustainably. These increases are incremental, intentional, and rooted in respect for the people who physically make your bag.

This is not about expanding profit margins — it’s about maintaining a healthy, ethical studio that can continue to operate locally, pay living wages, and produce work we’re proud to stand behind for decades.

What Hasn’t Changed

What hasn’t changed is our commitment to:

  • Making everything in-house

  • Using premium materials without compromise

  • Paying skilled craftspeople properly

  • Offering pieces designed to age beautifully, not expire

We know price changes are never taken lightly, and we’re deeply grateful to our community for valuing craftsmanship, transparency, and integrity over shortcuts.

Thank you for supporting slow, intentional work.

Stephanie, Founder + Designer SONYA LEE