After 10+ years working for other brands (Gucci, Neiman Marcus, Banana Republic, William Sonoma), she was ready to spread her wings. Jee became fascinated by how individuals from distinct cultures and backgrounds moved things from one place to another. She noted the beauty found in the basic materials used, and in the raw functionality inherent in their natural design. She took this inspiration and used both her past experiences and astute observations in deciding to act on the bags, the luggage, and the containers that she saw. Speaking to her friends, Jee realized that there was a very serious need for men’s bags that blended the functional and the stylish. She wanted to bring in some of the ideas she had seen, but do so in a way that portrayed a sense of style, without being overly fussy. Thus, Jee’s line of men’s bags was born. She called it Peasants & Travelers to ensure it remained loyal to her inspiration – back in 18th century before pockets were invented, the peasants would carry their owners’ belongings in makeshift bags and the travelers who would also makeshift satchels for their long journeys.
She’s brought over 60 skus to market by opening national accounts such as urban outfitters and orvis and 25+ small boutiques. The media adores peasants & travelers, her bags have been featured in Urban daddy, Thrillist, DailyCandy, NYTimes, Mens Health Magazine, Detail Magazine, 7X7, Antenna Magazine, Gizmodo.com. In June 2010, p&t was featured on TV for hosting a charity auction where she commissioned 17 local artists to paint on canvas doctors bags and donated the proceeds to doctors without borders.
