Founded in Los Angeles in 2023 by Gizelle Gonong, ANIMAE takes its name from the Latin word meaning “of the soul”—a fitting expression for a brand guided by intention rather than trends. In an industry driven by constant cycles of consumption, ANIMAE offers a quieter approach, one rooted in craftsmanship, material consciousness, and emotional connection.
Every piece is individually sewn by Gonong in small batches using 100% cowhide and reclaimed deadstock leather. The process reflects a commitment to sustainability not as a marketing gesture, but as a philosophy embedded directly into the work. Rather than chasing novelty, ANIMAE focuses on creating accessories that are meant to endure, both physically and personally.
At the center of the collection is the Nova bag, the brand’s defining silhouette and a reflection of its understated design language. In keeping with ANIMAE’s resourceful approach, offcuts from the Nova’s production are transformed into wallets and small leather goods, extending the life of the material while preserving the story behind each piece. Waste becomes opportunity, and every fragment is given purpose.
Resisting the pressures of mass production and fleeting aesthetics, ANIMAE creates objects that resonate beyond the moment. Driven by authenticity rather than algorithms, the brand proposes a more intimate vision of fashion—one shaped not by trends, but by the soul.
