Our Story
The KOLEF Brand Story: Passion, Purpose, and Empowerment
The KOLEF Brand Story: Passion, Purpose, and Empowerment
Founded by Andrea Woo, a creative leader with over 25 years of experience in the fashion industry, KOLEF was born from a desire to make handbags that not only look beautiful but work beautifully too. After years of building brands for others, Andrea reached a turning point that called for deeper meaning, smarter design and a more sustainable way forward.
The idea was simple: create functional, stylish accessories without compromising values. Inspired by her children’s entrepreneurial spirit and the growing shift towards conscious consumption, Andrea set out to build a brand grounded in purpose. KOLEF became her answer to the everyday challenges women face, offering timeless, well-made bags that support an organised life, express personal style and tread more lightly on the planet.
From choosing recycled materials to working with ethical manufacturers and giving back through initiatives like tree planting and textile recycling, KOLEF is driven by action, not just intention. Sustainability is not a marketing angle. It is the thread woven through every decision.
This is just the beginning. KOLEF is more than a handbag label. It is a movement towards fashion that feels good, works hard and means something.
“I wanted to create something that wasn’t just about fashion, but about making women’s lives easier and more stylish. KOLEF celebrates functional elegance and mindful choices.”
- Andrea Woo, FOUNDER
At KOLEF, our mission is to empower personal style while redefining sustainable fashion. We create eco-friendly, functional, and chic accessories that blend style with purpose, helping to inspire conscious consumption. Every handbag we design is a thoughtful step toward a more mindful and stylish future, crafted to meet your needs while caring for the planet.
We care deeply about our customers and the planet. KOLEF was created to make everyday life feel easier, more stylish, and more considered. We design with empathy, putting real needs first while working towards a better future for everyone.
We make thoughtful choices at every step, from materials to manufacturing. Being environmentally and socially mindful is at the core of what we do, and we are committed to creating fashion that leaves a lighter footprint.
We believe in doing things with honesty and heart. From how we communicate to how we create, KOLEF is built on transparency and staying true to our values. As a growing brand, we’re learning as we go — always striving to do better and share the journey openly with our community.
We embrace creativity as a way to imagine what’s next. From thoughtful features to future-forward materials, KOLEF is driven by innovation and personal expression, creating products that feel considered, modern, and distinctly you.
KOLEF handbags are made from recycled cotton and other sustainable materials. We partner with environmentally focused factories and donate 1% of our annual sales to 1% for the Planet charity. Additionally, for every bag purchased, we plant a tree through our collaboration with ReForest Now. And our recycling program with Upparel encourages customers to return pre-loved bags, ensuring they are responsibly repurposed.
“Carrying a KOLEF bag is more than a fashion statement. It’s a commitment to a sustainable future.”
- Andrea Woo, FOUNDER
We invite you to join the KOLEF movement. Together, we can carry the change towards a more sustainable and stylish future. Whether you’re looking for a functional everyday tote or a chic accessory for a night out, KOLEF has a bag that reflects your values and complements your style.
#CarryTheChange