About this small business
A lover of alternative style, I found myself constantly disappointed by the quality of alternative style accessories available. The ALT market is saturated with cheap, poorly constructed PU leather that deteriorates quickly and is terrible for the environment. Accessories are meant to style an outfit, to elevate the base layer of clothing to the next level, but cheap pieces do the opposite, detracting from your overall look. High quality alternatives are only available for inflated, designer prices, often with limited sizing or 'one size fits all'. As a skilled leather worker, I knew I could provide a third option: luxury quality leather accessories that are fairly priced, based on the cost of materials and fairly paid labor, custom made to fit every body, perfectly.
This small business serves women (all women – self-defined); I offer unique, high quality accessories that are eclectic, bold, and well fitting. I create pieces that help you feel empowered, express yourself, and feel good in your skin. By offering made to measure, custom pieces, I'm able to both reduce waste and run a more sustainable business as well as provide a truly inclusive service.
While you can order based on the size chart for the shop, I strongly recommend providing your measurements and having your piece custom made - custom sizing is free, and your piece will be made to best fit your body....the production time is the same for both options. I don't expect my customers to fit into one of a handful of boxes - I provide size based ordering for those who prefer it, otherwise, I just need a few, simple measurements from you, and then you can sit back and let me do the rest, making a completely custom piece that will fit you perfectly. I can also make my pieces to fit a specified custom size range - great for if your weight fluctuates, if you're pregnant or post partum, etc.
For more on the bespoke business model and how it benefits both you and the environment, please visit the "What is Couture" page. For more information on taking measurements, please visit the Measurement Guide page.
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Emily Foster
Founding Designer and Leathercrafter
After suffering a major depressive episode beginning in late 2020, so severe it left me disabled, often confined to bed, unable to leave home, and unable to work, I was finally able to receive intensive IV Ketamine therapy beginning in February 2022. It worked wonders, and I regained function again, but during my battle with depression I had lost my job – a career I’d spent 7 years building – and so found myself adrift and without any idea where my life was going anymore. It was a devastating and incredibly humbling experience; while it left me deeply shaken, and suddenly unemployed, the experience did make me stronger, more empathetic, and determined to build a new life for myself – one where I could dedicate myself to creativity and service, where I could do what I’m passionate about, and have the opportunity to connect with like-minded women. I’ve never imagined myself an entrepreneur – I’ve always been the scrappy kid who grew up with the basics, and just wanted security. But I’d learned that security wasn’t what I thought it was…maybe it was time for me to take a risk, for a chance to live more authentically, every day, instead of finding it in scattered moments.
I've been leather working since 2011, and in September 2023, I launched Culte du Cuir, French for 'Leather Cult'. I'm so passionate about leather working and creating bespoke pieces that can be treasured and enjoyed for decades, as well as being able to offer truly inclusive services. I believe every body is beautiful; whether you're tall, short, curvy, slim - or any combination of those, I custom make every piece to provide each of my clients with the perfect fit.
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Outside of Culte du Cuir, I'm an adventure seeker and avid traveler (I especially enjoy exploring abandoned places), animal lover, photographer, and aerialist. I'm a passionate, and loud, advocate for human rights, intersectional feminism, and the de-stigmatization of mental illness.
About the Workshop
All leather goods and jewelry found in my shop are designed and produced by me personally, in a leather workshop I built in my home. I construct all of my products with care, and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring they can be enjoyed for years to come.
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Leather scrap from my belts are used in smaller leather goods such as keychains, as well as my jewelry pieces, to minimize waste. Sustainability is a core focus of my brand, and I reduce waste everywhere that I can.
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My home is smoke free, but I do have a dog. She doesn't spend much time in my workshop, but she is allowed everywhere in my home, and to be honest, there is almost always a little bit of her on my clothing - especially when I have somewhere to be! I keep my work areas clean and work hard to ensure all pieces are packaged up beautifully - and without any hair. But if you do have a significant allergy to dogs, I want to be transparent and allow you to make an informed decision on whether my shop is the best choice for you!
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I do accept custom orders - if you'd like one of my pieces made in a different color, stone, or metal, or if you have a completely unique idea that you'd like me to help you make into reality, don't hesitate to reach out - via my contact form on this website, my email address listed at the bottom of each page, or DM me on Instagram; I'd love to help.
