Makki was launched in 2003 by Joanne Temperton as the original eel skin handbag specialists, with the concept of providing environmentally friendly luxury accessories.

The company has a very close relationship with their suppliers in South Korea (eel is eaten regularly there as part of a daily diet), with Joanne having lived and worked in South Korea.

All pieces are made with skins that are by-products of the wider food industry. Makki has an eco fashion policy and the ethical way in which they work can be seen in every aspect of their business. They do not heavily negotiate on their supplier’s price and pay consistently, fairly and upfront.

They use the world's finest grade of eel skin and each piece is quality checked by Makki before being barrel dyed in a 24-hour dye process.

Aware of the way they impact on the environment, Makki aims to use acid-free tissue paper, FSC-certified handmade wooden boxes for the wallets and recycled boxes for their orders without compromising on aesthetic standards.

A member of the Ethical Fashion Forum and regularly featured on Ethical websites, blogs and press, Joanne was recently requested to give a presentation at the Ethical Fashion Forum Seminar.

Now collaborating with an Italian designer, Makki has started combining their signature eel skin with other by-product skins for a new look this season. The Italian pony hair came about through their visit to the Milan fashion shows.

Makki was featured on a BBC documentary in 2011 and was awarded Fashion Product of the Year in 2009. They currently count Kate Middleton, Princess Anne and Jools Oliver among their fans and have been seen in Vogue, Red, Drapers, Attire, GQ and Tatler.

For more details please visit http://www.makki.co.uk/.