Maison Eli

Maison Eli was founded by Lydie Traoré in 2020, emerging from a personal search for well-made, considered footwear. Originally from Côte d’Ivoire and now based in the UAE, Traoré brings a meticulous, material-driven approach to her accessories and shoe designs, shaped by an early fascination with leather and its possibilities.

Working primarily with vegetable-tanned camel leather, the brand produces pieces in small batches through a hands-on process that privileges precision over speed. Each design is developed and finished by hand, with traditional techniques guiding everything from cutting to final assembly. The result is a collection of structured yet understated forms, where durability and surface richness are built into the object itself.

Maison Eli’s practice is rooted in longevity—both in material and intention. By sourcing locally and working with naturally treated leathers, the brand centres traceability and reduced environmental impact, while creating pieces intended to be worn, kept, and passed on.