Marre Muijs – Creative Director & Founder of ESSĒN
White Story has partnered with ESSĒN for almost 2 years through a curated selection of signature styles. The collaboration continues this season with four exclusive ESSĒN colourways, designed especially for White Story — a considered extension of both brands’ shared commitment to timeless design, responsible production, and elevated everyday essentials.
Thoughtful design and longevity sit at the core of everything we create — a perspective reflected in our ongoing partnership with ESSĒN. Founded by Dutch designer Marre Muijs, the brand is known for its quietly refined leather footwear and accessories, designed with purpose and crafted to move beyond seasons.
Rooted in a philosophy of fewer, more concidered pieces, Marre approaches design with a deep respect for craftsmanship, materials, and the women who wear her creations. Her European sensibility — shaped by her upbringing in the Netherlands — brings a balance of understated elegance and practicality that resonates with the White Story woman.
We spoke with Marre about her approach to design, the role of craftsmanship, and the evolution of the partnership.
ESSĒN and White Story share a similar philosophy. How did this partnership come about?
What drew me to White Story immediately was the clarity of its vision. Both brands create for women who value quality over quantity — who choose pieces with intention, and build a wardrobe over time rather than around trends.
There’s a shared understanding of what clothing should do — to feel considered, to integrate seamlessly, and to last. That alignment across longevity, materiality, and design made the collaboration feel less like a decision, and more like a natural extension of what both brands already stand for. It’s a partnership grounded in the same values, approached from different perspectives.
ESSĒN has become known for its refined, timeless accessories. How would you describe the core design philosophy behind the brand?
ESSĒN was built around a single idea — the essence of less. At its core is a permanent collection of no-compromise staples, designed to fulfil a wardrobe need rather than follow trends. Every piece begins with purpose; if I can’t imagine someone reaching for it years from now, it doesn’t belong.
Thoughtful design is quietly purposeful. Longevity is the guiding principle, creating something that feels as relevant and considered in five years as it does today. This extends to materials, where we work exclusively with responsibly sourced, certified leathers. Those limitations are intentional, they refine the process and ultimately lead to better design.
Your pieces feel incredibly considered and intentional. Can you walk us through your design process — from the initial idea to the final product?
Every design begins with a genuine need — something missing, something requested, something unresolved. It’s never driven by trend.
Because we focus on wardrobe staples, simplicity requires precision. Some pieces come together quickly, while others take years to refine — which often becomes the measure of whether a design is truly timeless. If it still feels right after that time, it has earned its place.
Once resolved, each piece is brought to life by master artisans across Italy and Portugal — from material selection to construction and hand finishing. Many of these makers come from generations of craftsmanship, and that depth of knowledge is integral to the process.
What excites you most about creating something unique for the White Story community?
What I value most is the opportunity to design with a specific woman in mind. The White Story woman has a clear sensibility — she’s considered, refined, and drawn to pieces that feel effortless rather than overworked.
Working within that context brings a different kind of focus. It allows for a more nuanced exploration of tone, texture, and finish — pushing the collection in subtle ways, while still remaining aligned with the ESSĒN aesthetic. The result feels both cohesive and distinct, shaped by how she dresses and lives.
Craftsmanship is clearly central to ESSĒN. What does true craftsmanship mean to you?
Craftsmanship is about respect — for the materials, the maker, and the person who will wear the piece.
We’ve worked with many of our workshops for close to a decade, building relationships grounded in trust and shared standards. Each specialises in a particular craft, and any new partnerships are introduced within that same circle. I stay closely involved throughout production, both for quality and for the relationship itself.
Working in small batches — and on-demand for some styles — allows for a different level of care. Each piece is made with intention, not as part of a seasonal production cycle, but as something designed to last.
At White Story, this same commitment underpins our approach, valuing craftsmanship not only in how a piece is made, but in how it is worn and returned to over time.
The Shearling Flat in Black and The Foundation Flat in Ivory
Sustainability is often spoken about in fashion, but ESSĒN approaches it in a very practical way. What does responsible design look like for you?
Responsibility informs every stage of the process — from design through to production and logistics. We use certified leathers, recycled materials, and lower-impact components where possible, with full transparency across the supply chain.
Production is intentionally limited — working in small batches or on-demand to avoid overproduction. Each piece is designed with longevity in mind, considering not only how it’s worn, but how it’s cared for over time.
It’s about building better systems, making considered decisions at every step, rather than aiming for perfection.
You grew up in the Netherlands — how has your Dutch heritage influenced your approach to style and design?
Growing up in the Netherlands shaped a strong sense of simplicity and practicality. Every piece needs to earn its place — to feel good to wear, move with the body, and integrate seamlessly into everyday life.
There was also a mindful approach to how we lived. Clothing was made, repaired, and kept. That stayed with me, a long-term relationship with the things you own, and a belief that they should be cared for and designed to last.
Discover White Story x ESSĒN collection, with select styles available in store only.
