The Fiona, the first JAMAH bag named for a beautiful love story. The original was commissioned by an adoring husband for his wife Fiona, the love of his life, who he describes as beautiful, intelligent and kind. Her grace, impeccable taste and flawless style guided every element of the bag’s design. To capture her chic and simple aesthetic and highlight the sleek, rich beauty of the leather, the handles are anchored to the interior, allowing them to be dropped down inside to create the option of carrying the bag with its elegant chain. Like its namesake, the bag is confident and strong. An open top reflective of Fiona’s generous demeanor, closes with refined conviction. Classic, sophisticated, original and fluid, the design is a tribute to Fiona’s refined taste and captivating style.
Read more about this love story here.
Vivacious. Intelligent. Driven. With her radiant smile and contagious laughter, Lisa epitomizes the woman who can do it all. A visionary and successful entrepreneur, she is a devoted mother and Nancy’s dear friend and trusted confidant. Playful and poised, but never afraid to get her hands dirty, Lisa is a woman of conviction. Architecturally inspired and guided by form follows function, The Lisa is the perfect balance of classic and modern, sophisticated and stylish, structured and sleek. Its clean lines and functional aesthetic appeal to its namesake’s enduring sense of style and decorum. A wide opening reveals a beautiful interior, while the closure clicks solidly into place, reminiscent of Lisa’s passionate authority.
This romantic bag was named to honor two remarkable women who share the same classic name — Elizabeth. Emoting a vintage feel reflective of the poised nature of its namesakes, The Elizabeth is functional, elegant and always appropriate. Artisan pleating along a structured frame allows the body of the bag to expand to roomy proportions while maintaining its softly structured silhouette. As the design indicates, the two Elizabeths – Nancy’s grandmother along with JAMAH’s first retailer — are bold, confident women with vibrant and effortlessly sophisticated personalities.
The Deb is a story of doubles: a carry-all and its matching pouch named for a Debbi and a Debbie, two cherished friends and avid JAMAH collectors whom Nancy met in the same year through the incredible Robb Report network. The first thing that Nancy learned about Debbi Diggs was her desire for a car that would match her signature turquoise nail polish! A beacon of light for her family and friends, the captivating Debbi wormed her way into Nancy’s heart with her steadfast support, unwavering optimism and incredible baked goods. Debbie Dacus enchanted Nancy from the moment they met, like a butterfly embracing joy and freedom. Her intoxicating personality and sharp sense of humor captured Nancy’s heart, their immediate bond sparking a new forever sisterhood. This bag’s wide-open interior reflects the Debs’ never-ending well of generosity and love, while a minimalistic, yet bold hardware embellishment lends an unexpected flair. Like its namesakes, The Deb is adept at double duty, with a matching pouch that sits inside as a wallet or can be detached and carried separately as a clutch with or without the chain. Beautiful and versatile like both Debs, this classically understated bag fits in anywhere and everywhere but never leaves a room without having made an impact. It is most fitting that the origin of the name Deborah means bee; these two busy bees both perfectly embody the JAMAH motto, Be Who You Are. Debbi Ann Diggs and Debbie Ann Dacus (yes, they even have the same middle name!) are Nancy’s eternal cheerleaders!
Striking, self-assured and curious, Gysel has a quiet confidence that belies her age. The devoted granddaughter of The Leyda’s namesake, she embodies an enviable strength of character and an infinite love and respect for her family. Preferring people to technology, Gysel chooses living in the moment over living online. On the dance floor and in life, she moves in effortless grace, always exuding a sense of dignity. Gysel has channeled her grandmother’s generous spirit, a quality that is reflected in both of their eponymous JAMAH handbags. By virtue of her wealth of experience, The Leyda is larger than The Gysel, while both echo their namesakes via their sleek simplicity and soft sophistication.
Striking structure is the hallmark of The Cara, named after a woman as sleek and postured as the bag itself. A dear friend of Gale's, Cara is proof that a woman can have it all and do it all without forsaking impeccable style and class. An easily accessible and roomy interior reflects Cara's never-ending well of generosity, while a minimalistic, yet bold hardware embellishment lends an unexpected flair, a fitting tribute to Cara’s approach to life. Beautiful and versatile, this classically understated bag pays homage to its namesake's composed, convicted personality. In perfect form, The Cara fits in anywhere and everywhere, but never leaves a room without having made an impact.
One might say “It’s all about Eve,” when they look at this eye-catching pouch with its perfect size and shape. Inspired by a stunning, purpose-driven powerhouse, The Eve reflects its namesake’s passion for creativity, curiosity and caring. The gold chain glistens, as if happy to give you options to carry The Eve your way. Versatile, practical, and essential, The Eve is a tribute to its namesake’s impressive accomplishments, charismatic personality and infinite loyalty to Nancy.
Oozing style and sass, without forsaking sophistication and elegance, The Brandie Special Edition inherited its namesake’s DNA. A dear friend and a respected teacher, Nancy credits Brandie with opening the doors for the non-profit, AMBITION. Brandie and her beloved husband Jevon Davis have stood by Nancy through countless milestones. Inspired by her unwavering commitment and loyalty, The Brandie Special Edition is a bold take on a timeless classic, balancing softness and structure, urban and uptown. The sting emboss and metal adornments reflect Brandie’s own stylistic versatility The slim double chain strap adds a subtle flair, while the front flap snaps shut with confidence and conviction.
See The Classic Brandie here.
Part simple and part complex, The Cecily captures both aspects of its namesake’s lovable, quirky personality. Known as Ceci to Nancy and other long-time friends, her heartwarming laughter and curiosity are a source of inspiration. The Cecily’s simplistic, sleek pleating contrasts against complex, plush quilting for a look and feel that’s rich with personality. A slim, double chain strap tucks neatly as an option for carrying this versatile, structured clutch.
Alluring and efficient, The Maria Special Edition honors its fearless, driven and truly breathtaking namesake. Maria is an adventurer with a fiery spirit. She is playful and wise beyond her years. Adaptable like its namesake, The Maria Special Edition can be worn with or without its chain and the Sting emboss make it perfect for elegant or everyday occasions. Its curved lines, pleats and perfect size epitomize Maria’s inner and outer beauty. It is a true reflection of Nancy’s appreciation for her friend’s grace, luminous smile and go-getter spirit.
Transcending its stunning physical features, The Helen is a tribute to designer Nancy’s mother, a reflection of an incomparable mother/daughter bond and a display of gratitude for Helen, Nancy’s hero. The epitome of timeless sophistication, The Helen has a structured body and envelope-style flap closure secured by a demure clasp. It is, as was Helen, simple yet progressive. It was Helen who instilled in her daughter the vibrancy, optimism, generosity and lust for life that she wears as effortlessly as any of her bags. Though indifferent to it herself, Helen was a woman of commanding beauty. Her perfect cheekbones, emerald eyes, and flawless skin turned heads just as her brilliance, warmth and wisdom moved hearts. Every ounce of her beauty is reflected in The Helen.
The Rosey is as much a forever bag as its namesake is a forever friend to Nancy. A successful screenwriter with an ability to harness the power of words, Rosey’s passion for life is unbridled and The Rosey is a testimony to her love of craft and courage. Designed to be worn over the shoulder or by hand, The Rosey is the epitome of versatility while remaining structured and striking. The accent quilting and metal adornments represent Rosey’s affinity for aesthetics, while the equestrian-inspired hardware is an ode to the art of equestrian vaulting in which Rosey holds a World Champion title. Discreet inner-attached handles and a sophisticated exterior that exudes vintage charm are the hallmarks of this all-purpose showpiece that is ultimately inspired by the intangible, ethereal grace that epitomizes the brilliance of its writer-rider namesake. The Rosey is a natural companion to The Lars, just as she is to her son, Lars.
See The Rosey Special edition here.
The Kathy's namesake, Kathleen Marie, is Nancy’s steadfast cheerleader. Disciplined, organized and fiercely loyal, Kathy holds a special place in Nancy’s heart. Her deeply generous spirit is captured in the spacious body of The Kathy, JAMAH’s subtly sophisticated take on the ever-popular bucket bag. The design's sturdy yet soft strap echoes Kathy’s strength and grace, while elegant accent quilting elevates its aesthetic. Versatile, transcendent and reliable, Kathy's worldliness is echoed in its functionality. Beautifully practical, The Kathy is the perfect companion.
Carry your Happy. Every Day. Everywhere.
Over the twenty+ years that JAMAH designer/owner Nancy Gale has spent naming the bags in her collection after people who inspire her, she has been asked one question more than any other: “When are you going to design The Nancy?” It never felt right; the spirit of the namesake bags is to celebrate and honor others, not herself. Having overcome notable tragedy, while never losing sight of who she is, Nancy has finally created the bag named for what she believes in: The Happy Bag.
According to the philosopher Pythagoras, the number three is one of harmony, while the number five represents curiosity, luck and adventure. With this in mind, the front of your Happy Bag will reflect your very own positive mantra. An embossed circle will combine your trio of inspiring words with JAMAH’s signature motto “be who you are” and most importantly, the word HAPPY.
Nancy’s happy words, “perseverance,” “resilience” and “smile,” reflect her impassioned conviction. Life experience has taught her that perseverance, resilience and a smile can get anyone through the most painful challenge or greatest tragedy. A steadfast believer in Power-Not-Pity, Nancy lives by the creed that happiness is a choice.
We invite you to design your very own Happy Bag. Choose from the most vibrant of JAMAH leathers and manifest your happiness in this large, multi-functional, everyday tote. The interior of your Happy Bag is lined in a sunny yellow suede that sings brightness and cheer and reminds you to always choose to “Carry your Happy!” And like all JAMAH bags, a personal message for yourself or a loved one can be debossed inside your Happy Bag.
Your Happy Bag purchase will also have a positive impact on others, with a donation in your name to Nancy’s nonprofit, AMBITION. Nancy founded the mentor-driven entrepreneurial program for disadvantaged youth, or as she calls it, her heartbeat, in 2010 in an effort to integrate cause and commerce. Each year, JAMAH will hold a biannual “Happy Challenge,” inviting nominations for those who bring happiness to their communities. The winner will be presented with a customized Happy Bag of their own.
And if it weren’t enough to walk through the world with your happy on your shoulder, The Happy Bag includes something to bring happiness to any moment: emergency confetti! So, take a minute to reflect on the words that bring a smile to your face and start designing your Happy Bag!
What could be better than choosing to “Carry your Happy?”
***Upon receipt of your Happy Bag order, an email will be sent requesting your three HAPPY words.***
Anthony is an entrepreneur with many endeavors – a number of them in the luxury market. When his wife Leanne entered the JAMAH showroom, she looked around and said, “I can’t wait to watch Anthony view the collection.” Exhibiting all the traits of a connoisseur, Anthony examined the bags slowly and methodically, carefully assessing every detail, clearly in the moment and in his element. Eventually he focused on one of the earliest JAMAH bags, The Elizabeth, which Nancy had named for her beloved grandmother. Inspired by the classic leather Doctor bag, she had modernized the satchel shape, adding ruching and custom, asymmetrical hand cast O-rings. The Elizabeth always has an effect on people. When they carry it, they tend to rise up, taking on a power stance and swing their arms as if walking a runway. Anthony loved the silhouette and envisioned the perfect version for his cherished Leanne. It would be the exact, impeccably proportioned bag that Nancy had designed, just on a smaller scale. Inspired by his vision, Nancy created the new bag and christened it The Leanne.
Nancy describes Gloria as the kind of friend that a person always wants by their side, so it’s no accident that this brilliantly designed bag, The Gloria, is just right in every way. With her beautiful spirit and infectious laughter, Gloria is an eternal cheerleader, forever connecting the world. Perfect in size and shape, The Gloria is beautiful from every angle. Like its namesake, this bag pivots from one important role to another. From day to night and everything in between, wear it over your shoulder or tuck the chain inside. The possibilities are endless when The Gloria is part of your world.
Fabulously Spirited. Deeply curious. Incredibly intelligent. A mother to seven, Kim is exquisitely bold and resolute with an unprecedented passion for life. Her vivacious energy and straightforward manner are tempered by a stunning tranquility. A diehard fan and unparalleled friend, Kim is one of Nancy's biggest champions and inspirations. With quilting reflective of Kim’s depth and pleating representative of her many layers, a seamless blend of elements reflects Kim’s beautifully diverse personality. Elegant and sleek, The Kim is roomy without being intrusive. Endless carrying options epitomize the versatility that is perfectly suited to its namesake. Its flawless perfection makes The Kim the bag one simply cannot live without.
Alluring and efficient, The Maria honors its fearless, driven and truly breathtaking namesake. Maria is an adventurer with a fiery spirit. She is playful and wise beyond her years. Adaptable like its namesake, The Maria can be worn with or without its chain and is perfect for every occasion. Its sleek metal adornment, curved lines, pleats and perfect size epitomize Maria’s inner and outer beauty. It is a true reflection of Nancy’s appreciation for her friend’s grace, luminous smile and go-getter spirit.
She’s the explorer, the pro who thrives on being in the know about virtually everything. Humorous and sensitive, Barbi may be small in stature but she’s big in vision. She is Nancy’s inspiration for The Barbi, a sleek, minimalist, envelope clutch. Straightforward but multi-faceted, simple but sophisticated; the perfect accessory. A slim, single looped chain tucks neatly inside as an option for carrying. Much like its namesake, you’ll always want The Barbi by your side.
Fierce. Precise. Ageless. The Parisa is a small version of The Helen, named for Nancy’s indominable mother. Like Helen, Parisa is maternal, nurturing, loving and unfailingly exhilarating. A woman of many facets and a need for speed, Nancy’s cherished friend is alluring and convicted. Her modern sense of style and appreciation for clean and classic lines is perfectly reflected in her namesake bag. No excess. No frivolous ornamentation. While small and compact, The Parisa makes a big impression. Its classic structure and perfect form exemplify the same dedication and diligence that inspired Parisa to introduce Nancy and Peter, namesake of The NAHM.
The Rosey Special Edition was originally made for a first lady. It also played a starring role in Gilmore Girls: A Year In the Life when it became Rory Gilmore's favorite bag. Like its namesake Rosey, a successful writer/director and world-champion equestrian, it epitomizes versatility while remaining structured and striking. The Sting emboss and metal adornments represent Rosey's affinity for aesthetics, while the equestrian-inspired hardware is an ode to the art of equestrian vaulting. Discreet inner-attached handles and a sophisticated exterior exude vintage charm and are the hallmarks of this all-purpose showpiece. Grace, genius, glamour and grit are all bundled into this divine celebration of artistry and agility, all thanks to the inspiration of the real Rosey.
Read more about the Presidential Collection here.
It takes a special design to transform a tote into the perfect lightweight carryall filled with class and distinction. Sofea, described by designer Nancy as the childhood version of herself, is curious and full of questions. Her never-ending smile, laughter and playfulness bring joy to everyone around her. The daughter of a fashion connoisseur, she is taken with style, but not afraid to get dirty which is why her namesake bag’s structure moves and molds with ease. The wide-open style is reminiscent of Sofea’s expansive heart. A sleek closure adds just the right touch of sophistication for the woman on-the-go.
Over the course of their special friendship, Nancy and Donna have shared profound experiences, including the birth of Donna’s three children. “I held her first child before she did,” Nancy says, referring to her godson’s birth. In turn, Donna was there for the birth of JAMAH. Her fierce loyalty inspired The Donna, a roomy, almost hardware free tote, with a sophisticated simplicity and sleek closure. The Donna’s design is as original as Donna's own trademark blend of softness and strength. A former Miss Georgia, Donna’s beauty transcends contests and crowns. Rich with depth and dimension, The Donna is a tribute to classic allure.
This sleek, smart, structured envelope is named for Nicole, Nancy’s steadfast and loyal childhood friend. Her big heart and contagious laughter inspired Nancy to design a bag to honor the beautiful simplicity of their forever friendship. When a laptop bag won't do, The Nicole comes through as a chic carry-all solution. With distinct French seams and an intentional absence of hardware, it is a sophisticated example of form following function. The beauty is in the materials and its harmonious proportions. Like its namesake, The Nicole is perfect as is. For varying carrying options, a tuck-away carrying chain is the perfect added touch.
The Alana is a powerful bag named for a powerful woman and one of Nancy’s closest friends. A quintessential badass, Alana exudes bravery as she glides through the world, advocating for the voiceless. Profoundly dedicated to her causes, including women and children, cherished friends, and her own family, Alana will go to any length to serve others. A brilliant businesswoman with clarity, grit, and vision, she leaves the world better than she found it, helping those around her feel safe and seen. Designed as a clutch version of The Leyda, one of Nancy’s quintessential designs, The Alana exudes style with a classic shape that complements any look, making it perfect for all occasions. The Alana reflects its namesake’s refined versatility and steady presence, always there when you need her.
Oozing style and sass, without forsaking sophistication and elegance, The Brandie inherited its namesake’s DNA. A dear friend and a respected teacher, Nancy credits Brandie with opening the doors for the non-profit, AMBITION. Brandie and her beloved husband Jevon Davis have stood by Nancy through countless milestones. Inspired by her unwavering commitment and loyalty, The Brandie is a bold take on a timeless classic, balancing softness and structure, urban and uptown. Bold details reflect Brandie’s own stylistic versatility. The slim double chain strap has flair and the front flap snaps shut with confidence and conviction.
See The Brandie Special Edition here.
Passionate and driven, Katrina is a builder of businesses, partnerships, teams and solutions. Savvy, street smart and analytical, she beautifully defies all stereotypes. Her infectious laughter and ability to “call it like she sees it” are legendary. Motivated by Katrina’s diverse skill set, Nancy was inspired to engage in an exercise of form elegantly following function to create a sophisticated and multifunctional update of a fanny pack. The highest of quality, The Katrina is designed to hold a cell phone, ID, lip gloss and keys. With two belt loops and both a chain and a leather strap option, it can be dressed up or down and worn around the hips, crossbody, over-the-shoulder, on the wrist or carried as a clutch. The Katrina means business – whether that business is giving a Ted Talk, being interviewed by Forbes, hosting her podcast, or motivating young people to reach their potential.
Fierce. Formidable. Valiant. Leyda is a matriarch in the finest sense of the word. Her generosity is vast, her work ethic in a class by itself, her sense of fun infectious, her love of family boundless. Leyda’s deep appreciation of beauty, her honesty and moral character combined with her understanding of the laws of harmony, are immediately apparent. These qualities, along with her innate sense of style and the profound admiration that Nancy has for her steadfast friend and mentor, inspired The Leyda. Capturing the essence of this truly remarkable woman, The Leyda flawlessly epitomizes its namesake. Elegant, graceful and eternally stylish, its modern yet classic aesthetic maintains a subtle vintage flare. Paying homage to Leyda, a sleek closure snaps shut with quiet authority. The devoted grandmother of The Gysel’s namesake, both designs’ embody sleek simplicity and soft sophistication.
