Edward Hugh de Lacy grew up in Suffolk before moving north to study for a Fine Art Degree at Leeds Metropolitan University, at the turn of the new millennium.

Whilst finding out where all the best bars and clubs were he was also attending university. He worked across a broad range of mediums including painting, installation, and book art amongst others. After exploring different styles he decided to specialise in minimalist sculpture.

During his time at University Edward also developed an interest in handbag design and more specifically leather handbag design. He was interested as much in the material as the actual objects: “I always loved the natural lines around the edge of the leather hide and use these within the design of my bags to produce naturally beautiful lines or ridged, natural and organic shapes”. This is still evident in the design of many of the bags now. Edward challenged himself to not only master the art of sewing but also the challenges of practical design encompassed with beautiful design – a challenge many designers are faced with but few conquer with such style.

The 'de Lacy' brand was officially born in 2004 in the Leeds Corn Exchange when Edward hired a stall at the weekly design market where he began to sell his designs.