Denver Handbag Designer Jessie Rose Fuses Two Art Forms in Her Synergistic New Endeavor

For nearly a decade, Jessie Rose has crafted bespoke handbags emblematic of female empowerment with an air of rebellion. Her self-described “rocker chic” creations have caused a stir from the beginning, and her latest styles, a fusion of fashion and tattoo artistry, are no exception.

Having profound historical roots, both fashion and tattoos have served as visual markers of status, wealth and individuality for centuries, although the two art forms still haven’t found equal footing as forms of self-expression in all circles. However, when Rose found herself surrounded by her love of fashion and immersed in the world of tattoos, she saw an opportunity to create something entirely new for Denver’s fashion scene.

“I have always been a mold breaker. I come from a county [in Minnesota] where my town has 1,500 people, but I’ve always stood out because I wear what I want to wear no matter what. I’ve always had my own style,” she shared.

Rose spent much of her twenties in New York City, but the magnetism of the Colorado landscape eventually pulled her to Denver, where she started Jay Davis Handbags in 2015, making leather goods that mirrored the western sensibility that built Denver fashion. Since that time, Rose has stayed committed to creating leather art that speaks from her soul, but her evolutionary process led her to a recent rebranding, during which Jessie Rose & Co was born. “Jessie” taken from a childhood nickname, and “Rose” taken from her last name, which was created by her and her spouse, international tattoo artist, Ryane Rose.

“I’m more focused on being true to myself. I’m not stepping into anything different.The spirit of what I’m doing has evolved and grown so it feels lighter and more playful,” Rose explained.

Through Ryane, Rose was introduced to the world of the tattoo industry and became co-owner of The Wolf Den, a gender-inclusive shop and gallery located in Denver where Rose found her new artistic voice.

 “I’ve been surrounded by that art and inspired by it, so I wanted to offer something else along with my leather art and handbags,” she said. “I wanted to start implementing this other creative influence that I had.”

It was at The Wolf Den where Rose met Meg Donohue, a tattoo apprentice she immediately had a connection with.

“We align in so many ways and especially creatively. She brings life to my ideas in a way I didn’t even think about,” explained Rose.

This meeting of the minds resulted in multiple collaborations that include collections of handbags created by Rose that come with corresponding tattoo designs by Donohue. Sold as a package, when the handbags get released, buyers choose which bag they would like to purchase and which three small tattoos they would like to receive., The handbags and tattoos fit a specific theme, like Cowgirl Blues and Western Autumn. It’s Rose’s way of sharing her work with a larger demographic and combining all of the creative energy she experiences in her daily life with those around her.

The creative process is unique for every product launch, but each starts with mood boards that contain imagery, photography and colors to create visual stories that both Rose and Donohue contribute to. In addition, Rose also finds inspiration through platforms like Instagram and TikTok where experimental designers, bold stylists and confident women have free rein. 

Although Rose and Donohue don’t plan to introduce new designs until next year, this is just the beginning of their work together and Rose couldn’t be happier about that.

“I really like where Jessie Rose is headed. I’m tapping into my roots in ways that are freeing and fun and joyful. I’m still figuring it out, and I’m ok with that,.” she said.

Follow Rose on Instagram for more information about new product launches. She and The Wolf Den artists will also be at The Clayton Members Club Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, December 2 from 1-6 PM.