It bags come and go, but when it comes to investing in a designer handbag, I firmly believe that classic styles are best.
Iconic heritage brands are my go-tos when friends and family ask for recommendations, and if I am being honest, it’s usually French-founded fashion houses that I head to first. Longchamp is one such brand. Steeped in family history and with an impressive roster of simple yet chic designs that have traversed decades, ages and trends, it now stands as a highly coveted luxury fashion label passed down through generations. And whilst many luxury bags sport hefty price tags (upwards of £1000 in most cases), Longchamp offers premium quality with much more attainable pricing.
Whether it’s the recognisable Le Pliage, which you’re almost guaranteed to spot when travelling, or the myriad Le Roseau iterations of perfectly proportioned underarm shoulder bags, Longchamp’s collections have been envisioned to be worn with ease whilst still pertaining to the nonchalance that’s synonymous with French style. The brand is positioned to continue making its mark on the fashion world, with reinterpretations and evolutions of staple styles and even clothes (but more on that another time). For now, we're focusing on its handbags, of which there are plenty.
The History of Longchamp Bags
In 1948, Jean Cassegrain unveiled his mission to craft expert leather goods in the form of pipe covers, offering consumers a taste of luxury post-war. Thereafter, and in collaboration with his family, he transitioned to small leather goods, namely the iconic gold-emblem adorned passport cover (so iconic it's worth a Google search), some even comprising lizard and crocodile leather. Due to Longchamp's success, the brand expanded its workshops and released its inaugural womenswear accessory line of leather handbags in 1971, with Philippe Cassegrain at the helm.
To date, Longchamp remains one of France's most esteemed brands and continues to envision exemplary styles that straddle the line between luxury and high street. Since its inception, Longchamp has prided itself on expert craftspersonship, and each collection is considered and refined yet with a playful lilt—whether that's convertible design elements or embellishment.
Unlike other brands, each Longchamp collection hosts a variety of styles, so don't be surprised to find Le Roseau or Épure in a range of shapes from totes to mini buckets. If you're wondering what the brand has to offer, allow me to introduce you to five of Longchamp's most coveted styles. Keep reading for my picks from the full collection.
The Best Longchamp Handbags
1. Le Roseau M Shoulder Bag
2. Le Pliage Original
3. Épure XL Tote Bag
4. Le Foulonné M Crossbody Bag
5. Daylong M Handbag
Shop the Best Longchamp Bags:
1. Le Roseau M Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: I recently met with the Longchamp team, who informed me of Le Roseau's success story, which challenged my belief that Le Pliage was the brand's most renowned style. Instead, it's this refined shoulder bag with its dipped silhouette, silver toggle, shrunken handle and textured leather profile. Offered in an array of colours, fabrics and textiles, there's a Roseau to suit all tastes. So really, it's no surprise.
Shop the Style:
A unique hue I'm sure most people won't already own.
Forest green and suede is a match to behold.
It's true that this style is completely timeless.
2. Le Pliage Original
Style Notes: Le Pliage has become synonymous with Longchamp, and it's a truly beloved style. First introduced in 1993, the convertible style is one of Longchamp's forerunning bags and has since graced the arms of tastemakers worldwide including media personalities like Katie Holmes and Alexa Chung. The French verb Pliage translates to "folding"—a direct reference to one of the key features; its ability to fold inwards into a minuscule pouch or out to a fully functioning, light and waterproof tote bag. You may also want to consider the travel accessories from the Le Pliage collection for complete ease and ample spaciousness whilst in transit.
Shop the Style:
The black iteration is synonymous with French style.
For those of us endeared to soft tones.
I couldn't help but include this season's most coveted colourway.
3. Épure XL Tote Bag
Style Notes: Featuring a generous capacity, winged silhouette and snake-skin textured leather, the Épure XL Tote Bag is a style to take you from the office to the weekend. The open tote is capaciously sized and considered with ease of wear at the forefront. From the internal slip pocket to the slightly raised rear, it follows the brand's theme of functionality and versatility.
Shop the Style:
Tan will add an element of warmth to most ensembles.
This creamy hue will gently offset a monochrome look.
I'd advise everyone to invest in an oversized black tote bag.
4. Le Foulonné M Crossbody Bag
Style Notes: If there's one thing French designers excel at, it's shoulder and crossbody handbags, so although Longchamp isn't best known for crossbodies, you'd be remiss to discount its classic selections. They loan a certain nonchalance to most outfits, and Le Foulonné is particularly sleek and spacious.
Shop the Style:
A piece you'll love and wear for a lifetime.
This taupe colourway complements gold hardware particularly well.
A generously sized crossbody is ideal for those of us (myself included) who like to carry everything but the kitchen sink.
5. Daylong M Handbag
Style Notes: The Daylong M Handbag features a squared-off cylindrical shape with a top handle and an adjustable crossbody strap. Boasting a bowling-bag shape and comprising supple calfskin and silver hardware, it's an accessory envisioned for everyday wearability.
Shop the Style:
Even minimalists will appreciate this muted olive green.
Cream-toned accessories add a fresh touch to winter styling.
Opt for the classic black with silver hardware.
