The Chic, Elegant and Premium-Looking French Handbag Stylish People in London Are Carrying Now

Despite Polène's popularity, I'm continually astounded by the mammoth queues surrounding its flagship stores in Paris. Upon entering the storefront, the majority of prospective customers (having studied their favourite styles prior—the brand has a notable presence on social media) make a beeline for Numéro neuf—one of the brand's most coveted handbag styles. Each of Polène's goods is handmade by artisans in Ubrique, Spain and the brand's arsenal currently stands at thirteen styles—from woven leather handbags (Nodde) to deep set tote bags (Cyme) and among the brand's more directional styles is Numéro Neuf—a refined, compact handbag.

Aida Polene Handbags

(Image credit: @aidabadji_)

Numéro Neuf comprises an organic shape and flexible concave design, a magnetic closure and supple calfskin fabrication, with the addition of hand-stitching, making the bag feel truly unique. The relaxed form is akin to a dumpling shape, with a supple top handle and elongated shoulder strap, so it can be worn crossbody. Numéro Neuf is a condensed style also available in a shrunken iteration. The style is available in seven colourways, with the addition of a handful of vibrant colours and unique textiles in the mini style.

Excitingly, we spoke and Polene listened, and on December 9th, Polène opened the doors to its first London flagship store, so for the first time, you can peruse the collection without crossing the pond! Discover many of the brands' popular styles, but truth be told, we can see why Numéro Neuf remains one of Polène's most adored styles. Continue reading to discover and shop the extensive colourways. You're guaranteed to fall in love!

Rachael Keegan wears a Polene Handbag

(Image credit: @rachael_keegan)

Shop the Polène Numéro Neuf Bag:

Shop the Polène Numéro Neuf Mini Bag:

Freelance Fashion Editor

Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities. She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist. Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne. She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.